Kandat Ecotourism Zone

Aarav, Taluka Mahabaleshwar, District Satara | Zone 1

Overview

The Kandat Ecotourism Zone is located in Kandat Valley in the northwestern part of the Koyna Reservoir landscape in Satara district, with an ecotourism centre at Aarav village. The valley includes 16 villages and is characterised by evergreen and semi-evergreen forests that offer opportunities for trekking, nature walks and other nature-based activities. Popular trekking routes include Mahimandangad, Parvat and Chakdev, while the sacred groves of Aarav, Valvan and Akalpe support rich biodiversity. The Forest Department, in association with Eco-Development Committees (EDCs), proposes to promote ecotourism in the zone; at present, tourism activities are promoted without entry fees or tourism charges.

Tourism Destinations and Existing Tourism Facilities

Tourism DestinationsExisting Tourism Facilities
Jungle Trekking: Parvat; Chakdev; Mahimandangad; Nivli-UtteshwarNature trek at Parvat
Nature Trails: Shindi–Mhalungewadi; Valvan–Ghatmatha
Forts: Mahimandangad
Temples: Chowkeshwar Temple–Chakdev; Jom Mallikarjun–Parvat
Devrai (Sacred Groves): Aarav; Valvan; Akalpe
Other Attractions: Chandrarav More Wada–Kandat

Proposed Tourism Facilities and Activities

  • Jungle safari
  • Information Centre
  • Tent accommodation, youth hostel and canteen
  • Nature Education Centre
  • 3D map and wildlife statues
  • Information boards
  • Cycle trail
  • Souvenir shop
  • Nature library
  • Safari vehicles
  • Homestay facilities
  • Waiting room for tourists
  • Seating arrangements
  • Nectar Festival
  • Bird count
  • Forest bathing
  • Community nature conservation
  • Bird and butterfly watching
  • Water tourism
  • Nisarganubhav programme
  • Photographers’ competition
  • Nature education camp
  • Adventure tourism
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