Discovering the Serenity of Igatpuri, Maharashtra

Introduction

Igatpuri is a hill station located in Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is situated on the Western Ghats. The beauty of this small town is pleasing. This city attracts nature lovers as well as adventure lovers. The beauty of its magnificent forts and hills is also quite popular. Many films have also been shot here. Igatpuri has preserved its culture just like its nature.

Getting to Igatpuri

How To Reach Igatpuri By Road

There are two routes leading to Igatpuri from Mumbai road, the first route is of 121 km and the second route is of 144 km. Both the routes are as follows:-

First– Mumbai – Chheda Nagar – NH 160 to Old Mumbai Agra Road – Talegaon – Bajrang Wada – Igatpuri.

Second– Mumbai – Chheda Nagar – Eastern Express Highway – Bhiwandi Road -Wada Road – NH 848 to Wada via Shahpur Road – Kalamgaon – Kasara Bypass via NH 160 – Bajrang Wada – Igatpuri.

The natural beauty of Igatpuri will dazzle you. If you are fond of exciting sports then this place is perfect for you. Steal a few moments from your busy life and visit Igatpuri.

How to Reach Igatpuri by Train

The easiest way to reach Igatpuri is by train because Igatpuri railway station is situated in this city. Trains run continuously from Mumbai, Huwah and Delhi to Igatpuri. 9 direct trains go from Mumbai to Igatpuri. The train takes at least 1 hour 40 minutes from Mumbai. The cheapest way to reach Igatpuri is by train. The train also reaches Igatpuri faster than other vehicles.

How to Reach Igatpuri By Flight

The nearest airports to Igatpuri are Mumbai (135 km), Aurangabad (236 km), Pune (238 km). Taxis are easily available outside the airport. Or the further journey can be completed by bus or train. The nearest airport to Igatpuri is Chhatrapati Shivji International Airport (99 km).

Local transportation in Igatpuri

- Auto rickshaw: Auto rickshaws are the most common form of local transportation in Igatpuri. You can find auto-rickshaws outside the railway station and bus stand.
- Taxi: You can also hire a taxi for local travel in Igatpuri.
- Local train: There is a local train that runs from Igatpuri to Kasara. This train is the best option if you are planning your visit to Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Vihigaon Waterfall.

Tourist Place of Igatpuri

Igatpuri is a hill station located in Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is situated on the Western Ghats. The beauty of this small town is pleasing. This city attracts nature lovers as well as adventure lovers. The beauty of its magnificent forts and hills is also quite popular.Many films have also been shot here. Igatpuri has preserved its culture just like its nature. Let’s get acquainted with the beautiful places of Igatpuri like Myanmar Gate, Tringalwadi Fort, Vaitarna Dam, Kalsubai Peak etc.

Exploring the Beauty of Igatpuri

Vaitarna Dam

Vaitarna Dam was built on the Vaitarna River in 1950. It was only after this dam that the trend of building dams with concrete started in India. A beautiful view of the Western Ghats can be seen from this dam. The beautiful lagoon built in the dam complex further enhances its natural beauty. This dam is the primary water source of Mumbai. The beauty and grandeur of this dam is worth seeing.

Kalsubai Peak

Kalsubai Peak is a mountain in the Western Ghats, located in Maharashtra, India. This is the highest peak of Maharashtra. Its peak situated at an altitude of 1646 meters is the highest point in Maharashtra. There is a temple on the top of this peak whose name is Kalsubai Temple, after this temple this Choti was named. A fair is also organized in this temple on festivals like Holi, Navratri. It becomes necessary to come here to see the view from the highest peak of Maharashtra.

Tringalwadi Fort

This fort is situated near Tringalwadi village. There is no concrete information about the construction of this fort but it is believed that this fort was built in the 10th century. Everyone from Mughal to Maratha ruled this fort. Being situated on a hill, this place greatly impresses trekkers. There is greenery around the fort, hence it attracts tourists also. Those who like nature must come here. This is the perfect place for those who love adventure, trekking and camping.

Ghatandevi Mandir

Ghatan Devi Temple is situated amidst the beautiful valleys of Igatpuri. This is an ancient temple dedicated to Ghatadevi. Local people around believe that there is Ghatadevi (protector of the ghats). Tringalwadi Fort is situated behind the temple. The view of the vast Western Ghats from the temple is very beautiful. Encompassing the beauty of faith and devotion, this temple attracts people to come to Igatpuri.

Camel Valley

Camel Valley is located near Bhatsa River in Igatpuri. The main attraction at this place is the waterfall of water falling from a height of 1000 feet. This valley comes alive during the rainy days. The lush green valley covered with a light mist is very attractive. Adventure sports like river rafting and river crossing are also done here. The beauty of this place and the sound of the waterfall is very relaxing. A trip to Camel Valley will refresh you.

