India is a land of some of the most picturesque and breathtaking views. While you might be well acquainted with the beauty of the Himalayas, numerous hidden gems in India should be on your bucket list. A mini drive from Mumbai will take you to the gorgeous Sandhan Valley also known as the Valley of Shadows.
Located within the lap of water carvings, the valley entices you with its calmness and isolation from the outer world. Popular for its view and isolation, the Valley is surrounded by several other forts. If adventure and thrill speak to your soul, then head for Sandhan Valley this weekend.
An Overview
Sandhan Valley is located in the Sahyadri Western Ghats which enhances its beauty. This valley of shadows does not get any sunlight making it impeccably calm and quiet. Surrounded by Alang, Madan, and Kulang, rated as the toughest trek of the region, the valley makes for the perfect location for your adventure soul. The valley is 200 feet deep and around 1.5 km long featuring various thrilling points that will take your breath away in all good ways.
What makes the valley splendid is the isolation of sunlight on the valley’s floor, hence the name Valley of Shadows. Lucky visitors get to witness breathtaking views of shooting stars as the sun starts to set. A trek to the valley offers you much more than your usual trek including rock climbing and stargazing.
Embarking on the Adventure
The Sandhan Valley trek is a complete package of adventure and the finest views of the Sahyadri Ghats. While their route and view stay at the top, you would love exploring these unique factors that the valley offers-
Rock-climbing:Â Set your soul free while climbing the rocks around the valley steeped into the surrounding mountain ranges. You can find co-climbers to make the journey finer. Each step takes you close to views that you have never seen before. A sense of achievement is an added benefit.
Camping:Â Your trekking trip is not complete till the time you camp on the splendid grounds of this gorgeous valley. The camping site offers you the best view of the valley and the mild cold weather at night, making the perfect time for a bonfire and creating memories to cherish forever.
Stargazing:Â Stargazing during the night is what makes the Sandhan Valley trek popular. Isolated from metropolitan cities, the valley is covered with a clear sky and starry nights that please your soul. Lay down on the ground and let the starry sky take your breath away for a night.
AMK Forts: The Alang, Madan, and Kulang forts are the highest point in the area offer splendid views and are a go-to spot for trekkers. While the trek is moderately tough, it is the view from the top that serves as the pulling factor. Take a rest day at the Valley and then climb up to any of these forts.
Nanhe Ghat Waterfalls: A dip in nature’s lap is meant to make your trip refreshing and exciting. The waterfall is located close to the Valley’s base camp making it a must-visit. The waterfall sets the perfect base for a last hurrah or a picnic before you are heading back to your everyday life. The sound of the water and natural setting makes you forget the time.
How to Reach Sandhan Valley
The easiest way to reach Sandhan Valley is by road from Mumbai. Located at a distance of 183 kilometres from Mumbai it takes around 4 hours to reach the valley. The smooth road surrounded by a lush green valley is worth driving through. Once you reach Kasara, you can head straight to Samrad Village, which is the starting point of the trek.
Another way to reach Sandhan Valley is by train. Take a train from Mumbai to Kasara or Igatpuri. From here, you can book a cab or take shared jeeps that will take you directly to the start point of the trek. This makes for a cheaper option while you also get the chance of meeting fellow trekkers.
Mapping the Trek Route
Your trekking journey will start right from Samrad Village. The trek starts with shallow water and you will take around 1-5 hours to cover this part. The walk is easy and you can descend comfortably. The adventure begins as the shallow water ends and comes to the Tarzan Swing Point. Famous for rappelling, if you want to add adventure and thrill then the Tarzan point is worth exploring.
The journey from here offers rock climbing, cave crawling, and a typical trek for a few hours. Before reaching the camping ground, you will reach deep water pools that let you do some easy wading for fun. Once you cross the water pool, you have reached the camping ground and it is time to relax and enjoy the view.
Make sure to remember the trek route as it helps you while heading back. If you want to enhance the adventure then you can take a different route that requires you to descend through steep rocky beds and reach Dhene village. From here, hop on to a shared cab and reach Samradh Village.
Best Time to Visit Sandhan Valley
The best time for you to plan the Sandhan Valley trek is between December to March. The weather is pleasant and you can easily avoid the heat while trekking.
Timing Your Trek
The trek usually takes up to 5 hours to complete. Depending on your speed, experience, and plan you can easily finish the trek in 5-8 hours. Make sure to start the trek early in the morning and take a night’s stay before descending for an enriching and fulfilling experience.
Essentials for the Journey
- Carry a light bag/rucksack
- Carry water bottles, a torch, and a power bank.
- Wear comfortable clothes and appropriate shoes.
- Kids below the age of 10 years are not allowed at different points of the valley, make sure to check beforehand.
- Carry your camping kit
- Snacks for quick bites
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