Nestled at an altitude of 2,000 feet in the Sahyadri Mountain ranges of Nasik, Maharashtra lies the quaint little hill station of Igatpuri. Igatpuri serves as a great weekend spot for people coming from Mumbai, Nasik or Pune.

Surrounded by green dense forest, hills that kiss the clouds and deep valleys, Igatpuri is the perfect weekend retreat option with numerous sightseeing activities.

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About Igatpuri

Igatpuri is a small hill town located in the western ghats in the Nasik district of Maharashtra that is known for its pleasant climate and scenic surroundings. One can consider to drive through the place and enjoy the scenic route or opt for a one night stay at the beautiful resorts nestled in the lap of nature. Its a heaven for trekkers and hikers especially during the monsoon season. Being a hill station, there are many scenic views making Igatpuri a photographers paradise.

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How to reach Igatpuri

If one is coming from Mumbai then one needs to take the Mumbai – Agra NH3 highway. Mumbai is located at 130 kms from Igatpuri.

If one is coming from Nasik then its located at 45 kms from the city centre.

If one is coming from Pune then its located at 245 kms from the city centre.

Though Igatpuri railway station connects it with the major cities. The fastest way to reach Igatpuri is by road by either opting for a inter city cab, driving your own car or taking a bus.

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Igatpuri Resorts

Providing a glimpse of the scenic mountains and lush terrain are many resorts spread across Igatpuri. Not only do these Igatpuri resorts offer breathtaking views but also provide modern amenities and some delicious food.

One such resort that provided me the comfort of a home away from home was “Wabi Sabi Resort ”  in Igatpuri.

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Meaning of Wabi Sabi

Wabi Sabi in Japanese means “Finding Perfection in an Imperfect place”. It’s concept is driven by the Buddhist teaching of 3 marks of existence namely ” Impermanence”, “Suffering” and “emptiness”. In books, the meaning of Wabi Sabi is simply defined as “Flawed Beauty”

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Wabi Sabi Igatpuri

The Gaikwad family visualized the dream of a resort that offered modern amenities but at the same time offered much needed peace and seclusion to relax in midst of nature. They could see their dreams turn into reality when finally in 2016 they found the perfect spot to built their resort. The mountain though barren didn’t deter them as the view from the top of the mountain was picture perfect!

Thus in 2017 began the work of developing the 22 acre property. The first thought was to add some flora to the barren land to make it alive. By 2019, the place was unrecognizable as the resort had over 35,000 different species of trees and plants. Kesar Mango trees, Chickoo, Apple bore, Starfruit, Bamboo, Bottle Palm, Plumeria Obtusa, Silver Oak, Teak wood etc were just some of the trees planted in the resort.

This done, they slowly moved to build the beautiful structure. The idea was not to overload with huge stock of rooms but to provide some space for relaxation and comfort.

By turning an imperfect barren mountain into an Idyllic location into the laps of nature, the resort got its name “Wabi Sabi Resort”.

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First Impressions

Wabi Sabi Resort Igatpuri is a hidden gem in the lap of nature. The road from the main gate to the resort takes one through the kesar mango and other plantations. The whole resort emanates wellbeing and harmony. Beautiful scenery surrounding the resort, there’s dense fog and scenic views of the hills. One can also view the lake from the resort.

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Wabi Sabi Igatpuri Rooms

The property has a total of 8 rooms in all built in modern style. The rooms are divided into the following categories.

Premium Suite : The most basic room that comes with a private sit out for 2

Superior Suite : A Mid range room that comes with a private sit out for 2 plus a swing.

Villa : The most premium room that comes with 4 bedrooms

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Our Room at Wabi Sabi

Based on the availability of rooms, we got the Premium Suite. To our surprise, upon entering the suite there was a living room with a smart TV. The room boasts of a 15 foot ceiling magnifying how spacious the suite was. The bathroom was huge with all the basic amenities provided for. The bedroom was tastefully decorated in European style with a plush bed and some modern paintings adorning the walls.

The main highlight of the bedroom was the full length window overlooking the balcony.

There was a huge balcony with a private sit out overlooking the lush greenery and the lake. A perfect place to unwind with a book or a cup of coffee in the misty mornings watching the sunrise.

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Wabi Sabi Restaurant

Being located in a remote area, I had very few expectations on the variety of food that would be offered at Wabi Sabi Restaurant.

However little did I know that they take their job seriously to provide best experience to their customers. We were amazed to see a variety of choices being offered right from local bhajiya’s to some delicious fish to even Chinese food.

Pro Tip: We had ordered staple Dal tadka and Zeera rice and I was amazed with how delicious it turned out.

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Things to do In Wabi Sabi

Right from indoor games to outdoor activities, there is so much to do in Wabi Sabi Igatpuri.

