Explore nature’s bounty in Bhandardara

Bhandardara, a small town located in the Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, is as quaint as they come. It is situated approximately 185 kilometers from Mumbai and 162 kilometers from Pune.

If you love being surrounded by mountains, you will love Bhandardara as it is located in the Sahyadri mountain range. With abundant natural beauty, hills, serene lakes, and waterfalls, Bhandardara is perfect for nature and adventure lovers.


As a town, Bhandardara has attractions like the Bhandardara Dam across the Pravara River, which is also a very popular spot for picnics and camping. Wilson Dam, Randha Falls and Arthur Lake also have quite a fan following of their own!


But there’s more to Bhandardara. Kalsubai Peak, the highest peak in Maharashtra, is located near Bhandardara. And if you love adventure and thrill, this is the one for you. The steep climb to Kalsubai Peak will leave you breathless, quite literally.


Come monsoon season, you will love Bhandardara for another reason other than adventure and waterfalls. It’s the fireflies that bring in a large number of tourists to this town. The forests and hills surrounding Bhandardara come to life with these pretty fireflies. These insects are the real stars of Bhandardara in monsoon season and we love it!


Usually, the Jugnu Festival Bhandardara (firefly festival) starts from the second week of May and goes on till the third week of June. Exact date and time may differ depending on the fireflies’ sightings. These fireflies seem to love Maharashtra’s humidity!


It’s simply magical to see the forest illuminated by these pretty glowing insects. Make sure you join the firefly watching tours and camps that are conducted in the area during the peak season.

1. When is the best time to visit Bhandardara?
   March to June is perfect because this is the period when Bhandardara is the most beautiful.
2. When is the firefly festival in Bhandardara?
   The firefly festival in Bhandardara is usually held during the monsoon season when fireflies are abundant in the area. The festival typically takes place in the months of May and June.
3. How to reach Bhandardara?
   Bhandardara can be reached by road and rail. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Bhandardara is Igatpuri Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 45 km. By Road: Bhandardara is 185 km from Mumbai, 162 km from Pune and just 70 km from Nashik.