Ahmednagar travel information | sightseeing tour package | taxi cabs car rentals
Ahmednagar is a beautiful city that is also the largest district in Maharashtra, India. This city was founded in the year 1490 by Ahmad Nizam Shah, and eventually, the city came to be named after him. As the city of Ahmednagar is situated in the rain-shadow-region of the Western Ghats, this region has a rugged natural beauty along with undulating stretches of lush greenery and mesmerising flower valleys.There are several attractions in this city. Some of the most remarkable places to visit are the majestic Ahmednagar Fort, Amruteshwar Temple, Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Meher Baba’s Samadhi and much more
There are also a number of natural attractions such as the mesmerising Sandhan Valley, Randha Falls, Bhandardara Lake, and the Umbrella Falls, all of which are ideal for trekking, picnics and nature walks. In fact, Ahmednagar is known for the many adventure activities that can be enjoyed when you are here. Hiking, trekking and rappelling are some of the most sought-after activities you can enjoy in the enthralling cliffs of the Sahyadri ranges.
Harishchandragad Trek and rappelling at Kokan Kada are some of the popular sports that are enjoyed by all visitors. Since Ahmednagar is situated on the side of the Western Ghats that receives less rainfall, the city generally experiences a hot and dry climate throughout the year. The summers are very hot and dry and rainfall, even during the monsoon season, is sparse. The winter mornings are cool and sunny and it is the best time to visit the city and enjoy its natural and historical beauty.
Which are the best places to visit in Ahmednagar?
1. Sri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir: Sri Sai Baba was a Hindu Brahmin saint and a spiritual preacher of Hinduism who arrived in Shirdi around 1858 and preached here till his demise in 1918. He was buried in this temple which is built with pristine white marble.
A life-size statue of the saint adorns the temple which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world. This shrine is considered one of the holiest shrines amongst Hindus.
2. Ahmednagar Fort: The Ahmednagar Fort is one of the most majestic and historical places in Maharashtra. This fort was initially a mud-structure, which was converted into a magnificent stone fort by Malik Ahmed Nizam Shah I, who was the first ruler of the Nizam Shahi dynasty. It was built in 1427 to protect the city from external invasions.
The transformation from mud-structure to stone was started in 1559 and it took four years to complete its construction. Today it acts as both a historical attraction and a magnificent viewpoint.
3. Sandhan Valley: The enthralling Sandhan Valley, also known as the “The Great Canyon” is located near the famous fort of Ratangad and Kalsubai, amidst the majestic Sahyadri mountain ranges. This valley is situated at an elevation of 4,255 feet above sea level, with a depth of 200 feet and stretches over 2 km.
This valley is especially sought out by nature lovers, trekkers and adventure-seekers.
4. Randha Falls: The Randha Falls is a natural wonder in Ahmednagar, and also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. This picturesque waterfall has formed over River Pravara and cascades down from an altitude of 170 feet into a gorge.
The best time to visit the Randha Falls is during the monsoon season. The water swells up and increases in volume during this time of the years and the gushing waters that spill onto the surrounding countryside is truly a vision to behold.
5. Umbrella Falls: The Umbrella Falls in the Bhandardara region is another popular tourist spot where you can relax and unwind with your loved ones. As the name suggests, the manner in which the water swells up resembles the shape of an umbrella before cascading down the mountain rocks.
This waterfall originates from the Wilson Dam and looks mesmerising during the monsoon season.
6. Amruteshwar Temple: The Amruteshwar Temple is an exemplary specimen of the local ancient architectural brilliance. This temple is over 1,200 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This magnificent temple was constructed by the rulers of the Shilahara Dynasty in the 9th century.
It was the 12th temple of Lord Shiva built during the rule of King Jhanj. This temple is famous for its intricate sculptures and carvings.
7. Shri Siddhivinayak Temple: The Siddhivinayak Temple is a 17th Century structure that is situated on the northern bank of River Bhima. This famous temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is visited by thousands of devotees all over India. This temple is one of the 8 revered shrines of Lord Ganesha or one of the “Ashtavinayaka”.
