andharban tamhini ghat trek

Andharban Trek: A Surreal Journey Through the Western Ghats

• Post author: Sunil
• Reading time: 13 mins read
• Post published: April 18, 2024

Introduction

Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats, the Andharban trek is a hidden gem that takes hikers through dense jungle, past cascading waterfalls, and up to panoramic ridge-top views.

The 12 km trail starts from the village of Patan and winds through the forests of the Tamhini ghat area. With its mist-covered hills and exotic wildlife, the Andharban trek offers a surreal escape into the heart of the Western Ghats.

Entering the Jungle

The first stage of the Andharban trek drops hikers down into a mossy green jungle. Lush ferns and vines drape the entire forest floor, immersing trekkers in the raw wilderness.

Massive banyan trees with sprawling aerial roots create an ethereal atmosphere, like something out of Avatar. The only sounds are chirping crickets and the rustling of leaves overhead. It’s easy to imagine dinosaurs or exotic creatures lurking within the dense tropical foliage.

Cloud-Covered Paths

As the trail continues deeper into the rainforest, the landscape shifts with the elevation. At higher altitudes, the subtropical jungles transition to mist-blanketed forests and grasslands.

The path follows ridge lines that pierce through the swirling fog, creating an eerie, heavenly effect. One moment hikers are consumed by clouds, the next, vivid green hills materialize through the mist.

It’s a magical setting that amplifies the otherworldly vibe. Even experienced trekkers are awestruck by the celestial scenes.

Cascading Waterfalls

A main highlight along the Andharban trek is the chance to take a break at several breathtaking waterfalls. The most famous is the Bhira Dam waterfall which plunges into an idyllic pool perfect for a cool swim.

Later, the Jummapatti waterfall appears like a mirage through the trees. Watching the cascades crash against the boulders in a cloud of mist makes time stand still.

The pure tranquility re-energizes hikers for the second half of the trek ahead.

Ridge-top Vistas

The final leg of the Andharban trek involves a relentless uphill climb completely enveloped in fog. Just as legs start to cramp, the mist suddenly gives way to reveal the top of the ridgeline and a jaw-dropping Himalayan panorama.

The famous peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Kalanag emerge in the distance, their snow-capped tips glistening under the sun. After hours in the dense jungle, this first glimpse of the open sky is both cathartic and humbling.

Homestretch Descent

Having soaked up the views from the top, trekkers begin the knee-jarring descent back into the forest. The scene changes yet again with rhododendron flowers adding a burst of color to the landscape.

The trail ultimately loops back to Patan village, completing the surreal 12 km journey. After being transported to another world within the clouds of Andharban, hikers are almost surprised to return to civilization.

Yet the images and memories of waterfalls, exotic creatures, and celestial mist stay etched in their minds forever.

Essential Trekking Gear

Due to the remote and rugged terrain, the Andharban trek requires careful preparation and packing. The changeable weather ranging from humid jungles to misty ridge-lines demands versatile trekking gear.

Essentials like comfortable shoes, layered clothing, rain protection, and ample food/water are critical. Good hiking shoes with proper ankle support and thick grippy soles are a top priority for navigating slippery ascents and descents.

Broken-in waterproof hiking boots provide the best traction across the mix of muddy trails, rocky streams, and forest floors. Proper woolen socks wick away moisture and prevent painful blisters. Trekking poles enhance stability given the lack of railings or markers across steep sections.

Layered clothing provides adaptability from humid forest floors to breezy hilltops. Lightweight synthetic or merino t-shirts manage sweat while avoiding cotton which dries slowly. Quick-dry hiking pants offer freedom of movement over trails.

Packable down or fleece jackets provide insulation during cool foggy stretches. Waterproof ponchos or rain jackets shield from torrential downpours. Warm woolen hats and gloves take the bite out of winds atop ridges.

Staying nourished and hydrated is also key to preventing energy crashes in the middle of remote trails. High-protein snacks like dried fruits, nuts, and granola bars provide energy boosts between meals.

Sandwiches and fruits make ideal lunch fare to refuel halfway through the trek. Reusable water bottles easily refill at the many freshwater streams. Water purification tablets remove contaminants from natural water sources. Carrying twice the food/water needed provides an ample safety buffer.

Protecting electronics like phones/cameras from rain and falls is essential in the wilderness. Ziplock bags or waterproof pouches keep devices dry and damage-free.

Spare batteries ensure cameras last through countless picturesque stops. Portable chargers allow recharging during overnight stays.

While the jungle offers an off-the-grid escape, hikers still like capturing photos of unforgettable scenery.

Wildlife Encounters

The biodiverse forests of Andharban provide a rich habitat for exotic animals and birds rarely seen near bustling cities.

Giant squirrels the size of cats scamper high up in the canopy. The rare pancake-faced Malabar whistling thrush with its black feathers and neon blue beak flits between branches.

Sambar deer, barking deer, and wild boar forage trails at dawn and dusk. Andharban is also home to leopards, though spotting the elusive big cats requires tremendous fortune.

Birdwatchers rejoice at sightings of paradise flycatchers, emerald doves, crested serpent eagles, and the aptly named Malabar grey hornbill. Patches of wildflowers like blazing red fire lilies attract India’s iconic peacocks showing off their regal plumes.

Buzzing dragonflies, Dispirit butterflies, and iridescent beetles also color the landscape. Local naturalists help identify unique species across changing elevations.

With luck, hikers may witness exotic birds swooping through the jungle or glimpse the rear end of a sloth bear lumbering upslope.

Staying overnight

Rather than cramming the trek into a single day, many hikers opt to spend a night halfway through. T his allows more time to soak up waterfall pools, photograph rolling clouds, and watch colorful birds.

The village of Lonavala near the end of the first leg offers basic guest houses or “homestays” with local families. These provide home-cooked meals along with sorely needed hot showers after a long jungle hike.

Sitting around a campfire swapping stories with fellow trekkers creates a special bond. The next morning, hikers can refuel on breakfast before resuming the Andharban trek refreshed.

Learning about village life also adds cultural immersion to the nature experience. Locals share legends about jungle creatures like tigers protecting temples or mischievous leprechauns hiding gold in waterfalls.

These rustic overnight stays create wonderful memories to complement the hiking highlights.

Alternate Access Points

While Patan village is the most common starting point, Andharban can be approached from other towns like Thakurwadi, Raigad Fort, or Pimpari. These routes all traverse the Tamhini Ghat area but offer different entry perspectives.

Approaching from the south provides views over the Konkan coastlands before ascending into the jungle. The Raigad Fort trail adds ruins from the Maratha Empire’s reign before the scenic waterfall stretches.

Visiting during different seasons also substantially alters the vibe and challenges of Andharban. The monsoon months from July-September see the waterfalls and jungle at their lushest but bring slippery trails. Post-monsoon October provides ideal weather combined with roaring falls. Summer is great for clear skies but can be hot on exposed ridgetops. The winter dry season offers pleasant daytime hiking but reduced cascades.

Whenever they visit, hikers are rewarded with a magical escape into the emerald-green Sahyadri hills.

Andharban Trekking History

While newly popular with tourists, Andharban has been revered by locals for centuries. Villagers collected firewood, gathered honey, and hunted small game across these jungle trails long before trekking infrastructure existed.

British colonists realized the military strategic importance of the high Tamhini Ghat ridges during the 18th and 19th centuries. Access roads allowing colonial troops and supplies passage helped establish the Andharban routes still used today by hikers.

It was only in the 1970s that government committees officially surveyed and documented the Andharban trekking zone. They recognized its tremendous tourism potential for nature lovers escaping fast-paced city life.

Private European tour companies like Adventure Pulse helped spread word overseas about Andharban’s stunning waterfalls and ridgeline vistas.

Improved access from Mumbai and Pune enabled the trek’s rise over the past decade as a must-do Western Ghats adventure. While now welcoming scores of excited trekkers, Andharban’s wild jungle spirit thankfully remains untouched.

Andharban serves up a true fairy-tale trekking experience, perfect for escaping the crush of India’s cities. The mystical setting, with clouds drifting through the primitive jungle and waterfalls slipping into hidden pools, inspires awe at the natural splendor of the Sahyadri ranges.

While just a day trip from Pune or Mumbai, Andharban plunges hikers into a remote green universe filled with magic and wonder. Those seeking a peaceful retreat into the heart of the Western Ghats need look no further than this surreal tropical trek.

For those seeking more remote treks in the Western Ghats, Andharban makes an ideal first step. Its proximity to major cities and reliable facilities ease first-timers into the tropical hiking experience. The trail allows adventurers to test their legs on ascents and carefully descend steep sections before considering overnight camping trips deeper in the mountains.

Andharban whets the appetite for those aspiring to conquer bigger multi-day challenges like the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Trek. Yet Andharban also rewards frequent hikers with lush jungles and cascades unmatched even on more advanced trails. Seasoned trekkers continue returning to Andharban over the years to experience familiar waterfall pools and ridge-top scenes in new monsoon cloaks.

The easy access and manageable length also suits families with younger children able to complete shorter portions of the overall loop. Regardless of skill level, Andharban offers the ideal Western Ghats getaway. From jungle-draped waterfalls to cloud-capped vistas, Andharban’s relatively easy yet supremely rewarding trek provides the perfect recipe of exotic scenery, heart-pumping physical exertion, and spiritual rejuvenation.

Those seeking to reset from urban life owe it to themselves to embark on this reinvigorating journey through the magical Western Ghats wilderness.

The views expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Travel Tales Club.

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Trek to Andharban: A Trip to Remember 2024

Priya sharma

Nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri mountain range, Andharban is a trekker’s paradise. The dense forest cover, gushing waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas make this trek a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The trek starts from Pimpri and covers a distance of around 13 kilometers, taking you through various terrains. The trail starts with a descent through a dense forest home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. As you go through the trail, you’ll come across numerous waterfalls that provide the perfect backdrop for some amazing photographs.

One of the highlights of this trek is the famous ‘Devkund Waterfall,’ located at the end of the trail. This breathtaking waterfall is a sight to behold and provides the perfect spot for a refreshing dip after a long day of Trekking.

The trail also offers panoramic views of the Konkan coastline , which will surely surprise you. The trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, and the difficulty level varies throughout the trail.

Best Time to Visit Andharban –

The best time for Trek to Andharban is during the Monsoon and winter, from June to September and October to February, respectively. These seasons offer the best trekking experience with cool weather and stunning views of the lush green forest.

However, it’s important to note that andharban Trekking during the monsoon season can be challenging due to the heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Therefore, trekkers must be extra careful and wear appropriate gear during this time.

If you prefer to trek in cooler weather with lower rain chances, the winter season from October to February is ideal. The forest is still green during this time, and the temperature ranges between 15-25°C, making it comfortable for Trekking.

Also, You should avoid visiting Andharban during the summer months from March to May because the weather is hot and dry, making it difficult to trek through the forest.

Andharban trek distance from Pune & Mumbai

The distance of the andharban jungle trek from Pune is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles), and from Mumbai, it is approximately 123 kilometers (75 miles).

How long is the Andharban trek?

The Andharban Trek is a long walking journey that is about 13 kilometers in total distance. The starting point for the trek is Pimpri Dam which ends at Bhira Dam. The whole trek, including all the walking, activities, and time for meals, takes around 24 hours to complete. Even though the trek is quite long, it is not too difficult to climb and walk. As long as you follow the instructions and guidance given by the trek leader, who is an experienced person, you can easily complete the Andharban Trek. The trek leader will help you and guide you throughout the journey, making walking and climbing easier.

What is the difficulty level of the Andharban trek?

The Andharban trek is of medium difficulty level, making it ideal for beginners. The trek duration is roughly 3 hours one way. The trek starts from the base village of Pimpri at Tamhini Ghat. While the overall trek is manageable for most, there is one particular section that requires caution. The challenging part of the Andharban trek is the descent into the dark forest. The trail can be steep and slippery, especially during the rainy season. Trekkers need to be cautious while navigating this section to avoid slips and falls. Additionally, stream crossings may be encountered along the way, which can become challenging during the peak of the monsoon season. Trekkers should be prepared to encounter strong currents and rapidly rising water levels, particularly at stream crossings after heavy rainfall.

Trekking through the Sahyadri mountains – an unforgettable experience

Trekking to Andharban is for anyone seeking an exhilarating and unforgettable journey. The deep forest of Andharban, situated in the Sahyadri highlands of Maharashtra, India, is well-known for its spectacular views, beautiful patterns, and wide range of flora and animals.

About a two-hour drive from Pune, near the village of Pimpri, is where the walk to Andharban begins. The walk offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, leading you through thick forests, rugged terrain, and little streams. The moderately challenging hike covers a distance of roughly 13 kilometers and takes 4-5 hours to finish.

The Tamhini Ghat waterfall, one of the trek’s highlights, is situated.It is situated around halfway down the path. The waterfall is ideal for resting, soaking in the surrounding beauty, and capturing breathtaking images.The forest is also home to a wide range of fauna, such as various bird and insect species and creatures like the Indian giant squirrel and the Malabar giant civet. If you’re fortunate, you might even see a few of these animals while walking.

The monsoon season lasts from May to September, the ideal time to visit Andharban. Of course, the rain makes the trip more difficult, but it also enhances the beauty of the forest by bringing out the vivid colors of the trees and other vegetation.

Top Tourist Attractions of the Trek to Andharban –

In Maharashtra, India’s Sahyadri mountain range, the Andharban trek is a well-liked trekking destination with a variety of attractions for tourists. However, it would help if you were careful about a few things-

1. Dense Forests –

2. Waterfall –

3. Panoramic Views of mountains –

4. Flora and Fauna –

In conclusion, the Andharban trip is the best location for anyone looking for an exciting and unforgettable trekking experience since it offers the proper balance of adventure, natural beauty, and wildlife.

Things to carry during the andharban trek –

The Andharban trek There are a few possibilities for meals during the journey, even though there are no restaurants or food kiosks along the trail:

1. Packet Foods –

Most trek organizers offer hikers pre-packaged lunches, which often include vegetarian fare like roti (an Indian flatbread), veggies, rice, dal (lentil soup), and pickles. The trek organizers typically prepare and transport these meals in advance.

2. Water bottle –

Carrying a water bottle during Trekking is essential because it helps keep you hydrated and prevents dehydration. Trekking involves physical exertion, and it’s common to sweat profusely during the activity. Drinking water at regular intervals during the andharban trek helps maintain your body’s water balance and keeps you energized throughout the trek.

3. Snacks from the area –

There are a few tiny settlements close to the walking route where you may get regional treats like vada pav, bhajia, and chai. These snacks are a terrific way to fuel yourself and stay energized during the hike.

4. Jacket or raincoat –

It would be best to carry a lightweight jacket or raincoat during Trekking, which is important as the temperature can drop significantly during the trek. Raincoats will also save getting wet in the rainy season. Even if the weather seems warm during the day, temperatures can dip as you climb higher or move into the evening hours. A lightweight jacket or raincoat shawl can help you stay warm and comfortable during these times, preventing you from catching a cold or getting sick.

5. Carrying Your Food –

If you carry your food, it is advised to bring dry foods that will keep you full throughout the walk. These include nuts, energy bars, and fruits. Carrying adequate water and snacks will ensure that you stay hydrated and motivated throughout the trek. In addition, to keep the trekking trail clean and beautiful, carrying all waste back and disposing of it properly is crucial.

What are some of the Andharban trek’s drawbacks?

The Andharban, nevertheless, Despite being a well-known hiking location in Maharashtra, India, there are several restrictions that travelers should be aware of.

1. Weather –

The walk is not advised during the summer because of the high temperatures, making the trek challenging and tiresome. Due to the slick ground and heavy rain during the monsoon season, the trek might be difficult. Before the walk, visitors should consult the weather prediction and prepare for all eventualities. The Andharban walk is challenging, making it unsuitable for novices or people with physical restrictions. The walk is difficult and taxing because of the rocky terrain, high ascents and descents, and constrained routes.

