Bhatkeadventure

The mountain range of Sahyadri brings countless opportunities of trekking. All the treks are incredibly beautiful and thrilling. Enthusiastic trekking groups are busy organizing various expeditions to these treks throughout the year. 

Among popular treks in Maharashtra, the trek through Andharban is one of the most refreshing and unique. The name ‘Andharban’ is a combination of two words in the Marathi Language. 

The first one is “Andhar” which means darkness, and the second one is “Ban” which means forest. 

The name is so appropriate because the forest is so dense in the region that you feel like night during the daytime also. Trekkers will be impressed with the fantastic view of the famous Devkund Waterfall and Tamhini Ghat Valley. 

Andharban trek is scattered through many small streams and waterfalls. Remember, it is a descending trek beginning at an elevation of 2100 feet in the Sahyadri mountains and descending down into the valley. It takes you to the backwaters of the Bhira Dam. 

Two things make it unusual. First, it is a descending trek. Secondly, it takes you through a very dense forest that becomes very dark when there is fog. 

Where is Andharban Trek Located? 

The Andharban trek starts at Pimpri village, near Tamhini Ghat, which is situated at a distance of almost 50 kilometers south of Lonavala.  

You can get there either by hiring a private vehicle or by public transport as well. State Transport buses run from Lonavala to Bhamburde village, which is around 35 km away.  

You can walk from this place to Pimpri village as the distance is almost 15 kilometers. You can hire a vehicle also. 

The route to Pimpri village by your private vehicle. You should drive down from Lonavala towards Tamhini Ghat via the Lonavala-Aamby Valley road. You will take around 90 to 100 minutes, depending on the road and traffic conditions. 

Pimpri village is the starting point of the trek. The location is marked as “Independence Point” near the Pimpri Dam. 

The trail is visible; there is no specific marking for the start point, though. 

Overview of the Andharban Trek 

If you are going there in the rainy season, then the trek is more interesting. It is because the forest comes alive with rivers, streams, waterfalls, and Fog.  This is the reason Andharban Trek is more popular in this season. Other than Devkund Waterfall Trek, you can enjoy other interesting things like Bedsegaon Waterfall, Secret waterfall trek, Milky Bar Waterfall, and the Kundalika Valley viewpoint. 

Remember, the trek has to be guided by an expert trek guide. It is because of the fog during the rainy season that navigation will be difficult. Also, there can be fresh floods around the waterfall crossing due to unpredictable weather. 

Also, you will have to seek permission from the Forest Department. Andharban Dark Forest Trek has a unique route. Hence, it doesn’t get very crowded on weekends either. 

The trek is surrounded by the howling sound of winds and sweet songs of the birds in the morning. You can see many varieties of orchid flowers and mushrooms. 

And yes, you will also see Karvi flowers that bloom once in seven years. This is one of the most untouched forests where you can go trekking from Pune.  

What to Pack for the Andharban Trek 

Now you know the path to reach Andharban and what you can expect on your journey. If you have decided to explore this beautiful trek, then it is time to start packing. What all will you need there? Let’s have a look. 

Since the terrain is uneven and becomes slippery in the rainy season, you need a good pair of hiking shoes. Do not look at the price, but always invest in sturdy shoes as they will ensure a comfortable and safe trek. 

Next, you need a good quality backpack to carry all your essentials. It has to be spacious so that you can keep water bottles, snacks, a few essential clothes, and other personal items you may need. 

You should always carry a lightweight and waterproof jacket. The weather during this season is unpredictable. 

You should keep a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun. Also, do not forget to keep sunscreen and insect repellent. 

You should pack a basic first aid kit with supplies like band-aids, pain relievers, and personal medication if any. 

You may keep a camera so that you can take pictures of the breathtaking views of Andharban jungle trek. 

Best Time to Visit Andharban Trek 

You are not allowed to go to the Andharban trek without permission during the peak monsoon season because this is the breeding period for animals in the forest.  

Andharban trek permission is issued in limited numbers by the forest department and it is compulsory to seek it before entering the forest.  

Highlights of the Andharban Trek

As you descend further along the trek, you start realizing the relevance of the name “Andharban”.  Sunlight filters through dense trees in the form of narrow beams, creating a spotlight effect on the forest floor. The foliage becomes denser, and the world around you transforms into different shades of green. 

As you reach around the middle point of the trek, you see a magnificent bamboo section. Here, you can see natural corridors and tunnels made from bamboo stalks.  

Also, you can hear whistling sounds because of the unusual acoustics created by the bamboo stalks. When wind passes through the holes, you can hear the sound. 

The final stretch is over, and you can see the bright daylight. The forest gradually thins out, and you can see the Bhira Dam and reservoir. 

In Maharashtra trekking is popular amongst youth. Andharban Jungle Trek stands out uniquely if you see the options.  It is because of dense and mysterious woodland that looks like it comes straight out of some fairytale. 

The Andharban Jungle Trek takes you through some of the most pristine and untouched forests in the Sahyadri Range. This is a one-way trail that is predominantly a descending route from Pimpri village to Bhira Dam. 

Going to this trek is an unforgettable experience.