Ulhasnagar Travel Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Ulhasnagar, from the best attractions to visit, the best food to try, and the best places to stay in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ulhasnagar

Located in North Konkan, Maharashtra, Ulhasnagar is a small city in Western India that has a unique history, culture, and charm. The city was established in the early 20th century as a refuge for Sindhi refugees who were displaced during India’s partition in 1947. Today, Ulhasnagar is known for its thriving textile industry, delicious food, cultural attractions, and welcoming locals.

List of Places to Visit in Ulhasnagar

If you’re planning on visiting Ulhasnagar, there are plenty of unique and exciting places to explore. Here are some of the top-rated attractions to consider:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

  • Sindhi Camp: This is the original refugee settlement built to house Sindhi refugees who fled from Pakistan during the partition. More than 100,000 Sindhis came to India on foot, and this camp is now a museum that gives visitors a glimpse into the struggles and hardship faced by those who had to flee their homes.
  • Ulhasnagar Shiv Temple: This beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most beautiful and well-known temples in the city.
  • Swami Shanti Prakash Ashram: This peaceful ashram, located on the banks of the Ulhas River, is a great place to relax and unwind. The ashram also offers yoga, meditation, and spiritual retreats.

Natural Attractions of Ulhasnagar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ghansoli Hill: At 120 meters above sea level, this hill offers visitors some stunning views of the cityscape.
  • Hanging Gardens: Located on a hill, these gardens offer a beautiful view of the sunset over Ulhas River.
  • Ambreshwar Shiva Temple: Also known as Ambarnath Temple, it is a beautiful temple made of stone and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has an ancient history, and the site also has a scenic and beautiful waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ulhasnagar

Ulhasnagar has a few great hiking routes that are ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers. Some of the top hiking routes to consider include:

  • Ghansoli Hill Hike: A popular and easy hike that offers visitors beautiful views of Ulhasnagar city and Ulhas river.
  • Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located about 20 km outside Ulhasnagar, this wildlife sanctuary is home to some incredible wildlife and beautiful hiking trails.

Best Things to Do in Ulhasnagar: Activities and Tours

There are some amazing activities and tours available in and around Ulhasnagar. Here are some of the best:

  • Heritage Walk: A guided walking tour of Ulhasnagar which takes visitors through the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Boating on Ulhas River: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Ulhas River and enjoy some stunning views and scenery.
  • Sindhi Food Tasting: Don’t miss the opportunity to taste delicious and authentic Sindhi food, which is famous for its unique blend of spices and flavors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ulhasnagar

If you’re planning on spending a full week in Ulhasnagar, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most out of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Heritage walking tour of Ulhasnagar
2 Visit Ghansoli Hill and Ulhas River Hanging Garden.
3 Visit Ambarnath Temple and the waterfall
4 Yoga and relaxing day at Swami Shanti Prakash Ashram
5 Sindhi Food Tour
6 Ghats of Ulhas River exploration and sunset view
7 Day trip to Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

Food and Drink Scene of Ulhasnagar

Ulhasnagar has an excellent food and drink scene that offers visitors a unique mix of Sindhi, Maharashtrian, and Gujarati cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes in Ulhasnagar:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Pakwan: A crowd-pleasing breakfast dish that consists of chana dal, broad puri, chutney, and chopped onions.
  • Sindhi Biryani: This delicious biryani is made with basmati rice, meat, and vegetables that are cooked together to create a flavorful and aromatic dish.
  • Gujarati Thali: A complete Gujarati meal platter which comprises a selection of dishes like dal, kadhi, vegetable, bread, and dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Sindhi Sweet Lassi: A refreshing and sweetened lassi made with yogurt and sugar, which is especially delicious during the hot summer months.
  • Uptown Soda: This is a unique drink made with a fruity syrup and carbonated water, which provides a sweet and refreshing taste.
  • Kesar Pista Lassi: Made with lassi, saffron, and pistachios, this drink is a perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.

Where to Stay in Ulhasnagar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ulhasnagar offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and need, ranging from luxurious hotels to more affordable guesthouses or hostels. Here are some options:

  • Amigo Hotel: A comfortable and affordable hotel that is located near most of the tourist attractions.
  • Gopika Regency: A four-star hotel with beautiful rooms, luxurious amenities, and great views of the city.
  • Bhavani Lodging and Boarding House: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Ulhasnagar.