2. A small number of facilities –

All amenities like restaurants, bathrooms, and lodging are outside the trekking trail. Visitors must bring their food and water and use the outdoor restrooms.

3. Wildlife Dangers –

Various animals, such as snakes, leeches, and insects, call the forest home. These creatures can provide a threat to hikers. Visitors should take precautions, including carrying bug repellents, wearing proper clothing and shoes, and exercising caution when walking.

Visitors should consider the environment and take precautions to lessen their impact on the walking track. That entails bringing back all the waste, abstaining from littering, and respecting the local wildlife and plants.

How to prepare for a trek to Andharban?

Trekking to Andharban can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your adventure:

1. Build your stamina –

Andharban is a long and challenging trek, so it’s important to build your stamina before you embark on the journey. Start by going on shorter hikes and gradually increase the distance and difficulty.

2. Invest in good trekking gear –

Good trekking gear can make all the difference in your comfort and safety. Invest in a good quality pair of trekking shoes, a backpack, trekking poles, and other essentials.

3. Stay hydrated –

A trek to Andharban is a long journey where Trekking can be a strenuous activity, so staying hydrated is important. Carry a sufficient amount of water and drink at regular intervals.

4. Pack light –

While trekking to Andharban, you will have to carry all your essentials with you. Make sure to pack light and carry only the essentials. Avoid carrying unnecessary items that can weigh you down.

5. Get familiar with the terrain –

Before you embark on the trek, get familiar with the terrain and the trail. Familiarize yourself with the route and the challenges you may face.

6. Check the weather –

The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast before you start your trek and prepare accordingly. Usually, you should avoid the Andharban trek during heavy rain.

7. Train your mind –

Trekking can be physically and mentally challenging. Train your mind to stay positive and motivated. Focus on the reward of reaching the destination and the beautiful scenery you will encounter along the way. By following these tips, you can prepare for a challenging yet rewarding trek to Andharban.

Faqs –

What is the estimated price for the Andharban trek in Pune? Andharban trek in Pune may vary depending on the trek organizer, package inclusions, and group size.

What is the trek route for Andharban starting from Pune? The Andharban trek route from Pune starts at Pimpri village and takes you through dense forests, across streams, and finally, reaching the endpoint at Bhira Dam.

What is the Andharban trek distance from Pune? The distance between Pune and the starting point of the Andharban trek is approximately 67 kilometers.

Is the Andharban night trek difficult? Andharban night trek can be considered a moderately challenging adventure due to the combination of steep descents, dense forest cover, slippery trails, and the need for navigating in low-light conditions.

In the end, even though the Andharban trek is a stunning and exciting hiking destination, tourists should be conscious of these restrictions and take safety measures to guarantee a fun and safe trekking trip. Walking to Andharban is a worthwhile experience.

It is the ideal vacation spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers since it provides the optimum balance of adventure, natural beauty, and wildlife.

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Andharban Trek: Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Journey

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Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the Andharban trek, a captivating adventure nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India.

In this article, we will provide you with essential information about the trek’s best time, difficulty level, route, and the mesmerizing experience it offers.

Additionally, we’ll explore the option of staying at local homestays in Pimpri village, savoring the local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the rich culture of the region.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature’s splendor on the Andharban trek.

• Max Altitude:  2,160 ft.
• Average Trekking Fees: ₹ 1000 – ₹ 1500
• Distance: 13 kms
• Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
• Duration: 5-6 Hours
• Ideal For: Beginner & Experienced Trekkers
• Best Season: July – September
• Region: Maharashtra

Table of Contents

Overview of the Andharban Trek

The Andharban trek is a beautiful and exciting journey in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India. It is suitable for both experienced trekkers and beginners because it has easy-moderate difficulty .

The best time to do this trek is during the monsoon season in Maharashtra, from July to September . During this time, the region receives a lot of rain, which makes the surroundings incredibly green and picturesque. You will see misty forests, sparkling waterfalls, and foggy valleys, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of the trek’s highlights is crossing water streams along the way. These streams provide a refreshing break and add to the adventure of the trek. You must carefully step on rocks and balance yourself while crossing them.

While trekking, you will also encounter various plants, colourful birds, and sometimes even wildlife. There are beautiful viewpoints where you can take a break and enjoy the mind-blowing views of the valleys and mountains.

In summary, the Andharban trek offers a wonderful experience for nature lovers and adventurers. It combines natural beauty, a moderate challenge, and the thrill of exploring during the monsoon season.

Best Time To Do The Andharban Trek

The Andharban trek, nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, offers an enchanting experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. While the trek can be undertaken throughout the year,  July to September is the best time  to embark on this thrilling journey. 

During this period, the monsoon season blankets the region with lush greenery, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking sight.

The monsoon months are a surreal charm to the Andharban trek, as the dense forest comes alive with vibrant flora and fauna. The trail is adorned with cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, and gurgling streams, providing a serene and picturesque environment. The moderate climate during these months offers respite from the scorching heat, making it an ideal time to explore the verdant beauty of Andharban.

However, it is essential to exercise caution and monitor the intensity of the rainfall before embarking on the trek. I n heavy downpours, postponing or rescheduling the trek is advisable, as the trail can become slippery and risky. Safety should always be prioritized, and avoiding venturing into the forest during severe weather is prudent.

July to September is the ideal time for the Andharban trek, offering a chance to witness its enchanting beauty. Remember to check the weather and avoid heavy rainfall for a safe and unforgettable adventure in nature’s splendour.

How To Reach?

To reach the starting point of the Andharban trek, you have various options depending on your location.

If you are travelling from Mumbai:

• Personal Vehicle:  You can drive on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and take the Tamhini Ghat Road towards Pimpri village, the trek’s starting point. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach Pimpri village from Mumbai, depending on traffic conditions.
• Local Trains:  Take a local train from Mumbai to Lonavala, which is well-connected by train. From Lonavala, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pimpri village.
• Bus:  Multiple state-run and private buses operate from Mumbai to Pune. Once you reach Pune, you can take a local bus or taxi to Pimpri village.

If you are travelling from Pune:

• Personal Vehicle:  Drive on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway and take the Tamhini Ghat Road towards Pimpri village. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
• Local Trains:  Take a local train from Pune to Lonavala and then follow the same directions as mentioned above for Mumbai.
• Bus:  Several buses run from Pune to Tamhini/Pimpri village. You can board a bus to reach the starting point of the trek.

Alternatively, choose to travel with a trekking organization. They will make all the arrangements for transportation from Mumbai or Pune to the starting point of the Andharban trek. They often provide dedicated vehicles or arrange shared transportation as part of their package.

Remember to plan the outing in advance, check for any updates or changes in transportation schedules, and consider traffic conditions to ensure a smooth and convenient trip to the Andharban trek starting point.

Andharban Trek Route & Difficulty

The Andharban trek is a thrilling adventure that spans  approximately 13 kilometres and takes around 5 to 6 hours , including breaks along the way. The trek offers a  moderate level of difficulty , making it suitable for both seasoned trekkers and beginners.

The route of the Andharban trek is filled with natural beauty and diverse landscapes. It begins from Pimpri village, located near Tamhini Ghat in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India. The trail starts with a descent into a dense forest, enveloped in mist and adorned with lush greenery. As you descend deeper into the valley, the atmosphere becomes tranquil.

The path meanders through the dense forest, featuring a mix of rocky terrain and muddy patches. The trail is well-marked, making navigation relatively easy. Along the way, trekkers will encounter numerous small streams and waterfalls, adding to the charm of the journey. These water streams provide an opportunity to rest, refresh, and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

As you progress through the trek, you’ll witness breathtaking viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the valleys and mountains. The mesmerizing landscapes and the sounds of nature create an immersive experience for trekkers.

The Andharban trek also presents occasional steep ascents, requiring careful footwork and balance. It is recommended to wear sturdy trekking shoes and carry essential trekking gear to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.

Overall, the Andharban trek offers a delightful combination of natural splendour, moderate challenges, and a memorable experience in the lap of nature. It is important to pace yourself, take breaks as needed, and enjoy the journey at your own pace.

Accommodation & Food Options

During the Andharban trek, you can stay at cosy homestays in Pimpri village, where the trek starts. These homestays give you a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality.

Pimpri village is known for its friendly atmosphere. The homestays provide comfortable accommodations, allowing you to relax before or after the trek. Staying in these homestays lets you interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and experience their warm hospitality.

A highlight of staying at these homestays is trying delicious local food. You can savour traditional Maharashtrian dishes made with local ingredients and aromatic spices. From vegetarian delights to special regional dishes, there’s a wide range of flavours to enjoy.

Staying at the homestays also teaches you about the local flora, fauna, and stories associated with the Andharban region. The hosts may share interesting insights and provide guidance for your trek.

By opting for homestays and enjoying local cuisine, you support the community and have an authentic cultural experience that adds to the joy of your Andharban trek.

Essential Things to Carry for the Trek

Packaging wisely is essential to make the most of your Andharban Trek. Here are some must-have items for your backpack:

• Sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe trek
• Ample water and energy drinks to stay hydrated
• Snacks and energy bars to keep you fueled
• Sunscreen, cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
• First aid kit with essential medications and bandages
• A camera to capture the stunning vistas along the way
• A light backpack to carry your essentials without weighing you down

Safety Precautions and Tips

While embarking on the Kalavantin Durg trek, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential safety precautions and tips to keep in mind:

• Trek with a certified guide who is familiar with the route and terrain.
• Wear appropriate trekking gear and clothing to protect yourself from injuries and harsh weather conditions.
• Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking water at regular intervals.
• Pace yourself and take breaks whenever needed to avoid exhaustion.
• Do not litter; respect the natural environment by carrying back all your waste.
• Follow instructions from the guide and stay on the designated path.
• In case of any emergency or discomfort, inform the guide immediately.

In conclusion, the Andharban trek offers a captivating adventure amidst the Sahyadri mountains of Maharashtra. Its easy-moderate difficulty level, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The monsoon season from July to September adds a surreal charm to the trek. Whether crossing sparkling water streams, exploring dense forests, or savouring local cuisine, the Andharban trek promises an unforgettable experience, immersing you in nature’s pristine beauty.

Embark on this journey and create lasting memories in the heart of Maharashtra’s wilderness.

The Andharban trek is of easy-moderate difficulty, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

The Andharban trek is approximately 70 kilometres away from Pune.

On average, a trekking organization charges between ₹1,000 – ₹ 1,500, which includes transportation, food, permits & guide fees.

The distance between the Andharban jungle trek and Mumbai is around 150 kilometres.

Dhodap Fort  |  Nanemachi waterfall  | Harishchandragad  |  Karnala Fort  | Peb Fort  | Jivdhan Fort  | Mahuli Fort | Irshalgad  | Sondai Fort  | Salher Fort  | Aadrai Jungle Trek  | Ganpati Gadad  | Korigad Fort  | Tandulwadi  | Garbett Plateau  | Sudhagad Fort  | Kataldhar Waterfall  | Plus Valley  | Mangi Tungi  | Malanggad  | Gorakhgad  | Bhairavgad  | Kohoj Fort  | Rajgad | Ratangad | Bhimashankar Trek | Visapur Fort | Kalsubai Trek | Tikona Fort | Rajmachi Fort | Sandhan Valley | Kalavantin Durg |  Harihar Fort | Kalu Waterfall

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Andharban Jungle Trek Monsoon Special One Day Trek From Pune (Tamhini Ghat).

About andharban forest:-, enjoy the thrills of the andharban jungle trek for a challenging adventure. andharban, literally translating to the dark forest, is a dense jungle situated in the pimpri region of maharashtra., it is located about an hour and a half’s distance from lonavla and happens to be a popular trekking region in the southern part of india., the andharban jungle trek is located at an altitude of 2160 feet in tamhini ghats and the entire trek time is about 5-6 hours to cover 13 kilometers of the trail. it is a relatively easy trail so first-time trekkers are also welcome. 06-jan-2020, andharban trek duration is it roughly takes 4 hours one way., andarban jungle trek difficulty grade is medium, ideal for beginners . andharban dark forest trek’s base village is pimpri at tamhini ghat., andharban jungle trek known by its name, means a dark dense forest.  it is a gradual descent trek, where you are already on height and you will descend till the end. it is one of the most beautiful treks and has lots of things to explore. we will be walking on a ridge offering an awesome view of the kundalika valley, bhira dam, and the mountain ranges of tamhini ghat., the same valley where is the origin of the kundalika river famous for its white water river rafting. you will then reach a remote yet beautiful village named ‘hirdi’. it is the only village that you will come across throughout your andharban trek and you can arrange for food from locals here. you can stop for a refreshment break/lunch here before starting to descend towards the konkan route to reach bhira. this is the valley that is the origin of the kundalika river, famous for its white-water river rafting and other adventure activities., the second half of the trek is roughly 4-5 km and you will reach the base village in no time while trekking on a flatter surface and enjoying scenic views of the backwaters of bhira dam., what is the jungle trek to andharban, during monsoon season, this trek is one of the most refreshing treks in sahyadri. it is the most beautiful attraction of the sahyadri range, connecting the tamhini ghat to the famous konkan region., area -near pune, andharban jungle trek : forest trail, andharban forest difficulty : easy, andharban forest trek length:  approx. 10km, andharban forest trek location : tamhini ghat, andharban forest best time : july to december, andharban distance from pune : 70 km, andharban distance from mumbai:  133 km, andharban distance from lonavala:  48 km, level-medium :  5-6hrs  hrs. trekking, beginners can do this trek., there are no difficult trails/rock patches. it's a simple trek and can be completed by everyone., this is an offbeat trek and hence better to do with expert leaders of trekfit., trek is from pimpri to hirdi and back, every saturday and  sunday departure batch available  july - 6th - 7th / 13th -14th / 20th - 21st / 27th -28th , august - 3rd -4th / 10th -11th / 17th -18th / 24th -25th, group discount -  , 4 -5   people - 50rs per person , 8 - 10  people - 100rs per person , what to watch out at andharban forest, 1) forest trails, 2) dense forest, 3) kundalika valley, why book with trekfit adventures, we have organized more than 1000+ treks in sahyadris in past 4 years., we have a dedicated team of leaders and volunteers who will first give priority to your safety., the fun during the bus journey, introduction of all members and the networking of all members that takes place is what we are known for., you will definitely have an amazing, memorable experience of trekking with trekfit adventures. you can check our google reviews too., once you book the trek with us you are a part of the trekfit family and be rest assured for long-term relationship for all travel journeys., contact details:-, trekfit – +91 7887412351 / +91 9112000530. please whatsapp us if we are not able to pick up your call., please send a screenshot of the payment on whatsapp at 7887412351., social media links:-, instagram-https: , //instagram.com/trekfitadventuresutm_medium=copy_link, telegram-https:, //t.me/joinchat/xoqjpfmx1r9kngnl, other monsson special treks:.

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Overnight Trek to Harishchandragad Fort -

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What is included in the tour

• Private bus Travel(Non ac buses)
• Breakfast and tea
• Fun games during the bus journey
• Local Guide charges
• Entry charges
• Expertise from our team.

What is NOT included in the tour

• Mineral water/lime water/ purchased for personal consumption
• All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks ordered
• Any kind of personal expenses
• All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
• Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
• Enjoy The Thrills Of Andharban Jungle Trek For A Challenging Adventure. Andharban, literally translating to the Dark Forest, is a Dense jungle situated in the Pimpri region of Maharashtra. It is located about an hour and a half’s distance from Lonavla and happens to be a popular trekking region in the southern part of India.

