One of India's most intriguing geographical features is Sandhan Valley. This steep canyon is one of the most hazardous and difficult trekking paths. It is situated in the centre of the Sahyadri Mountains. Because sunlight does not reach the valley's floor, this valley is also known as the valley of shadows. The Sandhan Valley is situated close to Igatpuri, near Bhandardara.
You'll quickly learn that the Sandhan Valley trek journey is more than simply a walk—it's an all-inclusive experience that includes rock climbing, rappelling, bonfires, and sleeping beneath the stars. The three forts of Alang, Madan, and Kulang are situated between them and the Sandhan Valley; the AMK forts are the collective name for the three forts.
Seeing the starry sky and, if you're lucky, shooting stars is one of the best things this place has to offer. The camping area is excellent. The wall that is 200 feet long and 15 feet broad creates an aperture through which the best view of the sky is revealed. The trail starts with steam that empties into a sizable pond; nevertheless, avoid drinking from it. The creek offers potable water that is pure.
People go from all across the nation for this vacation because of its special features, which provide an amazing experience. Considering our busy schedules in the city, going for a short run outdoors is usually a wonderful experience. This is one hike where you may experience camping, hiking, rappelling, rock climbing, canyoning, sliding, and descending all at once.
Ideal Time to Trek the Sandhan Valley
There's no restriction on when you can schedule this walk; this is something you can do throughout the year. However, it is best if you avoid doing it throughout the summer. You won't be able to fully enjoy the walk when the temperatures rise. You'll gain most of your energy back simply surviving the heat. The hike should ideally be scheduled for the winter, fall or even the rainy season.
The Sandhan Valley Trekking Route
Samrad is the starting point of the trek route. Within the first few hours, you will be strolling through areas of shallow water. All along this trail, you will be going downhill. Next, you'll arrive at Tarzan Swing Point. You are going to abseil from this spot. If you want to complete your Sandhan Valley walk without rappelling, you can skip this section and continue.
In addition, there will be a rope ladder for ascending, and after that, some cave crawling awaits you. You'll be hiking amid the rock spots after this. You will have to wade through a few of the deep water pools here. After that, you'll come to some broad rocks that you can climb over to get to the camping area. Views of Ajoba Hill and the Bann Pinnacle are available here.
The return trip will take two routes. You can use the same route that you did to get here to return for the first one. For the second, you have to keep going until you reach the mild slopes below and continue walking through the riverbed. After that, you will arrive in Dhene village, from whence you may catch a bus to the Asangaon station.
Top Sites To See While Trekking
For an added touch of excitement and adventure, check out these tourist destinations and attractions along the route.
AMK Irons
Ascend the slope to reach the historic forts of Alang, Madan, and Kulang. However, make sure you get some rest before starting the second journey to these forts the next day if you are overly exhausted from the main walk. You'll need your stamina for the next excursion because the hike to these forts is strenuous as well.
Fort Ratangad
You must not overlook this fort either. You can visit this fort on the same day as the AMK forts since, although it is a steep ascent, it is not a particularly taxing experience. Even though it's not as large as the AMK forts, it's still a fantastic place to learn about the valley's past and see some incredibly old buildings that are a tribute to the craftsmanship of the valley's masons.
Ghat Waterfalls in Nanhe
Because this waterfall is only a few kilometres from the base camp, you should definitely travel to Ratanwadi to see it. Having a picnic next to this gorgeous waterfall and/or swimming in the pool that forms at its base will be a revitalising experience. Remember to always be watchful of your possessions, and take lots of photos.
Safety Advice
Due to the difficulty of this walk, novice hikers should, if possible, never embark on the trail without a trekking operator. Because this trek is very physically demanding, avoid it if you have a major medical condition like high blood pressure or a cardiac problem. Bring windbreakers, energy bars, and insect repellents with you.
Try to simply bring the necessities in a lightweight rucksack. Remember to bring your power bank. It is essential that you bring adequate drinking water from Sandhan village because the trail water isn't particularly clean. This location lacks facilities, so find out whether the tour operator has temporary toilets available.
