Igatpuri adventure activities Igatpuri, a small town, is a beautiful hill station and one of the most popular weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune. It is located in the district of Nashik, Maharashtra, and is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
Igatpuri is an ideal place for a relaxing vacation due to its pleasant climate, charming old fort, waterfalls, and majestic mountains. We will look at the best adventure activities in Igatpuri you can do.
Here we have The Top adventure activity sites in Igatpuri:
The beauty of this location is magnificent during the monsoon season when the dense forest becomes greener and the waterfalls are revitalised. Igatpuri is popular with hikers and nature lovers. With so many forts in the surrounding area, it’s a hiker’s and trekker’s dream.
Top Trekking Activities in Igatpuri:
Kalsubai Peak
Kalsubai Peak is a popular trek in the Sahyadri Mountains. At 5,400 feet, it is Maharashtra’s highest peak and is easily accessible from both Mumbai and Pune. The trek includes a breathtaking mix of natural environments such as waterfalls, forests, grasslands, and historic forts.
The Kalsubai Temple at the peak’s summit attracts visitors from nearby villages all year. They come to seek Kalsubai Devi’s blessings. Kalsubai, a young village girl, is said to have lived in the mountains. During that time, she treated villagers and animals and assisted with village activities. She went to the summit one day and never returned.
In her honor, a small temple was built on the mountainside near her home, and the main Kalsubai temple was built on the peak. The Kalsubai trek provides views of several famous forts, including Alang, Madan, and Kulang. The hikes to these peaks are strenuous.
On a clear day, you can also see the surrounding forts of Harihargad, Harishchandragad, and Ratangad. For added adventure, many experienced trekkers combine these treks. The Kalsubai trek is also popular at night. Trekkers flock here for the spectacular sunrise views! It is one of the best adventure activities in Igatpuri that you can do.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 35 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Touchwood Bliss, Ratangad, Wanderlust Resort, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam, Girisagar Waterfall
Ratangad
Ratangad Fort Trek is one of the most extraordinary types of structures to see in the area, situated amid the thick wildernesses of the Western Ghats. As you traverse on the outskirts of the Ratangad Trek, you will be astounded to see the titanic cliffs unfold before your eyes, one behind the other.
Ratangad is located in Ratanwadi, Maharashtra, and is approximately 4255 feet above sea level. Ratangarh Fort in Maharashtra is surrounded by lush woodlands on one side and the vast Bhandardara Lake on the other. It is the starting point of the Pravara River and is located in the Ghanachakkar hill ranges. The fortification dates back around 400 years and was conquered by Chhatrapati Shivaji Raje Bhosle.
The path winds through dense forest along the northern bank of the Pravara River until it reaches a scarp. It’s part of the Harishchandragad Kalsubai Forest Sanctuary. The most well-known route to the Fort’s summit is from Ratanwadi Village.
Another popular route departs from Samrad village. You can also climb from Samrad Village and return via Ratanwadi Village. In the monsoon, the path to Ratangad is also very slippery and requires a confident hiker with good trekking shoes.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 59 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Camel Valley, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall, Darna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Wild Camp Resort, Basta River Valley, Vaitarna Dam
Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat Hill Station, a slender gorge tucked in the ragged hills of the Western Ghats in the Pune District of Maharashtra, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. One of the most popular weekend getaways, the tranquil hill station is an abyss of absolution and rejuvenation for the chaotic minds.
Some of the most primal things to do in Malshej are the enthralling treks on the nearby hills and witnessing the ebullient waterfalls followed by the thriving fauna and flora coupled with the panoramic landscape. Harishchadragad, a famed hill fort located in the Ahmednagar District, bears testimony to the ancient remnants of Micro-lithic man and dates back to the 6th century during the reign of Kalachuri.