05.30 AM: Pickup from Jw Marriot Hotel Sb  road

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05.45 AM: Bremen Circle, Aundh

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06.00 AM: Sukhwani Petrol Pump Wakad

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06.00 AM: Pickup from Shivaji Chowk, phase1 Hinjewadi

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08.00 AM: Reach base village Pimpri our start point for the trek 08.30 AM: Breakfast once we reach the base village Pimpri

01.00 pm: reach hirdi to have a group lunch 05.00 pm: reach back to village pimpri, freshen up and depart to pune 10.00 pm: reach pune, (hadapsar/swargate pickup point available on extra cost 100/-), cancellation policy - , if trek gets canceled due to police restrictions/any other unforeseen circumstances/natural calamity 40% of the amount will be refunded. our trek leaders will try conducting some other near by trek and make your weekend happy. we always try to make your weekend the best one and as per the plan but in this  time we need to make some changes in the plan., if you cancel the trek on your own before 24 hrs of the event, 25% will be cancellation charges.on-the-spot cancellation/12 hrs before the trek will not be refunded., once the booking is done and if you cancel the trek the amount will not be refunded, but you can use the paid amount by attending any other event of trekfit adventures in the next 6 months/pass on your credit to your friend. but for this condition, you need to inform us 14 hrs before the trek departure., loading the map....

1)How do you prepare for the Andharban trek?

The trail is mostly flat, but it is essential to wear hiking clothes and a full set of      clothes to protect your belongings from the rain. The Andharban trek is a great  monsoon adventure in the hills of Maharashtra, and is a unique experience to have.

2)What animals are in the Andharban trek?

Being a jungle trek, Andharban offers views of flora and fauna, with several species of birds to be seen, such as the chaatak, the Malabar whistling thrush, dwarf kingfishers, and minivets among several others. The Indian Giant Squirrel has been seen around the area, although sightings are rare.

3)Is Andharban jungle trek easy or difficult?

The Andharban forest is located at an altitude of 2160 feet in Tamhini Ghats and the entire trek time is about 5 hours to cover 13 kilometers of the trail. It is a relatively ease trail so first time trekkers are also welcome.

4)What is the total distance of Andharban Trek?

The trek covers a distance of approximately 14 kilometers and takes around 10 hours to complete. It involves crossing three major waterfalls and navigating through a dense and slippery forest. The trail is moderately challenging, requiring good endurance and fitness level.

5) The ideal number of days required for this trek?

One day is sufficient for the Andharban trek. You can keep 2 extra days to explore places around Lonavala and Pune.

6) How much time is required to complete this trek?

You can complete the entire trek in 6-8 hours, subject to change as per the weather condition.

7) Is the event safe for solo female travelers?

There are many solo travelers that join us for the event, most of them being females. We pay special attention to the safety of our guests and separate accommodation is provided to men and women.

• Please wear full pants and full sleeves T-shirts to protect from tanning, thorns, insects in the jungle
• Snacks(Energy bars, Chikki, Biscuits, Sprouts, Chips, Dry fruits) Glaucon D/Protein shakes/Gatorade/ORS
• Carry extra pair of clothes which we can change after completion of the trek.
• 2/3 liters water. Shortage of water is faced during treks so please carry enough water.(Mandatory)
• Any personal medicine and personal first aid(Mandatory)
• Good grip trekking shoes (Mandatory)
• One day backpack/rucksack of 30 liters (Mandatory)
• Sun cap and Sunscreen Rains are expected so please carry a rain cover /Jacket and cover your phones also in a plastic cover.
• Don’t bring any expensive and not required items during treks. Trekfit wont be responsible for any loss of phone/valuable item.
• Good torch with an extra battery if you have planned a night trek.
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Andharban Jungle Trek

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The Andharban trek is a popular monsoon trek located in the Pimpri region of Maharashtra. It is known for its dark dense forest and offers a refreshing and beautiful experience for trekkers. During the monsoon season, the trek is especially enchanting, with lush green grass, dense vegetation, and gushing waterfalls.

As you embark on the trek, you will walk through nature trails deep into the jungle, surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, buzzing insects, and the soothing sound of waterfalls. The fog-covered jungle adds to the mysterious ambiance of the trek. The views along the way include the Kundalika Valley, mesmerizing streams, and majestic waterfalls. The trek takes you on a ridge with breathtaking views of the Kundalika Valley, Bhira Dam, and the Tamhini Ghat mountain ranges.

Andharban is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Trekkers can encounter unique species of birds such as the Jacobin cuckoo, the Malabar whistling thrush, dwarf kingfishers, and minivets. It is truly a paradise for backpackers and nature lovers.

One of the unique aspects of the Andharban trek is that it is a gradual descent trek, unlike many other treks in the Sahyadri range. The trek starts at an elevation of about 2100 feet and gradually descends towards Bhira Dam. The trail takes you through the shade of evergreen trees, creating a dimmer and darker atmosphere as you progress.

Throughout the trek, you will encounter three major river streams, which may require the assistance of a rope or human chain, especially during heavy rainfall. After walking through the dense forest, you will reach the remote village of Hirdi, where you can arrange for food from the locals and take a refreshment break or have lunch. From Hirdi, you will descend towards the Konkan route, heading towards Bhira. The second half of the trek is relatively shorter and offers scenic views of the backwaters of Bhira Dam.

The Andharban trek is a unique and memorable experience, offering trekkers the opportunity to explore a dark forest, witness stunning landscapes, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. It is particularly popular during the monsoon season when the surroundings come alive with vibrant greenery and cascading waterfalls.

TYPE: Jungle trek

Location:  Mulshi, Pune.

Base village: Tamhini

Grade: Moderate

Trek distance: 14 km

Things To Carry

• Proper face mask or shield
• Trekking Shoes provide more grip and comfort on the trek
• Good Torch must with extra battery
• Some Dry fruits / Dry Snacks / Energy Bars
• Glucon D / ORS / Tang / Gatorade sachets
• One Day Backpack 20 to 30 liters
• Rains are expected, so pack your bags accordingly to save them from getting wet
• Double pack your valuables/phones in plastic bags
• Rainwear / Poncho / Waterproof jacket etc. if you don’t want to get wet
• Sun Cap and Sunscreen
• Personal First Aid and Personal Medicine
• Identity Proof
• Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pants these will protect you from Summer Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles

Rules And Regulations

• No refund will be provided in case of cancellations one day prior to trek
• 20 percent refund will be provided if cancelled two days before that.
• The event may get cancelled or changed depending on natural calamities and amount will be refunded only for cancellations of events.
• No refund will be given due to sudden closure of the destinations and natural calamities after reaching the venue.
• We have planned events and any mishap or calamity on the behalf of participant wont be considered
• Please keep a buffer time of around 2 hours in the schedule.

What is included in the tour

• Travel by private non-AC vehicle
• 1 veg breakfast, 1 veg lunch, and evening tea
• Forest entry charges
• Team Captains
• Local Guide

What is NOT included in the tour

• Mineral water/lime water/ purchased for personal consumption
• All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks were ordered.
• Any kind of personal expenses.
• Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the cost included above.
• All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, and bad weather.
• Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required.
• 5% GST will be added during checkout
• Transaction charges depending upon the mode of payment will be charged by Razorpay(Use the NEFT option to pay and save gateway charges)
• Kundalika valley panoramic view
• Jungle trek
• Water streams on the way

•5.30am:Pickup from IMDR Gate fc road

•6.00am:Pickup from xion mall hinjewadi

•9.00am:Reach Pimpri village our start point for trek

•9.20am:Breakfast

•9.40am :Start trek

•3.00pm:Reach Pimpri village freshen up have group lunch

•4.00pm:Return journey starts towards pune

•9.00pm:Reach Pune with lots of memories 

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Andharban Trek

Can You Help Us With Photographs Of This Trek?

We are looking to enrich this documentation with more photos. Pictures go a long way in explaining the trail, more than words ever can. If you have done this trek, can you share your photos with us? We will include them on this page, with due credit to you.  Click here to contribute .

The trek through Andharban is one of the most refreshing treks in the Sahyadri region. The name ‘Andharban’ is a compound word, coming from  Andhar , meaning ‘dark’, and  ban , which means ‘forest’. Literally the ‘dark forest’, Andharban is a trail through dense overgrowth, with beautiful views of the Devkund waterfall, Plus Valley and the Tamhini Ghat along the way. Scattered throughout with numerous small streams and waterfalls, it is a descending trek – it begins at an elevation of approximately 2,160 feet in the Sahyadri mountains and descends down into the valley, to reach the backwaters of the Bhira Dam.

 Short Itinerary

• Andharban is an unusually trek in Maharashtra, where the trail is descending throughout
• Trek through a deep forest that becomes almost dark when it’s blanketed under fog
• Get fantastic view of the Bhira Dam and Plus valley through clearings on the trek

Trek Details

• Altitude:  2,160 ft
• Time taken:  4-5 hours, 13 km
• Trek gradient:  Easy-moderate. Mostly descending trails with a few flat walks.
• Water sources:  None. Carry at least 3 liters of water.

Andharban is open all day. People sometimes treat this as a night trek as well, the only extra precaution being that they need to carry torches and be extra careful on the trail. However, for someone going for the first time, it is always recommended that they trek during the day, as it is easier to lose your way after nightfall, and one small wrong turn could mean that you wander into the Kundalika Valley. It is best to depart for Andharban early in the morning, timing the journey to reach the start point by 9 a.m.

The start point of the trek is about 200 meters away from Pimpri village, at a location called Independence Point near the Pimpri Dam. There is no specific marking for the start point, but the trail is visible. You can ask nearby villagers for directions if needed. A path winds through a broken chain-link fence. Here, trekkers need to pay a fee of Rs. 50 per person before embarking on the trek. There is no permanent counter as such, just a temporary shelter, but the fee is legitimate, and trekkers get a formal receipt acknowledging the charge paid.

The trail essentially maps a shallow U-shaped turn around the backwaters of the Bhira Dam in the Kundalika Valley. Despite being a continuous drop, the extreme humidity and slippery route make it slightly tough. It takes around 4-5 hours to cover the 13-kilometer trail.

The trail runs completely through a dense jungle and is far from any human habitation. Make sure you carry light snacks and enough water to last (at least 3 liters), as there are no sources of drinkable water along the route.

Being a jungle trek, Andharban offers views of flora and fauna, with several species of birds to be seen, such as the  chaatak , the Malabar whistling thrush, dwarf kingfishers, and minivets, among several others. The Indian Giant Squirrel has been seen around the area, although sightings are rare.

The path continues along the top of a wall abutting the Pimpri dam for about a hundred meters, after which it turns right and enters an open area. You’ll see paddy fields on both sides of it. This road continues for about 200 meters before reaching two tall bushes. Turn right here. This point is easily recognizable because of a visible, well-made route and a signboard marking the start of the trail a few meters ahead on the right.

This trail continues straight for a while, with the Kundalika valley on the left and the mountains to the right. This is not yet the start of Andharban. The undergrowth slowly begins to grow dense as we go in deeper, although it is still easy to navigate. Through the course of the trek, we encounter three major streams of rivers, the first of which is reached at the end of this path after about an hour’s walking. This can sometimes be turbulent during the monsoons, and you might need ropes to cross it with.

The trail picks up on the opposite bank and continues for almost 1.5 km of a flat walk through a winding route before reaching another rivulet, after a sharp U-bend. This rivulet too tends to overflow. However, a cable has been provided at the crossing. After a slight ascent up into the hills (about 10 ft of climb), the trail winds into a dark forest, and it is here that Andharban truly begins.

Although the forest can get quite dark, especially due to the presence of fog during the rains, the trail throughout is very clearly visible, with little chance of going awry. Trekkers should watch out for leeches. We suggest you wear full-sleeved or full-length clothes. There are markers set by previous travelers to mark paths to avoid. In several places, fallen tree logs have been placed horizontally across trails that need to be avoided.

The walk through the dense forest is one of a very gradual descent. It continues for almost three kilometers before climbing a small hill. Here, it opens into a wide, open plateau-like space. Plus Valley to the left provides a wonderful view. This is a good place to set up a temporary camp and have lunch. Alternatively, one could walk 5 more minutes to get to Hirdi, a small village nearby. Hirdi does not have too many options for dining, although bathroom facilities can be availed of here.

From Hirdi, the road turns right and leads downward into the valley. A gradual descent begins here. The easiest way to spot the route is that several slippery round stones are marking the trail. This descent continues for almost 2 km. The trail then opens into a wide plateau (people camp here for the night, sometimes, but it is preferable to walk ahead for better views and to keep a distance from the village).

From this point onwards, the road is again mostly flat, except now the backwaters of Bhira Dam can be seen to the left or front. This patch of the trail, although easy, is long. It ends at a wide river flowing across the trail. This river, although broad, is shallow and easy to cross even during the rainy season.

Past the river, the road continues straight onward, and, slowly, small huts and shops can be seen on the left side of the road. Walking straight on, the trail reaches Patnus village, and, ahead of it, Bhira village. Patnus has several lodges for staying overnight and/or changing into fresh clothes, as well as options for lunch (one small dhaba owned by ‘Kulkarni Kaka’ is recommended). The village is the end point for the trek, and also where the trekkers should ideally ask their vehicles to arrive for pickup.

Trekkers are recommended to begin the journey by 9 a.m. at the latest, reach Patnus by 3/4 p.m., and then drive back to Lonavala before nightfall. If you choose to stay overnight at Patnus, there are several lodges and rooms (costing Rs. 500 per person on average, including food), and even a few camping sites.

Andharban is open all year round, but the best time to visit would be during the monsoon and the post-monsoon period when dense fog settles down in the forest and everything is fresh and green. Although purely a descending trek throughout, Andharban manages to elevate the senses to a completely new level.

➤ How to Reach the Base of Andharban Trek

The Andharban trek begins at Pimpri village, near Tamhini Ghat. This is situated 50 kilometers south of Lonavala. It can be reached either by a private vehicle or by public transport. State Transport buses run from Lonavala to Bhamburde village (around 35 km away), from where one can walk down to Pimpri village, 14 km away, or hire a vehicle for a one-way trip. Pimpri village can also be reached by a private vehicle by driving down from Lonavala towards Tamhini Ghat via the Lonavala-Aamby Valley road, which takes 1.5 hours on average, or by taking a shared rickshaw (unreliable).

It is preferable to go to Andharban in a private vehicle with a hired driver (which costs around 1500–2000 rupees per vehicle if you can haggle), as trekkers usually leave the vehicle and follow the trail into the valley while the driver takes the vehicle down to the dam to pick them up at the end of the walk. Rarely, trekkers may camp at the base near Bhira Dam and walk back up the same way the next morning. One could, in theory, drive down to Pimpri, park the vehicle at the start point, and come back up to the start, hailing a cab from Bhira or Patnus village. There are, however, no reliable public transport services when coming back from Bhira unless you manage to avail of a lift. I’d say the best option for travel would be to hire a cab for the day from Mumbai or Pune itself, which amounts to 2300–3000 rupees at the maximum for a four-seater.

1. How long is the Andharban trek?

The Andharban Trek is 14km one way and takes about 3–4 hours to complete. The trail descends throughout.

2. How difficult is the Andharban trek?

Andharban is an easy trek that can be done by fit beginners. The trail descends throughout, with slight, gentle ascents at a few places.

3. How far is Andharban from Pune?

Andharban is 68 km from Pune.

➤ Trek Contribution

Photographs courtesy of Uday Sukhthankar

Information courtesy: Omkar Kokamthankar, Uday Sukhthankar, Vidya Sukhthankar, Nihar Shrotri.

This trek has been researched and documented by Revati Tongaonkar & Sneha Rao

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Andharban Jungle Trek 2024

Your Name (required) City (required) Your Email (required) Mobile (required) Subject List of Participants with Name, Age & Contact No.(required):

• Last date of Enrollment: Before 3 days of the date of trek or till seats left.
• Departure Date & Time: On the day of Trek by Sharp 5.30 am from SP College, Tilak road.
• Arrival Date & Time: On the day of Trek till 9.30 pm at SP College, Tilak road. (We may come to Pune ONE Hour Before OR After the given time)
• Meeting Time and Place: On the day of Trek by 05.00 am at SP College, Tilak road.
• Walking Time (estimated): 07 hours one side trek through deep forest.
• Difficulty Grade: Medium
• Endurance Grade: High
• Age Group: 15 to 50 years (people above 50 years will be allowed after meeting at Explorers Office)
• Mode of Transport: Pune to Pune by Non AC High back Bus.
• Batch Limit: 30 Participants
• Route: Pune – Karve road – Chandani chowk – Mulshi – Pimpri – Ghutake & same way return to Pune.
• Two Wheeler Parking: We will provide parking space at our office premises at owner’s risk.

