Khandala beckons

If planning to get there from mumbai, its better to take Sinhagad express early morning around 5ish which takes you through khandala. A small walk towards the Khopoli water electricity centre gives way to a rocky patch in to the hill, follow it to reach the Duke's nose commonly known as "Nagphani" in the local tongue.

There are two patches to the top, one involves steep rock climbs which just grazes the projection. This patch offers an overwhelming view of the terrain and rains accompanied by gusty winds make the climb interesting with droplets constantly bombarding your face. The other patch is more of a walk and can help you reach the top with lot more comfort, nonetheless its a huge compromise for adventure lovers and could be rather used during the descent. Reach the top to find a shiv mandir and if you are lucky enough some prasad could be awaiting you.

Bushy dam was a huge disappointment, highly commercialized and crowded it wasn't a spot I would prefer giving another visit.