Sandhan valley

Sandhan valley

Sandhan Valley, also known as Valley of suspense or Valley of Shadow(as the sun rays don't reach the ravines), is one of the greatest canyons in the splendid setting of Sahyadri Western Ghats. The water carved valley is 200 ft deep and about 1.5 km long. Sandhan valley is located on the western side of the beautiful Bhandardara region, near Samrad village. The valley is surrounded by mighty and jaw-dropping mountains of ratangadh and Kalsubai, Alang, Madan and Kulang (Known as AMK) and Ajoba. The kalsubai was the highest peak in Maharashtra mountain ranges. The brilliant and deep narrow rock floored ravine is located between the two high walls of the mountain range. At some places, its width is less than 3 ft and at some places, sun rays unable to reach the ground. Which gives it the name valley of shadows. It is one of the most challenging and enjoyable treks in Sahyadri.

Walking through the narrow streak of valley with 200 ft rock walls on both the sides is a lifetime adventure experience. Descending full Sandhan valley is always a memorable outing and the overnight stay under the sparkling sky is the best experience.
At some places, its width is less than 3 feet and at some places, sun rays unable to even reach the ground. To go at the end of gorge valley you have cross two water pools, the water level of pond changes according to season. In winter water is up to the waist and in summer it is up to knee-high level. For the two small rock patches, we should use ropes to climb down. After climbing down the second rock patch you shall see some flat ground where we can stay overnight. At the end of the valley, you get a magnificent view of high cliffs and deep valleys. You have to rappel down 1 patch max height 45 feet and the famous Sandhan Valley rock patches.

Sandhan Valley is that part of the beautiful Sahyadri mountain ranges which offers a challenging trek a trekker’s delight. Sandhan Valley Trek is a unique experience combining adventure activity such as Rappelling and staying amidst nature.

HOW TO REACH SANDHAN VALLEY

 (Samard village base village )

From Mumbai

 Total distance from Mumbai to valley is 182 km .
via Igatpuri & Bhavali . It passes from Kalyan, Kasara, Igatpuri, Bahuli dam, Shendi Bhandardara, Ghatghar, Samrad village.


From Pune

Total distance Pune to Sandhan Valley is 248 km.
Via Sangamner Pune - Narayangaon, Sangamner, Rajur, Ratanwadi phata, Shendi Bhandardara, Ghatghar Dam, Samrad village.

Recommended Route from Pune
Pune- Narayangaon, Alephata,  Bramhanwada, Kotul, Kotul Phata, Rajur, Ratanwadi phata, Shendi Bhandardara, Ghatghar Dam, Samrad village - Via Otur Total Distance 200 km

From Nashik

Total Distance fom Nasik to valley 93 km
Nashik, Wdhiware, Ghoti, Vasali Phata, Shendi Bhandardara, Ghatghar Dam, Samrad village.

By Rail

The closest railway station is Igatpuri railway station. You can reach from Igatpuri to Samrad by road. Nashik railway station is major railway station at 54 km near to Samrad village. There is no railway station near Samrad village.

The best way from Mumbai to get to Sandhan Valley is to take a train bound for Kasara. The train journey takes around about 2 hrs 40 min.

Reach to Sandhan valley by local transport.

It is more convenient to take a jeep from Kasara to Samrad village which is at a distance of 80 km and would take about 2 to 3 hrs to reach the base village. Hiring a private vehicle would be the most suitable and suggested way of getting to Sandhan Valley as this place is not well connected and a bit secluded hence getting public transport is difficult.

Camping

There are no stay options at Sandhan valley except to camp in the open use of tents possible. Being a remote village there are no hotels in Samrad. The locals make homestay arrangements. Trekkers can opt to stay in their own camping tents carried along.  Stay put in the lap of nature in a camping tent is a thrilling experience and the best stay option. For a warm accommodation opt for a homestay. There are no shops or eateries at Samrad. The trekker advice to make their own arrangements with the villagers before starting for the trek. Trekkers are advised Clean drinking water is also available from nearby well.