What to Bring?

• Understanding
• Rules & Regulations

Report to Team Explorers at SP College, Tilak road.

After attendance departure towards Andharban. Late comers will not be entertained.

Have Tea & Breakfast on the way.

After Briefing & Introduction Start trek towards Andharban.

Lunch Time.

After Lunch Trek continuous.

Trek ends. Our Bus will be ready to pick you at ending point.

• Evening Tea.

Start return journey towards Pune with Happy Memories.

Reach SP College Tilak Road, Pune.

• Age Group below 12 & above 55 is not allowed to participate.
• Arogya Setu App is Compulsory for each participant & it must be on during the Tour Period.
• Make sure that you’re not in contact with any any person who was tested positive in the last 17 days.
• On Arrival we will check the Oxygen Level & Temperature of each Participant.
• Do co-operate with us for all safety procedure to stay safe.
• Avoid Contact with Local Villagers.
• Maintain minimum 6 feet distance while Trekking & enjoying in Streams.

*Rs.1400/- Per Head Pune to Pune *Price suject to change

• Pune to Pune Transport by Non AC High back bus.
• Jungle Entry Fees.
• Toll, Parking, RTO permit, etc.
• Trekking with all safety measures.
• Morning Tea & Breakfast (Limited).
• Hot Lunch (Unlimited).
• Expert Team of Explorers.
• First aid kit.
• Cold drinks, Mineral water, etc.
• Private orders of Tea, Breakfast, Meals, etc.
• Personal expenses of any kind.
• Insurance Coverage.
• Medical expenses other than “ First aid ”.
• Any other charges not mentioned in “ Fees Include “.
• A Good Quality of Rucksack suitable for One day Trek with all inside Luggage packed in a Plastic Bag.
• Minimum 2 Ltr. Water.
• Extra Dress in a plastic Bag.
• Rainproof / Sun Cap / Warm Wear as per Season.
• Separate Plastic Bags to save your Mobile, wallet from Rain & to keep wet cloths.
• Napkin / Towel.
• Glucon – D OR Electrol – Optional
• Shoes Compulsory in a Good Condition while trekking.
• Dress Code T-shirt (Full Sleeve Recommended), Flexible Track pant. (HALF PANT NOT ALLOWED.)
• Any type of addictions like tobacco, Liquor, etc is strictly not allowed.
• Personal Medicines, if any.

Covide-19 Precautions:

• No of Mask: 02, Tissue Paper, Napkin, Pocket Sanitizer

*This is just a reminder list of what to Bring. You can bring other things as per the Need.

Some useful tips for Happy Trekking

• Don’t keep valuable things while trekking.
• Use plastic carry bags to save your mobile & Wallet.
• Avoid Jean pant for inconvenience in Walking / Climbing.
• Always keep your Original Photo ID with you.
• Follow all the Instructions given by Team Explorers.
• Don’t expect similiar food quality of your home town. Try local food to have some different experience.
• Respect the Local Religion & Traditions.
• While taking photographs don’t click photo’s of local people without their permission.
• Keep Healthy environment & helpful nature while Trekking & at the time of Activity.
• Don’t keep anything like mobile, Wallet, Gold ornaments at the time of Adventure Activity.
• Make New friends & share your thoughts in a Group.
• Share your Happy memories with Explorers on Facebook
• Food: Pure Vegetarian Food will be served by Explorers. If you want Non veg. Food, you can take it at Extra Cost at Actual. Please take the Railway Food (Tea, Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner) in Proper time at Own Cost.
• Medicine: Bring personal medicines, if any & the necessary things given in a list.
• Railway Reservations: It is not possible for Explorers to ensure that the Participants will get Railway Reservations together or in the same compartment because of random seat allotment by Railway Computerized System.
• Transport & Jungle Safari: For Jungle Safari six people can travel in a Gypsy, but it is not sure that same Group / Family can travel in a same Gypsy. If any Natural Calamity or Technical problem results into late or Safari get cancelled then Explorers or the leaders of Explorers are not responsible for same & in that case No refund is admissible.
• Jungle Safari Zone: For Jungle Safari Explorers will choose the Safari zones as per the availability. We are not giving commitment of any specific zone Safari.
• Room Allotment: In case of Odd number of Participants or Male / Female Ratio, It is not possible for Explorers to ensure that same Group / Family will accommodate in a same Room. TWO Persons on Bed & TWO persons will be provided by Mattresses, Blanket, Pillow, etc.
• Hot Water: In Early Morning Warm Water will be served for Refreshment & in Afternoon Hot Water for Bath.
• Drinking Water: Mineral Water Bottles will not be provided by the Explorers throughout the Tour.
• During the Camp all the participants should obey all the instructions and decisions taken by the authorised representative of Explorers or Camp Leader.
• During any type of event, in case of any dispute for whatsoever reasons, the decision of the Camp Leader or authorized representative of Explorers shall be final and binding on all the participants. The Participants shall be solely liable for the risks, responsibilities and consequences.
• Medical Treatment: In case of any medical ailments, a disorder etc. which the participants are suffering or have suffered from, it is his/her responsibility to inform the organisers in advance, before commencement of the camp or trek. If required, the participant(s) will have to take medical treatment from the doctor / attendant available on the campsite or from the nearest available medical centre or hospital. The expenses for all medical treatment and arrangements for the same will be solely borne by the participant ONLY. The Camp Leader or the authorised representative shall have complete discretion to continue the camp without the participant(s) suffering from medical problem.
• Photographs or Video Clips: Explorers reserves the right to use Photographs / Video Clips of the tourist taken on tour and / or given by tourist, for promotion of the Company’s Business without obtaining prior permission of the concerned tourist.
• Consumption of liquor, tobacco products, cigarette etc. is strictly prohibited during any type of Event. The trek will be considered over only when we are back to our decided arrival place.
• Participants should not deface or damage any monument by writing or scribbling on them. Any breach of the above two rules will be taken seriously, and will be removed from the trek or camp, and no refund is admissible in such cases.
• In case of any injury, sickness, accident, death or any other casualty or loss or damage of valuables or luggage or any equipment; Explorers, it’s instructors, organisers, volunteers or any other person involved wholly or partially, either individually or jointly, shall not be responsible in any manner for the same and no claims of the participants, parents, guardians, relatives or friends of participants will be entertained.
• If the participants have enrolled for the activities like wildlife camping or any type of adventure sports activity, then all the risks and responsibilities related to and arising from such activities shall be solely upon such participants and Explorers shall not be liable in any manner whatsoever.
• Insurance: Neither participants nor any event shall be insured by Explorers, unless mentioned specifically.
• Please Note that any Claims, disputes, court case, etc. shall be subject to Pune Jurisdiction only.

Registration Form Full Brochure How to Book? Booking Procedure Discount Policy Cancellation Policy Tour Rules & Regulations Rules During the Event Name & No. of Trek Leader will be send to you by SMS & Email before 2 days of departure. Social Share

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IT’S TIME TO

Explore andharban, forget your worries.

Andharban, as the name suggests simply means a ‘Dark Dense Forest’. During monsoons, this trek is one of the most refreshing treks of the Sahyadri. It is the most beautiful attraction of the Sahyadri range which connects the Tamhini Ghat to the famous Konkan region.Located in the Pimpri region of Maharashtra, approximately 16 km from the well-known city of Pune, Andharban trek is the perfect place for every trekker who wishes to experience the pleasure of wandering deep jungles with enthralling views. Imagine walking through the nature trails deep into the jungle surrounded by sounds of the rustling of leaves, chirping of birds, buzzing of insects, and gushing waterfalls bubbling over the rocks. Blissful, isn’t it? Andharban – The Dark Forest Trek offers this all!Since the Andharban trek is ideally taken during the monsoon season, you will be walking through the lush green grass and densely shaded cover of the forest. While walking through this jungle-covered in fog, you will witness amazing views of the Kundalika Valley, hear mesmerizing small and big streams of water and gushing waterfalls, cross these big water streams with the valley on one side, and view the waterfall on the other with this mysterious forest waiting to amaze you with surprises at every turn! Known as a backpacker’s paradise, you will find yourself walking on a ridge with an awesome view of the Kundalika Valley, Bhira dam, and the various mountain ranges of Tamhini Ghat.

THE JOURNEY

SATURDAY (Leaving Friday night) SUNDAY (Leaving Saturday night)

10.30 pm: Time to rise and shine! We kindly request all participants to report at their respective boarding points. Our exciting adventure begins as we depart towards the picturesque destination of Tamhini - Pimpri.

3:30 am: Welcome to the base village of Pimpri! Take a moment to stretch your legs, freshen up, and get ready for an amazing day ahead. But first, let's fuel up with a delicious breakfast to energize ourselves for the thrilling journey that awaits.

5:30 am: With our bellies satisfied and spirits high, it's time to hit the trail after a short briefing session. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as we embark on an adventure through the enchanting Dark Forest. Let the beauty of the surroundings and the tranquility of the wilderness captivate your senses.

12:30 pm: We've conquered the trail, and now we arrive at the base village of Pimpri-Tamhini . It's time to take a breather, have a scrumptious lunch, and give our tired feet a well-deserved rest. Reflect on the memorable moments and share stories with fellow trekkers, creating bonds that will last a lifetime.

03:00 pm: As the day starts to wind down, we begin our return journey towards Pune. Relax, enjoy the scenic views, and cherish the memories we've made together. Laughter and camaraderie fill the air as we bid farewell to the mesmerizing landscapes and the adventures that unfolded.

08:00 pm: We've reached Pune, marking the end of our exhilarating trek. It's been a day filled with excitement, challenges, and laughter. Take a moment to reflect on the experiences and achievements gained throughout the journey. We hope this trek has left you with a sense of fulfillment and a desire for more thrilling adventures to come.

THINGS TO CARRY

Backpack [30-40L]

Trekking Shoes[Good grip]

Full sleeves Trekking T-shirt

Full Trekking Pants

Poncho/Raincoat

2 Socks Pair

Winter wears

Chappals/Sandals

Minimum 2-3 L Water

Dry Food Items

Govt. ID Card

BOARDING POINTS

SWARGATE(NEAR LAKSHMINARAYAN THEATRE)

DECCAN CORNER (OPP TO VIMLABAI GARWARE)

REFUND POLICY

We understand that plans can change, and sometimes it becomes necessary to cancel a trek. Below is our refund policy outlining the refundable amounts based on the cancellation period:

Initial Payment: The initial payment of Rs.700 is non-refundable and will not be eligible for any refund.

Cancellation within 7 Days: If the trek is canceled within 7 days prior to the scheduled trek start date, a refund of 50% of the total amount paid, will be issued.

Cancellation within 3 Days: If the trek is canceled within 3 days prior to the scheduled trek start date, a refund of 25% of the total amount paid, will be issued.

Cancellation 1 Day Prior: No refund will be provided for cancellations made 1 day prior to the scheduled trek start date. The total amount paid, excluding the non-refundable initial payment, will be non-refundable.

Please note the following important details regarding refunds:

Refunds will be issued to the original payment method used during the booking process.

Refunds will be processed within 4 business days from the date of cancellation request.

Any applicable bank or transaction fees incurred during the refund process will be deducted from the refundable amount.

We highly recommend all participants to carefully review their travel plans and ensure their availability before booking a trek with us. In case of any cancellations or changes, please inform us as soon as possible, adhering to the specified cancellation periods mentioned above.

If you have any further questions or require assistance regarding the refund policy, please feel free to contact us

AC Transport from Pune to Pune.

Forest passes

Guide charges

1 Breakfast

Local expertise

THE KAFILA COMMUNITY!

EX. PUNE - 1499/- EX PIMPRI - 1099/-

[email protected] 9673625626

• +91 9004675388
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• Andharban Jungle Trek 2024
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Adventure Geek invites you to Andharban Jungle Trek  2024 Walking through Andharban is one of the most refreshing treks in the Sahyadri region. Andhra [अंधार] in Marathi means darkness, and Ban [बन] means jungle, so Andharban [अंधारबन] means The Forest. Literally the ‘dark forest’, Andharban is a trail through the dense overgrowth, with beautiful views of the Tamhini Ghat along the way. This is a simple trail that checks your endurance, a trail passing through dense forest on the edge Tamhini ghat. Flora and Fauna and waterfall all the way through the trek and dense forest makes this trek more happening Best Trekking Spot in Maharashtra All of this is available in Andharban - The Dark Forest Trek!

Check out our Events this weekend

• Hypnotic Kundalika Valley View
• Jungle trek of Andharban
• Visit Tamhini Ghat
• Spot 4-5 small waterfalls on the way
• Walk through dense and dark jungles.

Andharban Jungle Trek 2024 Jungle Trek to Andharban 

Trek Details: 

• Trek Trail:  Nature Jungle Trail
• Base Village : Pimpri Village
• Trek Difficulty : Moderate
• Trek Endurance:  Medium/ Average
• Trek Duration:  5 - 6 hrs (both sides)
• Best Time:  Monsoon
• Distance from Mumbai:  160 km

Andharban Jungle Trek Schedule ( All times are tentative )

10:00 pm: Meet our Leaders at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali East and Travel with a Private Vehicle  ( https://goo.gl/maps/65qVB7H4swdFjjWs6 )

10.20 pm: Oberoi Mall, Goregaon ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/MdECWU1MCc9hYNZe9 )

10.30 pm: Andheri Hanuman Road ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/dA1QEYNmNZzYBskA7 )

10.45 pm: Sion victory Cafe ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/aNemGKH4B2b2u4Wu5?g_st=iw )

11.00 pm: Chembur K-Star Mall ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/94LXGhPNxp1PQy5G6 )

11.15 pm: Vashi Below the Bridge ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZgiJ8SVtYEazuiev9 )

11.45 pm: Kalamboli McDonald ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/JrkiTzgkJLToTetx7 ) Continue our journey to the base Village.

Day 2:  06:00 am:  Reach Pimpri dam i.e. the start point of the Andharban trek 2024 07:00 am:  Breakfast & Freshen up at Andharban Base Village 07:30 am: After briefing and a short introduction start the Jungle trek of Andharban 11:30 am:  Snacks Break in the middle of the Jungle  12:30 pm:  Start Back to the base village  03:00 pm: Reach Pimpri and Have a Hot Local Delicacy cooked by Villagers which is the End of a trek 04:00 pm: Start our Journey Back 09:00 pm: Reach Mumbai tentatively

Booking Procedure:

• Click on the "BOOK NOW" button.
• Select your date & proceed.
• Select the Number of TIckets. (If you have a coupon code, apply at this stage)
• Fill in your personal details and proceed.
• Select your payment type (UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card) and proceed.
• Once your tickets are booked, you will receive a confirmation email and WhatsApp on your Number 
• WhatsApp group will be created one day prior to the Departure .
• Further details about the trip will be shared on that WhatsApp group 1 day prior to the trip. 

Step -1: - Send your money to the following account ---

√ Payment details:

• While online transfer, please provide your name in the notes section.
• Once payment is done, please send an email to [email protected] with the transaction id, name, and Mobile No.

You can make payments using any of the following modes

• UPI  – vinaykg05@okaxis
• Google Pay   – 9004675388
• PhonePay  - 9004675388

NEFT – Deposit the Amount into the Following Account:

• Name:  Adventure Geek
• A/c type:   Current account
• Bank:  Saraswat Bank * Branch: Mahavir Nagar
• A/C no.:  610000000013647(8 times 0)
• IFSC: Srcb0000146

Step-2 : After payment, you will be requested to fill up the Mandatory disclaimer form online where you have to fill in relevant details including your complete address.

Step -3:  Now your participation is confirmed & Organizer will create a WhatsApp group on the event day for coordination, We will coordinate through SMS/ Call if the participant is not available in WhatsApp.

