After being closed for over a month, the picturesque Andharban Trek and Kundalika Valley, the most sought-after monsoon destinations near Pune, are set to reopen for tourists starting Saturday, August 9. However, the entry will now be regulated, and only those who have pre-booked the tickets online will be allowed.
Andharban Trek and Kundalika Valley are located in the heart of the Sudhagad Wildlife Sanctuary, and they attract thousands of tourists during the monsoons. This year, due to the overwhelming rush during June and July, it became difficult for forest officials to manage the crowds, and therefore it was closed.
Now, as the spots are reopened, the Forest Department has implemented an online booking system to ensure crowd control and responsible tourism.
Booking required
Tourists wishing to visit will need to register in advance through the official website booking.andharban.org. Without this prior registration, no entry will be allowed.
The process involves choosing a date, uploading an identity card, making an online payment, and then receiving a QR-coded receipt via email or WhatsApp. This QR code will be scanned at the site to verify the booking.
The forest authorities have also laid down clear guidelines. Visitors must arrive between 6:00 am and 11:30 am, and everyone is expected to exit the forest area by 4:30 pm. Mondays will be a weekly off for both locations.
In an effort to combat plastic pollution, tourists will be charged a refundable deposit of ₹50 per plastic item they carry inside. This amount will be returned once the item is brought back post-trek. Additionally, the presence of a registered tourist guide is now mandatory during the visit.
The Forest Department hopes that these new measures will not only make the trekking experience safer but also help preserve the natural beauty of the region. The Forest Range Officer from Sudhagad Wildlife Sanctuary urged visitors to cooperate and be mindful of their ecological footprint: “This is not just about sightseeing; it’s about respecting the forest and everything it holds,” added the officials.
As the monsoon continues to paint the Sahyadris in lush green, nature lovers are once again welcome to experience the magic of Andharban and Kundalika — this time, with more care and responsibility.
