Escape the city and explore the lush Andarban Forest Trail. A perfect day trek from Pune filled with waterfalls, greenery, and adventure.
Last Saturday, on 20th September 2025, we traded the city hustle of Pune for the serenity of nature, embarking on one of Maharashtra’s most beautiful treks — the Andarban Forest Trail. True to its name (Andarban literally means dark forest), this trail offered us a magical journey through dense greenery, mist-clad valleys, waterfalls, and endless shades of green.
Our group started early in the morning from Pune, driving towards Tamhini Ghat, where the trail begins. The monsoon clouds were still lingering, painting the skies with soft grey tones. The road trip itself was a treat — winding ghats, fresh breeze, and the sound of distant waterfalls prepared us for what awaited in the forest.
The trail unfolded like a storybook — lush forests towering above us, streams cutting across our path, and the constant symphony of birds and insects. Walking under the thick canopy gave us the feeling of stepping into another world, far away from modern noise and chaos.
The highlight of Andarban is its mist-covered valleys and picturesque viewpoints overlooking the Kundalika Valley. Every turn brought a postcard-perfect view, and the drizzle made the forest floor glisten.
Along the way, we crossed small streams, heard the gushing of hidden waterfalls, and even took breaks near crystal-clear pools. The trail was not too steep but long enough to challenge our stamina. Our shoes were muddied, our clothes damp, yet our spirits only grew lighter with every step.
Trekking is not just about reaching a destination — it is about the stories, laughter, and bonds formed along the way. From sharing snacks during breaks to helping each other over slippery rocks, the day was full of little moments that turned into memories.
As the forest slowly opened into viewpoints, we were greeted with breathtaking vistas of the Kundalika Valley, lush green plateaus, and distant peaks wrapped in clouds. Standing there, with the cool wind on our faces, we felt both small and infinite — humbled by nature scale, yet rejuvenated by its beauty.
Unlike many treks that end at a summit, Andarban is more of a journey through nature than a climb. It is an experience of walking within the forest itself — silent, mystical, and refreshing. It reminded us why it is important to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the earth.
By evening, as we drove back to Pune, tired legs were overpowered by happy hearts. The Andarban Forest Trail gave us not just a trek but an escape — a chance to be children of the forest for a day.
If you are in or around Pune and looking for a day trek that combines beauty, calm, and a touch of adventure, Andarban should definitely be on your list.
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