Amboli: India’s Hidden Hill Station in the Western Ghats
People say India is chaotic but let me show you its calmest corners. Far from the chaos of India's big cities lies a whispering Hill Station, where clouds kiss the hills. Welcome to Amboli, one of the hidden jewels of the Western Ghats, waiting to get noticed by the world...
Amboli is a lesser-known, picturesque Hill Station nestled in the Western Ghats. It is in the Southern Konkan region of Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India. Mainly known for its scenic landscapes, magnificent waterfalls, and abundant flora and fauna. Amboli is also referred to as 'Cherrapunji of Maharashtra', because of its heavy annual rainfall that is similar to the climate in Cherrapunji.
The reason I chose to write about Amboli is that it's a place that just quietly exists in all its natural beauty. Untouched, unbothered and unknown to people around the world. While we all chase bustling tourist spots, Amboli stands still in its natural beauty, offering foggy mornings, beautiful green valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls that are more than enough to make you feel special. Its a kind of place where time slows down and silence feels like therapy. I feel the world really needs to see this side of India, tranquil and breathtaking.
How to reach there?
Amboli is situated in South Maharashtra, just 81 Km away from Goa. You can easily reach Amboli from Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa. It is well connected by air, rail and road which makes it easily accessible for tourists.
By Air :
The nearest Airport is Dabolim Airport Goa, which is just 100 km away. You can easily reach Amboli by taking a bus or hiring a private cab.
By Rail :
The closest Railway Station is Sawantwadi Road Railway Station, which is just 38 km away. A few other Railway stations close to Amboli are Kolhapur which is 119 Km away, and Belgaum Railway Station, which is 68 Km away from Amboli Bus Stand. Travellers can take a taxi or a bus to Amboli from these railway stations.
By Road :
You can take a private cab or a bus from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, Belgaum, or Goa. You can also drive your own car to reach Amboli while enjoying the charming roads, tranquil waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes.
If you are coming from Mumbai, Pune or Goa, the best thing is to take a bus to Sawantwadi which is very close to Amboli. Once you reach Sawantwadi, you can either take MSRTC Bus (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation), or take a cab or auto to Amboli. If you're traveling from Goa or Belgaum, you can book a private cab straight to Amboli for a comfortable ride through the hills.
Tourists Attractions
Amboli is known for its waterfalls that occur during the rainy season. Apart from the waterfalls, there are several other viewpoints and tourist attractions that make this place a perfect getaway for anyone looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trails. Here's a list:
Amboli Waterfalls: The name of the waterfalls itself is Amboli Waterfall, and it is one of the best waterfalls in the whole region. It is just 3.3 Km away from Amboli Bus Stand. It's a stunning view where the water flows down gently, and the steps built along the way let you walk right up to the waterfall. It's a must-visit place in Amboli.
Sunset Point: The next is Sunset Point. It's another beautiful viewpoint in Amboli. Located less than a kilometer from Amboli Bus Stand, it’s easy to reach. This Sunset Point is quiet, calm, and full of charm. As the sun goes down, the sky turns orange and pink, painting the whole valley in soft light. The view you get here is worth the wait.
Hiranyakeshi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as Shri Hiranyakeshwar Temple, is 5 Km away from the main Bus stand of Amboli. It is built around the cave where the Hirnyakeshi River originates. Hiranyakeshi Temple is peaceful and surrounded by nature. It's simple design reflects its old charm and spiritual feel. The way to the temple is full of greenery, making it a lovely spot for both prayer and nature lovers.
Kavlesad Point: It's a beautiful point above the waterfall that flows down but, it gives an illusion of a reverse waterfall as the heavy wind flows in the opposite direction of the waterfall, causing some water to spray back in the air. It's a beautiful site you must visit during the monsoon season. It is nearly 10 Km away from the main Bus Stand of Amboli. Do Not miss this when you visit Amboli.
There are several other tourist spots that Amboli offers. You can visit Maruti Mandir, Mahadev Gad, Madhav Gadh Fort, and Nagarta Falls. You can cover all these points if you can extend your trip by one more day. Three days are more than to enough for your Amboli trip, including 1 day dedicated to enjoying the beautiful weather.
Where to eat?
