Amboli Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more in Amboli. Explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of this picturesque hill station in Maharashtra.


Introduction to Amboli

Nestled in the Southern Konkan region of Maharashtra, Amboli is a small hill station, located at an altitude of 690 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by dense woods and abundant waterfalls. Known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate, it is an ideal getaway for nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers.

Amboli has something to offer for everyone, including archaeological sites, historical places, waterfalls, mountains, and adventurous hiking trails. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, the food scene, where to stay, and much more to make your trip to Amboli memorable.

List of Places to Visit in Amboli

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Amboli has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums and historical sites that showcase the city’s history and traditions. The following are some of the must-visit attractions in Amboli:

  • Mahadevgad Fort: Built in the 18th century, this fort is now in ruins but offers a stunning panoramic view of the Sahyadri mountain range.
  • Hiranyakeshi Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, it is believed to be one of the ancient temples in the region, with remarkable sculptures and rock-cut caves.
  • Amboli Ghat: A popular tourist spot with lush green forests, waterfalls, and streams. It is an ideal destination for trekking, hiking, and picnics.
  • Amboli Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the tribal and cultural history of the region, including artifacts, photographs, costumes, and traditions.

Natural Attractions of Amboli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Amboli is known for its spectacular waterfalls, mountains, and dense forests. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Amboli:

  • Amboli Waterfall: One of the most popular tourist spots, this waterfall is surrounded by hills and dense forests. It is an ideal spot for trekking, hiking, and picnics.
  • Sunset Point: A picturesque place to enjoy the stunning views of the sunset from the top of the hill.
  • Shirgaonkar Point: Another popular viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain range.
  • Kavlesad Point: It is located at a height of 2320 feet and is famous for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amboli

Amboli offers several trekking and hiking routes for adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Valley of Flowers Trek: A moderate trek of 6 km, passing through beautiful fields of wildflowers.
  • Hiranya Keshi Trek: A challenging trail, covering a distance of 8 km, and takes you through beautiful forests and streams.
  • Nagatta Falls Trek: A moderate trek of 5 km through the dense forest that takes you to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Amboli.

Best Things to Do in Amboli: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and trekking, Amboli offers several other activities for tourists. Some of these activities include:

  • Waterfall rappelling: It is an exciting adventure activity, and Amboli is an ideal destination for it, with plenty of waterfalls to choose from.
  • Nature trails: Guided nature trails and forest walks allow you to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Amboli.
  • Fishing: Amboli has many streams and water bodies where you can catch fish, including the famous Masheer fish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amboli

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to help you explore Amboli:

  • Day 1: Visit Hiranyakeshi temple, Amboli Heritage Museum
  • Day 2: Trek to Hiranya Keshi, Nagatta Falls
  • Day 3: Visit Sunset Point, Shirgaonkar Point
  • Day 4: Waterfall rappelling, fishing
  • Day 5: Visit Amboli Waterfall, Explore Amboli Ghat
  • Day 6: Valley of Flowers Trek, Nature Trails
  • Day 7: Explore nearby villages, local culture and customs

Food and Drink Scene of Amboli

Amboli has a variety of unique and delicious local dishes, as well as several restaurants and cafes to satisfy every palette. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vada Pav: A popular Indian street food that is a deep-fried potato patty, sandwiched between two slices of bread.
  • Solkadhi: A refreshing drink made from coconut milk and Kokum, it is a known digestive aid and is satisfying.
  • Pithla Bhakri: It is a savory curry made from besan or gram flour, and flatbread prepared with millets, jowar, or wheat.

Local Beverages

  • Kokum Sharbat: A refreshing drink made from Kokum fruit juice, sugar, and water.
  • Amboli Chai: A local tea made with Assam tea leaves and spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.

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

Amboli offers many options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Amboli:

  • Whistling Woods Resort: With cozy rooms, this resort has a beautiful ambiance, including a spa and restaurant.
  • Hotel Sailee: A budget-friendly option for travelers and is famous for its delicious local cuisine.
  • Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation Resort: Located in a picturesque location, offering an excellent view of the Sahyadri mountain range.

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

Amboli is famous for its handicrafts, artifacts, and other unique items. Here are some of the things you can bring home:

  • Warli Art: A tribal art form that portrays nature and everyday life scene, you can find paintings, wall art, and other items.
  • Handmade crafts: Handmade bamboo, cane baskets, and other items are popular souvenirs for visitors to take home to be used as decoration.
  • Spices: Amboli is known for its various spices, including spices that are beneficial to health, such as turmeric, black pepper, and other Ayurvedic herbs.

Local Culture and Customs of Amboli

Amboli residents are friendly and welcoming. The city has many festivals, including Ganesh Chaturthi, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Dance and music are an essential part of local culture. Men generally wear kurta-pajamas, while women wear sarees.

Best Time to Visit Amboli

The best time to visit Amboli is between June and September, during the monsoon season, when the waterfalls and streams are in full flow, and the lush greenery offers a stunning view.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amboli

Here are some essential Do’s and Don’ts when visiting Amboli:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Carry comfortable footwear for hiking and trekking
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Hire local guides for trekking and hiking.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Disrespect locals and their beliefs
  • Carry or use plastic bags in the forest area

Safety and Health

Safety in Amboli

Amboli is generally a safe place, but it is advisable to take care of your belongings while traveling. Avoid late-night trips, and if you are going on a trek, take a guide with you. Stay cautious around waterfalls, as the rocks can be slippery, and the water currents are often strong.

Health in Amboli

Amboli has a primary health center and a few small clinics. Ensure that you have taken all necessary vaccinations and carry basic medicines with you. Stay hydrated and avoid eating street food from unhygienic places.

Getting to Amboli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Amboli

The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 123 km from Amboli. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Amboli.

Bus Stations Near Amboli

Buses from major cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Goa reach Sawantwadi or Belgaum, which are the nearest bus stops from Amboli.

Other Options

Taxis and private cabs are also available from nearby cities and towns to reach Amboli comfortably.

How to Get Around in Amboli

Hiring a private cab or taking a local bus is the most convenient way to get around in Amboli. Hiking and walking are also great options for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Where to Go Next from Amboli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Vengurla Beach: Approximately an hour’s drive from Amboli, it is a beautiful beach with a peaceful and tranquil environment.
  • Goa: A couple of hours’ drive from Amboli, Goa is famous for its beaches, nightlife, food, and culture.
  • Belgaum: Located approximately 114 km from Amboli, Belgaum is known for its historical monuments and beautiful temples.

Conclusion

Amboli is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers. With its waterfalls, museums, cultural significance, and nearby destinations, Amboli has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Amboli and get ready to be enchanted by its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Amboli Bus Stand Amboli Bus Stand Nangarta falls Nangarta falls Mahadev Gad Mahadev Gad Sunset Point Sunset Point