Two Distinct Day Trips from Pune, in Opposite Directions
Varandha Ghat and Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary are both wonderful nature day trips from Pune, but they sit on opposite sides of the city — Varandha Ghat is southwest, on the route toward the Konkan coast, while Bhigwan is southeast, on the way to Solapur. They're grouped here because both make for a similarly easy single-day escape, not because they're near each other, so plan them as separate outings.
Varandha Ghat: Scenic Mountain Pass
Varandha Ghat cuts through the Sahyadri range connecting Bhor to Mahad, about 100–110 km from Pune (roughly 2.5–3 hours via Bhor). The route is known for dozens of roadside waterfalls in the monsoon, hairpin turns with sweeping valley views, and a noticeably quieter, less commercialized feel than nearby Tamhini Ghat. En route, you'll pass Bhatghar Dam and get views of the historic Rajgad and Torna forts in the distance; Shivtharghal, a sacred cave associated with saint Samarth Ramdas, lies about 15 km off the main ghat road.
Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary
Bhigwan sits on the backwaters of the Ujani Dam on the Bhima River, about 100–110 km southeast of Pune via the Pune-Solapur highway (roughly 2.5–3 hours). The wetlands here are a major wintering ground for migratory birds arriving from as far as Siberia and Central Asia — flamingos are the star attraction, alongside pelicans, storks, ruddy shelducks, and a wide range of waterfowl. Local boatmen at Kumbhargaon, a village on the sanctuary's edge, offer guided boat rides that get you close to the flocks without disturbing them.
Nearby Attractions
Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (near Bhigwan)
A short drive from Bhigwan via Kurkumbh and Supe, this smaller wildlife sanctuary is home to blackbuck and a variety of raptors, and pairs naturally with a Bhigwan birding day.
Rajgad & Torna Forts (near Varandha Ghat)
Visible from points along the Varandha route, these two hill forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are popular standalone trekking destinations for visitors extending their Bhor-Varandha trip by a day.
Activities & Experiences
- Birdwatching and boat rides at Bhigwan / Kumbhargaon.
- Scenic monsoon drives and waterfall-spotting on Varandha Ghat.
- Wildlife spotting at Mayureshwar Sanctuary near Bhigwan.
- Fort treks at Rajgad or Torna for those extending the Varandha trip.
Visitor Tips
- Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for birdwatching at Bhigwan — many species keep their distance.
- Wear comfortable, closed shoes suitable for uneven ghat terrain at Varandha.
- Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for both trips.
- Start early — both destinations are best experienced in the soft morning light, and Bhigwan's birds are most active then too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Varandha Ghat and Bhigwan close to each other?
No — Varandha Ghat is southwest of Pune toward the Konkan coast, while Bhigwan is southeast toward Solapur. They're two separate day trips, not a single combined route.
How far are Varandha Ghat and Bhigwan from Pune?
Both are roughly 100–110 km from Pune, about a 2.5–3 hour drive, though in opposite directions.
When is the best time to visit for birdwatching at Bhigwan?
November to March, when migratory flamingos and other waterfowl arrive in large numbers.
Is Varandha Ghat safe to drive?
Yes, but the road is narrow with limited signal coverage in stretches — avoid night driving and check conditions before heading out in heavy monsoon rain.
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