Bhatsa River Valley

Bhatsa River Valley situated in Igatpuri is a peaceful place where one can spend some time peacefully. The view of this valley surrounded by greenery on all sides is very enjoyable. Here also tourists can enjoy exciting sports like river rafting and river crossing. The cool breeze here will enliven you.

Vihigaon Waterfall

Vihigaon Waterfall is located in Vihigaon, Thane district of Maharashtra, at a distance of 13.5 km from Igatpuri. It is a seasonal waterfall which is seen during monsoon days. This is one of the best natural waterfalls in Maharashtra and is also very popular.

This waterfall is falling from a height of about 120 feet. This waterfall is also known as ‘Ashoka Waterfall’. The waterfall is situated in the middle of the forest of Vihigaon, to see it tourists also have to do a short 30-minute trekking. Besides, one can also see the beauty of the forest and the sight of birds. The shooting of the film Ashoka has also taken place near this waterfall.

This place is bound to attract adventure seekers. There is no facility of food and accommodation here. The beauty of the waterfall will make your day.

Amruteshwar Temple

Amriteshwar Temple located in Ratanwadi is a carved Shiva temple. The rulers of the Shilahara dynasty built this beautiful temple in the 9th century AD. This temple is 1200 years old. It is the 12 Shiva temples built by King Jhanjha. The temple is surrounded by forest and greenery. Due to its beauty it is also called Kashmir of Maharashtra.

Darna Dam

Darna Dam located near Igatpuri was built by the British Government in 1916. Nature lovers will like its beauty very much. During the rainy season, when there is greenery all around and there is more water in the dam, the view here is amazing. If you reach at the right time, you can also see water falling from the dam gates.

Culinary Delights in Igatpuri

The original cookery of this place is a treat for the taste kids. Do not miss out on trying the notorious Maharashtrian dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, and Pav Bhaji. also, you must savor the original specialties like Pithla Bhakri and Sabudana Khichdi.

Best local Food of Igatpuri

The main food of Igatpuri is Marathi food but dishes from North and South are also available here. Everything from Idli, Dosa to Parantha is available here. Vada Pav is the specialty of Igatpuri, don’t forget to try it. Tourists and trekkers keep coming here, hence there is abundance of hotels here.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Igatpuri is monsoon (June to March) and winter (November to December). The greenery of Igatpuri blooms more during the rainy season and the green color also becomes darker. Various types of adventure activities are organized here in winter. It gets quite humid here in summer.

Shopping Market in Igatpuri

Along with the beauty of Igatpuri, tourists also enjoy shopping. City Center Mall, Tibetan Welfare Association Market, Sinnar Market etc. are some of the famous markets here. All the necessary things are easily available here.

Accommodation Options

This place offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets. From cosy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, there is a commodity for everyone. Some popular choices include Rainforest Resort, Manas Resort, and Dew Drops Exchange Retreat.

Conclusion

A visit to Igatpuri is like stepping into a tranquil haven, where nature’s beauty unfolds at every turn. The serene geographies, coupled with the rich artistic heritage, make it a destination that caters to all kinds of trippers. Whether you are an adventure candidate, a history sucker, or simply in need of a peaceful flight, This place has a commodity special in store for you. So, pack your bags, embark on this trip, and let the serenity of this place leave an unforgettable mark on your soul

Frequently Ask Questions

What is Igatpuri famous for?

It is known as Vipassana International Academy, where the ancient fashion of contemplation is tutored called Vipassana. The place is one of the stylish places to visit in Maharashtra in thunderstorm. It’s a hill station on busy Mumbai- Agra NH- 3 only 45 km from Nashik and 130 km from Mumbai.

Which is the best time to visit Igatpuri?

The ideal time to visit here is December, January and February. Since this is the peak season anticipate a little crowd during this time. June, July, August, September, October and November period gets moderate rainfall.

How many days are enough for Igatpuri?

There are many activities that you can do here if you have 3- 4 days in your hand. You can visit the beautiful waterfalls here during monsoon and the amazing & beautiful landscapes of the Shayadari Ghats. Trekking is the most ideal place to conduct here.

How far is waterfall from Igatpuri station?

At a distance of 13.5 km from Igatpuri and 59 km from Nashik, Vihigaon cascade is a seasonal fall positioned at Vihigaon vill in the Thane quarter of Maharashtra. This is one of the stylish natural falls of Maharashtra and also a popular weekend flight from Mumbai and Nashik.