The nearby hill fort of Ajoba is rated as one of the most popular among thrill seekers due to its trekking trail through verdant forests and landscapes. When visiting Malshej in the winter, a short tour of this hill is a must. Holidays in Malshej are undeniably one of the most popular options.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 88.2 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Malshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Harishchandragad Fort , Ajoba Hill Fort , Konkan Kada
Naneghat
Naneghat is a mountain pass in Maharashtra that connects the Konkan sea coast with Junnar town in the Deccan. It is nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri Mountain range. Naneghat, located at a height of 2,600 feet, was once an important corridor link through the Ghatghar forests between the important towns inland and the coastal region.
Naneghat is now a popular and well-traveled route for explorers and adventurers. The beauty of lush greens amidst patches of dusty terrain is the region’s trademark. Naneghat is a feast for the eyes, soul, and adventure-seeking, nature-loving mind.
The majority of the fort has crumbled, but a few of the inscriptions on the caves that praise the rulers who built them remain. There are several reservoirs and water tanks located throughout the area. The fort has numerous artificial caves, as does the Naneghat Pass, which has massive rock walls on both sides.
The other side of the pass is blessed with a Ganesha Temple and a massive rock-cut pot used to collect coins from passing traders. The fort’s pinnacle is shaped like a thumb and is known as ‘Nancha Angtha.’
- Distance from Igatpuri: 125.6 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, train
- Nearby places to visit: Nearby places to visit: Malshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Harishchandragad Fort , Ajoba Hill Fort, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall
Harishchandra Trek
The Harishchandragad trek is one of the most difficult treks in Maharashtra’s western ghats. A popular trek that provides a variety of adventures for all types of trekkers. It is a hill fort in the Malshej Ghat district of Ahmednagar. It rises to a height of 4,670 feet. Harishchandragad is a historic fort.
It is said to have originated in the 6th century during the reign of the Kalchuri dynasty. However, the caves visible at the top were most likely carved out in the 11th century. The various structures on the fort and in the surrounding area indicate the presence of various cultures. Examples include Saptatheertha Pushkarni, Kedareshwar cave, Harishchandra temple, and other caves.
The Harishchandragad trek has several routes, each of which surprises the trekkers. Once you reach the top, it also provides a complete package of views. On the top of the Harishchandragad trek, there are also numerous temples, Pushkarni, and caves. They all date back to the sixth century and represent various cultures.
Harishchandreshwar temple is a magnificent example of ancient India’s fine art of carving sculptures out of stones. This temple was carved from a single massive rock. The Kedareshwar cave is on the right side of the Harishchandra temple. It has a large Shiva Linga that is surrounded by water.
It is extremely difficult to reach the center because the water inside is always cold. That makes it one of the best adventure activities in Igatpuri that you can do.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 136 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, train
- Nearby places to visit: Basta River Valley, Ratangad, Darna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Wild Camp Resort, Camel Valley, Vaitarna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Bhavali Dam, Touchwood Bliss
Top sightseeing and picnic spots:
Camel Valley
Camel Valley Viewpoint is a vantage point in Igatpuri located 1 km from Bhatsa River Valley Point and 4 km from Igatpuri Railway Station. It is one of the magnificent viewpoints in Igatpuri and one of the must-see places on an Igatpuri tour. It is located on the Mumbai-Agra National Highway.
Camel Valley is a deep valley that is one of the town’s best-kept secrets. The valley got its name from a rocky cliff that resembles the head of a camel and is located near the picturesque Bhatsa River Valley. The breathtaking panorama of the valley and its surroundings can be seen from the vantage point.
The valley’s main draw is the roaring waterfall, which cascades down from a height of about 1,000 feet. The monsoon season is the best time to visit Camel Valley because the valley becomes greener and more alive with waterfalls. The lush green valley blanketed in mist is a sight to behold.
