Sandhan Valley, also known as the Valley of Shadows, is a magical canyon in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, near Bhandardara. This naturally carved valley is famous for its narrow rock-cut gorge, thrilling descend trek, and stunning waterfalls during monsoon.
It’s a dream destination for adventure seekers, trekkers, rappellers, and campers. A perfect offbeat escape if you’re looking for thrill wrapped in nature!
📍 Location & Map
- District: Ahmednagar
- Nearest Village: Samrad
- Region: Western Ghats, Maharashtra
- 📌 Google Map Location: View Map
- 🧭 Coordinates: 19.5008° N, 73.7374° E
🚗 How to Reach Sandhan Valley
🚘 By Road:From Mumbai (190 km):
- Route: Mumbai → Kasara → Ghoti → Bhandardara → Samrad
- Route: Pune → Sangamner → Akole → Bhandardara → Samrad
- Nearest station: Kasara or Igatpuri
- From here, you can hire a local jeep to reach Samrad Village
- State buses available to Igatpuri or Bhandardara
- Local jeeps or shared taxis to Samrad
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Sandhan Valley
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| 🌧️ Monsoon (July–Sept) | Waterfalls & lush surroundings, but risky for trek |
| 🍁 Post-Monsoon (Oct–Feb) | Best time – clear skies, safe canyon trek |
| 🔥 Summer (March–June) | Very hot and dry, not ideal for trekking |
💸 Budget Estimate (Per Person)
| Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Travel (from Mumbai/Pune) | ₹600 – ₹1000 |
| Local Jeep Hire | ₹200 – ₹300 |
| Trek Guide (mandatory for descend) | ₹300 – ₹500 |
| Food & Water | ₹150 – ₹250 |
| Camping/Stay | ₹500 – ₹1000 |
🧗♂️ Trek Significance & Things to Do
- Canyon Trekking through 200 ft deep gorge
- Rappelling & Ladder Climb (optional with group trek guides)
- Water pools & rock patches during trail
- Overnight Camping at base or mid-point
- Sky photography & stargazing at Samrad
- Explore hidden caves, cliff views, and the Valley of Shadows
📌 Nearby Places to Visit (Touch Points)
| Place | Distance |
|---|---|
| Bhandardara Dam (Wilson) | 15 km |
| Arthur Lake | 14 km |
| Randha Falls | 17 km |
| Amruteshwar Temple | 20 km |
| Kalsubai Peak | 20 km |
| Ratangad Fort | 22 km |
🍽️ Food & Water Availability
- Local villagers offer basic homemade meals (veg)
- Carry extra water bottles and snacks
- No commercial restaurants – food has to be pre-booked or carried
🚻 Toilets & Stay
- Basic washrooms available at Samrad village
- No toilets along trek trail
- Camping tents at base or booked via trek organizers
- MTDC and homestays available in Bhandardara
🛍️ Local Market & Guide
- Small shops in Samrad for biscuits, water, and torch batteries
- Local guides are available for hire at Samrad
- Group treks via Mumbai/Pune organizers recommended for safety
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