Sunrise Point

Soak in sun on early mornings watching the beautiful mango tree plantation below. The view of the mountains from here is breathtaking.

Jogging Track

All the fitness lovers will appreciate the fact that there is a structured jogging trek built within the resort keeping them in mind. Hit the track early in the morning and take in the beautiful flora enveloping the track.

Cycling

Ask for a cycle at no extra expense to you and take it for a round around the jogging track.

Kids Play Area

If one wants to come down with their family then there is a specific kids play area consisting of slides and swings for your little ones.

Indoor Games Area

There is an area dedicated to keep one occupied during their time in the resort. Table tennis, billiards, fuse ball table and carrom board are some of the games that one can engage in with family or friends.

Tandem Swing

Sit with your partner or your kids and enjoy the tandem swing overlooking the infinity pool.

Infinity Pool

How about going for a dip in the Infinity pool overlooking the mountains and offering a scenic view.

Sit out Deck

If all you want to do is relax and unwind then what better way than to park oneself on the sunbeds overlooking the greenery.

Seating area for Groups

The owners have thoughtfully taken into consideration seating arrangements for people coming in a group. There is a seating area that can easily accommodate a group of over 10 people surrounded by fragrant Rajanigandha (Tuberose) plants.

Bonfire

How about spending a cozy evening in winters roasting potato’s in a bonfire.

Star Gazing

Being secluded from the main city, the air is clean and the skies are clear. How about lying down in the grass and gazing at the stars.

Banana Plantation

Show your kids the beauty of nature by showing them how a banana tree looks like. You can also opt for the farm visit.

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Pros of Wabi Sabi Resort

• Being perched on a small hillock in a secluded place in Igatpuri, the place offers the perfect weekend getaway from the choas of Mumbai, Pune and Nasik
• The place is a natures paradise with over 35,000 variety of trees and plants. Say hello to the peacocks that come pay a visit in the Mango plantation.
• The place is built in a modern chic style offering one the best of nature and first class amenities
• Pleasant , courteous and friendly staff that cater to every small request during your stay

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Cons of Wabi Sabi

• Reaching the place can be a task as the road leading to the resort is uneven and rugged.
• There are a lot of flies especially during monsoon which can cause a bit of irritation.

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Things to do in Igatpuri

Right from gushing waterfalls to meditation centers to adventure activities, Igatpuri has so much to offer.

Vipassana International Academy

Located on the Mumbai – Agra highway, Vipassana International Academy is located 45 kms from Nasik and around 130 kms from Mumbai. Founded by Mr. S.N. Goenka in 1976, the academy teaches the old age practice of Meditation i.e. Vipassana. Also known as Dhammagiri i.e. the Hills of Dhamma, this place is the largest meditation center in the world. The academy is well known for its 10 day meditation course and has people coming in from all parts of the world

The academy is open throughout the week.

Viatarna Dam

The Vaitarna dam or Upper Vaitarna dam built in the 1950’s is a major tourist attraction. Offering stunning views of the Vaitarna river and the western ghats, this place is not to be missed.

The dam is open on all days between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tringalwadi Fort

If you are a history buff then you will love this architectural marvel located amidst the Sahayadri range. Though in ruins, the fort is famous amongst trekkers and hikers. The fort offers beautiful view of the Kalsubai mountain range. One has to walk to the Tringalwadi lake to reach the fort. The fort encompasses a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Another attraction point is the Pandav Leni caves located at the foot of the fort.

The dam is open on all days between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Vihigaon Waterfall

The cascading waterfall looks majestic and is a sight to behold during monsoons. Parking is available at nominal fee and there is an entry fee to visit the waterfall.

Pro Tip: There are steps to reach the waterfall which can be slippery during monsoon season.

Kalsubai Peak

Located at a height of 5,400 feet and falling under Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary, this is one of the highest peaks in Maharashtra. Popularly known as the “Everest of Maharashtra” The kalsubai trekking trail is a big hit among trekkers and nature enthusiast alike. The trek is moderately difficult passing through lush paddy fields and rocky terrains.

Soak in the panoramic views from the hills and the nearby forts.

Pro Tip : Hold on tight to the ropes as the road gets slippery during monsoon.

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Contact of Wabi Sabi Igatpuri

Address : Gat – 853, Murambi Gaon, Wadiware Right Turn from Wadiware-avarii Road, Wadiware, Tal – Igatpuri, Dist, Nashik, Maharashtra 422403

Contact Number: 089089 16363

Website : https://www.wabi-sabiresort.com/

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Conclusion

So next time you are looking for a weekend getaway in Igatpuri, check Wabi Sabi out for a relaxing holiday.

Disclaimer: I would like to thank Wabi Sabi Resort Igatpuri for generously sponsoring a portion of my stay in exchange for this honest review. As always, you are getting my sincere and candid opinions.