It is an excellent location for photographers and nature lovers. The valley is also a great place to unwind and take in the natural beauty. It is close to Manas Resort. There is no fencing or safety barriers over there, so one must exercise caution. It is one of the best adventure activities in Igatpuri that you can do in monsoon.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 5 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Touchwood Bliss, Ratangad, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai, Darna Dam, Basta River Valley, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam, Girisagar Waterfall
Bhavali Dam
The Bhavali Dam is a massive dam built on the River Bham in the village of Bhavali in Igatpuri, Maharashtra. The dam, which stands 111.5 feet tall and 5090 feet long, is a popular tourist attraction in the area. People come here to admire the scenic natural beauty, and it is also a popular picnic spot in the area.
Furthermore, the dam’s water is used for irrigation and drinking in the surrounding areas. The location, which reeks of serenity and peace, can be reached by climbing a flight of approximately 100 stairs.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 10 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Touchwood Bliss, Ratangad, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall
Darna Dam
Darna Dam, measuring 1,634 meters in length and 28 meters in height, was built in 1916 by the British Government in a catchment area of approximately 404 square kilometers. It is a gravity dam located near Igatpuri on the Darna River.
The natural beauty of the area is breathtaking for nature lovers, especially during the rainy season, when greenery spreads in all directions and the lake fills with water. If you arrive at the right time, you can also see the water rush out if the dam’s gates open.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 34 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Camel Valley, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall, Vaitarna Dam, Ratangad, Harishchandra, Bhavali Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Touchwood Bliss
Vaitarna Dam
The Vaitarna Dam is also known as the Modak Sagar Dam. The dam was built in 1701 by British Military Engineer Lowsone, who died while working on the tunnel. Later, during Nehru’s tenure, BMC engineer Narayan Modak renovated the dam, and it was named after him. The dam had been renovated trice before him.
The Vaitarna River Dam is divided into three sections: the Upper Vaitarna Dam, the Middle Vaitarna Dam, and the Lower Vaitarna Dam. The lower dam, also known as the Modaksagar Dam. On the Vaitarna River, there is a gravity dam. And the upper dam is a beautiful dam site. It is about 20 kilometres from khodala in Thane district, close to Mumbai.
With the Western Ghats in the background, the dam is a popular picnic destination for residents of nearby cities such as Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik. This dam has a panoramic view thanks to a majestic lagoon with an enormous stretch of backwaters surrounded by undulating woods. Many photographers and nature lovers visit the Vaitarna Dam.
Camping is ideal for people of all ages. Saturli Village is the best place for camping because it has flat land along the water body. This area is easily accessible by car and motorcycle. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season, when the rains accelerate the beauty of this location, turning it into a green carpet.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 45 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Camel Valley, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall, Darna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Wild Camp Resort, Basta River Valley, Vaitarna Dam, Ratangad, Harishchandra, Bhavali Dam, Vihigaon Falls,
Top camping activites in Igatpuri:
Touchwood Bliss
An authentic Agro-Tourism experience with 6 AC Glamping Tents in the misty hills of Igatpuri. Bliss aims to bring you closer to nature while also providing a comfortable stay and a pure veg restaurant serving delicious food, including Jain preparations.
Dozens of indoor and outdoor activities are available, including Herb Trail Walk, Rice Farming, Village Walk, Trekking, Archery, Baseball, Cricket, Football, Scrabbles, Jenga,Trampoline, Kids Water Pond, Mud Football, and more.
The project also includes a Machan that provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the mountains and farmlands. As its main attractions, Bhavali Dam, Kalsubai Trek, Ashoka Waterfalls, and Sandhan Valley Trek are all within a short distance.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 8 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Ratangad, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai, Darna Dam, Camel Valley, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls
Vaitarna Lake
The Vaitarna Lake is a popular tourist destination in Nashik, Maharashtra. It is located 91 kilometres from Mumbai. The Vaitarna Dam near Igatpuri, on the other hand, offers a breathtaking and fascinating view of the beautiful Western Ghats in addition to being a vital source of water and electricity for the entire city.
To a tourist who visits there, the place will provide a complete break from busy daily schedules, as well as serene beauty to relax and rejuvenate among. The beautiful Western Ghats provide tourists with a couple of days to forget about the hustle and bustle of city life.
