Are you missing the verdant valleys of Kashmir? Is that photo from 2019's trip making you nostalgic for a weekend with your buddies? Then head out to explore Igatpuri, a hub of serenity, situated almost 3 hours away from Mumbai. Let the pleasant air here run through your hair while you trek through its lush green landscape, ditching the maddening crowd of clichéd tourist spots!
All-in-one package nestled in the bosom of Western Ghats
Famed for its immaculate and peaceful surroundings, Igatpuri is a little hill station in the state of Maharashtra which is surrounded by some of the highest hills of the Sahyadri Ranges. This cosy little town acts as a popular weekend destination because the serenity offered here is not easily found near a fast-paced city like Mumbai.
With its numerous little hills and thundering waterfalls, Igatpuri has a lot to offer to everyone and anyone! History lovers can roam around and explore the ancient forts of Tringalwadi and Avandha while nature lovers can have the time of their life as they visit the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary or the Vihigaon Waterfalls. Further, the historic temples add to the old-world charm of this place making it a great place for enthusiasts of all things vintage!
Adventure sports aficionados shouldn't lose heart because Igatpuri also offers a myriad of adventure options such as river rafting in the rapids of the Vaitarna, camping under the stars and trekking the undulating hills and waterfalls. Also, if you think that meditation is your kind of adventure, then you will be happy to know that this little town is home to the Vipassana Academy, t meditation centre which acts as a wellness retreat.
How to reach?
We suggest that you pre-plan and book a tour with your friends so that this trip is all about fun and no end-minute hassles! You can choose how to travel the 120 km distance between Mumbai and Igatpuri, depending on your choice of transportation. If you are looking for a short travel time, then according to the availability of trains, you can book a berth for yourself. If you are looking for a scenic adventure, then you can cover this distance via road in a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler.
Knock Knock
When the world lost Irrfan Khan, a prolific actor, the residents of Igatpuri paid a tribute to him by renaming a locality after him. The area in this town which stands around the farmhouse of the late actor, has been renamed as Hero-Chi-Wadi, literally translating to 'the neighbourhood of the hero'. So if you are a cinema buff who hates being away from Mumbai, Igatpuri has offered you all the reasons to visit it this weekend!
