Andharban Trek

• Altitude: 2,160 ft
• Time taken: 4-5 hours, 13 km
• Trek gradient: Easy-moderate. Most trails descend, with some flat walks.
• The sources of drinking water are: None. Take at least 3 litres of water.

Andharban is open throughout the throughout the day. It is true that some people consider it an evening trek The only security measure is to bring torchlights and be more cautious on the path. If you’re new to the trek it is advised to trek in the morning, as it’s more difficult to get lost at night, and a tiny mistake could lead you to wander in The Kundalika Valley. It is recommended to leave to Andharban at the beginning of morning and plan your journey to arrive at the starting point at 9 am

The starting point of the trek is approximately 200m away from Pimpri village, in the location known as Independence point, which is near Pimpri Dam. Pimpri Dam. There is no particular marking for the beginning point, however the trail is easily evident. It is possible to ask the nearby villager for directions if you are in need. The path is surrounded by an unfinished chain-link fence. The trekkers must pay an amount in the amount of Rs.50 per person prior to embarking on their journey. There isn’t a permanent counter in the sense of it’s just a temporary shelter however, the charge is legit and trekkers receive an official receipt acknowledging the amount paid.

The trail is essentially an uninvolved U-shaped curve around the backwaters that comprise the Bhira Dam, which is located in the Kundalika Valley. While it’s an uninterrupted drop, the extreme humidity and slippery path make it somewhat difficult. It can take four hours to walk the 13km trail

The trail is completely the dense forest and is far from humans. Be sure to bring small snacks and plenty of for water (at at least 3 liters) because there aren’t sources of drinking water on the trail. As a forest trek, Andharban offers views of wildlife and flora, with numerous species of birds that can be observed, including the Chaatak as well as the Malabar whistling thrush, the dwarf minivets and kingfishers among numerous other species. It is believed that the Indian Giant Squirrel has been reported to be present in the area but sightings are not frequent. The trail continues to the high point of the wall that borders Pimpri Dam. Pimpri dam for around 100 metres before turning left, and then is able to enter an open space. There are paddy fields on both sides. This road will continue for approximately 200m until you come to two tall shrubs. Make a right at this point. The point is easily identifiable by the obvious well-designed route, as well as a signboard indicating the beginning of the trail just a few metres to the left.

This path continues straight for a bit along with the Kundalika valley to the left, and the mountains on the right. This isn’t the point where Andharban begins. The undergrowth gradually gets more thicker as we move more, yet it’s still relatively accessible. Throughout this trek, we come across three main rivers, the most notable of which can be found at the end of the route, after around an hour of walking. The river can get turbulent during monsoons, and could require ropes to cross it. The path picks up at the other bank and then continues for nearly 1.5 kilometers of flat stroll through a twisting path until it reaches another rivulet following an abrupt U-bend. The rivulet is also prone to flow overflowing. But there is a cable at the point of crossing. After a gentle ascent towards the hill (about 10 feet of climbing) The trail then turns through a dark forest and this is where Andharban really begins.

The forest may get very dark, mainly because of fog in the rain The trail is clearly visible and there is little chance of it getting off track. It is important to be aware of leeches. It is recommended to wear long sleeves and full-sleeved clothing. There are markers put up by previous travelers to indicate the trails to avoid. In several locations dead tree logs are arranged horizontally on trails that must be kept clear of. The hike through the thick forest is the most gradual ascents. It goes on for about three kilometers before climbing one small hill. It then opens up into an open, flat area. Plus Valley to the left offers a stunning panorama. This is an ideal spot to build an overnight camp and eat lunch. You can also take a walk for 5 minutes to reach Hirdi the village located close by. Hirdi isn’t a place with many dining options however bathrooms are readily available.

From Hirdi the road is turned right and goes down towards the valley. A gradual descent begins here. The easiest method to recognize the trail is to look for are numerous slippery round stones that mark the path. The descent goes on for nearly 2 kilometers. The trail opens up into a broad plateau (people are camping on the plateau for the night occasionally, but it’s more convenient to walk further to see more views and to stay away from villages). From here the road, once more generally flat path, with the exception that Bhira Dam’s backwaters Bhira Dam can be seen on the left or front side. This section of the trail, though easy, is a bit long. It ends with a wide stream that runs through the entire trail. Although it is wide but is also shallow and easy to navigate even during wet season.

After the river, the road continues straight ahead with a gradual increase in small huts and shops may be found on the left-hand side on the highway. Following the road straight on the path, you will eventually reach Patnus village, and just ahead, Bhira village. Patnus has several lodges available for sleeping over and changing into fresh clothes and also a variety of alternatives for meals (one small dhaba that is owned by the ‘Kulkarni Kaka which is highly recommended). This village serves as the last point of the trek and is also the place where trekkers should ask for their vehicles to meet them to pick up.

The best advice for trekkers is to start the trek at 9 am, or earlier and reach Patnus in the afternoon, before returning to Lonavala at the darkness falls. If you plan to spend the night at Patnus There are numerous hotels and lodges (costing about Rs. 500 per person, on average, that includes food ) as well as some camping spots. Andharban is accessible all the time, but the ideal time to visit is the monsoon season, and also the post-monsoon season, when the fog is settling down within the woods, and the entire area appears clean and lush. While it’s a straightforward journey, Andharban manages to take your senses to an entirely new level.