Sandhan Valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Shadows’ because the sun’s rays do not reach the ravines. It is a stunning valley in the Sahyadri mountains. This is one of the most challenging and satisfying treks in Sahyadri.
Samdhan valley is located near Bhandardara, a few miles away from Igatpuri. This place offers an adventurous experience like no other. You not only trek here, but you get to do a lot more things like rappelling, rock climbing, setting up bonfires and camping under the open sky. The natural valley of Sandhan is situated between AMK forts, which stands for Alang, Madan, kulang. This trek is famous for its novel status, excellent photogenic scenes and a route that is off the beaten track.
How to reach
To enter Samrad village, you will have to reach Igatpuri or Kasara first.
❖ By Road
Book a private car and drive down to the Samrad village. The distance between Mumbai and Sandhan Valley is about 200 kilometres that can be covered in 4-5 hours.
You can also take a state transport bus to Igatpuri-Ghoti from Mumbai or Pune where buses are accessible to Bhandardara then take a shared jeep to reach Samrad village.
❖ By Rail
Take a train route from Mumbai to Kasara. It would be best if you take the Kasara fast train from CST. After you get down at Kasara, book a shared jeep to reach Samrad. Plenty of shared jeep transportations are available. Or you can also take a long-distance train which goes to Igatpuri.
❖ Accommodation
You can consider camping overnight in the valley for the best camping experience ever. There are no lodges or hotels nearby, but homestays through townies are available around Samrad.
You can camp overnight by arranging your own tent in the ravine grounds. Homestay in Samrad village usually costs from 500 – 800 Rs per night. Stays at Bhandardara start from 1000 rs onwards.
You can try the MTDC resort, and this resort is quite popular among travelers. You may also check out a few other hotel and resort options like Anandvan resort in Bhandardara to rejoice in luxury after a tiring day.
❖ Things To See
- One can trek uphill to find out the ancient forts of Alang, Madan, and Kulang.
- Undertake yet another thrilling trek in Bhandardara to the Ratangad Fort, through a relatively steep climb.
- You must take a visit to this elegant waterfall in Ratanwadi known as nanhe ghat waterfalls; the waterfall is only a few km away from the base camp.
- Visit the various scenic waterfalls in Bhandardara, such as kalsubai peak, Umbrella Falls, Randha Fall. Travelers can also visit Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake. It would be simply amazing to walk around the beautiful village of Ratanwadi.
- Another must-visit destination is Igatpuri which is about a couple of hours away. There you can explore Myanmar Gate, Thal that, Tringalwadi, and Ashoka Waterfall.
❖ Things To Carry
- Travellers must carry energy bars, a windbreaker, and mosquito repellents.
- Must keep light sources like a torch, flashlight along with a comfortable backpack.
- It is essential to carry a power bank and a DSLR camera or any other suitable camera if possible.
- Try to carry enough water and other fluids from Sandhan village as the water from the track streams is not considered pure to drink.
- Please keep all your medicines in a first-aid box, keep it in a place that it is easily accessible.
- You can check the porta-potty availability set up on the trail as there are no restrooms built yet.
- If you are a first-time trekker, you must book a guide or trekking operator for a smooth journey.