For Details/Bookings Drop Whatsapp

https://wa.me/919004675388

Health & Fitness:

For instant energy carry glucose powder or energy drinks or chocolates. Though trekking is a fun-filled activity, it demands a good amount of physical fitness. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trek, leaders will have over-the-counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads-up to them if you need any medical assistance.

 Monsoon Precaution Measures:

• Use trekking shoes with a good grip to avoid slipping.
• Take precautions against bugs. 
• Carry First Aid & Necessary Gear.
• Protect your valuable items like cameras, phones, IDs, etc with an extra plastic cover and then put them in your bag. 
• keep in touch with a friend and family member.
• Important to make note of all emergency contacts and numbers.
• A haversack to put in all the things to be carried so that one has one`s hands-free while trekking.
• Please do not carry sling bags or Jholas. Avoid wearing Gold and other ornaments.
• Smoking and the consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited.

Why Adventure Geek for Andharban Jungle Trek?

• 6 years of experience in organizing the  Andharban Jungle Trek  with safety measures.
• Served over 1800+ customers last year with amazing reviews.
• Limited Participants with best services.
• Travel always in AC bus.
• We provide one trek leader for every group of 10 people.  

Andharban Trek Schedule FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions 1) What is a good time for the Andharban trek? Andharban Trek can any time. but we recommend doing it in the monsoon reason. Waterfalls on the trek make it beautiful and Trekkers do enjoy a lot in a waterfall.

2) Do Single Travellers and Female sign up for these events? We have 60 - 40 % or more Male - Female ratios at our events. Many Single Travelling Females join our events.

3) Are Kids allowed on treks? Kids below 15 with Parents' supervision only.

4) How many Participants do you take on one Batch? We take 25-35 pax in one Batch. Both Males and females with a ratio of 40-60.

5) Is there food available on the Andharban trek? We have lunch in our package you will get there. 

6) What type of food will be provided? ​ Only Veg local home-cooked food is available.

7) Is a toilet available on the Andharban trek? Not available. During the trek, toilets are not available you need to go an open

8) How much time is required for the Andharban trek ? 5-6 hours both sides.

9) Can we drive to Tamhini Ghat? Yes, You can drive to the Base village of Andharban trek  And also please note in case you don't reach on time we won't wait for you as there is no network and the road has high-density fog. We will provide you with the gooogle map of start point .  

10) Distance from Mumbai to Tamhini Ghat? Five hours drive from Mumbai - 165 km approx.

11) Distance from Pune to Tamhini? Two and a Half hours drive from Pune - 70 km approx.

12) The number of days required for the Andharban Monsoon Trek event? 10-12 hours are required to complete the trek. 

13) Where can we park our cars? Base Village at your own risk.

14) Is there any parking charge? Yes, payable to locals. 

15) Phone Connectivity at Andharban Dark Forest?

• Limited phone connectivity is available for most cellular services.
• At certain points during your trek you get will good phone network. 

16) Is cash payment or spot payment accepted?

• Cash payment is not accepted.
• Registration against 100% upfront payment only via Paytm / UPI / NEFT / IMPS /  Payment Gateway.
• On-the-spot payment is not accepted.
• We need to book an advance bus/jeep and make other arrangements upfront payment is a must.

17) Will I get bottled water? No, you need to carry at least 2 liters of water.

18) Can I charge my phone? No electricity. Please carry a power bank if required

19) How is Andharban weather? During monsoon Andharban weather 16 degrees to 24 degrees, Thunderstorms, Windy. Humidity 90 to 100 %. Monsoon rains very heavily please double pack your expensive phones and gadgets.

20) Can we smoke or drink alcohol? NO. People caught smoking or drinking alcohol will be asked to exit the event on an immediate basis.

21) Can we listen to music on a Bluetooth speaker? Listening to music on earphones or Bluetooth speakers is not allowed while trekking, We are going in nature, enjoy a day in nature.

22) Andharban Trek from Mumbai? Our bus will begin from Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali E, and go to Sion Lunch Home, Sion for the Andharban trek and Return to SGNP. Borivali E via Sion. Pickups are from the highway only.

23) Andharban trek distance?  Andharban Trek Distance is 12 km the route is mostly downhill with few inclines. During Monsoon extra precaution is required. 

24) How do I make payment? You can pay online on our website by clicking on the Book Now button. 

What is included in the tour

• Travel from Mumbai to Andharban trek base village and back in AC private transport
• Morning Breakfast at Andharban Base village
• Lunch at Andharban Village (Veg / Non-Veg / Jain )
• Evening Tea/Coffee
• Andharban Entry Charges of 150/- Included 
• Adventure Geek Expertise
• Basic First aid

What is NOT included in the tour

• Any personal expenses such as soft drinks etc.
• Anything other than above-mentioned inclusion  
• 2 Litres of water (Must
• Some ready to eat food like- plum cakes, fruits, chocolates, biscuits, etc.
• Good trekking shoes
• Carry Blanket/jacket
• Torch with new batteries
• Extra pair of clothes, socks (Optional)
• Cap, Camera as (Optional)
• 1 packet of electoral, enerzal, glucon-D
• Medications if required for individual
• Avoid wearing precious ornaments on an event, if possible.
• And a haversack or backpack to put all the above things to be carried, so hands are free to help each other while trekking. Sling bags / jholas / trolley bags etc not allowed on the event. Please pack accordingly.
• Since it is not a luxury trip, do not expect any luxury.
• All food is hygienic and authentic local delicacy.
• You are joining an outdoor activity where any incident, reasons beyond control like Natural calamities, landslides, bad road conditions, riots, political uncertainty, public transport failure etc.; Man-Made calamities, Vehicle breakdown, vehicle dysfunction can happen & you agree that the organizer/leader shall not be held responsible for any accident, mishap (including death) caused by any circumstances.
• Adventure Geek is not responsible for any loss of illegal substances or items being carried by the participant.

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• INCLUSIONS/EXCLUSIONS
• THINGS TO CARRY
• CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
• PICKUP POINT
• REVIEW AND RATING

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Enjoy the Thrills of Andharban Trek for a Challenging Adventure

• Travel Tips
• January 6, 2020 in City Tours , Travel Tips
• Andharban Trek Trekking weekend getaways from Mumbai
• Rebecca John

Andharban, literally translating to the Dark Forest, is a dense jungle situated in the Pimpri region of Maharashtra. It is located about an hour and a half’s distance from Lonavla and happens to be a popular trekking region in the southern part of India. The Andharban forest trek is ideally taken during the monsoons and the majority of the trek leads through the dense shaded cover of the forest. The most interesting part about the trail is that it is a descending trail all the way, so you will be going down rather than climbing up, as with most trails.

You will have the greenery of the dense Sahyadri forest for company and will encounter misty and dreamy forest landscapes in the Tamhini Ghats. There are plenty of ponds here as well as huge cascading waterfalls, which makes for a great backdrop for photography. The foliage is very thick here and you will be treading on soft grass or a forest floor covered with dense fallen leaves. You will also get to gaze at the stunning view of the adjoining Kundalika Valley and will encounter a number of unique flora and fauna as well, indigenous to this place. The best part is, that Andharban is also a very popular spot for night trekking, so if you want to up the adventure quotient, do try out trekking at night as well, although in the company of a professional guide.

The Andharban forest is located at an altitude of 2160 feet in Tamhini Ghats and the entire trek time is about 5 hours to cover 13 kilometers of the trail. It is a relatively ease trail so first time trekkers are also welcome.

As mentioned earlier, the Andharban jungle trek should ideally be undertaken during the monsoon months and so you will get to experience the full beauty of the lush green valley. Pre- monsoon and right after monsoon are the ideal time slots, which mean the months from June to September. On the other hand, this time of the year can also get a little humid and if you don’t want that, then you can visit between the winter months of October to February when there is a nip in the air and the morning mist makes for a dreamy landscape.

How to Reach

By Road: The trek will start from the Pimpri village in Maharashtra and the best way to access it is from Lonavla, from where the distance of the village is about 50 kilometers. You can take a cab or a bus to Lonavla and from there another cab or a bus to Pimpri. You can also hire a self- drive car if you are coming straight from Mumbai or Pune.

By Train: You can take a train from Mumbai or Pune to Lonavla and one of the best options is the Pune Intercity or the Deccan Express and the Udyan Express. If you are coming from north, you have to try the Hazrat Nizammuddin Express.

Flight: If you are coming from some other part of India, you have to take a flight to Mumbai or Pune and then take a cab from there to Pimpri.

About the Trek

The trek will start from Pimpri Village at a place near Pimpri Dam known as Independent Point. A local guide may be hired from here to guide you through the trail. Be sure to start early in the morning. The first part of the trek will be through dense tree and plenty of water streams and you will also get to enjoy the backwaters of Bira Dam. The trek will also take you through the top of a wall that joins the Pimpri Dam which will lead you to an open area and you will come across poppy fields ahead. From here, you will enjoy great views of the Kundalika Valley spread in front of you and now you will gradually start to enter the dark forest through a few winding routes. Take a break and rest your feet at the Bhirdi village for small refreshment and then the descent will commence towards the Konkan route.

For the major part of the trek you will have to skip waterfalls and make your way through the dark undergrowth. The forest is named so for a reason- you will find that the sunlight hardly penetrates the thick canopy above and the forest is literally quite dark even during daytime. The few patches of sunlight that you get through the trees in places makes the place even more mysterious if anything, and only accentuates the darkness beyond. However, it is also one of the most pleasant places to be in, as you will encounter birds chirping in the trees and if you are a tree lover, you will have fun identifying the myriad foliage found here.

Return Journey

Once you are past the Bhirdi Village, you will be walking more or less on flatter ground along the backwaters of Bira Dam. You will have to cross a river here, and you will reach Patnus village where there are a quite a few lodges and eateries. You can stay here for the night or start straight back for Pune, Mumbai or Lonavla. If you have hired a cab for the entire day, then ask the driver to pick you up from Bhira Dam End point.

• The overnight stay at Patnus is quite affordable and a night will cost you between INR 500 to INR 1000.
• The bus fare from Mumbai to Lonavla is around INR 500.
• A self drive car from Pune to Pimpri will cost around INR 3000, including the return journey. From Lonavla to Pimpri, the cabs will cost around INR 2000 for one way.
• Food is likely to be around INR 500, depending on where you eat.
• INR 50 has to be paid near the entrance of the trek point
• Andharban Trek Packages cost around INR 1500 onwards per person.

Places to Stay

There are plenty of options to stay at Patnus village or you may also opt to enjoy an overnight camping or lakeside camping by the Bhira Dam. You may also return to Lonavla where the charges start from around INR 1200 per night.

Food: Be sure to have a good breakfast before you start your trek. You can stop at Mulshi, to enjoy authentic Maharashtrian food and there are plenty of dhabas en route. You will also find many local eateries in Pimpri.

Places of Interest: There are a plenty of attractions which you will come across during the duration of your Andharban trekking.

• Be sure to stop by at the Tamhini Waterfalls, the Plus Valley Trek, the Devkund Waterfall and the Hemant Waterfall. The view from Tamhini Ghat View Point and Tamhini Hill Top is also spectacular.
• You can also go for rafting in the Kundalika River, which is another activity in itself and draws its own share of adventure enthusiasts.
• Lavasa is only about 2 hour from Pimpri and there are quite a few high end resorts here. You can also try other activities here like ziplining, lakeshore kayaking and even jet skiing. The Temghar Dam is also a must visit.
• You will come across multiple other places here like Sudhagad Lake, Takmak Point, Ekole Valley View, Shivling Point, Anghai Fort, Mongiri Fort, Thanale Caves, Sarasgad Fort and Tung Fort. There are also the Kune Falls, Bhorghat, and Bhushi Dam to see. It is advisable that once you have completed your trek, stay back for a day or two, or for a weekend and explore the area around. The region is very beautiful but also somewhat secluded and it will give you the perfect opportunity to unwind in the laps of nature, away from crowds.

Safety Tips

• It is advisable to wear full sleeve clothes and carry an umbrella.
• Also carry paper towels and small towels with you.
• Pack light snacks like sandwiches, or carry energy bar as you might feel hungry before reaching Patnus.
• Carry torch and Swiss army knife to cut through thick undergrowth.
• Carry sprain reliever to avoid unexpected injuries.
• Carry a light backpack and wear durable and high quality trekking boots, especially water proof ones as you would be waddling through streams and waterfalls.
• Carry a power bank and plenty of water.
• Carry mosquito repellant if you camp for the night.
• Hire a private taxi for the day if you are relying on public transport.
• Do not litter the place and do not play loud music or cause a ruckus which might hinder the routine of local people. Do not carry disposable plastic.
• Make sure you are in good health before the trek and do not attempt it if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.
• Tread carefully on steep rocks and boulders.

By keeping these points in mind and by enjoying the trek during the monsoons, you will have a most glorious trip which will be a thing to remember.

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Andharban, The Jungle Trek Through Dark Forests | Maharastra

• Trekking in Maharastra
• Trekking in Western Ghats
• Western India
• January 28, 2018 July 5, 2022

Trekking season is on and if you are thinking of heading to some great trekking destination around Mumbai and Pune, go for ‘The Andharban Trek’. Andharban or Dark Forest trek as it is being called upon is among the most sought after trekking route of Maharastra. This trek is a unique one where you will not only get the thrill of walking under the dense forest cover and will also get to see the Plus valley region -The source for Kundalika river.The best time to do Andharban Jungle trek is during the monsoon and the months during post monsoon season. The trek is rated as of moderate difficulty, only because of its relatively long route. And with good fitness and enjoyable friends the whole route will take no more than 5 hours. The Andharban trek end point is at Bhira Dam, whichis also known as among the best River Rafting sites in Maharastra

The start point of this trek is at Pimpri Dam,Tamhini ghat .Reaching there is pretty much easy .And if your concern is for vehicle parking then you need not have to worry .As there are ample space available for 50 buses .Your vehicle driver has to just drop you off near Pimpri Dam and then have o move towards the Andharban Trek end point i.e Bhira dam some 36km away from the start point.

A recently update – some locals have started collecting Rs 50 per person as entry fee .

Thick vegetation all around

Once you start you will find that the path is pretty much laid out .For caution and gidance of trekkers,tags have beeing placed throughout the path .One can also hire a local guide at the start point for as low as Rs 500 .

You will start the trek which is at an altitude of 2100 fts and it involves downward gradual descent till bhira dam .The most intimidating factor of this 13+ kms long trek is walking through the dense and dark forest cover .You will be amazed to hear the call of the forest and the breathtaking views of valleys with inumerable waterfalls will blow your mind .

Best Time to do the Andharban Jungle Trek

Andharban trek route map from pune.

