Igatpuri – Overview
Igatpuri is a cool climate destination, hill station, and railway junction located in Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is situated on the Mumbai–Agra National Highway and is famous for its misty environment, scenic waterfalls (especially during monsoon), Vipassana meditation center (Dhamma Giri), Tringalwadi Fort, and other tourist attractions. It is also an important railway junction on the Central Railway route.
Location:
- State: Maharashtra
- District: Nashik
- Region: Western Ghats (Sahyadri)
- Characteristics: Cool climate, hill station, scenic nature spots, railway junction
Tourism & Attractions:
- Dhamma Giri (Vipassana Meditation Centre) – one of the world’s largest meditation centers
- Tringalwadi Fort – popular for trekking
- Waterfalls – especially beautiful during monsoon
- Adventure Tourism – trekking and nature trails
- Film Shooting – popular location for Bollywood due to scenic beauty
Historical Background:
The name “Igatpuri” is derived from “Igat” (hard/steep) and “puri” (place). Earlier, it served as a resting place for British officers.
1) Geographical Location & Area
Igatpuri taluka is situated in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, located in the Sahyadri mountain ranges. It is known as a major railway junction on the Mumbai–Agra National Highway (NH-160) and the Central Railway line. The region is surrounded by hills, valleys, and forests. The highest peak of Maharashtra, Kalsubai (1,646 m), is also located in this taluka.
- Latitude & Longitude: Approximately 19°30′ N, 73°33′ E
- Area: Approximately 750 sq. km (may vary according to official records)
- Boundaries:
- North: Trimbakeshwar & Nashik Taluka
- East: Sinnar Taluka
- South: Akole Taluka (Ahmednagar district)
- West: Thane district
2) Population (Census 2011)
- Total Population: 3,02,548
- Male: 1,55,016
- Female: 1,47,532
- Sex Ratio: Approximately 952 females per 1000 males
- Literacy Rate: Approximately 74%
- Rural Population: Majority lives in villages; agriculture is the main occupation
- Urban Population: Igatpuri town is the major urban center
3) Climate
Igatpuri has a tropical monsoon climate influenced by the Sahyadri mountain ranges. It is known for heavy rainfall and cool weather.
- Summer (March – May): Temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C
- Monsoon (June – September): Heavy rainfall; annual rainfall around 2,500 to 3,000 mm
- Winter (November – February): Cold weather; temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C
Special Feature: Pleasant climate and lush green nature make Igatpuri a popular hill station, especially for people from Mumbai and Nashik.
4) Political Information
- Igatpuri Taluka is part of Nashik district.
- Igatpuri (ST Reserved) is the Vidhan Sabha constituency.
- It falls under the Nashik Lok Sabha constituency.
- Local Administration:
- Gram Panchayats in rural areas
- Municipal Council in urban area
- Administration & Supervision:
- Group Development Officer (BDO)
- Zilla Parishad, Nashik
