Necklace Falls, Bhandardara, Maharashtra

Location-  Bhandardara

District - Ahmednagar

State - Maharashtra

As the name suggests, looking from a distance this waterfall appears like a necklace because the water flows down  from two places and meets at a lower point thus giving it a shape like a Deep U like a necklace. 

Situated at a distance of 1 km from Ratangad and 11 km from Bhandardara, the falls lie on the same route to Nani falls and Koltembhe falls.

There is a man-made bridge as well where the visitors can stand and enjoy the scenic view.

However the waterfall can only be visited during the monsoons when there is enough rain water.

As with all other attractions in Bhandardara, it is quite enjoyable and a must-visit tourist point.

Picture credit - maayboli

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Secret Waterfall in Maharashtra

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 

1. Swimming is strictly prohibited.

2. Taking along a local guide ( at a charge of ₹ 100 / head ) is mandatory after a few accidental deaths.

3. It's advisable not to take any eatables due to the presence of wild animals that may be attracted by the smell of food.

4. Be considerate so as not to litter and spoil the clean and beautiful surroundings.

5. 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.

6. Go in groups and stick together to avoid getting lost in the dense forest

7.  Take all caution for a safe trip.

8. Check with the local authorities before planning as sometimes the place is closed to the public to avoid unfortunate accidents.

9. Novice / Beginners should go with trained trek members and groups 

Images - Wikipedia

Umbrella Falls, Bhandardara, Maharashtra

Location - Bhandardara

District - Ahmednagar

State - Maharashtra

This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bhandardara.

Umbrella waterfall is so named due to the peculiar umbrella shape the falling water makes.

At a distance of about 500 metres from the Bhandardara bus-stop, the waterfall can easily be reached by foot or vehicle.

Close to Arthur lake, located under the Wilson Dam, the water falls down from a height of 500 feet on a semi circular rock that makes the falling water look like an open umbrella. 

This can be seen only in the monsoon months from July to October when the Wilson Dam overflows and the excess water gushes out from an opening on the northern end of the dam.

There is a bridge built right under the waterfall on which the tourists can stand and enjoy the spectacular view.

Needless to say, it is a very scenic tourist spot that is enjoyed by all nature lovers.

 A hydro-electric power plant is also located here.

( Picture from wikipedia )