The temple is built with black stone and the walls of the temple are adorned with amazing carvings and sculptures. The best time to visit this temple is during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi when the temple comes alive with prayer sessions, festivals, events and much more.
8. Bhandardara Lake: The famous Bhandardara Lake, also known as Lake Arthur, is situated near the Bhandardara Dam on the River Pravara. This vast lake is nestled amidst the lush greenery of Ahmednagar and the misty mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. The clear waters of the lake make for a beautiful sight.
It is also an ideal place for treks and picnics. You can also enjoy boating and other fun activities in the waters of the lake.
9. Meherabad: Meherabad is situated in the tranquil village of Arangaon. Initially, Meherabad was an ashram founded by Meher Baba for his followers in the year 1923. Later, after the demise of the spiritual leader, he was given a burial in the ashram by his followers and eventually the ashram was transformed into a pilgrim centre for his devotees.
It is one of the most serene and tranquil places, where you can spend some quality time with your family and friends.
Ahmednagar to Outstation ride by car
What are the best things to do in Ahmednagar?
1. Kokankada Rappelling –Republic Day Special: The Kokankada Rappelling – Republic day Special is a group activity, which takes place each year on 26 January to commemorate the auspicious occasion of Republic Day in India. As part of this adventure, you can also explore the magnificent Harishchandra Fort which is a hill fort situated at an elevation of 4,671 feet.
Another remarkable activity is rappelling down the Kokangada Cliff in the Sahyadri ranges. It is one of the biggest cliffs with astounding panoramic views of the mountain ranges. While the trek is quite difficult, the final view you get from the top of the mountain is worth the effort.
2. Harishchandragad Trek: The Harishchandragad Trek is a day-long trek of medium difficulty. Harishchandragad is situated in the Maslej region of the Western Ghats. It is one of the most mesmerising hill forts with a stunning view of the surrounding mountain ranges along with lush green flower valleys.
The trek starts at a base village and as it progresses, you will come across the divine shrines of Saptatirtha Pushkarini Temple and the Kedareshwar Cave featuring the famous Shiv Linga surrounded by water. The other famous temples you will come across during the trek include the Temple of Harishchandreshwar and Konkan Kada before you reach the topmost point of Taramati Peak.
3. Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary Photography Tour: The Rehekuri Blackbuck Photography Tour is one of the most rejuvenating and refreshing activities you can indulge in while exploring Ahmednagar. This is a group tour that is conducted for a day. The trip includes breakfast, a sumptuous lunch and tea breaks.
This trip is the ideal way to interact with nature and even catch sight of the rare and beautiful Blackbucks that are native to India in their natural habitat. Along with the Blackbucks, you can also catch sight of animals such as the Indian Fox, Chinkaras and a variety of vibrant flowers and rare birds.
4. Harishchandragad Overnight Trekking: The Harishchandra Overnight Trekking is an adventure that spans 3 days and 2 nights at an elevation of 1423 meters. The trek starts off from the rugged mountainous terrain and as you explore, the enthralling beauty of nature unfolds before you.
The mesmerising Konkan Kada, the ancient caves, the picturesque flower valleys of Tolakind along with the lush green landscape and the paddy fields are some of the natural sights that will leave you spellbound. As you finally reach Khireshwar- the topmost point of the trek, you can catch a stunning sunset. A vegetarian lunch and dinner is provided along with tea breaks. You must carry your personal sleeping bag on this trek.
5. Rappelling and Flying Fox in Sandhan Valley: If you are an adventure junkie, then indulging in Rappelling and Flying Fox in Sandhan Valley is the perfect activity for you. This is a single-day adventure trip where you can enjoy this group activity and experience the natural beauty of the Sandhan Valley from a unique perspective.
This valley is 200 feet deep and covers over 2 km. Rappelling is conducted at an elevation of 120 feet and Flying Fox at an elevation of 300 feet.
What is Ahmednagar famous for?
Ahmednagar is a popular city which attracts tourism mainly due to its agribusiness activities and watershed developments. Along with the bank, milk and sugar co-operatives, the city is also home to ancient forts and temples such as the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country.
