Dodhani Waterfall Trek is a pristine and relatively unexplored destination for the trekkers gang nestled right in the lap of the Western Ghats. Located near Panvel, takes just a short drive from Mumbai, to this hidden gem which offers an exhilarating blend of nature, adventure, and serenity. The trek to Dodhani Waterfall is a perfect match for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Sahyadri mountains.

Where is Dodhani Waterfall?

At the heart of Dodhani Village, near Panvel in Maharashtra situates the Dodhani Waterfall. The village serves as the starting point for the trek and is well-connected by road.

How to Navigate to Dodhani Waterfall?

The journey to Dodhani begins with a scenic drive from Mumbai to Panvel, which takes about an hour and a half. You may take a local bus or hire a car from Panvel to Dodhani Village. The distance of Dodhani Waterfall from Panvel is approximately 15 kilometers.

For those coming from Akola, the Dodhani Waterfall distance from Akola is around 600 kilometers, making it a longer journey but definitely worth the effort for the nature enthusiasts.

A rookie’s guide to Dodhani Waterfall Trek

The settlement of Dhodani, also known as Dodhani (धोदाणी), is situated at the foot of the Matheran mountain range. This town is located at Matheran Mountain’s westernmost point. At the foot of Matheran Mountain, this town has the nicest location by far. Local bus service to Dhodani is also excellent, with departures from Panvel station. This community is not that large. On the other hand, there are several rivers all around this area, which combine to form the Gadeshwar dam. Another beautiful location close to Dhodani. The Dhodani or Dodhani Waterfalls is the primary waterfall in this area and the most popular one. But Sukha Waterfalls is the name given to the lowest portion of the falls. Due to its proximity, ease of access, and beauty, this area attracts a lot of tourists and hikers throughout the monsoon season.  dodhani waterfall trek

The trek to Dodhani Waterfall is relatively easy, making it suitable for beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. The Dodhani Waterfall trek distance is about 3 kilometers from the base village. The trail is well-marked and meanders through lush greenery, small streams, and rocky patches. The initial part of the trek is a gentle ascent, giving you a chance to soak in the natural beauty and breathe in the fresh mountain air. dodhani waterfall trek

The trek offers an immersive experience as you navigate through the dense foliage, with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves accompanying you. The cool breeze and the serene environment set the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating trek. dodhani waterfall trek

dodhani waterfall trek

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En Route Delights

As you go towards the waterfall, chirping birds and rustling leaves will welcome you. The trail gives you a chance to look at beautiful views of hills and valleys around it with several points where one can take pictures from. You might see different types of plants and animals in this area like bright colored butterflies, strange birds or even monkeys.

The trekking path contains vibrant wildflowers and dense greenery that make the scene lovely. During monsoon, the Western Ghats become spectacular as they get covered by a green carpet. Additionally, there are small streams as well as water crossings along the trail which contribute to an exciting trip for trekkers. dodhani waterfall trek

Reaching the Waterfall

After a fairly continuous hike for about One and half hours, the sound of falling water cannot be missed. The last part of the trail is a slightly inclined climb but this is not very much of an issue once the sights are to be seen. While getting near to Dodhani Waterfall, the look of water flowing down almost 100 feet and falling directly into a transparent water body will certainly mesmerise you. This nourishing cool water mist coming from the waterfall acts as a break from the hike. Dodhani Waterfalls are located in a forested area and accompanied with strong cliffs and that makes a spectacular view. This is naturally so especially the waterfall during the monsoon period, due to the high volume of water and strong force giving a magnificent view. The basin located at the bottom of the waterfalls is safe for swimming; I suggest that one can take a dip in the water after the hike. dodhani waterfall trek

Enjoying the Falls

This waterfall is a perfect place for tourist and local people to go to free their minds and souls. The ladies can have a swim in the pool formed by the waterfall and men can rest on the rocks which are nearby the pool and naturally made seats for the picnicking. Remember not to take any food, especially drinking water with you because they don’t have any around the waterfall. Take time to go to the falls for photo shots, go for a swim and just relax and enjoy the serene natural environment. The area which contains the waterfall is the perfect one for having a pick nick there is flat and many rocks and trees provide shades. It is usually loud and the sound, the cool wind and the trees around make it to be very relaxing and calming to sit around and enjoy. dodhani waterfall trek