There are plenty of food spots at almost every corner of Amboli. But, if you're specifically looking for Restaurants, I've got some of the best recommendations for you all. You can trust me on this, because I am a Foodie myself!
Narvekar Mess: It is one of the best restaurants in Amboli, offering Authentic Konkani Food. If you are a non-vegetarian who loves seafood, you must visit this restaurant. Fish Fry and Malvani style Fish Curry are the specialties of this place. It's a simple place with a homely vibe. Nothing fancy, but it makes you feel right at home. It is located on the Amboli Ghat Road, in the Amboli village area. It's a roadside gem, right on the Amboli ghat road.
**Make sure to park your car nearby, because there is no dedicated parking space in front of this restaurant. But, don't let this small hurdle stop you from having one of the best experiences in Amboli..
Snappers Amboli Biryani Center: It is located on the Sawantwadi-Belgaum Road. Right opposite Amboli Church, in the Gram Panchayat area of Amboli Village. Oh yes! It's very close to Narvekar Mess. Indian, Chinese, and Seafood is available here.
Hotel Chaitanya, Amboli: This restaurant is renowned for its simple setup, warm, welcoming vibe, and delicious food. It's right on the Sawantwadi-Belgaum Ghat Road, making it easy to find. According to customer reviews, the food here is freshly prepared and loved by everyone. The chicken and mutton dishes are especially popular. It's also a great option for vegetarians, with a variety of delicious veg dishes on the menu.
**Make sure to visit this place when you have little time on hand, as the food is freshly prepared as per the order. You may have to wait for 15-20 minutes. Trust me, it's worth the wait.
Amboli Rich Resto Pure Veg Restaurant: This is a great option for pure vegetarians. It is located at Kamatwade, Amboli, along the Sawantwadi-Belgaum Highway. Don't worry about the parking and the cleanliness here, as they offer ample parking and a clean environment. People who visited this restaurant said it is highly recommended and reasonably priced. In short, it's a haven for Vegetarians.
Best time to visit?
If you're looking for foggy mornings, mountains covered in greenery, and awe-inspiring waterfalls, then the best time for you to visit Amboli is from June to September.
If you're looking for slow mornings and a calm escape, then the best time for you to visit Amboli is from October to February, during the winter season. The temperature here in the winter is the best. Cozy enough to enjoy the beauty of Amboli.
However, the peak season is considered to be from June to September. If you're planning your trip during this season, make sure to avoid coming here during the weekends if you want to avoid crowds.
Where to stay?
Dark Forest Retreat: This is one of the best hotels in Amboli if you prefer a hotel that falls under the luxury category. There are 5 types of rooms here. You can choose a room according to your preference. This hotel offers additional amenities, including a swimming pool, meditation area, and children's play area. They also have their restaurant, which offers Konkani cuisine. It is located in Chaukul village, about 4 km from Amboli.
Mrugaya Nature Retreat Resort: This is a perfect option for a stay if you love nature and prefer staying close to nature rather than staying in a luxurious villa. For bird lovers, this is a paradise because this place has a dedicated area specially for bird watching. There is also one in-house restaurant that offers homemade Malvani food. It is located opp. H.P. Petrol Pump, Nangarwak, Amboli, Maharashtra 416510. You can book a room on their website as well as on MakeMyTrip.
Whistling Woods Amboli: If you prefer a luxury stay while being very close to nature, this is the place you should go for. The owner of this property is a butterfly lover, which is why the rooms and the villas here are named after butterflies. You'll also be surprised to see the interior inspired by butterfly type here. It is located in Chaukul Road, Sawantwadi, Amboli, Parpoli, Maharashtra 416550.
There are several other staycation options in Amboli. Here are some: Green Grass Resort, Hotel Durvankur, Stone-Wood Hotel Amboli, Shilpgram Heritage Resort.
Special Note for my Readers.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. Through this blog, my mission is to bring the side of India that the movies and the headlines often fail to show. Places like Amboli are proof that India has a lot to offer. If you've ever been to India or if you're planning to visit India one day, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. If this blog touched you in any way, please do share it with someone who loves travelling.
If you're thinking of exploring Amboli, but aren't sure where to begin, then you don't need to worry. I offer a 2-day itinerary and a phone assistance service to guide you through your trip. Fill the contact form for further assistance, and I'll get back to you in the next 24 hours.