What to Buy in Ulhasnagar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ulhasnagar is known for its beautiful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry, which make great souvenirs to take back home. Here are some popular things to buy:

  • Bangles: Ulhasnagar is famous for its beautiful bangles made of glass, plastic or metal. They come in a variety of colors and designs, and they make great accessories for any outfit.
  • Embroidered Clothes: The city’s thriving textile industry produces some beautiful, hand-embroidered clothes, which make great gifts or souvenirs.
  • Jewelry: Ulhasnagar is famous for its gold and silver jewelry, which are crafted in unique designs that reflect the city’s culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Ulhasnagar

Ulhasnagar is home to Sindhi people, who are known for their unique language, culture, and traditions. While visiting Ulhasnagar, it’s worth exploring the local culture and customs. Some important things to keep in mind include:

  • Respectful Dress Code: It is advisable to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or holy places.
  • Hospitality and Warmth: The Sindhi community is known for being warm and welcoming to visitors, so don’t be surprised if you are invited to a Sindhi family’s home for a meal or celebration.
  • Language: Although Hindi and Marathi are the most widely spoken languages, the Sindhi community speaks an Indo-Aryan language called Sindhi, which has its own unique script and sound.

Best Time to Visit Ulhasnagar

The best time to visit Ulhasnagar is during the winter months between November and February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The summers are hot, humid, and uncomfortable, so it’s best to avoid traveling during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ulhasnagar

When visiting Ulhasnagar, there are some essential do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn some basic phrases in the local language
  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and embrace the unique flavors and spices of Sindhi food

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Display public affection or intimacy
  • Engage in inappropriate behavior or activities

Safety and Health

When traveling to Ulhasnagar, it is always important to be mindful of safety and health concerns.

Safety in Ulhasnagar

While Ulhasnagar is generally a safe place to visit, it is important to take precautions like:

  • Avoiding traveling alone at night
  • Keeping your valuables safe and secure
  • Being wary of tourist scams or pickpocketing

Health in Ulhasnagar

When visiting Ulhasnagar, it is important to remain hydrated due to the scorching temperatures. Visitors should also be careful of the quality of street food and water.

Getting to Ulhasnagar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ulhasnagar is well-connected by various public transportation options, making it easy to get there from the major cities nearby. Here are some popular modes of transportation:

Airports Near Ulhasnagar

The nearest airport to Ulhasnagar is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is roughly 45 km away from Ulhasnagar. It is easy to reach Ulhasnagar from Mumbai via taxi or train.

Bus Stations Near Ulhasnagar

Ulhasnagar has its own bus station, which is well-connected to many cities in Maharashtra.

Other Options

Another option is to take a train to Ulhasnagar. Kalyan acts as a major railway hub, making it easy for you to catch a train to Ulhasnagar from other major cities in India.

How to Get Around in Ulhasnagar

The best way to get around in Ulhasnagar is by auto-rickshaw, which is widely available throughout the city. The city is relatively small and easy to navigate, so it is also possible to walk around most of the local attractions.

Where to Go Next from Ulhasnagar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ulhasnagar’s proximity to other popular tourist destinations makes it an excellent base to explore some nearby attractions. Here are some popular destinations of interest:

  • Khangar Hot Springs: Located about 20 km outside the city, the hot springs are perfect for a day trip to enjoy thermal pools, natural landscapes, and a variety of recreational activities.
  • Mumbai: The city is roughly 45 km away from Ulhasnagar and is known for its bustling energy, iconic landmarks, delicious food and drinks, and rich history.
  • Mahabaleshwar: Located about 150 km from Ulhasnagar, it is a popular hill station famous for its scenic views, lush greenery, and cool weather.

Conclusion

Ulhasnagar is a unique and exciting place to visit. It is a charming place with so many cultural attractions, scenic views, and delicious local cuisine. With this comprehensive guide, you now know everything you need to plan a memorable trip to Ulhasnagar that will leave you with unforgettable memories.