Nearby Attractions

If you have more time and energy, you can go to the Nanemachi Waterfall; this also is another wonderful place in the Western Ghats. The other one gives an entirely new trekking experience, although it is equally amazing as the first one. The Nanemachi Waterfalls, however, are slightly off Dodhani and are also somewhat recommended for tourist visits. The hike to Nanemachi is slightly steep but it is compensated by the wonderful vantage points and exploration of more of the Western Ghats. dodhani waterfall trek

Dodhani Waterfall Trek Tidbits

•  Trek Distance: Dodhani Waterfall is approximately 3 kms from Dodhani Village.
•  Trek Difficulty Level: Dodhani Waterfall Trek is easy to moderate. Beginners won’t have a problem.
•  Trek Map: A map can be helpful, but the Dodhani Waterfall trek trail is well-marked and can be navigated with basic directions.
•  Trek Price: There is no cost to borne for the trek. However, if you hire a guide, there may be a nominal fee.
•  Itinerary: Start early from Mumbai to avoid the afternoon heat, reach Dodhani Village by 8-9 am, and begin the trek. Spend a couple of hours at the waterfall and return by afternoon.

Tips for Trekkers

• Best Time to Visit: The best season to trek to Dodhani Waterfall is during the rainy season from June to September because the waterfall becomes almost full during this season. But the trail is often slippery and therefore requires the right trekking shoes to be worn by the client.
• What to Pack: It is also advisable to carry a bag with you especially bottled water, snacks if any, a first aid box and an umbrella if you are trekking in the rainy seasons. A firm trekking shoes is advisable; avoid wearing slipper shoes when going for trekking.
• Safety First: If you are planning to go on a trek, always go in groups or you can hire a guide. The coverage of the mobile networks is very poor; therefore, let someone know about your planned treks.
• Respect Nature: The last thing you can do is take all your trash and do not leave it there to disturb the natural environment. Dodhani Waterfalls are an unspoiled site and it is our duty to maintain it the same way is what Yednal and Aishwarya have depicted it in the film.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Make sure that you have taken sufficient water for the trek, you will need it to quench your thirst. Carry along some form of small snacks such as energy bars, fruits, and nuts to help you when it comes to the energy.
• Weather Check: The best thing that you would want to do is to check on the weather prediction before you go hike a trail. Wester Ghat can obtain terrible changes in weather at the time of monsoon season. dodhani waterfall trek

dodhani waterfall trek

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Dodhani Waterfall Trek Itinerary

Day 1:

• 6:00 AM: Beginning at Mumbai, the next destination should be Panvel.
• 7:30 AM: Reach panvel and have breakfast.
• 8:00 AM: Starting from Panvel, go to Dodhani village.
• 8:30 AM: Reach Dodhani village and start the trek.
• 10:00 AM: Go to Dodhani Waterfall and have the darshan of scenic beauty.
• 12:00 PM: Swim and take a nap at the waterfall area.
• 2:00 PM: As it is, begin the back track to Dodhani Village.
• 3:30 PM: Start from Dodhani Village to Panvel.
• 4:00 PM: Get to Panvel and turn back to Mumbai.

Optional Day 2: 

• 6:00 AM: Begin the trek to Nanemachi waterfall.
• 8:30 AM: Get to Nanemachi Waterfull and see the beauty of it.
• 12:00 PM: Take some food and spend the time eating besides, or swimming in the waterfall.
• 2:00 PM: Begin the reverse journey.
• 4:30 PM: Start out from the base village up to Pan wel for Heart Shape Trek.

Conclusion

This Dodhani Waterfall trek is an ideal mixture of trekking experience and nature that gives the much-needed break to the regular hustle-bustle of the city life. In whichever way you view it, be it the trekker and more so the experienced one Dodhani guarantees you the experience of a lifetime. Hence, put on your trekking shoes, get your bag packed and it’s time to take the leap to this relatively unknown destination near Mumbai. Happy trekking! dodhani waterfall trek