Sandhan Valley is one of the most intriguing natural features in India. This deep canyon in the Sahyadri Mountains is one of the most dangerous and difficult trek routes. Because sunlight does not reach the valley floor, the Valley of Shadows gets its name. Sandhan Valley is a short distance from Bhandardara and Igatpuri. The Sandhan Valley trek is more than just a hike; it also includes rappelling, rock climbing, bonfires, and stargazing. Three forts surround the Sandhan Valley: Alang, Madan, and Kulang. The three forts are referred to as the AMK forts.
The Sandhan Valley Trek’s Fundamentals
- Samrad village is in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district.
- Sandhan Valley is 12 kilometres away. 2 kilometres in length and 200 feet in depth
- The Sandhan Valley trek ranges in difficulty from moderate to difficult. Duration of the trek: approximately 5 hours Budget: approximately 20,000 INR
It should be noted that the estimated budget includes transportation, food, and lodging. If you buy an all-inclusive package from a travel agent, you could save INR 3000-4000.
Why Should You Go on the Sandhan Valley Trek?
One of the most memorable experiences here is seeing the clear sky and, if you’re lucky, the shooting stars. The camping grounds are beautiful. A 200-foot-long aperture created by a 15-foot-wide wall provides the best view of the sky. The steam that starts the journey flows into a large pond, but it is not safe to drink from. The stream supplies clean drinking water.
The trip’s unique features draw visitors from all over the country looking for an unforgettable experience. Given our hectic city lifestyles, this short run with nature is always a delight. This adventure includes canyoning, trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, sliding, descending, wading through water, and camping.
Trekking Season in Sandhan Valley
There are no time constraints for embarking on this adventure. This is something that can be done at any time of year. However, it is preferable that you do not do it during the summer. As the temperatures rise, it will be difficult to enjoy the trek. The majority of your energy will be exchanged by enduring the heat. The trek is best planned during the winter, autumn, or even the monsoon season.
How to Get to the Sandhan Valley Trek’s Starting Point
When you arrive in Mumbai, take the train to Kasara (or Igatpuri). When you arrive in Kasara, you can take a shared jeep to Samrad Village. Sandhan Valley is accessible by jeep from Kasara and Igatpuri.
Sandhan Valley Trekking Route
The trek begins in Samrad. For the first few hours, you will be walking through shallow water bodies. This path’s entire length will be descended. You’ll arrive at Tarzan Swing Point. If you want to do your Sandhan Valley trek without rappelling, you can continue without stopping. You’ll also have to climb a rope ladder and do some cave crawling. Then you’ll go on a hike among the rock patches. You will have to wade through some deep water pools in this area.Then you’ll reach some wide rocks that lead to the camping area. From here, you can see the Bann pinnacle and Ajoba Hill.
The return trip will take one of two paths. You can take the same route you used to get here for the first. For the second, continue forward, then descend through the gentle slopes and continue trekking through the river bed. You’ll then arrive in Dhene village, where you can take a bus to Asangaon station.
Accommodations in Maharashtra for the Sandhan Valley Trek
Overnight camping is permitted in the gorge. This will be your most enjoyable camping trip yet. It should be noted that there are no hotels or lodges nearby.
In and around Samrad, there are a few basic but adequate homestays.
If you don’t want to camp, you can stay in a hotel in Bhandardara.
Sandhan Valley Hiking Advice:
- If this is your first time trekking, you should hire a guide or a trekking company.
- This trek should be avoided if you have a heart condition.
- This trek will put your stamina to the test, so proceed with caution.
- Carry enough packaged food and small snacks with you when you’re out and about. Maintain a supply of energy bars on hand.
- Bring mosquito repellent and a windbreaker.
- Pack sparingly.
- Keep a fully charged power bank on hand.
Best Trekking Destinations
Here are some attractions and tourist sites to visit along the way for a little extra excitement and adventure.
- Sunset at the AMK Forts
Make your way to the ancient forts of Alang, Madan, and Kulang. Rest before embarking on the second trek to these forts the next day if you are exhausted from the main trek. The journey to these forts is also challenging, so save your energy for the journey ahead.
- Ratangad Fort
This is yet another fort that should not be missed. This fort has a steep ascent but is not strenuous, so you can visit it on the same day as the AMK forts. Though not as large as the AMK forts, it’s a great place to learn about the valley’s history and see some age-old architecture that demonstrates the masons’ skills of old.
- Waterfalls at Nanhe Ghat
Visit Ratanawadi to see this waterfall, which is only a few kilometers from the base camp. A picnic near the waterfall and/or a swim in the pool that forms at its base will be a welcome change of pace. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and take plenty of photos!
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide helps you plan an exciting trip to Maharashtra and participate in the daring Sandhan Valley trek through this Indian state’s lush foliage and mighty hills. Please let us know in the comments section if there is anything important that we missed that should have been included in this guide, and we will gladly add it.
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