Things to Keep in mind before planning for the Andharban trek

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• Andharban, as the name suggests simply means a ‘Dark Dense Forest’. During monsoons, this trek is one of the most refreshing treks of the Sahyadri. It is the most beautiful attraction of the Sahyadri range which connects the Tamhini Ghat to the famous Konkan region.
• Located in the Pimpri region of Maharashtra, approximately 16 km from the well-known city of Pune, Andharban Trek is the perfect place for every trekker who wishes to experience the pleasure of wandering deep jungles with enthralling views. Imagine walking through the nature trails deep into the jungle surrounded by sounds of the rustling of leaves, chirping of birds, buzzing of insects, and gushing waterfalls bubbling over the rocks. Blissful, isn’t it? Andharban – The Dark Forest Trek offers this all!
• Since the Andharban trek is ideally taken during the monsoon season, you will be walking through the lush green grass and densely shaded cover of the forest. While walking through this jungle covered in fog, you will witness amazing views of the Kundalika Valley, hear mesmerizing small and big streams of water and gushing waterfalls, cross these big water streams with the valley on one side, and view the waterfall on the other with this mysterious forest waiting to amaze you with surprises at every turn! Known as a backpacker’s paradise, you will find yourself walking on a ridge with an awesome view of the Kundalika Valley, Bhira dam, and the various mountain ranges of Tamhini Ghat. Apart from stunning views of the valley, you will also encounter several unique flora and fauna, several species of birds such as the Jacobin cuckoo, the Malabar whistling thrush, dwarf kingfishers, and minivets indigenous to this place.
• One can truly call it the heaven of the Sahyadri. It is a beautiful experience to embark upon an exhilarating Monsoon Trek to the Andharban forest and is a must-visit destination for all nature lovers. Trekking here during monsoons is all about hiking across delightful green hills, soaking in gorgeous waterfalls, and witnessing the massive fur of clouds right beside you!
• The most interesting thing about the Andharban trek is that unlike most other treks in Sahyadris with painful ascents till your breath gives up, it is a gradual descent trek. The trek begins at an elevation of about 2100 feet and you will be descending the valley to reach Bhira dam with no difficult rocky patches coming your way.
• It is quite bright when you start trekking. But as you descend further, soon you will find yourself walking in the shade of evergreen trees covering the trails and it starts getting dimmer. You will be walking in this dense dark forest for the first 6-7 km. This trail continues straight where you will be walking on the edges just beside Kundalika Valley and with the mountain ranges to your right. There are 3 major river streams that you will encounter throughout your entire course of the trek, some of which might require a rope or human chain if the flow is heavy due to rain.
• You will then reach a remote yet beautiful village named ‘Hirdi’. It is the only village that you will come across throughout your Andharban trek and you can arrange for food from locals here. You can stop for a refreshment break/lunch here before starting to descend towards the Konkan route to reach Bhira. This is the valley that is the origin of the Kundalika River, famous for its white-water river rafting and other adventure activities. The second half of the trek is roughly 4-5 km and you will reach the base village in no time while trekking on a flatter surface and enjoying scenic views of the backwaters of Bhira dam.
• This trek is truly an experience of a lifetime!

Best time to visit Andharban:

• Andharban Trek is open all year round. However, monsoons are the best time to trek in these beautiful western Ghats when completely barren mountains turn into lush green lands. Consider planning this trek in the months of June-September when everything is so vibrant, fresh, and green. Trekking during post-monsoons is also a great idea as the Andharban forest remains dense, with added winter chills and mystical air.

Trek Details:

• Trek Location : Pimpri, Tamhini Ghat, Maharashtra
• Trek Difficulty Level : It is a moderate-level trek and requires good endurance. Having a prior trekking experience makes it easier. The only risky part of this trek is crossing water streams during monsoons as the river becomes turbulent. 
• Trek Distance : 13 km trail
• Trek Altitude : 2160 feet
• Trek Type : Jungle / Valley Descend Trek
• Trek Duration : It roughly takes 6-7 hours to complete this trek, which includes a lunch break at Hirdi village.
• Andharban Distance from Mumbai:  133 km
• Andharban Distance from Lonavala:  48   km

Why Trekhievers for Andharban Jungle Trek ?

• 10+ years experience in organizing Andharban Jungle Trek with all safety protocols.
• Served over 1000+ customers last year with amazing reviews.
• We provide delicious breakfast and lunch meals at a resort property.
• We provide one trek leader for every group of 10 people
• We will donate a partial amount of your fee to the forest department.

Batches  : 

• June : 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29.
• July: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27,.
• August : 2, 3, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31.
• September : 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28.
• October : 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26.

Important Note:

• We insist you on taking Friday night departures to avoid the rush.
• We need a minimum of 10 people to operate Friday batches, if not then it will be shifted to the Saturday batch.

Event Fees:

• Mumbai : 1599/-
• Base:  1099/-

( Click here for  Andharban Mumbai Trek  details )

• 10:00 PM:  Report to The Trekleaders at   Borivali National Park ( https://goo.gl/maps/qvxmxjK8Tmn5JgScA )
• 10:05 PM:  Samta Nagar, Kandivali ( https://goo.gl/maps/cSGKQWVSGDhS4qzP9 )
• 10:15 PM:  Sufi Irani Cafe, Goregaon ( https://goo.gl/maps/4ZTNqab65pKPDoNC9 )
• 10:30 PM:  Hanuman Road Bus Stop Andheri ( https://goo.gl/maps/SWKWuGMXSWgajCsSA )
• 10:45 PM:  Kalanagar Bust Stop, Bandra ( https://goo.gl/maps/jGkGpBZrRto5gRTJ9 )
• 11:00 PM:  Neeta Volvo, Sion ( https://goo.gl/maps/iidWMx1DKGybV9jC9 )
• 11:10 PM:  Ghatkopar Mankhurd Link Road ( https://goo.gl/maps/m6TtFVkCkHd6MdKr7 )
• 11:30 PM:  Vashi (under the bridge) ( https://goo.gl/maps/3dpGHKPvf49FgJj6A )
• 11:45 PM:  Nerul LP ( https://goo.gl/maps/tpntbzeYVijHQieF7 )
• 11:55 PM:  Kharghar station ( https://goo.gl/maps/y7hNW9wxMV7tByPr5 )
• 12:15 AM: Kalamboli McD ( https://goo.gl/maps/F4bqaobJhjcPQ8zK9 ) 
• 03:00 AM: Reach Base village and Have Complete rest in the bus
• 05:30 AM: Wake up call, get freshen up
• 06:00 AM: Have Breakfast
• 07:00 AM: Start Trek through Andharban Forest Post Briefing and Instructions by trek leaders 
• 10:00 AM:  Reach Hirdi- Ghutke Village Junction and take a break
• 10:30 AM: Continue our trek towards Gutkhe Village.
• 01:00 PM: Reach Ghutke village, board the bus to the base village (Pimpri) 
• 02:00 PM: Reach the base village (Start point of the trek) and Have Lunch (Veg Thali)
• 04:00 PM: Start return journey to Mumbai.
• 10:00 PM: Reach Mumbai. (Arrival time is subjective to traffic and weather conditions

Inclusions:

• ​Private Bus Transportation
• Breakfast & Tea
• Lunch ( Veg Thali )
• Trek Leader Charges.
• Trek Expertise Charges. 
• Forest Entry Charges.
• First Aid Charges.

Exclusions:

• Travel till pickup points
• 5% GST on Booking Tickets
• Any kind of personal expense like Mineral water/lime water/ Soft Drinks/ Extra snacks or meals that are not mentioned in the inclusions, purchased for personal consumption 
• Any kind of cost which is not mentioned and included in the inclusion of this package.
• All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
• Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
• Any kind of Insurance

How to book?

• Click on the "BOOK NOW" button.
• Select your departure date from the calendar and proceed.
• Select your ticket type and quantity. (If you have a coupon code, apply at this stage)
• Fill out our personal details and proceed.
• Select your payment type (UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking) and proceed.
• Once your tickets are booked, you will receive tickets via email.
• A WhatsApp group link will be sent to your WhatsApp number 10 hours prior to the departure.
• Trek Leaders / Volunteers details will be shared on that WhatsApp group.

Things to carry:

(Highly Required and Mandatory Things)

• backpack (waterproof or covered with waterproof cover) 
• trekking shoes or any sports shoes with a Good grip
• Trekking pants (compulsory), 2 T-Shirts (Preferably full sleeves or Half T-shirt with sleeves), Raincoat/ waterproof jacket/ windcheater, Handnapkin/Towel, etc
• Water 2-3 liters.
• Ready-to-eat food like plum cakes, Dry fruits, dry snacks and biscuits, Chikki, chocolate bars, etc.
• Personal Medicines and Personal First aid 

(Required but Optional Things)

• To change after trekking - Facewash, Extra pants/ shorts, Extra T-shirt, sleeper/ floaters, an extra bag to carry your trekking shoes, innerwear, etc
• Sweater For bus journey
• Electoral or Glucose D powder. 
• Portable Phone Charger, Earphones, etc.
• Sun protection cap, sunglasses, Sunscreen lotion, toothbrush-toothpaste, etc
• Proper face mask or shield 
• Extra Pair of clothes.

(Note: Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pants,  this will protect your body and skin from Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles, etc)

Things to do at Andharban Trek:

Being one of the most stunning treks, there is a lot to do and experience on this trek.

• There are beautiful waterfalls and streams which make for a great backdrop for photography
• Enjoy the monsoons rains and witness the dense jungle turn into a magical wonderland
• Jump into small water streams and swim in these natural swimming pools
• Explore unique flora and fauna and look for several species of birds such as the Jacobin cuckoo, the Malabar whistling thrush, dwarf kingfishers, and minivets native to this place
• Stay amidst nature and experience mental peace and bliss
• Instagram lover? Love blogging? Captures photos and videos to show off to your friends and family!

Places to visit near Andharban:

• Tamhini attractions:  You can explore the Tamhini waterfalls, Devkund waterfalls, Tamhini Ghat viewpoint, and the Plus Valley trek just a few kilometers from Pimpri village.
• River Rafting in Kundalika:  10-15 kilometers from Tamhini Ghat, you can enjoy the thrill of white water rafting in the Kundalika River. There are other adventure activities too in which you can keep yourself indulged.
• Explore Lonavala:  Between Lonavala and Pimpri, there are amazing places to explore like the Sudhagad Lake, Bhushi Dam, Takmak Point, Shivling Point, Ekole Valley, Morgiri Fort, Korigad Fort, Anghai Fort, Tung Fort, Lohagad fort, Thanale caves, and much more! You can stay back for 2 days after your trek to get lost in the laps of nature, away from the city crowd.
• Visit Lavasa:  This planned city is about 2 hours from Pimpri where you can book your stay at high-end resorts. There are also activities like zip-lining, lakeshore kayaking, and jet skiing which you can try here. The Temghar Dam is also a famous spot to visit.

How to Reach Andharban?

• By Road: The starting point of this trek is Pimpri village. It is around 140 km from Mumbai, 50 km from Lonavala, and from Pune to Andharban trek distance is 16 km. From any of these locations, one can either take a cab or board a bus to Pimpri village. Another option is to travel by your private vehicle, however, park at the base village at your own risk.
• By Rail: There are many train options to reach Pune. If you are traveling from Mumbai then Deccan Express, Intercity, Indrayani, or Udyan Express are the best options. While coming from the South, board any train to Mumbai and get down to Pune.
• By Flight: Book a flight to Pune or Mumbai if you are coming from any part of India and then take a cab to reach Pimpri

1. Can I do the Andharban trek if I have never been on a trek before?

Yes, it is an easy to moderate level trek. Any person who is physically fit can do this trek with ease.

2. How to reach the Base village from Mumbai?

Please refer to our section on ‘How to Reach?’ to get complete details on travel. 

3. Can we drive a car to Andharban?

Yes, you can search for Andharban Trail Start Point on google maps and navigate to it. However, we are not responsible in case of any loss/damage. Please park your car at the base village at your own risk.

4. Are there toilet facilities available on the Andharban trek route?

Toilets are not available during the trek. You can utilize the washroom facilities once you reach the base village.

5. The ideal number of days required for this trek?

One day is sufficient for the Andharban trek. You can keep 2 extra days to explore places around Lonavala and Pune.

6. How much time is required to complete this trek?

You can complete the entire trek in 6-8 hours, subject to change as per the weather condition.

7. What is the total trek distance of the Andharban trek?

The total trek distance is 13 km. Although this trek does not include any climbs or rocky terrain, you will have to walk a long distance at a stretch.

8. Best time to do this trek?

Monsoons and post-monsoons (June to October) are generally the best time to enjoy this trek since there is plenty of greenery and misty winds that will give you the chills.

9. What type of footwear should I wear for the trek?

Andharban trek involves long walks so you should be wearing comfortable trekking shoes. Try to avoid slippery sandals as you might lose grip and tend to fall. Carrying an extra pair of socks is recommended.

10. Is the event safe for solo female travelers?

There are many solo travelers that join us for the event, most of them being females. We pay special attention to the safety of our guests and separate accommodation is provided to men and women.

11. Do you allow kids on this trek?

Kids below 16 are allowed only if accompanied by an adult.

12. Is smoking and consuming alcohol allowed?

No. We follow a strict ‘No liquor policy’ and anyone caught smoking or drinking alcohol will be asked to leave the trek immediately.

13. What is the condition of network connectivity at Andharban?

There is no network throughout the trek, with very limited phone connectivity available at some spots.

14. Can I charge my phone during the trek?

There is no electricity supply available during the trek. One should carry a power bank if required.

15. Places to see near Pimpri village?

You can explore the Tamhini waterfalls, Devkund waterfalls, Tamhini Ghat viewpoint, Plus Valley trek which are just a few kilometers from Pimpri village.

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Horlivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine

I caught a travel bug here

This blog is published chronologically. Go straight to the most recent post .

• I Caught a Travel Bug Here

Horlivka, Donetsk region

My favorite postcard from Horlivka

Traveling became my passion during my student's years in Horlivka. I was a student of the English Faculty of Horlivka State Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages in Soviet times. At that time nobody called the city Horlivka, everybody said in Russian: Gorlovka.

Revisiting Victory Square in 2010

They say that he who had studied in Horlivka for five years became a city resident. I wondered if I could call myself a local and my answer was negative. I did not visit too many places in the city to be able to have it at my fingertips. Perhaps I spent too much time doing my homework...So I had to rediscover Horlivka during my visits after my graduation: in 2002, 2009 and 2010.

1779 is the foundation year of Horlivka. The city is called after an outstanding Russian mining engineer Peter Gorlov (1839-1915). He was commissioned for the construction of Kursk-Kharkiv-Azov railway and designed many coalmines.The grateful residents of Horlivka erected a monument to Peter Gorlov in Victory Avenue in 1999.

The city area is 422 square kilometers, which is half of the size of the Ukrainian capital Kiev. Horlivka is divided into three administrative districts: Central City District, Kalinin District and Nikitov District. The settlements of Golmovsky, Zaytsevo, Panteleymonovka and the villages of Ozerianovka and Gladossovo are incorporated into the city area. About 300,000 residents live in Horlivka now. The city has three railway stations, more than 1,500 streets, avenues, boulevards and lanes. There is a small river in the city – the River Korsun, a tributary of the River Krynka that flows into the Seversky Donets, our big river.

The entrance plaque of my college

Studying the city map, I noticed that Horlivka streets sometimes sounded very unique. What do you think of such street names:

• Merry Street (in Ozeryanovka)
• Galileo Street (in Gagarin Settlement)
• Democratic Street (in Block 88)
• Long Lane (in Alexeyevka)
• Pearl Street (in Coalmine 6-7 settlement)
• Picturesque Street (in Nikotov District)
• Cultural Street (in Alexeyevka)
• Moon Street (in Kondratyev Settlement)
• Olympic Street (in Kirov Settlement)
• Christmas Street (in Kalinin Settlement)
• Amber Street (in Komarov Settlement)
• Clean Lane (in Komarov Settlement)
• Cold Street (in Komarov Settlement)
• Narrow Lane (in Alexeyevka Settlement).

As you see, streets in Alexeyevka and Komarov Settlement are champions in beautiful street names. These are the street names I have never come across in any city I have visited. However, I do not think the streets look as poetic, attractive and beautiful as their names sound. I am sure that just a picture at the background of a street name plaque would be a fun to have at home. It would be great for any local like me, to say nothing of foreigners. In fact, it is one of my further plans about traveling to Horlivka: to visit some of those streets and to take pictures there.

Our hostel at 49 Kirov Street

Horlivka means a lot of nice memories of my youth to me. We used to study the culture of the English-speaking countries. We all realized that we could not even dream of visiting them. We had to travel without seeing most of the time. However, we wanted to learn more about the habits and ways of the English-speaking countries. We could only learn from our college textbooks or from propaganda TV, radio, newspapers and magazines. Our Communist textbooks, where every word had been approved "from above", did not satisfy our thirst for knowledge and experience, and we sought other ways of developing our skills and ideas. My friends and I enjoyed listening to the VOA ("Voice of America") "Special English" programs after we had installed an extended SW antenna into an old radio set in our room in the dormitory, where we used to stay. It was very interesting and exciting to get the first-hand knowledge from native speakers over the radio, especially in the times of the information vacuum in our country. It was not very safe, though. But good luck was on our side and our passion for foreign broadcasts did not lead us into any trouble with the authorities. The videos were very rare in those days and we got the feeling of the foreign culture through music. We listened to music and learnt by heart the songs of "Queen", "ABBA", "Beatles," "Pink Floyd", "Boney-M" and others.

