Bhandardara -- Paradise to Visit. Review on MTDC Resort, Bhandardara

I am quite a travel freak... But off late I was bogged down visiting mundane hill stations in and around Mumbai...... like Lonavla, Khandala, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar.... couple of years back I did visit Ganpatipule... about 8 hrs drive from Mumbai... but you know what... visiting the same .. same places many times is no fun... looks like you are getting too used tothe routine which you wanted to run away from.

Now for some Gyaan.... plan a long visit once a year say Himachal... Uttanranchal.. etc( read some of my other reviews) but keep the best for some great short drives in and around Mumbai....now get start go........get you car in top shape... check your battery...tyres.... coolant levels... spare tyre inflation etc.... and get out to drive to Bhandardara...about 160 kms from Mumbai.

You could stay at Anandvan or Yash or MTDC... The first 2 are pretty expensive but possibly provide good comfort levels for stay... I booked MTDC thru the net. .. relatively inexpensive...comfortable but some world war 2 type barrack type sarkari accommodation......but with the finest views Bhandardara has to offer... true lake views. We don't go for holidays only for room service.... if so this place will disappoint you... if you are OK with normal life style browse ahead... :)

How to reach there?

Thane..... Bhivandi bypass... about 45 kms.. Shahpur... about 45 kms.... Igatpuri... don't worry roads are getting better.... after Igatpuri toll naka..take 2nd right... to bypass Ghoti village.... about 40kms to Bhandardara. Driving time from Borivali 3.5 hrs approx.. without unnecessary overspeeding considering the craters on the Ghoti Bhandardara leg... zara suspension.. tyre conditionko dhyan dhena..

Places to visit Wilson Dam, Kokan Kada, Ghatgar Dam... Adivasi Villages.. Amruteshwar temple... boat ride near resort etc. Suggest take a guide available at about Rs 300 for 1.5 days... makes your driving more enjoyable without any panic attacks of fear of getting lost. in forest land.. make the best of this .. great photo opportunities during monsoons including Kalsubhai peak.. the highest peak in Maharashtra.

The climate is great during monsoons... the food average at the MTDC resort.. but then nothing like travelling on a light stomach.. :) Hungry Kya.?... :)

Bhandardara is 100% non commercial... so carry essential snacks .. beverages ..;) emergency medicines etc with you.

Weather very good.... I understand winters are chill .... I will definitely test that out.

Cheers.. definitely a great pace to visit.. provided you have no hangups.... status ..image issues... samjhe na...........

Cheers again

H