Fast facts
State Maharashtra
Distance 127 km NE of Mumbai
When to go It takes the rain to bring out the best of Sajan. The best time is between October and February, immediately after monsoon. February to late June, though, is a strict no-no
STD code 02520
Getting there
Road on NH8, turn right at Manor and head towards Vada. On reaching Pali, take a left immediately before the temple on the road that leads to Jawhar. Sajan is 12 km away.
As you leave NH8 behind and drive towards Sajan, there is a feeling of entering a time warp, away from the chaotic city. You&rsquoll pass tiny hamlets and paddy fields. Occasionally, you will have to slow down because the townspeople and their cattle may be crossing the road at their own languid pace. Sajan, tucked in almost on the edge of nowhere with a wild river flowing right through its heart, is quaint and sleepy. It also lays a small claim to being a historic getaway. Vikramgad, just 7 km away, is named after Vikramshah, a descendant of tribal ruler Jayaba Mukne. He ruled Jawhar, of which Sajan and Vikramgad were once a part.
Things to see and do
Walks through the forest on moonlit nights, sitting by the edge of a waterfall and swimming in a river all by yourself are the orders of the day here. Nature enthusiasts should place Sajan high on their list of getaway priorities. Outdoor camps are also organised by the resorts here during the summer months.
Palusa Waterfall
On a perfect day Palusa is clear, strikingly beautiful and safe. It&rsquos a pleasure to sit at the foot of the fall (only on the edge) and splash your feet, allowing the water to give you a good massage.
In the dry season, the waterfall dries up but during the rains, the water can be muddy or the fall too forceful, creating light eddies, which are somewhat risky for amateur swimmers. No injuries have been reported so far, but it would be wise to not wade too far into the water when it is in full force. Palusa is about 12 km from Sajan on the Vikramgad-Jawhar Road and entails a 1-km walk after parking your car.
Moho River
Just two kilometres from Sajan Nature Club, you can trek down to the River Moho and do some river-crossing. A 2-km walk from the Club to Moho-Khurd Dam across the Moho is a mild trek through a light jungle, and is a must-do for bird-watchers. Home to about 25 species of migratory birds, including the drongo, the kingfisher and the crow pheasant, the Moho-Khurd Dam is surrounded by fields and mountains.
More to See
Tiger Caves, located on the Vikramgad-Manor Road, 16 km from Sajan, is an excellent spot for rappelling and rock climbing, apart from being of scenic value. Kohoj Hill Fort and Peshwa Temple, located about 18 km away towards Jawhar, are accessible only to trekkers. The ancient Mahalaxmi Temple, 25 km away towards NH8, is another attraction nearby.
Where to stay and eat
Sajan Nature Club (Cell 09223596505/ 09 Tariff INR 5,000-7,000 with all meals www.naturetrails.in) offers a mix of tree houses, rooms, huts and dorms. Only families, women groups and corporates are accepted. The USP here is the traditional Maharashtrian experience on offer.
Sangeeta and Hemans&rsquos Farm Hide Out (Mumbai Reservations Cell 09820149022 Tariff INR 2,000-3,500, with meals hideout.co.in) offers typical village activities like pottery, nature treks and farming.