Horlivka city coat-of-arms

I have a lot of good memories of my five-year study in Horlivka. My fondest memories of Horlivka are:

1. *** visiting the ponds on the western outskirts;

2. *** walking in the city parks;

3. *** seeing new movies at "Shakhtar" movie theater;

4. *** attending a swimming section at the local Palace of Sports;

5. *** listening to the VOA Special English Programs over the radio;

6. *** visiting the nearby Korolenko ponds;

7. *** meeting with my friends there;

8. *** working at the college library and linguistic laboratory;

9. *** discovering the city streets;

10. *** exploring the city ourskirts such as the Seversky Donets-Donbass canal

11. *** shopping at the city stores;

12. *** celebrating each other's birthdays.

13. *** visiting Donetsk at weekends (one hour bus ride).

The monument to Nikita Izotov

I am very thankful to my alma mater for education, practice and experience. In 1981, my fellow student Oleg and I were selected for a study trip to "friendly Germany", the GDR, or East Germany, what is now "the new provinces". We had a month-long intensive German course at Erich Weinert Pedagogical College Magdeburg (PHM) in Magdeburg (now it is a part of Otto von Guericke University). It was a great experience for me, of course. I was privileged to visit Berlin, Magdeburg and many other big and small towns and cities during the weekends.

During my last year of studies, my college recommended me for a business trip abroad as an interpreter. Such testimonials were issued every year to several gifted students, but only some of them were selected for a business trip in the long run. Thanks a lot, my college, for that testimonial! A business trip abroad was a huge award in those times, especially if you take into account that a person like myself did not belong to the ruling Communist party. Thank Goodness nobody realized then that I had no intention of joining it whatsoever! In those Communist times you only had to study well, to attend all the general meetings of the Young Communist League (YCL) of your school or college, and to raise your hand to vote for this or that resolution. You did not even have to follow the agenda of the meeting, you only had to sit and behave, and nobody really cared if you had any genuine respect for the Communist ideals and leaders.

Luckily, while I was a fifth-year student, I was selected as a candidate for a possible business trip abroad as an interpreter. The college recommendation worked, and in August of the same year I found myself invited to the "friendly Iraq" as an interpreter at a Soviet-built cement plant in the city of Samawa located in the south of Iraq. I spent there one year translating for a technical assistance group from the Soviet Union. Thanks, my good college, for recommending me for that honorable – and cool – job abroad! You see, there was a custom in the Soviet Union to build factories and plants for developing countries that were regarded by the USSR as friendly nations and potential socialist countries. Our technical assistance group in Samawa, Iraq, worked at the Portland cement plant built by the Soviet Union in the seventies. The city of Samawa itself is located 270 km to the south of Baghdad. Working at the Soviet-built cement plant was a very serious job and a good way of practicing my knowledge. Besides, it was a good financial start in my career. I think I did my best and managed my everyday duties as an interpreter in that faraway mysterious country. In May 2009, I attended a jubilee reunion of the graduates of our college dedicated to the 60th anniversary of Horlivka State Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages. It was a must for me, and an opportunity to meet with my former fellow students, to visit the old and new places there and to take tons of pictures.

At Shakhtar Movie Theater

During our Reunion on May 31, 2009, the Association of the College Graduates of Horlivka State Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages was founded. Now I am its member among hundreds of other former students. In July 2010, I revisited Horlivka to meet my old friend and former roommate Vladimir who lived in Russia by that time. It was a great reunion! To see the main sites and to feel the busy city atmosphere, I would suggest that you drive along the main city streets according to the following route (you can make as many stops as you wish just to take pictures of some sights or merely to relax. Starting point:

• the monument to Nikita Izotov, Lenin Avenue >>>
• turn left to Besposhchadny Street (Jubilee Park, ponds and Volcano nightclub) >>>
• Minin and Pozharsky Street (Gostiny Dvor – Inn – hotel + restaurant) >>>
• turn left to Komsomol Street (past Power Specialists Park and Victory Square) >>>
• turn left to Rudakov Street (past Heroes Park) >>>
• turn left to Herzen Street >>>
• turn right to Victory Avenue (Bavaria Restaurant) >>>
• turn right to Gagarin Street >>>
• turn left to Pushkin Street (arts museum and city history museum) >>>
• proceed to Soviet Army Park and the bus terminal.

Peter Gorlov bust at the city history museum

Horlivka Uprising monument

There are fifty-two bus routes about the city and its environs. These routes are operated by about four hundred buses all in all every day. These are the city bus routes for you, fellow travelers, just in case.

1 – Nikitovka Station – Knitted-goods factory 2 – Grechnev Street – Construction Workers Block 3 – Ring route 4 – Volkov Street – Komarov Settlement 5 – Herzen Street – Settlement of Kondratievka 6 - Knitted-goods factory – October Settlement 7 – 40 Years of Ukraine Street - Nikitovka Station 10 – Herzen Street – Lenin Coalmine Settlement 11 – Bus terminal – Kochegarka Coalmine Settlement 12 – Kalinin Coalmine – Settlement of Bayrak 13 – Chemical factory - Komarov Settlement 14 - Nikitovka Station - Bessarabka 15 – Bus terminal– Red Partisan Settlement 16 – Volkov Street – 40 Years of Ukraine Street 17– Railway Station – Peace Street 18- Bus terminal – Wide Ravine 19– 88 Block – Sunny Block 20 – Volkov Street - Construction Workers Block 21 – Bus terminal – 88th Block 22 – Volkov Street – Chemical factory 23 – Grechnev Street – Service station 24 – Chemical factory – 245th Block 25 – Bus terminal - Komarov Settlement 27 – 40 Years of Ukraine Street – Bus terminal 2 - Komarov Settlement – Settlement of Kuznetsovka 28A - Komarov Settlement – Koksan Company 29A - Ring route 29B – Ring route 30 – Herzen Street - Village of Vorobyovka 31 – 88th Block – Nikitovka Station 32 – Herzen Street – Mirnoye Settlement 33 – Herzen Strteet - Autostore 35 – Ring route 36 – 88th Block – Chemical factory 38– Village of Vorobyovka – Nikitovka Station 77 – Bus terminal - Panteleymonovka 81 – Nikitovka Station – Settlement of Golmovsky 82 - Nikitovka Station – Settlement of Zaytsevo 83 - Nikitovka Station – Settlement of Bakhmutka 83A – Volkov Street – Settlement of Nokolayevka 100 –Komarov Settlement - Nikitovka Station 101 – Zhukov Street – Kalinin Coalmine 102 – 88 Block – 40 Years of Ukraine Street 104 – Kondratyevka – 245th Block 106 – 88 Block – 245th Block 107 – Gagarin Coalmine Settlement – Ksenevka Settlement

Horlivka Railway Station

The city has three railway stations, which is not bad for the city of more than 300,000 residents. The central railway station is located not far from Palace of Sports and is called Horlivka. I frequented this station when I left for my home city on weekends. Nikitovka is another large railway station located in the eastern part of the city. Usually all the trains pass these both large stations, so it is convenient for locals to get off closer to where they live.

Bus terminal

The bus terminal is in Pushkin Street. When I was there, there were many buses to Horlivka from Donetsk and from many other regional centers, towns and cities of Donetsk and Luhansk region. Besides, buses to/from Odessa, Kherson, Zaporizhia, and Dnipro passed Horlivka. Also, there are a lot of local buses that will take you to any town of Donetsk region.

Posted by Vic_IV 05:31 Archived in Ukraine Comments (0)

• Good Memories

Horlivka Donetsk region

Kochegarka Coalmine Leisure Centre

The city is called after an outstanding Russian mining engineer Peter Gorlov (1839-1915). He was commissioned to the construction of Kursk-Kharkiv-Azov railway and designed many coalmines.

Peter Gorlov monument in Victory Avenue

The thankful residents of Horlivka erected a monument to Peter Gorlov in 1999 at the beginning of Victory Avenue in Horlivka. The engineer's name is written in Russian, “Peter Gorlov”.

Rodina Hotel

Peter Gorlov was born on May 23, 1839 in Irkutsk in the family of a well-known functionary, chairman of the regional authorities. Peter studied in Moscow and later in St.Petersburg where he had training as a mining engineer. He began to work at coalmines in Don Cossacks’ area and created the first coalmining and geological atlas of the area. He was invited to work at the construction of the first railway in the Donets Basin – Kharkiv-Taganrog.

Victory Avenue

Peter Gorlov studied the reserves and quality of coal and was the leader of the construction of the first coalmines in the Donets Basin. He also founded the first coalmining school for training specialists in that sphere. The school was located in Horlivka. He was also one of the founders of the Coalminers’ Congress of the South of Russia. He did a lot for attracting foreign investments to the Donets Basin. Owing to his initiative the Belgian investors built a machine-building factory in Horlivka in 1895. Peter Gorlov died in St.Petersburg on November 20, 1915.

Shakhtar Movie Theatre

I used to frequent this movie theater in Lenin Street: Shakhtar ("Coalminer") Movie Theater. The movie theater has a spacious hall with rich Stalin era decor, a big nice foyer with a bar, comfortable seats. And, of course, there is a beer tent at the entrance. I wonder if they drink beer before or after the show... The movie theater was refurbished in 2000 and looks very nice now, much better than it used to when I was a student. There are also concerts and gala meetings in the main hall of this movie theater. I attended our Graduates’ Reunion in this hall.

Postcards from Horlivka: Korolenko Ponds

Korolenko Ponds_bathing is prohibited

We also enjoy going for a walk to Korolenko Ponds located on the city outskirts about forty minutes walk from our dormitory in Kirov Street. Bathing is Prohibited! - This is what you can read at the former beach of Korolenko Ponds. The ponds look quite neglected and the water has never been purified within the decades when these ponds were leisure spots of Horlivka. The ponds' bottom has never been cleaned. You can only rent a water cycle at the last pond and explore the pond on it, which is a bit too risky too since you will get splashed with the polluted water...My friend and I simply stood and watched.

The Seversky Donets-Donbass Canal

Besides, we went for a walk to the city outskirts to the Seversky Donets-Donbass canal located about five miles from where we lived in Horlivka. The freshwater canal connected the River Seversky Donets in the north and the River Calmius in the south. We visited the place on the city outskirts where the canal runs in pipes.

Coat-of-arms of Horlivka, Donetsk region

When I was a student, nobody paid any attention to whether a city had a flag or a coat-of-arms. I don't even think they were adopted and used then. Nowadays every Ukrainian town and city has such symbols, and Horlivka is not an exception. St.George and a coalminer with an air hammer are shield-holders on its coat-of-arms. The city symbols - the coat-of-arms and the flag - are at the entrance to the city council.

The monument to Nikita Izotov, Horlivka

Nikita Izotov monument in Lenin Avenue is one of the oldest and biggest city symbols. It was unveiled on May 18, 1968 in front of Lenin Palace of Culture (Kochegarka Coalmine Leisure Center) at the place where Lenin monument stood. Therefore, Lenin had to "give place" to the monument to a simple coalminer - Nikita Izotov. Lenin monument was moved farther down Lenin Avenue and installed in front of the coalmining administration building. Who could have thought! I had never heard of any other case when the Communist authorities, no matter how much they revered "the Great Leader" (or were told to), had to remove a Lenin monument to give place to another monument. What was more holy in Soviet times than the "Grandpa Lenin"? As you see, the image of a simple coalminer turned out to be more important and symbolic than the poor Lenin. Nobody even tried to argue with strong and resolute coalminers in those unpredictable Soviet times... As we were told, the monument to Nikita Izotov became the world's first monument to a simple worker. This gigantic bronze monument is really a masterpiece. It looks very impressive, and the face resemblance is superb. The monument soon became one of the city symbols. The Communist authorities were satisfied as well: they had unveiled the world's first monument to a simple worker!

Trams of Horlivka

I liked the Anchor of Horlivka, a nice city monument, as it were. It is located inside the fountain opposite Rodina Hotel in Dimitrov Boulevard. I have never seen it operate, but saw the photographs where it looked very nice when the water was on. I think it only happens on big holidays such as Coalminer's Day, City Day and others.

The Anchor of Horlivka

Like many other cities of Ukraine, Horlivka has an anthem. I decided to translate it for you here. Here it is.

The Motherland, like a mother, is not chosen: The Motherland is, like a mother, the only one. People live and die for the sake of it, Wishing she would always live.

Under the blue Ukrainian sky, In the golden wreath of fields My city stands as a worthy son Of my free Motherland.

Both Gorlov and Izotov used to live here, Their labor and feat were righteous, Making an alloy – intellect and work, Song and elevated soul.

Gorlovka is a land of labor and songs, Of generous smiles and of fire, Therefore I am happy and merry For you and I are blood relatives.

FYI: It's always tempting to take a bus, a trolley-bus or a tram and to travel around the city. I must say they are all very slow and often crowded and stuffy. You have to have a lot of patience and time to use them. We, locals, don't mind it. Unique Suggestions: Take a bus or a tram once, inhale a lot of dust inside and get off as soon as you can and then take a cab instead. Fun Alternative: Take a cab or a walk instead.

By trolleybus around Horlivka

By trolleybus in Horlivka

Be careful when walking along the sidewalks or crossing the streets. There are a lot of pot-holes where you can easily stumble and fall, especially in rainy weather or at night. Many sidewalks and roads look as though they have not been repaired for decades... Watch your step please or merely grab a cab and arrive home safely.

The media are worried about the state of chemical pollution in Horlivka. They say the chemical factory has a lot of explosives (30 tons) and poisonous substances (2.5 tons) in its storehouses. A lot of chemical waste has accumulated in the factory area. Stirol Corporation is the neighbor of the chemical factory. It has a lot of containers with liquid ammonium hydrate. It is hard to imagine what can happen is there is a fire or an explosion at one of these monster factories. You have been warned…

Posted by Vic_IV 05:34 Archived in Ukraine Comments (0)

• Popular Places

Visiting Victory Square is a must for everybody who comes to Horlivka. Our college, Horlivka State Teacher Training Institute of Foreign Languages, is situated in Rodakov Street not far from this square, so it was our favourite hangout. In fact, due to a university reform of 2013, the college merged with another one in Donetsk Region and is now called Donets Basin State Teacher Training University.

Visiting Victory Square in Horlivka

Visiting Victory Square

Victory Square used to be one of the favourite hangouts of young people. Even today it can be seen by a lot of litter left by them on the ground in the evenings. The janitors, if any, do not manage to take all the litter away: the empty plastic beer bottles, packing, etc. The square is so popular among locals that they never use its full name, but say simply "the Square". You can just walk around the square shopping, taking pictures and having coffee at one of its numerous cafes or have a beer or two at one of the pubs here. Please keep the country tidy, too! Do not follow the example of some cool and careless local guys leaving tons of litter around...

The fountain in Victory Square is a good meeting point for city visitors. Thank goodness the fountain operates in hot weather. However, I did not see anybody bathe there. It must be forbidden. The fountain bottom is far from being clean; therefore locals do not risk bathing there. The locals call this fountain ash-tray. So you can say to new your local friends, "Meet you at the ash-tray!" and they will be more than pleased to know you are well informed about their customs.

Visiting the Promenade

The Promenade is another must in Horlivka. The Promenade is one of the favorite places of lots of local children, teenagers and grownups. It begins in Victory Avenue and runs along Dimitrov Boulevard to Revolution Square. There is a park with stone figures, a beer tent and a lot of benches. The Promenade ends at Horlivka Uprising Monument near Rodina Hotel that, in its turn, stands in front of Stirol Leisure Center. There are a lot of young and not-so-young people here at any time of day and night. The Promenade is well lit; it was a lot of fun to take a stroll along it. The Promenade is one of the favorite places of many local people. There are several attractions along the Promenade, among them:

• - a park with stone figures;
• - a children's playground with two lion sculptures;
• - Promenade Cafe;
• - lots of benches to relax on.

