Bhandardara, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a serene hill station perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. With its lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and stunning waterfalls, it’s a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. If you’re planning a trip, knowing how to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the available transportation options—whether by car, bus, or train—to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Distance Between Mumbai and Bhandardara
Before diving into the travel options, it’s important to know that Bhandardara is approximately 165 kilometers from Mumbai. Depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions, the journey can take between 3 to 5 hours.
How to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai by car.
One of the most convenient ways to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai is by car. Whether you’re using your personal vehicle or a rented car, the road trip is scenic and relatively easy to navigate. he driving route is provided in a detailed breakdown.
Route Overview:
- Start from Mumbai and get on the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway.
- Follow the NH160 via Kasara Ghat.
- After crossing Ghoti village, take the Ghoti-Bhandardara road that leads directly to the hill station.
Estimated Time and Distance:
- Distance: Approximately 165 km
- The estimated travel time is between 3.5 and 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
Driving Tips:
- Start your journey early in the morning to avoid Mumbai traffic.
- The roads are generally well-maintained, but during the monsoon, some patches may be slippery. Drive cautiously, especially in the Ghats.
- You’ll pass through several small towns and villages, so feel free to stop for local snacks or tea.
How to Reach Bhandardara from Mumbai by Bus
Another popular option for travelers is to take a bus from Mumbai to Bhandardara. Although there are no direct buses to Bhandardara, you can take a bus to Igatpuri or Nashik and then hire a local taxi or take a connecting bus to Bhandardara.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Mumbai to Igatpuri/Nashik: Several state-run (MSRTC) and private buses ply the Mumbai-Nashik route daily.You can take a bus from Dadar or Mumbai Central.
- Igatpuri/Nashik to Bhandardara: Upon reaching Igatpuri or Nashik, you can either hire a taxi or find local buses that go to Bhandardara.
Estimated Time:
- Mumbai to Igatpuri/Nashik: 3 to 4 hours.
- Igatpuri/Nashik to Bhandardara: 1 to 1.5 hours by taxi or local bus.
Bus Tickets:
Ticket prices for buses from Mumbai to Nashik/Igatpuri range from ₹200 to ₹500 depending on the bus operator and seating options.
How bus can be accessed from Dadar or Mumbai Central.
For train enthusiasts, reaching Bhandardara by train is a convenient and affordable option. Since there is no direct train to Bhandardara, the nearest train station is Igatpuri or Kasara, both of which are well connected to Mumbai.
Mumbai to Kasara by Train:
- You can take a local train from CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus), Dadar, or Thane to Kasara, which is on the Central Line.
- Trains to Kasara are frequent, especially during the early mornings.
Mumbai to Igatpuri by Train:
- Alternatively, you can take long-distance express trains to Igatpuri from Dadar or CST stations.
From Kasara/Igatpuri to Bhandardara:
- From either Kasara or Igatpuri, you’ll need to hire a taxi to Bhandardara. Taxis are easily available at both stations and the journey will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Train Travel Tips:
- Try to book tickets in advance if traveling on long-distance express trains.
- Local trains to Kasara can get crowded, so try to catch an early train for a more comfortable experience.
Best Time to Visit Bhandardara
While figuring out how to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai, it’s also important to know the best time to visit this beautiful hill station.
- Monsoon (June to September): This is the ideal time for nature lovers, as the rains bring lush greenery and full waterfalls. However, the roads can be slippery, so be cautious if driving.
- Winter (October to February): The weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and camping.
- Summer (March to May): While it’s not as popular during the summer, Bhandardara remains cooler than Mumbai, making it a great escape from the heat.
Things to Do in Bhandardara
Once you’ve figured out how to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai, here are some of the top attractions you can explore:
- Arthur Lake: A tranquil lake surrounded by forests, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
- Randha Falls: A stunning waterfall that comes alive during the monsoon.
- Mount Kalsubai: The highest peak in Maharashtra, a must-visit for trekkers.
- Wilson Dam: A massive dam built on the Pravara River, offering picturesque views.
- Amruteshwar Temple: A 1,200-year-old Shiva temple, perfect for history buffs and spiritual seekers.
Accommodation in Bhandardara
Bhandardara offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to luxury resorts. If you’re planning an extended stay, consider camping by the lake or booking a lakeside cottage for a serene experience.
Popular options include:
- Anandvan Resort: A luxury resort perfect for families and couples.
- Yash Resort: A mid-range resort with all modern amenities.
- Local Homestays: For a more authentic experience, several homestays are available at affordable prices.
Conclusion
Bhandardara is an ideal getaway from the busy life of Mumbai. Whether you choose to travel by car, bus, or train, reaching this peaceful hill station is relatively simple. Now that you know how to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai, all that’s left is to pack your bags and embark on a journey filled with scenic views and unforgettable experiences.
Q1.What is the best way to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai?
The best way to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai is by car, as it offers a scenic and comfortable drive. However, you can also take a train to Kasara or Igatpuri and hire a taxi from there, or use buses that travel to Igatpuri or Nashik and continue to Bhandardara by local transport.
Q2.How long does it take to travel from Mumbai to Bhandardara by car?
The distance between Mumbai and Bhandardara is about 165 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Q3.Are there any direct buses from Mumbai to Bhandardara?
No, there are no direct buses from Mumbai to Bhandardara. However, you can take a bus to Igatpuri or Nashik and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Bhandardara.
Q4.What is the nearest railway station to Bhandardara?
The nearest railway stations to Bhandardara are Kasara and Igatpuri. From either station, you can hire a taxi or take local transport to reach Bhandardara.
