Bhavali Dam, Igatpuri: How To Plan, When To Visit & What More To Do

We adore short breaks. Apart from being rejuvenating for the soul, short breaks are hassle free. In addition, they help counter your partner's "I am too busy" argument. Moreover, they are easy on the pocket too. All you need is a weekend, a destination to arrive, a small bag full of your favorite travel essentials & your free spirit. 

Recently, we planned a getaway to Igatpuri, a popular hill station in Nashik district. A picturesque location, Igatpuri is blessed with lush green valleys & scenic waterfalls during monsoons. Besides, the crisp winters make it an ideal getaway to celebrate Christmas & new year holidays. A getaway is rarely complete, without exploring the local attractions. Bhavali dam, located on Bham river near Igatpuri is an unexplored gem. Let's look at how to plan a trip here, when to reach & what more to do.

An earthfill dam, it is easily approachable from Mumbai & Nashik. Moreover, a visit to Bhavali dam can be a one day picnic idea too. The ideal time to reach the dam is around late afternoon & stay till you watch the glorious sunset. During monsoons, many visit the dam to catch glimpses of  Bhavali dam waterfalls. Although, do check the road conditions in advance if you plan a trip during monsoons.

If you are more of a homebody who likes staying in at home, you have to make it cozy and comfortable, especially amid changing weather conditions. A boiler is an excellent investment to this purpose. If you need a boiler, get a new boiler now! 

We chose to walk the 2 km distance from our resort to reach Bhavali dam. Although there are no clear signs indicating directions, the way to the dam is fairly easy. Along the way we passed a few smiling locals & small shops selling water bottles & snacks.

The dam can be accessed with steps that take you all the way to the top. Arrive on the top of the dam & the vastness of the reservoir truly sinks in. In addition, from the other side one can also enjoy panoramic views of Igatpuri.

The unexplored site ensured fewer tourists. We reveled in the silence that enveloped us, broken occasionally by bird sounds. Moreover the breeze helped us cool off after our walk. Do stay to enjoy the glorious sunset- a reminder of a day well spent.

Bhavali Dam Images

Bhavali Dam Images

Bhavali Dam Images

Pro Tip# Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the approach road to the dam is a bit rough. If you are traveling by car, there is no dedicated parking area but vehicles usually park by the roadside. Besides, plan to descend the dam steps before darkness.

Bhavali Dam Igatpuri Directions:

Bhavali dam is located at a distance of 135 kms (2.5 hrs to 3 hrs drive) from Central Mumbai & 50 kms from Nashik (1 hr drive). If you are traveling by train, auto-rickshaw (tuk tuk) charge a fee of around 200-250 from Igatpuri station. By road, cars can be parked on side roads near the dam.

Best Time To Visit Bhavali Dam:

Monsoons are a great time, as one gets to experience Bhavali dam waterfalls too. Moreover, the surrounding valleys are lush green during monsoons. We visited during the month of December & loved the mild weather & dry roads that helped us walking a 4 km distance from our resort fairly easily.

Resorts & Camping Near Bhavali Dam:

If you are planning an overnight stay nearby, Touchwood Bliss resort offers comfortable villas, rooms & camping amidst a beautiful valley.