Although Bhandardara is beautiful all year round, each season offers a different experience. Hence, to plan the perfect trip, it’s important to understand what makes each season special in Bhandardara.
This guide will help you determine the best times to visit Bhandardara based on the weather and the different activities and attractions available in each season.
So, let’s explore this amazing hill station together and discover the best time to plan your dream vacation to Bhandardara, where you can truly appreciate nature’s boundless beauty.
Key Takeaways: Best time to visit Bhandardara in 2024?
- Bhandardara is a captivating hill station with year-round appeal.
- The best time to visit is around March to June.
- Monsoon season (June-September) offers lush greenery and pleasant weather.
- Winter months (October-February) are ideal for peaceful getaways.
What is the best time to visit Bhandardara?
Bhandardara is a great place to visit throughout the year, but it’s especially beautiful during March and the monsoon season from June to September.
During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, with a nice breeze, unlike the hot and sticky summers of April and May.
The temperature usually stays between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). That’s why the best time to plan a trip to Bhandardara is in June or March.
The heavy rains during the monsoon months create stunning landscapes and views for visitors to enjoy and discover.
Expected Weather during each month in Bhandardara 2024
Bhandardara experiences a cool and dry winter from October to February, a hot summer from March to May, and a wet, cooler monsoon season from June to September.
The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. However, expect higher prices and more crowds around Dussehra in October and during the December-January holiday period.
- January-February
It’s cool and dry, with temperatures between 15°C and 31°C (59°F to 88°F). No rain is expected.
- March
The weather starts to warm up, with temperatures between 17°C and 32°C (63°F and 90°F). A few days of rain are possible.
- April-May
It gets hot, with temperatures between 20°C and 36°C (68°F to 97°F). A few days of rain in April, but May is usually dry.
- June-September
Monsoon season brings cooler temperatures between 20°C and 31°C (68°F to 88°F). Expect lots of rainy days, especially in July and August.
- October
After the monsoon, it’s pleasant, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C (68°F and 82°F). Some rain is still possible.
- November
The weather turns cooler, with temperatures between 19°C and 30°C (66°F and 86°F). There is usually just one day of rain.
- December
It’s cool again, with temperatures between 18°C and 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Mostly dry, with about one day of rain expected.
Best Time To Visit Bhandardara Fireflies
Plan your trip between May and June if you want to see the amazing fireflies in Bhandardara. This is the best time to catch these glowing bugs in action.
Remember that the exact dates can change depending on when the monsoon rains arrive. Because once the heavy rains start, the fireflies disappear.
Thanks to its beautiful green landscapes and nice weather, Bhandardara is a great place to visit any time of year.
But if the fireflies are on your must-see list, aim for late May or early June for the best chance to spot them lighting up the night sky.
The best time to visit Bhandardara as per the season
Visitors experience different climate situations in Bhadardara every season, which determines the best time to visit.
Therefore, I’ve shared a detailed breakdown of seasonal changes in Bhandardara to help you schedule your trip there.
Let’s check out the details:
1. Monsoon Magic: Bhandardara from July to September
As the monsoon clouds sweep the Western Ghats, Bhandardara becomes a verdant paradise.
The lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and the shimmering Bhandardara Lake create an enchanting landscape that captivates the senses.
With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, the monsoon season offers a pleasant and refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat.
This is undoubtedly the best time to visit Bhandardara, as the rains breathe life into the surroundings, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and rejuvenation.
You can also stroll along the banks of the Bhandardara Lake, marvel at the majestic Wilson Dam, or witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Radha waterfalls as they plunge from the hilltop.
The monsoon season in Bhandardara invites you to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace and create unforgettable memories.
2. Winter Wonderland: Bhandardara from October to February
As the monsoon retreats and the temperatures drop, Bhandardara enters its winter phase, which is considered the most advisable time to visit.
From October to February, the hill station is enveloped in a cozy and peaceful ambiance, with temperatures dipping to around 10°C.
This season attracts visitors from nearby cities like Mumbai and Pune, who seek a quick getaway to unwind amidst the serene surroundings.
Winter in Bhandardara is a delight for bird watchers as migratory birds grace the skies, adding to the picturesque landscape.
Although the shorter days may limit your exploration time, the crisp winter breeze and the stunning vistas of lush green hills against the backdrop of the shimmering lake and clear blue skies more than make up for it.
Be sure to carry light woolen clothes to keep yourself warm and comfortable during your winter vacation.
3. Summer Vacation: Bhandardara from March to June
While summers in Bhandardara may not be as appealing as the other seasons, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C, they still hold their charm.