It was a lot of fun for me to take a stroll along it one quiet evening when I revisited Horlivka.

The Castle of Soviet Times - this is how you would call this leisure center located at 22 Lenin Avenue opposite Barselona Restaurant. Its official name has always been Lenin Palace of Culture. This leisure center became one of the ten "Labor Palaces" built in the Soviet Union in the twenties of the 20th century. Unlike all other state construction sites, this one was declared to be a "people's construction site". The city residents had to work at the construction sitre on weekends during "subbotniks" and "voskresniks" ("voluntary Saturday work"/Sunday work). The leisure center was dedicated in 1927 and became a real Soviet Castle, the Castle of Labor, just as it had been designed. The leisure center belongs to Kochegarka ("Stokehold") Coalmine, the biggest one in the city. It was erected to glorify the coalminers' hard labor and, according to the authorities, was a gift to the city workers. Now this building also houses a court.

The monument to Nikita Izotov, the famous local coalminer, is located in front of the main entrance to this leisure center.

There are a lot of children's dance studios and hobby groups here. On holidays such as International Children Protection Day (June 1) concerts are held right at the main entrance to the leisure center. We attended several concerts and meetings at this leisure center and enjoyed its interior and the spectators’ hall.

This building is a true sample of Stalin era Empire Style in achitecture, the style that was banned by Khrushchov government in 1955. In 1955, Khrushchov government adopted a decree on the struggle against "architectural excesses". Stalin era's designing and architecture were declared as wasteful and extravagant. The Resolution No.1871 of the Communist Party Central Committee and the USSR Cabinet of Ministers “On elimination of excesses in designing and construction” dated November 4, 1955 declared all the architectural masterpieces of Stalin era as extravagant and wasteful, and blamed the architects for their approach. The after war "Empire Style" was banned and the architects started building what we call boxes instead of the original and inimitable houses. "Democratic" Nikita Khrushchov regarded Stalin era construction extravagance as out of place and lacking economic discipline. A new academy was founded: the City Construction and Architecture Academy, whose task was to accelerate the fulfillment of the Communist Party plans in the city construction.

War memorial opposite the bus terminal

There is a hill with a tank memorial on its top. The tank is the famous Soviet T-34. The inscription below the tank reads, “Unknown soldiers of the Soviet Army who fell in the battles for liberation of Horlivka from Nazi invaders in September 1943. Eternal glory to the heroes who fell in the struggle for freedom and independence of our Motherland !” There is a memorial park around this memorial. The park is very special and strange at the same time. There are no benches here. I think they were removed since many people used them for their "lunch break with beer" leaving a ton of litter around, which was inappropriate. As far as I can see, it is a common grave of Soviet soldiers. Now I understand why there are no benches here. We all have to honour the memory of the fallen soldiers and remain standing rather than sit on a bench and drink beer.

Horlivka was occupied by the Nazis on October 29, 1941. It was liberated by the Soviet Army on September 5, 1943. About 25,000 city residents were tortured to death, executed or deported to forced labour in Germany during the dark days of the Nazi occupation. Twenty-two residents of the city became Heroes of the Soviet Union. Now there are fifty-nine war memorials in Horlivka, among them - 25 common graves of Soviet soldiers.

You can see dozens of memorial plaques in different parts of the city. I saw some of them during my strolls downtown.

War memorial in Rudakov Street

If you walk along Rudakov Street (turn left from Gagarin Street), you will see Heroes Park with Glory Obelisk. Glory Obelisk was dedicated on November 5, 1969 to commemorate the city residents who fell in the battles with Nazis. The obelisk was designed by the architect A.K.Antonovich and was sponsored by the city enterprises. On May 9, 1970 the Eternal Flame was lit at the foot of the obelisk. It became a tradition to hold rallies on Victory in Europe Day here when hundreds of city residents gather here to attend the festivities. The newly-weds always lay flowers to the foot of Glory Obelisk on their wedding day. I saw the Heroes Park memorial plaque. This memorial plaque contains with the names of twenty-three war heroes - three Soviet soldiers, four NCOs and sixteen officers (among them one Soviet cosmonaut, A.Volkov, from Horlivka) - who were awarded with the highest military decoration - the title of the Hero of the Soviet Union. Here is the list of the Heroes of the Soviet Union who were born and lived in Horlivka:

• Lieutenant G.Boyko
• Major P.Vantsin
• Cosmonaut A.Volkov
• Colonel V.Gavrilov
• Sergeant G.Gilmoutdinov
• Captain I.Grossoul
• Lieutenant D.Dotsenko
• Major V.Yermakov
• Captain Lieutenant I.Ivanov
• Lieutenant Colonel V.Igtatyev
• Sergeant B.Cotov
• Engineer Colonel V.Molozev
• Private A.Olenin
• Major I.Ostroverkhov
• Senior Sergeant V.Petrenko
• Senior Lieutenant A.Rulev
• Master Sergeant D.Tarassov
• Colonel L.Filin
• Private M.Kholod
• Private 1st Class F.Chernikov
• Colonel F.Chichkan
• Lieutenant A.Shumsky
• Major V.Shcherbina

In addition, I saw several other memorial plaques. 14 Victory Avenue memorial plaque: this building housed the HQ of the 11th Air Force Squadron of the 22nd long-range aircraft division in September - December 1943 after the city had been liberated from the Nazi invaders. Pilots Alley memorial plaque: the trees were planted by the veterans of the 11th Air Force Squadron of the 22nd long-range aircraft division on April 19, 1985.

My book about Horlivka Arts Museum

“A Small Pearl of the Donets Basin” - this is how the Arts Museum in Horlivka is often called by the local media. The museum was dedicated on April 29, 1959. It contains seven halls. It is proud of its largest collection of works of Nickolay Roerich in Ukraine. Here you can marvel at the masterpieces of classical Russian art of the 19th century as well as the works of some outstanding Soviet artists. In addition, the museum has a large collection of works of local artists. Traveling exhibitions are often held here. Since no photography is allowed at this museum, I decided to scan some pictures from a book by Gallina Rubanova, Horlivka Arts Museum (Art Publishers, Kiev, 1987). I hope Art Publishers will not mind.

Horlivka Arts Museum

At Horlivka Arts Museum

I admired several great paintings when I was there: 1. Nickolay Roerich (1874-1947), The Grave of a Viking, 1908 2. Ivan Ayvazovsky (1917-1900), Harbor, 1851 3. Nickolay Ghe (1831-1894), Portrait of a boy, 1878 4. Vassily Tropinin (1780-1857), A femaly portrait, 1841 5. Vassily Vereshchagin (1842-1904), Ruins of an Egyptian temple, 1884 6. Dmitry Gorlov, A female wolf with her cubs, 1946 7. Victor Zaretsky, A female portrait, 1959 8. Ilia Glazunov, Land explorer Semion Diezhnev, 1964 9. Stepan Korobchak, Lviv landscape, 1975 10. Anatoly Shyrokov, Vassily Chapayav, 1977

Razumov Miniature Book Museum

Razumov Miniature Book Museum is another must-see museum in Horlivka. It is located at 57 Victory Avenue. It is a good idea to make an appointment before paying a visit and having a guided tour. Phone: +38 0624 55 27 57, +38 06424 55 27 75. The museum is open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Wednesday is a day off. Website: http://mmk.ucoz.org

Razumov Miniature Book Museum, Horlivka

The museum has several halls with exhibitions of miniature books and micro books. The museum collection comprises more than 10,000 books in 103 languages from 57 countries, among them 7,008 books were presented by the museum founder Benjamin Razumov (1915-2001) who had collected such books for decades. He left his entire collection by will to the city in 1991.

Razumov memorial at the Museum_

It is a unique museum, the only one of such kind in Ukraine. It has books published in 57 countries in 103 languages. These are ancient and modern, handwritten and printed books. You can even see a unique book called speck of dust whose dimensions are sixty times smaller than a poppy seed. You can see the book through the microscope and read two poems by Alexander Pushkin there.

Posted by Vic_IV 05:39 Archived in Ukraine Comments (0)

• Some Local Humor

Horlivka was selected as one of the tourist cities for Euro-2012 soccer championship. When I was in this city in 2010 for the last time, I heard the reaction that decision had caused among the locals. The motto of that reaction was, “WELCOME TO GORLIWOOD!” (remember? – Horlivka sounds as “Gorlovka” in Russian). Here is some local humor for you, fellow travellers:

• I am afraid after several groups of foreigners, nobody will ever come to Horlivka from abroad except, perhaps, for those who really like extreme tourism.
• Horlivka is famous for such people as Pushkin, Lermontov, Tolstoy, who liked NOT to come to this city a lot!
• Of course, the monument “Menneken Pis” was invented in Brussels, but to do so in the streets was definitely invented in Horlivka.
• Horlivka is a real modern city where there is even one metal detector (at Volcano Nightclub)!
• The infantry armored vehicle is a symbol of Horlivka for it is the best means of transportation about the city.
• Disoriented, aren’t you? Knowing the local principle of the attitude to life – orientation on where it is worse – I am at a loss upon seeing any small improvement such as a repaired road that makes me think, “How come? What other dirty trick should I await?”
• Horlivka is a city where parents scare their naughty children with the view from the window.
• Doctors believe that if you want to look at Horlivka without damaging your health, you should do it from space.
• People in the US always smile because they have never seen Horlivka.
• The residents of Horlivka switch off the lights at night so that they do not see their city at least at night.
• I would not mind moving somewhere from Horlivka, say, to Vancouver, and to love my beloved city from there. It is much easier to love Horlivka from a distance.

Here are some funny posters from Horlivka:

Funny posters from Horlivka, Ukraine

Posted by Vic_IV 05:44 Archived in Ukraine Comments (0)

• Places to Relax

Old and new spots

Three Little Birch Trees (our local)

• Three Little Birch-Trees : This pub used to be our local during my student’s years. My fellow students and I used to frequent this place on our way from our college. It is conveniently located close to our dormitory. We had beer and dried salted fish ("taranka" in Russian - the best beer snack then and now). We even had beer drinking championships. My record was only six pints within three hours. I did not aim at any prize. A friend of mine became a beer-drinking champion after drinking 18 pints of beer!

Of course, the place has completely changed since that time. Now it is a restaurant, a poker club, a billiards place and a sauna. Address: 15 Sudeyko Street. Directions: Opposite the former kids' park. Phone: +38 06242 55 05 61.

Beerloga Pub

At Beerloga Pub

• The Best Pub: Berloga is a nice downtown pub. Its name is translated as Den. It is located in Komsomol Street near Victory Square, near the Stalin era apartment house with roof pavilions.

We celebrated our reunion there. The pub has a terrace and two halls inside. The halls are richly decorated in a hunting style. We tried some home style fried potatoes with beef liver, julienne, Greek salad, etc. Phone: +38 0624 52 25 35; +38 095 558 61 96.

Barnsley Restaurant, Horlivka

Barnsley Restaurant in Horlivka

Barnsley Restaurant_partnership memorial plaque

• Barnsley : this high end restaurant is located in the main street - Victory Avenue. It is called after the city of Barnsley - the twin-city of Horlivka.

The restaurant was dedicated on September 27, 1997 by Valery Pakhomov, the city mayor, and Councillor Charles Wraith, Mayor of Barnsley. The restaurant has several halls: two on the first floor and two on the second floor, among them the Lord Mayor's hall (on the first floor), the big wedding hall and a medium hall on the second floor. They also have a terrace with tent-like tables outside. Address: 67a Victory Avenue. Phone: +38 06242 2 70 61.

• Pautina (“Web”): this place is a young people’s refuge. It is called an entertainment centre. It is located at 28 Rudakov Street, across the street from my college. I imagine what would happen if it was there in our times when I was a student. I am sure we would frequent it both after classes and in the evening. What would happen to our studies then, I wonder?

There is a dance club, a sports cafe and a strip bar here. The entrance fee on weekends is about $5. We sat outside in the sports bar and had a beer doing some people watching. They have nice and draft beer Staropramen.

At Shinnok Ukrainian Resrtaurant

• Shinnok : this restaurant is located in the premises of the former Ukrainian restaurant. They did not even change the decor into the Georgian one.

They offer many dishes of the Ukrainian cuisine and nice (but expensive) Georgian wine. We ordered Saperavi dry red wine and it was superb! The restaurant occupies a cellar and it was fresh and pleasant to sit there in a hot weather. Chanakhi was a great dish there, as well as Greek salad. Address: 22 Victory Avenue. Phone: +38 099 901 50 22, +38 06242 7 41 64.

At Macao Cafe

• Macao : this restaurant is on the first floor of an apartment house in Victory Avenue, opposite the city council building and Lenin monument. It has several air-conditioned large halls and three banquet halls. Many foreign customers leave their banknotes with their autographs and coins that are places under the glass on the tables afterwards.

I do not quite welcome the idea of signing banknotes, but they look nice under the glass on the table or on the wall at the bar. My favorite dish there: Greek salad. Address: 72 Victory Avenue. Phone: +38 06242 2 10 99. In addition, there is Macao Coffeehouse, where you can have tea/coffee and chat with your friends.

Macao Coffeehouse

• Old Shilling : this pub has a convenient downtown location (opposite the fountain, in the building of the old hotel).

There are a couple of halls inside and a terrace outside. We appreciated the name and the rich decor. The draft beer was great there! It is a nice place for a bar crawl. There are five or six other bars and pubs around Victory Square. Address: 31 Victory Avenue.

There are numerous bistros and several billiards clubs where you can have a good time depending on your mood and budget. Take care, fellow travelers!

Barselona Restaurant

Victory Avenue apartment houses

Karaoke : this is a popular place for many young people. It is full of them in the evenings. The customers order mainly drinks and snacks. There is a tent outside and an air-conditioned hall inside. This pub is a nice place for people watching, too. Address: 24a Victory Avenue. Phone: +38 06242 7 44 05.

Driving along Lenin Street

Coalmining Administration building

Driving or walking along Lenin Avenue, you will see an old Lenin monument in Lenin Avenue next to Artiom Ugol Coalmining Administration. This old monument is unique for it is black and looks as though it was carved of a piece of high quality coal. Where else can you see a black Lenin monument? I think only the well-respected Soviet coalminers could get away with such things in the good old USSR. A lot of things depended on them in the economy and they were treated very well in the USSR...

At the entrance to Gorky Park in Horlivka

Gorky Park in Horlivka

The old city park is called Gorky Park exactly like in Moscow. It is located far from all the main modern attractions of the city and is not frequented as much as the Promenade. I can understand that. The park is really far from all apartment houses. It is very large and looks like a forest.

It was dedicated in 1932 and is the oldest park in the city. Its territory is really huge: about 60 hectares. There are a lot of trees: oaks, chestnut-trees, ash-trees, birch-trees. They say some oaks are over 100 years old. When we were students, we did not frequent this park and not only because we were very busy with our homework. This park had a very bad fame...

Now children visit this park only with grownups or with their educators as a field trip. Children enjoy riding the roller coaster and merry-go-rounds, drop in at the shooting gallery and take a walk along its numerous lanes. However, very few people decide to walk about this park and along its neglected lanes. According to our cab driver, the park is quite safe now.

If you proceed farther along Lenin Avenue and turn left to Dimitrov Boulevard, you will see this Afghan War memorial at the beginning of Dimitrov Boulevard. First you will see a bronze eagle with a black memorial plaque with the names of all soldiers and officers who fell in the battles in Afghanistan during the war of 1979-1989. There are 28 names of Horlivka residents who fell in the battles in Afghanistan. Further you will see a bronze figure of a dying soldier that looks very impressive indeed...

History Museum_the bust of Nikita Izotov

If you wish to find out more about the city, why not visit the city history museum in Pushkin Street? The museum is on the first floor of an apartment house in the premises of a former store. It has nine exhibitions halls and about 18,000 exhibits. The exhibits start with the prehistory of this area. The museum was founded in 1957.

History Museum_city diorama

History Museum_city map

Stalin era apartment houses in Empire style in Lenin Avenue

Posted by Vic_IV 04:35 Archived in Ukraine Comments (0)

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