Other Tourist Places in Chandoli

Chandoli is home to several ancient sacred groves, among which Ambaiwada Sacred Grove is particularly remarkable for its rich natural heritage. According to some researchers, the trees found here may be more than 500 years old.

The sacred grove covers approximately 30 acres and preserves a stretch of ancient forest. The trees reach heights of around 80–100 feet, and visitors can observe numerous ancient climbing vines growing throughout the forest.

The grove offers excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers to study Indian giant squirrels (Shekru), owls, hornbills, several rare bird species, snakes and other forms of wildlife. Its biodiversity changes with each season.

A guided visit takes approximately two hours. Road access to the grove became available around 2021–2022. Ambaiwada Sacred Grove is a remarkable example of community-led forest conservation — the local people of Ambaiwada have protected this sacred forest for hundreds of years. As the grove lies adjacent to the core zone of the tiger reserve, it provides valuable opportunities to observe the region’s rich biodiversity.

Chandoli Dam, also known as Warana Dam or Vasant Sagar Reservoir, is an important water resource and engineering landmark in the Chandoli region. The dam was completed between 1976 and 1986. It has a reported storage capacity of approximately 34.40 TMC and is associated with a 16 MW hydroelectric power generation project.

Visiting Chandoli Dam: passes are generally issued from the Water Resources Department office in the Mandur Colony area. Visitors must register personal and vehicle details. Vehicles are not permitted beyond the designated point, so visitors must walk to the dam. Allow approximately two hours for the complete visit. Mobile phones are prohibited within the restricted dam premises. Visitor access is generally permitted from October to June.

If permission to enter the dam premises cannot be obtained, the Dam Viewpoint on the Jadhavwadi Road offers an alternative location to enjoy views of Chandoli Dam.

Hidden deep within the lush forests of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, Udgiri Waterfall is a spectacular natural attraction for adventure seekers, nature lovers and monsoon explorers.

The trail to Udgiri Waterfall begins near Bauddhwadi, close to Udgiri village. Access requires special permission and an accompanying authorised guide, subject to the applicable Forest Department regulations. Visitors pass through beautiful forest scenery, encounter mist drifting across the hills, and cross two or three small streams along the route.

Exploring Udgiri Waterfall along with a jungle safari can take more than five hours in total, depending on the route, weather, walking pace and time spent observing nature. For those who prefer a shorter outing, the waterfall visit and jungle safari can be planned as two separate activities, subject to permissions and operational arrangements.

Nestled amidst the dense evergreen forests of Chandoli, Udgiri Temple is a place of deep spiritual significance, surrounded by the magnificent wilderness of the Sahyadri mountain ranges. This sacred destination brings together faith, cultural traditions, biodiversity and the mystery of the forest.

The temple complex is associated with several revered deities, including Kalamma Devi, Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Ninai Devi, Vitthalai and Jakai Devi. For many devotees, these deities hold a special place in their religious and family traditions, and the temple is considered a Kuldaivat (ancestral family deity).

According to local traditions, the temple has existed here for thousands of years. Historically, access involved travelling along rough forest roads; in 2026, an improved road connection made access easier than before.

The forests surrounding Udgiri Temple form part of the biodiverse landscape of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. Animals that may be encountered in the wider forest landscape include the Bengal tiger, dhole (Indian wild dog), sloth bear, Indian gaur and sambar deer, along with other native wildlife.

The Gude Pachgani Nature Trail is a scenic experience that can be completed in approximately two hours during the monsoon season. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of this region in the morning or evening.

Some of the major attractions include the picturesque Meni Valley, Shirsatwadi Plateau and several scenic viewpoints ideal for photography. The region is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Sangli District” or “Munnar of Sangli District” because of its beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, lush green plateaus, clouds and mist.

Tourists can explore this region using their own vehicles or by booking an open Gypsy safari. Travelling by Gypsy makes the experience even more memorable, allowing visitors to enjoy the monsoon rain, drifting clouds, cool breeze and misty mountain scenery.