Andharban trek near Pune

Andharban trek is well known for it’s interesting specialties like waterfalls, streams, dense jungle walk and beautiful lakes at the beginning & end of the route. Andharban trek is highly recommended for all as its a descending trail. There is no ascend or any difficulty rock patch as such.

Andharban trek near Pune starts from Pimpri village in Mulshi region. It is also marked as Andharban trek start point on Google maps. There are many trekking places near Pune but this one is more famous during monsoon season among the trekkers of Mumbai and Pune. Journey till Tamhini ghat is more beautiful and slowely takes you the countryside jungle area of Mulshi forest region.

Andharban Trek started after heavy breakfast at villagers place. We packed our bags with necessary things and kept our extra clothes and other things back in our bus. Bus driver was asked to reach the end point of Andharban trek i.e. Bhira Dam in Patnus village.

Before entering into dark forest, our photo session started. It was very scenic and beautiful place. Initially, it was well trodden path. You might think that you don’t need a guide but you should have one guide as there are high chance of getting lost in the Andharban trek route. We crossed few paddy fields before entering the jungle.

We spot beautiful flowers as well.

Immediately, Waterfall was spotted by a trek mate and captured by our photographer.

Looking here and there, we saw very small water streams but we were expecting bigger ones where we can splash, play and take many pictures. Suddenly, while walking we never came to know that we have entered into the magical forest. That’s the beauty of Andharban trek. Within few minutes, path was covered by fog. It was really difficult to spot anyone beyond 100-300 meters. It reminded me Dudhsagar waterfall forest trek route which was also similar to this.

We came to know that we were walking on the edges, just beside Kundalika valley. Slowly, we were able to hear the flowing water sound. To our surprise, it was medium sized water stream, where we jumped with the permission of our guide. It was heaven for us. We played there like kids, splashed some water on everyone and again splashed. We wanted to stop on that stream only, but guide gave us deal which were forced us to come out immediately. He just told us that there are many bigger streams and beautiful spots ahead in the Andharban trek.

We were into the forest. Till this point, trekking trail was very much prominent.

After sometime, we came across another stream. It was bit risky while crossing due to slippery patches.

Few trek mates were busy in photo session.

Without further ado, we marched into the forest with wet clothes. Forest was completely magical as it was changing weather and sunlight in minutes. At times, we walked into the heavenly Misty trails.

Sometimes, it was scary and more haunted.

Forest floor was covered with the decomposing leaves, animal droppings, and dead trees.

 

On the way, Crab and mushrooms were captured by our photographer.

After walking for long time into dense forest, trail took us to open grass fields. There were many white flowers and we had many Shahrukh & Kajol pairs to pose.

Suddenly, guide told us to take a meal break. We checked the time and we never came to know that we had walked for so much since morning. Even the weather was so cloudy, we never came to know that it’s afternoon time. After so much realization, troop took a halt and slept on the natural lawns.

We had our packed food. We carried our all garbage back into backpacks.

Slowly, we walked and crossed one village named ‘Hirdi’. The only Village that you will come across throughout the Andharban trek. It was very remote village with few houses. There was no electricity and water supply from the government.

We walked ahead. It was easy for us to just walk n walk, as it was descending trail of Andharban trek.

Therefore, Andharban trek is considered as easy trek near Mumbai & Pune.

We were tired a bit and thus our photo session reduced accordingly.

Bhira dam was visible. We came to know that we were close to the end point. Everyone started walking fast with full energy. Hardly any breaks or halts for photography.

It was dream come true when we saw natural swimming pool. We relaxed in that stream till everyone comes.

The water from all streams get stored in Bhira Dam. River rafting in Kolad is dependent on Dam controlled water. To enjoy River rafting, one can choose any Kolad Resort stay options near the end of Andharban Trek.

To summarize, Andharban trek was one of the best trek that I ever did. Try to avoid in heavy rainy season as it is risky while crossing few water streams in which water level rises within seconds during heavy downpour. Always go with the experience trek leaders, Adventure tour operator like Small Steps Adventures. Otherwise, there are local guides in Pimpri as well. Do share your experience and let me know how was your Andharban trek.