Vaitarna Dam is a well-developed tourist area where nature sightseeing is combined with modern conveniences. As a result, it meets all of the criteria for a pleasant tourist destination.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 30 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, train
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra,Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Basta River Valley, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam
Wild Camp Resort
The Wild Camp Resort is located atop the mountainous range of Khodala Hill Station. Khodala, a serene and calm village at an elevation of 1800 feet, will captivate you with its beauty. It is located just 100 kilometers from Thane and two and a half hours from Mumbai, is truly a nature’s paradise and a dream come true for every nature lover.
Beautiful cottages surrounded by a lush green forest, colourful flowers and plants, singing and dancing birds, a breathtaking view of the Khodala hills, and the warm hospitality of their resorts will undoubtedly make your stay memorable.
Wild Camp is the ideal place to unwind, revitalize your mind and body, and reconnect with nature. Its diverse flora and fauna, mountain range, and waterfalls make it an ideal location for a picnic, trekking, night safari, and a variety of other activities.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 31 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Basta River Valley, Ratangad, Darna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Kalsubai, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Vaitarna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Bhavali Dam, Touchwood Bliss
Wanderlust Resort
Wanderlust Resort is located in Bhandardara, a beautiful holiday destination on India’s western ghat. The holiday village is located in the district of Ahmednagar in the state of Maharashtra. The property is 3 kilometres away from the Shendi Bus Stand. The resort’s nearest railway station is Igatpuri.
Guests can take state transport buses from Igatpuri, and Nasik Airport is the closest airhead to the region. The hotel is also easily accessible from both Mumbai and Pune. The resort ensures the satisfaction of its guests by providing a front desk, sightseeing/tour assistance, parking, housekeeping, room service, a lush green garden, on-demand adventurous activities, and a doctor on call service in the event of a medical emergency.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 41 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Basta River Valley, Ratangad, Darna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Wild Camp Resort, Camel Valley, Harishchandra, Girisagar Waterfall, Kalsubai, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Vaitarna Dam
Suggested reads: Best Spots Camping Near Pune
Bhandardara
Bhandardara is a hill station in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri mountain range, located on the banks of the Pravara River. According to a legend, sage Agastya meditated here for a year. Gods, pleased with his penance, bestowed upon him a stream of the Ganga, now known as the Pravara. Bhandardara is dotted with forts and is crisscrossed by trekking trails.
Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak, is a popular trekking destination. The trek to the 200-year-old Ratangad Fort, as well as the trek to the sixth-century Harishchandragad Fort, is also popular. Bhandardara, which is surrounded by lush greenery, is also a popular stopover for tourists travelling to Nashik and Shirdi.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 47.4 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, train
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Ratangad, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai, Darna Dam, Camel Valley, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls
Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass and popular hill station in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats. It is popular among hikers, trekkers, and nature lovers due to its numerous lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and verdant flora and fauna.
This site is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai, Pune, and Thane, and is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is best known for the pink flamingos that migrate here between July and September. This location is especially lovely during the monsoon season, with lush green hills and exotic pink flamingos.
Malshej Ghat is a paradise for nature lovers, with mesmerising waterfalls, beautifully crafted dams, and steep, lofty forts. Harishchandragad Fort is a popular trekking destination in this area. The temples in Malshej Ghat date from the 16th century AD and are architectural marvels. Malshej Falls, the beautiful Pimpalgaon Dam, and Ajoba Hillfort are just a few of the other attractions that will captivate any visitor.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 88.2 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Malshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Harishchandragad Fort , Ajoba Hill Fort, Konkan Kada
Top waterfalls in Igatpuri:
Girisagar Waterfall
The Igatpuri waterfall is a large and majestic waterfall located in the Bhavali dam. The dam has a nice view. Not to mention that during the monsoon season, visitors can see the magnificent waterfall. During the monsoon, people who enjoy the monsoon come here to enjoy the great view of the dam. The dam during the monsoon season.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 1.5 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra,Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Basta River Valley, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam
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Vaitarna Waterfalls
Nothing compares to the exuberance of Vaitarna Waterfalls. Vaitarna Waterfalls is a hidden natural wonder, like many of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Visitors would need to be guided to this scenic wonder, which would necessitate moderate trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing.
