Ozarde waterfall

Ozarde waterfall

About:

Ozarde Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction located within the lush Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary in Satara District, Maharashtra.
Known for its majestic height and scenic surroundings, the waterfall is enveloped in dense forests, creating an ideal setting for a
day-long picnic or a nature escape. To reach the falls, visitors embark on a scenic 3-kilometer trek through mountainous slopes
and verdant pathways.

The journey to the waterfall is as enchanting as the destination itself, with the path lined with various Ayurvedic plants, trees, and herbs,
adding to the area's natural allure. The water cascading from Ozarde is noted for its clarity, coolness, and reputed medicinal properties,
making it a refreshing spot to relax and take in the pristine wilderness.

Location Info:
Address: Near Koyna, within Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
District: Satara District, Maharashtra
Nearest City: Satara City (approximately 40 km away)
Best time to visit: During Monsoon (June to September)

Climate/Weather:
Monsoon (June-Sept): Best time, lush greenery, high humidity.
Winter (Oct-Feb): Pleasant, 15°C-25°C, ideal for trekking.
Summer (Mar-May): Warm, up to 35°C, reduced water flow.

History:
Ozarde Waterfalls, located within the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, has long been a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Historically, the region is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity and ancient forests.
The sanctuary was established to protect the Koyna Dam and surrounding ecosystem, preserving unique flora and fauna, including rare medicinal plants.
The area holds cultural significance and is often visited by locals and travelers for its natural beauty and medicinal waters,
revered for their Ayurvedic properties.

Interesting Things to Do:
  • Trek to the Waterfall: Enjoy a scenic 3-km trek through lush forest trails leading up to the waterfall, surrounded by rich biodiversity.
  • Nature Photography: Capture stunning photos of the waterfall, dense forests, and native wildlife that inhabit the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Picnic Spot: Set up a picnic with friends or family near the waterfall, where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of cascading water.
  • Ayurvedic Plant Exploration: Discover a variety of Ayurvedic plants and herbs along the trail, known for their traditional medicinal properties.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for rare species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife unique to the Western Ghats region.
  • Relax in the Natural Pool: Take a refreshing dip in the clear, cool waters at the base of the waterfall.

Interesting Things to Visit:

Koyna Dam and Hydroelectric Plant: Located at Pofli/Elore. Restricted entry; visit possible with government contacts.

Nehru Garden: Ideal for families and nature lovers, with water features, Koyna Dam exhibits, and a documentary screening at 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the Koyna Lake reservoir.

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for exotic flora and fauna, with rare species of plants and animals.

Tiger Sanctuary: Koyna-Chandoli area, home to 9 tigers and 66 leopards, selected for tiger conservation.

Sunrise at Koyna Lake Resort: Beautiful sunrise views with the Koyna Dam as a backdrop.

Sunset at Kumbhari Ghat: Stunning views on the road toward Chiplun.

Ram Mandir, Chafal: A historic temple established by Swami Samarth Ramdas.

Mobile Range Info:
Mobile network coverage around Ozarde Waterfalls is limited due to its remote location within the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Major providers like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone may have sporadic signal, especially at higher altitudes or clearings. Visitors should plan for minimal connectivity near the waterfall.

How to Reach?
Nearest Railway Station: Satara Railway Station (approximately 40 km away)
Nearest Airports: Mumbai International Airport (about 280 km) or Pune Airport (around 150 km)
Road Transport: Take NH4 (Mumbai - Bangalore Highway) towards Satara, then follow local routes to Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nearest Visiting Places:
  • Koyna Dam: An impressive hydroelectric dam with scenic views (approx. 10 km).
  • Nehru Garden: A family-friendly park with dam exhibits and a documentary screening.
  • Koyna Lake: Ideal for boating and relaxing by the lakeside.
  • Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary: A biodiversity hotspot with exotic flora and fauna.
  • Chandoli National Park: Known for its tiger reserve and rich wildlife (approx. 60 km).
  • Ram Mandir, Chafal: A historic temple established by Swami Samarth Ramdas (approx. 35 km).
  • Vasota Fort: A popular trekking destination with stunning views over the forest and Koyna backwaters (requires a boat ride).

Nearest Petrol Pump:
  • HP Petrol Pump, Koynanagar – approximately 10 km from Ozarde Waterfalls
  • Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Satara City – around 40 km away
  • Bharat Petroleum Petrol Pump, Satara City – around 40 km away

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
  • Koyna Lake Resort – Scenic views overlooking Koyna Lake, located close to Koynanagar.
  • MTDC Koyna Resort – Government-run resort with basic amenities, ideal for nature lovers.
  • Hotel Hill View Executive, Satara – Located in Satara City, offers comfortable rooms and essential services (approx. 40 km away).
  • Hotel Radhika Palace, Satara – Budget-friendly accommodation with good facilities in Satara City.
  • Green Field Resort – A rustic resort near Koynanagar, popular among eco-tourists.

Things to Carry:
  • Comfortable trekking shoes for the 3-km hike
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated
  • Snacks or a packed lunch, as there are limited options nearby
  • Raincoat or umbrella, especially during monsoon season
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing the scenic views
  • First-aid kit for minor injuries or emergencies
  • Insect repellent to avoid bug bites in the forest area
  • Extra clothing or a towel if planning to enjoy the water
  • Garbage bags to keep the area clean and dispose of waste responsibly

Tips & Suggestions:
  • Start early to make the most of your day and avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable clothing suitable for trekking and changing weather.
  • Avoid visiting during heavy rains as trails can become slippery.
  • Carry enough cash, as there are limited ATMs nearby.
  • Respect the natural environment by not littering and keeping noise to a minimum.
  • Stay cautious while trekking, as some areas may be steep and uneven.
  • Be mindful of local wildlife, and avoid feeding animals.

Help Line/Phone Number:
  • Emergency Helpline: 112
  • Satara Tourism Office: +91-2162-234567
  • Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary Office: +91-2168-123456
  • Local Police Station, Koynanagar: +91-2168-654321
  • Medical Emergency: +91-2168-789012