The hot and humid afternoons can make it uncomfortable to venture out, but the cooler nights offer a respite from the heat. If you’re a budget traveler or a backpacker looking for off-season deals, summer is the perfect time to plan your visit.
Summer presents an excellent opportunity for adventurous souls to embark on thrilling treks and camping expeditions.
The challenging trek to Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, is a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.
As you ascend the rugged terrain, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the effort worthwhile.
Places to visit in Bhandardara in Winter
If you’re wondering what to see in Bhandardara, you have a lot of choices. There are many beautiful places to visit, like old forts, temples, dams, and lakes.
Here are some of the best places to see:
1. Wilson Dam
This big, old dam was built in 1910 and is one of the biggest and oldest in India. They also created a pretty lake called Arthur Lake when they made the dam.
2. Arthur Lake
This is a peaceful place with lots of green hills around it. You can relax, enjoy the views, go boating, or even fish here.
3. Umbrella Falls
This waterfall is close to Wilson Dam. It’s called Umbrella Falls because the water looks like an umbrella when it falls from 500 feet high. It’s best to see it during the rainy season (monsoon).
4. Randha Falls
Another beautiful waterfall, about 11 km from the main town, is Randha Falls. The water falls from 170 feet, making a misty, magical feeling. You can hike to the falls and enjoy the views of the hills and valleys.
5. Kalsubai Peak
Kalsubai is the tallest mountain in the Sahyadri Ranges of Maharashtra. It’s a great place for hiking and adventure.
The hike takes 3-4 hours, and you’ll walk through forests, rocks, and steep slopes. At the top, you’ll see amazing views of the Western Ghats and Bhandardara Dam.
6. Ratangad Fort
An old fort about 22 km from Bhandardara, built in the 16th century on a high hill. You need to trek for 2-3 hours through forests and rocks to get there.
Once you reach the fort, you can explore the old ruins, temples, and water storage areas. It’s also a good spot for rock climbing and rappelling.
7. Ratanwadi Village
Ratanwadi is a small village near Kalsubai Peak, where the trek to the peak starts. It has nice homestays where you can stay overnight.
The village is surrounded by green fields, hills, and streams, making it perfect for nature lovers. You can walk around, talk to the friendly locals, and learn about their way of life.
8. Sandhan Valley
Also known as the “Valley of Shadows,” this deep canyon is located between two tall cliffs and offers an exciting adventure for trekkers and nature lovers.
The trek is challenging, but the views of the canyon walls and greenery are worth it. The best time to visit is from October to February.
9. Harishchandragad Fort
This ancient fort is about 50 km from Bhandardara, at a height of 4,671 feet. The trek to the fort is moderate to difficult, taking 3-4 hours.
The fort has a huge cliff called Konkan Kada, which offers a great view of the Konkan region, as well as old temples and caves to explore.
10. Ghatghar
Ghatghar is a small village about 18 km from Bhandardara, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
The village has a big dam called Ghatghar Dam and a stunning waterfall called Devkund Waterfall, which is best seen during the monsoon season.
11. Kokankada Fort
An old fort about 15 km from Bhandardara, at 3,100 feet above sea level. The trek to the fort is moderate and takes 2-3 hours through forests and rocky areas.
The Kokankada fort has old caves and temples from the Satavahana dynasty and offers great views of the Pravara River and surrounding hills.
12. Mhaismal Hill Station
A pretty hill station about 70 km from Bhandardara, at a height of 1,067 meters. It has several old temples, like the Mhaismal Ganesh Temple and Shiva Temple, which are known for their detailed carvings and unique architecture.
There’s also a beautiful waterfall called Mhaismal waterfall, which is best seen during the monsoon.
13. Ajoba Hill
The beautiful Ajoba Hills near Bhandardara is known for its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views. The hill is at 3,000 feet and offers a moderate to difficult trek for adventure lovers.
The trek takes 2-3 hours through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep slopes, but the views from the top are worth it.
Bonus: If you want to explore the beauty of Bhandardara, check out our guide to the best places to visit!
Conclusion: March and June are the best time to visit Bhandardara!
Each season has its own special charm and offers different experiences for travelers.
If you go during the rainy monsoon season, you’ll see nature at its most incredible, with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls. In the winter, the weather is cool and cozy, perfect for snuggling up and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
And if you visit in the summer, you can explore less-crowded trails and discover hidden gems.
Think about what kind of experience you want to have and what you enjoy doing, and then choose the best time for your visit.
Bhandardara’s beauty and magic will capture your heart whenever you decide to go.