From a certain angle, it appears that a massive river has vanished into the earth. A closer look, on the other hand, reveals the wonder’s impressive cascade. It’s a little off the beaten path, but the scenery is well worth the effort. It is also one of the best adventure activities in Igatpuri that you can do in monsoon.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 2 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Basta River Valley, Wild Camp Resort, Camel Valley, Harishchandra, Girisagar Waterfall, Kalsubai, Vaitarna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Bhavali Dam, Touchwood Bliss
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Vihigaon Falls
Vihigaon waterfall is a seasonal waterfall located in Vihigaon village in Maharashtra’s Thane district, 13.5 kilometres from Igatpuri and 59 kilometres from Nashik. This is one of Maharashtra’s best natural waterfalls and a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Nashik.
Vihigaon Falls is a monsoon-fed waterfall with a beautiful natural setting. The falls cascades down from a height of approximately 120 feet into a pool. The Vihigaon Waterfall, also known as the Ashoka Waterfall, is located in the deep forest. The waterfall is breathtaking, and the path to it consists of a short hike through hilly forest, where visitors may have the opportunity to observe birds.
The waterfall is an excellent location for rappelling. During the monsoon season, this waterfall allows adventurers to rappel through the dense forest. The waterfall has about 120 feet of rappelling height, which most people can complete in about 30 minutes.
This ideal adventure weekend getaway can transport visitors away from city life and provide a refreshing experience in the midst of nature. The waterfall is also famous for being used in many scenes from the film Asoka, starring Shahrukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 13 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle, on foot
- Nearby places to visit: Harishchandra, Touchwood Bliss, Ratangad, Camel Valley, Vaitarna Dam, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Basta River Valley, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam, Girisagar Waterfall
Basta River Valley
Nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts will fall in love with this location. During the monsoon season, this lovely hill station comes to life. The gushing waterfalls, mist, and lush greenery make this a must-see during the rainy season.
This gravity and earthfill dam is a popular tourist destination. It provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding area as well as the Western Ghats. The river that runs through this valley has created some interesting rock formations. The valley’s lustrous foliage, woods, river, and misty hills make it a must-see.
This untainted valley will revitalize your body and soothe your mind. Ghatandevi Mandir is a temple dedicated to the goddess of the Ghat in the Bhatsa River Valley. You must visit during the monsoon season to see this place at its best. The valley is close to the Camel Valley.
- Distance from Igatpuri: 59 km
- How to visit? : Bus, cab, personal vehicle
- Nearby places to visit: Camel Valley, Kalsubai, Girisagar Waterfall, Darna Dam, Wanderlust Resort, Wild Camp Resort, Bhavali Dam, Vihigaon Falls, Vaitarna Waterfalls, Touchwood Bliss
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Igatpuri is well-connected by rail and road to nearby Maharashtra cities and the rest of the country. The Igatpuri Railway Station is a major railway station in Maharashtra that connects the major cities in the area. Buses and taxis are also popular modes of transportation to reach Igatpuri, which is located on the Mumbai-Agra NH-3, 45 kilometres from Nashik and 130 kilometres from Mumbai.
Vaitarna Dam, Camel Valley, Vihigaon Falls, Wanderlust Resort, Kalsubai Peak trek and Ratangad are some of the best places to visit near Igatpuri.
The tourist attractions in Igatpuri cater to all types of visitors and provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is a haven for nature lovers, with many ancient forts and pristine waterfalls, as well as several adventure activities such as rock climbing, trekking, camping, and more. This makes Igatpuri very popular among travellers.
The months of December, January, and February are ideal for visiting Igatpuri. Because it is peak season, expect a small crowd at this time. The months of June, July, August, September, October, and November have mild weather.