ANDHARBAN FOREST

ANDHARBAN FOREST

Andhar means Darkness and Ban stands for dense jungle, so the word Andharban literally means The Dense Dark Forest. A major portion of this trek route involves walking through this denseness. It is one of the most beautiful treks and lots of things to explore. We will be walking on a ridge offering an awesome view of the Kundalika Valley, Bhira dam and the mountain ranges of Tamhini ghat. The start point of this trek is Pimpri dam begins in bright daylight which keeps on fluctuating as we keep entering the dense part of the forest and out, this only adds up to the magic that this place has to offer.
      Evergreen forest covers you with shade in the first half of the trek (6-8 km). The trek further descends down in Konkan to reach Bhira (4 km). The same valley where is the origin of the Kundalika river famous for its white water river rafting.

Trek route 

The foliage is abundantly thick with cascading waterfalls as well as still water ponds. You will enjoy stunning views of Kundalika Valley and amazing species of flora and fauna. People also go night trekking in Andharban. While on the route we can see the beauty of places like Ghangad, Tailbaila, Sarasgad, Plus valley, Tamhini ghat, Kundalika valley.

The trek starts from Pimpri Village at a place called Independent Point near Pimpri Dam. The trek should start early in the morning. The initial climb will be completely shaded with dense trees and plenty of water streams and you will get to enjoy the backwaters of Bira Dam. The path will take you through the top of a wall adjoining Pimpri dam and then lead you to an open area. You will get to enjoy the stunning views of Kundalika valley here. You will gradually enter the dark of the forest after a few winding routes. You can stop at Bhirdi village for a small refreshment break. Then the descent begins toward the Konkan route.

HOW TO REACH ANDHARBAN

Road -

 Lonavala is around 50 kilometres away from Pimpri village. You can take a cab or a bus to Lonavala. From there you can take a cab or bus to Pimpri Village. Hire a self-drive car if you’re coming straight from Mumbai. Trekkers who are not coming from Mumbai or any of the cities located on the west of Pimpri can first reach Pune and from there, hire a private taxi to Pimpri village.


Rail -

 Many trains take off from Mumbai to Lonavala and Pune. Try the Pune Intercity or Deccan Express and Udyan Express. If you’re coming from a north try, Hazrat Nizamuddin Express. Most trains from South India to Mumbai stop at Pune.

Flight -

 You can also fly to Pune, which is reachable from major cities in India by flight, and then take a cab to Pimpri.

CAMPING IN ANDHARBAN

You can stay at one of the lodges in Patnus village or enjoy overnight camping or lakeside camping at Bhira Dam. Alternatively, you can return to Lonavala or Pune here you get various hotels or other facilities for staying. There are several forest lodges and resorts near Andharban too.