Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake are the crown jewels of Bhandardara, a serene hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Built in 1910 over the Pravara River, Wilson Dam is one of the oldest dams in India, and it beautifully feeds the calm and vast Arthur Lake, surrounded by lush Sahyadri ranges.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend, a monsoon road trip, or nature photography, this destination offers an unforgettable experience.
📍 Location & Map
- Wilson Dam & Arthur Lake, Bhandardara
- District: Ahmednagar, Maharashtra
- Coordinates: 19.5245° N, 73.7776° E
- Google Map: View on Google Maps
🚗 How to Reach Wilson Dam & Arthur Lake
🛣️ By Road:
From Mumbai (165 km)
- Route: Mumbai → Kasara → Ghoti → Bhandardara
From Pune (170 km)- Route: Pune → Sangamner → Akole → Bhandardara
- Roads are smooth until Ghoti. The last stretch is scenic but slightly narrow.
- Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri (45 km)
- Taxis and jeeps are available at the station for Bhandardara
- MSRTC buses available from Nashik, Igatpuri, and Sangamner to Shendi village, which is close to Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake.
📅 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| 🌧️ Monsoon (July–September) | Best time – lush greenery and full lake |
| 🍂 Post-Monsoon (October–February) | Ideal for boating, camping, and clear skies |
| 🔥 Summer (March–June) | Avoid – water levels drop and heat increases |
💸 Budget Overview
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Travel (from Mumbai/Pune) | ₹600 – ₹1000 |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Boating (Optional) | ₹100 – ₹200/person |
| Food & Snacks | ₹150 – ₹300 |
| Stay (optional) | ₹800 – ₹3000/night |
| Guide (optional) | ₹200 – ₹400 |
✅ Things to Do
- 🚶♂️ Walk on the dam and enjoy the panoramic views
- 🌊 Boating in Arthur Lake (check local availability)
- 🏕️ Camping near the lake
- 📸 Sunset/Sunrise photography
- 🛕 Visit Amruteshwar Temple nearby
- 🌿 Enjoy the lush green landscapes during monsoon
📌 Nearby Places to Visit (Touch Points)
| Place | Distance |
|---|---|
| Randha Falls | 11 km |
| Umbrella Falls | 2 km |
| Amruteshwar Temple | 12 km |
| Kalsubai Peak | 22 km |
| Sandhan Valley | 25 km |
| Agasti Rishi Ashram | 8 km |
🍴 Food & Drink Availability
- Several small local dhabas and tea stalls near Shendi
- MTDC and nearby resorts offer proper meals
- Pack snacks if traveling in monsoon
🚻 Toilets & Facilities
- Basic public toilets near dam and parking area
- Clean washrooms at MTDC resort and guesthouses
- No changing rooms near lake or dam
🏕️ Stay Options
- MTDC Resort, Bhandardara (near dam)
- Anandvan Resort – Luxury option
- Homestays and guesthouses in Shendi village
- Tent camping available near Arthur Lake
🛍️ Local Market
- Small local market in Shendi village
- Buy snacks, cold drinks, and handmade local goods
- Not a commercial shopping area
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