A small town, Igatpuri is beautiful hill station and one of the most popular weekend getaways from Mumbai as well as Pune. Located in the district of Nashik in Maharashtra, Igatpuri is nestled between the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The pleasant climate, quaint old fort, waterfalls and majestic mountains make Igatpuri an ideal place for a relaxed vacation. The beauty of this place increases many folds during monsoon when its dense forest becomes greener and the waterfalls get revived. Igatpuri attracts nature lovers and trekkers. With many forts in the surrounding region, it is a paradise for hikers and trekkers.
The hill station is located on the NH3 Mumbai-Agra highway and is just 130 km north of Mumbai and 47 km south of Nashik. Igatpuri is close to Thal Ghat, which is a gateway to Nashik and Pune. The ruins of forts around Igatpuri is proof of it was situated at a strategically important location. It has gained popularity among those who seek peace and spiritual rejuvenation, as Igatpuri is home to the Vipassana International Academy. This meditation center offers training in the ancient technique of meditation, Vipassana. It is a major attraction in Igatpuri and is also called Dhammagiri. This vipassana center is considered to be the world’s largest meditation center. Ten-day meditation courses are offered by the academy.
Igatpuri is among the best places to indulge in activities like rappelling, rock climbing and trekking. The Ratangad forts and Tringalwadi Fort are famous tourist spots. Amruteshwar and Ghatandevi temples also attract many visitors.
Things to do in Igatpuri
If you plan a tour to Igatpuri, you must visit the important travel places situated in the area such as the Ghatandevi Temple, Vaitarna Dam, Tringalwadi Fort, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley etc. The Vaitarna Dam is one or the most well known sightseeing places. The temple of Ghatandevi is surrounded on three sides by the peaks Trimak, Harihar and Durvar Utmad. The Tringalwadi fort is a marvelous structure which also offers a great view of the area. Some of the important adventure sports of the area in which you can take part include trekking.
Tourist Attractions in Igatpuri
Tringalwadi Fort : Nestled at an altitude of 3,000 feet above sea level, Tringalwadi Fort is an architectural marvel. Due to its elevated position, the massive fortress commands the picturesque views of the surrounding region. The fort houses a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. A hot-shot tourist spot in the Igatpuri region, Tringalwadi Fort provides excellent opportunities for trekking.
Vaitarna Dam : Set in a picturesque environment, Vaitarna Dam commands the stunning views of the rolling peaks of the Western Ghats. Built in the early 50’s, this dam site initiated the construction of concrete dams. A lovely pond with a vast stretch of black waters, bordered by deep woods, makes this dam site a delight for the tourists. Apart from its panoramic beauty, the dam is the main source of water and electricity for Mumbaikars.
Ghatandevi Temple : An exquisite structure, Ghatandevi Temple is a scenic place just stone’s throw away from Igatpuri. The temple is dedicated to Ghatan Devi, who is believed to be the protector of Ghats by the locals. Bordered by the massive Western Ghats, the temple offers an eye-catching view to the devotees. The majestic peaks of Durvar, Harihar, Trimak and Utvad provides an imposing backdrop to this elegant shrine.
Tringalwadi Lake : One of the most prominent lakes in Mumbai, Tringalwadi Lake, Igatpuri, is a perfect place to stroll around in perfect seclusion. Although small in size, this lake commands panoramic views of the massive fort and the majestic mountains. During monsoon, the lakeside offers an unforgettable experience to the guests. With the gentle breeze, the chirping of birds and the sounds of gushing waters, Tringalwadi Lake is a perfect treat for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit Igatpuri
Although you can visit Igatpuri throughout the year but the best time to visit this place is from June to September and November to March.
How to Reach Igatpuri?
By Air : Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the nearest airport to Igatpuri. It is located around 140 kilometers away from Igatpuri. Mumbai airport is linked to all major cities in India and abroad via regular flights. Taxi services are available from Mumbai to Igatpuri.
By Rail : Igatpuri Railway Station is well-connected to Mumbai VT Station via Tapovan Express. The major railhead is located in Kasara and is linked to several major cities in India. The journey from Kasara to Igatpuri will take around ½ hour via taxi.
By Road : The Mumbai-Nashik Expressway connects Mumbai to Igatpuri. If you are travelling via car/taxi, the journey will approximately take around 2 hours. Maharashtra State Transport Corporation bus services connect Igatpuri to all nearby cities such as Mumbai, Nashik and Kasara.