An enchanting "dark forest" near Pune

Andharban Forest Trek Overview:

The name “Andharban” comes from Andhar, meaning “dark”, and ban, which means ‘forest’. Literally the ‘dark forest’, Andharban is a trail through dense overgrowth, with beautiful views of the Devkund waterfall, and the Tamhini Ghat along the way. Scattered throughout with numerous small streams and waterfalls, it is a descending trek – it begins at an elevation of 2,160 feet in the Sahyadri mountains and descends down into the valley, to reach the backwaters of the Bhira Dam.

A perfect day hike for amateurs as well as experienced trekkers, Andharban Jungle trek is a must-do trek during the monsoon. As it is a descending trail, one can experience walking through the lush green dense forest, crossing multiple streams and waterfalls, and get the best of the monsoons in Maharashtra. With almost flat trails with an occasional ascent, this trek is the best option for a family weekend adventure and to introduce kids to trekking in the Sahyadri. The soothing sound of streams, waterfalls, and bird calls, lush green landscapes with beautiful wildflowers on the trail, and the surrounding hills covered in mist make the hike through the Andharban jungle a refreshing and delightful experience.

Andharban Forest Trek location:

Andharban Forest Trek is located just 75 kms away from Pune near the Tamhini Ghat region in the Sahyadris. It’s a very scenic drive from Pune via Mulshi Lake. From Mumbai to Andharban Trail start point Pimpri village is approximately 140 kms and can be accessed via the Mumbai-Pune Highway.

Andharban Trek Difficulty Level:

Andharban Forest Trek is a moderate grade trek near Pune covering a distance of around 13 kms. The trek begins at an elevation of 2160 feet and through gradually descending trails ends near the back waters of the Bhira dam. For the most parts, the trail is relatively flat with occasional ascents and descents. The Andharban Trail is a well-defined trail. When trekking during the monsoon, the trail could be slippery. Depending on the rain situation, expect to cross small streams. The last stretch has a relatively steeper descent on a slippery trail with some steps. This is a long trek and is recommended for fit beginners and first-time trekkers.

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Brief Itinerary

  • 5.30 am - Pickup from Central Points in Pune and head off to Andharban Start Point
  • 7 am - Reach the start point of the Andharban Trek
  • 12.30 pm - Finish the Andharban Trek and enjoy a hearty Maharashtrian lunch
  • 2 pm - Start your journey back to Pune
  • 4 pm - Trip ends once we reach your designated drop point!

Inclusions & Exclusions

Trip Cost Includes:

TRIP COST INCLUDES

  • Transportation to and from Pune.
  • Pickup points from major locations around Pune.
  • Breakfast or Snack Box and Energy Drinks.
  • Team of Experiences Guides and Trek Leaders.
  • First Aid and medical kit backup.

Trip Cost DOES NOT Include:

TRIP COST EXCLUDES

  • Transportation to and from the pickup points.

Things to carry

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The rains always add to the vibrancy of any trek - but it's best to be prepared for the challenges that they bring, by packing well!

Apparel

  • Sport/Trekking shoes with good grip
  • Comfortable clothes (avoid wearing jeans)
  • A warm jacket
  • Towerl and a change of clothes in case of rain

Accessories

  • Head or Hand torch
  • Small backpack
  • Water Bottle (at least 2L)
  • Plastic bags or dry sacks
  • Spirit of Adventure (compulsory)

Fitness

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As this is a one-day trek, it is ideal for experienced as well as beginner trekkers! We encourage kids above 8 to enjoy this trek as well. While the trail isn't very steep, you should be prepared for 5-6 hours of walking through gentle sloping forest terrain.

FAQs

Andharban Forest Trek

What are the start and endpoints of the Andharban trek?

At a distance of approx. 70 km from Pune and 165km from Mumbai, Andharban Trek is located near the Tamhini Ghat area in the Sahyadris. The Andharban Jungle Trek starts from the Independence Point near Pimpari village and ends at backwaters of the Bhira Dam covering a distance of approx. 13 km.

What are the pickup points?

Adventure Pulse provides transport to and from the trek start and endpoints. The pickups are arranged from centralized locations around the city for everyone’s convenience. The list of pickup locations is drafted after the registrations are closed.

What is the fitness level required for the Andharban trek?

Andharban Trek is recommended for experienced as well as amateur trekkers with a good fitness level. This trek can also be taken up by kids of age group 8 years and above. The biggest challenge on the Andharban trek is the total distance. Though the trail is not very steep, considering the distance, some level of fitness is required. Participants should have good endurance and stamina to do this trek which requires approximately 4-5 hours to complete.

How difficult is the Andharban trek?

The Andharban trek is considered as moderately difficult trek and is recommended for experienced trekkers as well as fit beginners. Kids of age group 8 years and above can also participate in this trek. It is a descending trail with occasional ascents that can easily be negotiated. During the monsoon, expect the trails to be slippery in some parts with multiple streams and waterfall en route. Monsoon season is the perfect time to do this trek as the weather is pleasant which makes the hike easy. Since most of the trail is through the jungle, the weather is usually humid during the rest of the year.

I have a group of kids and still want to do the trek.

We organize an ‘Andharban Forest Experience’ for kids and groups who do not wish to complete the entire trek. The trek distance for the Andharban Experience is approx. 7 km and starts and ends at Pimpari village. This is a customizable experience and instead of going all the way till the endpoint near Bhira dam, we hike till the meadows and descend back to the start point Pimpari. Get in touch to know more!

What is the minimum age for the Andharban trek?

The minimum age requirement for Andharban Trek is 8 years and above.

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