Bhandardara is a small village in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. One of the main attractions of Bhandardara is the Randha Falls, which is a stunning waterfall on the Pravara River. The waterfall plunges from a height of 170 feet into a deep gorge, creating a mesmerizing sight. Visit during Mumbai to Bhandardara One day trip By cab
Overview
Randha Falls is one of the prominent waterfalls in India and a must-visit place during monsoon. The waterfall is located on the Rajur – Bhandardara road, about 10 km from Bhandardara Bus Stop. The waterfall is the chief source of hydro power in the Bhandardara region.
The waterfall can be viewed from a viewpoint just above the falls, which provides a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding hills and forests. There is also a temple on the banks of the river, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is called Amruteshwar Temple and dates back to the 8th century AD.
The waterfall is also associated with several legends and myths related to Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Agastya, Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and Ravana.
Timing and Entry Fee
Randha Falls is open for visitors throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the monsoon season (July to September), when the waterfall is at its full glory and the scenery is lush green. The waterfall is open from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM every day. There is no entry fee to visit the waterfall.
Location
Randha Falls is located at Bhandardara, 11 km from Wilson Dam, Ahmednagar 422604, India. The nearest railway station is Igatpuri, which is about 45 km away. The nearest airport is Nashik, which is about 90 km away.
One can reach The Falls by road via the Mumbai-Nashik highway or the Pune-Nashik highway. There are buses and taxis available from Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Igatpuri to Bhandardara. From Bhandardara, one can hire a local vehicle or walk to the waterfall.
Significance
Randha Falls is not only a popular tourist destination but also a place of historical and cultural importance. It is believed that Randha Falls was the home of sage Agastya, who received the celestial river Ganga from Lord Shiva. The river was later named Pravara by Lord Rama, who visited Randha Falls with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana during their exile.
Randha Falls has also witnessed several events related to Hindu epics and scriptures, such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is said that Rama killed Maricha, a demon who disguised as a golden deer, near Randha Falls. It is also said that Hanuman met Ravana’s brother Vibhishana near Randha Falls and convinced him to join Rama’s army. It is also said that Karna, one of the heroes of Mahabharata, performed penance at Randha Falls to please Lord Surya.
Randha Falls has also been a source of inspiration for many poets and writers, such as Saint Dnyaneshwar, Saint Nivruttinath, Saint Eknath, etc.
Information
Randha Falls offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of them are:
- Sightseeing: One can enjoy the scenic views of the waterfall and the surrounding nature from the viewpoint or from the temple. One can also see colonies of bees and huge hanging hives under the rocky ledges near the waterfall.
- Photography: One can capture some amazing shots of the waterfall and its surroundings with different angles and perspectives. The waterfall looks especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
- Trekking: One can also trek to various points of interest near Randha Falls, such as Ratangad Fort, Kalsubai Peak, Harishchandragad Fort, Sandhan Valley, etc. These treks offer thrilling challenges and stunning views along the way.
- Camping: One can also camp near Randha Falls or in the nearby villages and experience the rural life and culture of Bhoth.
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