Where you see beautiful things as they really are: Igatpuri, Maharashtra’s No 1

In the scenic Western Ghats of Maharashtra is the idyllic hill station of Igatpuri. It lies between the cities of Mumbai and Nashik and has a railway station. The town has the Vipassana International Academy where Dhammagiri meditation is taught. An ideal place to visit during the monsoons, Igatpuri is 45 kms from Nashik and 103 kms from Mumbai.

Igatpuri is a small town located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its picturesque beauty, lush green hills, and pleasant climate. The town is situated in the Western Ghats and is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Igatpuri Treks

A haven for trekkers, it boasts of some of the highest peaks in the Sahayadri range. A number of forts are also here. The place is the favourite outdoor setting for Bollywood film shooting and a number of songs have been shot here. 

It is located 600 metres above sea level. The Bhatsa river valley is a tourist destination as is camel valley. Bhandardara is close by to Igatpuri and very often people visit both these places. Kasubai peak is 35kms from Igatpuri and this highest peak of the Sahayadris is a must visit for trekkers.

The town is famous for its Vipassana Meditation Center, which is one of the largest meditation centers in the world. The center attracts people from all over the globe who come here to learn and practice the art of meditation.

Dams

Bhavli dam is a nice attraction with greenery all around. The Girisagar waterfall which is lovely to see is located 17 kms from Igatpuri in the Jamuna hills. There are a number of temples around Igatpuri like the Amruteshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that was built in the 11th century AD. One can go ahead and trek to Ratangad fort which offers a lovely view of the Sahayadri mountains.

Ghatandevi temple is another must visit as it is said to be dedicated to the protector of the Ghats. The Tringalwadi fort lies behind it and the Durrar Utvad, Trimak and Harihar mountains surround it. There is even a Commonwealth war cemetery where soldiers who fought for the British are buried. Those interested in history can visit that. 

The town is also known for its numerous waterfalls, including the popular Ashoka Waterfall where tourists can enjoy the scenic beauty and take a refreshing dip. Igatpuri is also home to many forts, such as Tringalwadi, Avandha, and Kalsubai, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Waterfalls

There are also five waterfalls which are majestic and drawn many people from Mumbai and Nashik to Igatpuri. The Tringalwadi Lake, dam as well as the Vaitarna dams are very scenic and blissful. 

The best time to visit Igatpuri is during the winter months of December, January and February. A weekend trip is enough to explore the place if you have your own vehicle or else you will need 3-4 days. 

Trekking is a popular activity in Igatpuri, with treks to Kalsubai peak being highly sought after. Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills.

There are a number of hotels and resorts where one can stay while in Igatpuri which will suit people of all budgets. If you want to escape the crowded hill stations of Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar and Matheran during peak time, then Igatpuri is definitely a place you should visit.

Overall, the town is a serene and tranquil destination that offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and provides ample opportunities to reconnect with nature.