There are only a handful of perennial waterfalls in the state of Maharashtra. One such wonder of nature, lying in the lap of the natural beauty of the Sahyadri ranges is the waterfall commonly referred to as 'Secret Waterfall', ,the Bedgaon Waterfall. It is a plunge waterfall falling from a height of 262 ft ( 80 m ) and is a confluence of three streams. It forms a pond between the rocky terrain that attracts trekkers and nature lovers from far and wide. The best season to visit would be the monsoon, due to lush greenery all around on the way through the forest over winding trails, riverbeds, streams, lakes and valleys. The trail is risky at places due to elevations, rocky terrain and slippery pathways.
Reaching the waterfall would take roughly 2 hours at a moderate pace. The sight that awaits the visitor is awe inspiring to say the least.
Name - Bedgaon Waterfall
Type - Plunge Waterfall
Altitude - 80m
Rivers - Kanadi ( कांनदी ) and Shivganga
Village - Patnus ( पाटणूस )
Nearby Towns - Roha Ashtami, Mahad
Taluka - Mangaon
District - Raigad
State - Maharashtra
Region - Konkan
Trekking Distance - 6.5 kns, From Bhira to Devkund it will take about 2 hours
Distance from some of the major cities -
Lonavala - 52 kms
Pune - 71 kms
Mangaon - 30 kms
Alibag - 68 kms
Mumbai - 98 kms
How to reach -
From Mumbai and Pune - Karjat - Pali - Bhira
Via Roadways -
NH965DD and NH66
Via Railways -
From Mumbai - CST to Karjat / Khopoli
From Pune - Pune to Khopoli
Via Bus / Cab / Private vehicle - Khopoli to Pali, Pali to Bhira
This region is replete with many more places to visit such as the Tamhini Ghat, Kundalini river, Andarbhan, Mulshi lake, Bhira dam which are again very popular for trekking, nature walks and water sports. The locals refer to the waterfall as the Bathing pond of Gods due to its mythological importance.
Points to remember
Swimming is strictly prohibited.
Taking along a local guide ( at a charge of ₹ 100 / head ) is mandatory after a few accidental deaths.
It's advisable not to take any eatables due to the presence of wild animals that may be attracted by the smell of food.
Be considerate so as not to litter and spoil the clean and beautiful surroundings.
There are three streams on the way that have to be crossed. It is advisable to avoid during peak monsoon season as they swell up considerably so as to become risky.
Go in groups and stick together to avoid getting lost in the dense forest
Take all caution for a safe trip.
Check with the local authorities before planning as sometimes the place is closed to the public to avoid unfortunate accidents.
Novice / Beginners should go with trained trek members and groups
Images - Wikipedia
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