Ever since we heard about Nighoj, we had keen interest to see this wonder in Asia. Best part is, this moon-land is very close to Pune but not many people knows about this amazing place. This is famous for potholes in riverbed, one of its kind in Asia. We found out few more interesting places to see around Nighoj. It was summer weekend and we took 
up Pune-Nagar highway. This time we decided to go by Alto.Our day began with sacred darshan of Mahaganapati of Ranjangaon. Ranjangaon Ganesh is one of the eight holy Ganapatis i.e. Asthavinayak. Ranjangaon temple is in Shirur district and on main highway at 52 Kms from Pune. There is beautiful garden developed outside the temple. We had a quick tea break here and then proceeded towards Nighoj. As road is widened now, the journey is more pleasant.
Fianlly at 11am we reached Nighoj.The entire bank of Kukdi River is turned into moon land of huge pot holes. The phenomenon behind its formation goes back to more than thousands of years. The river flow wears out the vesicular basalt’s upper layer and compact basalt layer of the rock. Then small hard pebbles vigorously swirl in these wear out areas due to flow of the water to create circular pot holes. There is huge gorge or canyon created in the river due to the whirl effect of stones for the ages. These are believed to be the largest natural pot holes in Asia. It is very amazing and interesting place. You just have to see this miracle with your eyes to believe it. There is small temple of “Malganga” on the bank on this river.
Best time to visit: Summer (March-April). May month will be extremely hot. Summer is best time to visit this place. As water level goes down, pot holes are easily visible. In monsoon, you merely can view gigantism of pot holes. It is said to be approx. 100 feet deep and 3 kms long. Besides, it can be very dangerous to experience their gigantism otherwise.
We took as many snaps as we could and also some live clippings of whirl effects for our folks. We started back and it was already time for food. We found a shady place and unwind mattresses. We enjoyed home made food and relaxed for some time. We had way to go……
Approx Distance from Pune 85kms
Take Pune – Nagar Highway and drive upto “Ghodnadi” river bridge.
Take immediate left turn after crossing the bridge. This is “Nighoj Phata”.
Drive approx. 25 Kms to reach Nighoj village.
From village travel 3 Kms more to reach “Kukadi” river where you can see pot holes.
On the way one can also visit a famous place for Pickocks, called as 'Morachi Chincholi'.
Posts
