The scenic town and hill station in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, Igatpuri has developed to be a popular tourist spot. This charming place is located at an altitude of 1,900 feet in the Western Ghats. The undulating hilly terrain with cascading waterfalls and dense forests is a real treat to the eyes. Not much intervened by urbanization, Igatpuri retains its natural essence. Popular for the Vipassana Meditation academy, Igatpuri is located amidst many tourist places of West India.
Igatpuri lies on the Central Railway on the Mumbai-Nashik Road. The Vipassana International Academy is a well-known retreat, where people come to learn the magic of mind and soul soothing. The convenient location of this hill station on Mumbai-Agra highway makes it easily accessible for people from North India too. Igatpuri is a major railway station with all trains halting for about 20 minutes. There are also many prominent schools and colleges here. The highest peaks in Sahyaadri range envelope Igatpuri, allowing trekking and hiking facilities. Many Bollywood film shootings happen here amidst the scenic vistas. During festivities like Ramnavami (March), Deepavali (October), and Holi (February/ March), Igatpuri is decorated beautifully.
Food in Igatpuri is mainly influenced by South Indian and Marathi cuisine. Prominent eateries in Igatpuri serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Street food is really popular here. You must try vadapav, pav-bhaji, sandwich, samosa, mung bhaaji and different kinds of chaats. Igatpuri also has some delicious sweets selling shops.
You can easily get all the basic necessities in retail shops. For souvenirs, consider various handicrafts, silver articles, traditional copperware, and brass items which are very popular here. You can also try to get some of the chivda grapes and wine varieties sold in this tourist town.
Sightseeing in Igatpuri may take a couple of days, after that you can also visit some nearby places from the town.
- Nashik: This city of Maharashtra has a special mythological, social, historical, and cultural significance. Godavari River flows across the city and there are plenty of temples and ghats along the banks. Kumbh Mela is an internationally recognised religious gathering of Nashik. Nashik is also home to important forts, industrial units and wineries.
- Kasara: Approximately 9 km. from Igatpuri, this town features the Kasara Ghat, popular for hiking and trekking expeditions.
- Bhandardara: A peaceful and picturesque hill station near Igatpuri, Bhandardara has several attractions including Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, Mount Kalsubai, cascading waterfalls like Randha falls and umbrella falls.