Also known as a Valley of Shadows and Maharashtra great Canyon, Sandhan valley is one of the most enjoyable treks in the Western ghat.
In the Sahyadri region of Northern Maharashtra, Sandhan valley is located near Bhardardara near Igatpuri.
The natural landscape in the form of the gorge is basically between the AMK i.e. Alang, Madan, and Kulang forts. This photogenic gorge is also among the less explored places of Maharashtra in India.
Sandhan valley is about 200 feet deep and 2 kilometers long, it is an ideal challenging trekking spot. An offbeat trekking trail of this valley is suitable for the fit and the thrill-seekers.
The famous name of Sandhan valley is ‘The valley of Shadows’, and trekkers will know soon why. The sun rays do not reach the surface as the valley is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges such as Ratangad, Ajoba, Alang, Madan, and Kulang.
Like many other tourist destinations of Igatpuri, Sandhan valley is also populated by tourists seeking adventure and an escape from city life.
Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra is the center for several adventurous and leisure spots of Igatpuri are very easily accessible for tourists traveling from other parts of the country.
Along with trekking, Sandhan valley is also famous for camping, rappelling, photography, star gazing, rock climbing, and many more.
How to reach
Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Internation Airport is just 99km away from Igatpuri. Other close spots with airport facilities are Aurangabad and Pune.
Nearest railway station: The Igatpuri railway station has regular trains from Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, and many other spots.
Via Road: Nation highway 3 is connected with Igatpuri and is surrounded by cities. A comfortable road ride either by private and public transport is a joy in its known.
Best time to visit
Visit Igatpuri in Monsoon season to catch a glimpse of the best tourist destination. During monsoon season, plan for months June to march, and during winters plan for November and December.
During summers, trekking and hiking might prove to be not so ideal thing to do. Winter and monsoon seasons are advisable.
About Sandhan Valley Trek
This amazing trek in the Western ghats is an experience like no other. The deep gorge of Maharashtra is the spot with visiting after the challenging trek with multiple rocks in the way.
The starting point of this trek is the base camp village from where the trek starts in the early morning.
Set a camp for the first night and embrace the beauty of stars gazing.
Descend upon Tarzan swing point for rappelling, 2 to 4 feet high this sport is suitable for all. Going through uneven surfaces full of rocks, stones, and whatnot.
Following through those rocks only, one can capture the beauty of the canyon and also reach the campsite in no time. The view of Ajoba hills is just breathtaking.
The camping for only one night may not feel so satisfying but the bucket of memories will be overflowing.
The return trail takes the trekker through a gentle slope and a river bed. Later on, the trail will be the same trekkers will find a similar base camp village at the end.
Many other spots in Igatpuri are also known for treks and camping, so tourists can extend their visit to explore the amazing destinations of the Ahmednagar district as well.
The village at the base is a trekker friendly spot with all the necessary equipment. Hire a jeep or private mode of transportation for comfortable travel.
Many groups and common modes of transportation are also available in Igatpuri and nearby destinations for tourists.
Things to carry
- Trekking shoes are a must
- Masks and sanitizers are the new normal and compulsory things to carry
- Sleeping bag or sheets for camping
- Water bottle of minimum 3 liters
- Backpack to carry essential things
- Woolen clothes including socks and caps
- Extra pair of comfortable clothes
- Personal toiletries
- First aid kits with an important tablet for muscle pain or headache (Compulsory)
- Track pants
- Wet or dry towels
- Camera with extra cells
- Torch with extra charged cells
- Identity proof (any)
- Packed food or snacks
- Energy bars or chocolates or glucose
- Extra pair of clothes during winter especially
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