The Rajdhani of India, Delhi, lovingly articulated as “Dilli”, is a lot more than being a capital city with historical, political and strategic importance; it’s an emotion that rubs off on you! You can take a Delhiite out of “Dilli”, but you can’t take “Dilli” out of a Delhiite! The love and passion for the city is for all the right reasons that you have to experience to understand. Take a tour around the capital city if you haven’t yet by booking cheap domestic flight tickets with Jetstay.com. Jetstay lets you have the best online flight booking experience, anywhere across India.
Let me take you through a virtual tour around Delhi right away!
The Lotus Temple
The mere glance of this magnanimous structure will leave you in awe of its beauty. “Lotus Temple” is a place of worship for people belonging to any religion. The lotus-shaped monument, with 27 petals made up of marble, has an unparalleled sheen to it. It is surrounded by lawns and greenery that instantly calms your nerve. For lovers of silence, sanctity, and meditation, “Lotus Temple” is a haven that you won’t be able to get enough of.
ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple
“International Society for Krishna Consciousness”, popularised by the acronym “ISKCON” is another soul-stirring place for the spiritual lot. It’s located at a walkable distance from the Lotus Temple. The perpetual chant of “Hare Rama, Hare Krishna” is a soother amidst all the chaos that may be running through your mind. A stroll along the stretches of the lawn only makes the experience better.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is the largest and the most renowned mosque in Delhi. It is a heritage that was constructed during the Mughal regime in India, in the 17th century. It has 2 minarets, 3 domes and opens to multiple entrances which lead to the principal hall for worship. The upper floor can accommodate as many as 25,000 people at the same time.
Hauz Khas Complex
Hauz Khas Complex is a community built in the 13th century which is now home to a mosque, several tombs and an ancient water tank. The complex was urbanized in 1980s and is now one of the most happening places in South Delhi with a number of sophisticated boutiques, cafes and restaurants for the youth to chill out with friends and family.
India Gate
India Gate is synonymous with the most popular monumental heritage in India. It was built in the year 1931 as a mark of respect and gratitude to the Indian soldiers and martyrs who fought during World War 1. There’s a flame that lights under the gate, which is never put off, in the honour of the soldiers who’re fighting for the civilians and those who laid down their lives to safeguard the nation. India Gate is said to attract the highest number of tourists in Delhi, given its architectural and historical significance.
Jantar Mantar
For the astronomical enthusiasts, Jantar Mantar is a boon. It consists of 13 astronomical instruments lets you observe the planetary movements and the positioning of the celestial bodies in the galaxy. It was said to be built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the year 1723 AD, with the purpose of compiling astronomical tables and predicting the times and movements of the sun, moon, and planets.
Red Fort
“Red Fort” or “Lal-Qila” is yet another construction by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan during his regime. It was the primary residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty and is now home to a number of museums. Red Fort has been immortalized after the historic speech that was given there by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India. It was created out of single red sandstone which marks the architectural brilliance of its architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri and all the laborers involved with its construction.
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar stands proud and tall to be declared as one of the world heritage sites by UNESCO, and the tallest minaret in India. It’s a 73 meters tall, 5-storeyed structure with a base diameter of 14.3 meters. Qutub Minar depicts Iranian architecture and is made of red sandstone with intricate carvings. It is a wonder in itself to even witness this monument from afar.
National Museum of India
National Museum of India was established in 1949 and is easily one of the largest museums in the country. With a collection of about 200,000 pieces of art, the museum has remnants of the items that date back to Harappan civilization. There are also numerous masterpieces that depict contemporary art and culture. For those that are intrigued by art and history, this place will not let you have enough of it.
Chandni Chowk and Chawri Bazar
All the Delhiites would vouch for Delhi being the paradise for all food-lovers. There’s a different flavor and taste to every nook and corner of the city. The “Paranthe Wali Gully” in Chandni Chowk is the most celebrated place across the country for the mind-boggling varieties of paranthe that are served there. The chaat that gets served here is unparalleled given its taste, presentation and the ingredients that are used to make it. Chandni Chowk is always buzzing with shoppers that can’t get enough of street-shopping with an incredible variety of clothes and accessories that are available at dirt-cheap rates. Chawri Bazar promises a vast collection of metal and paper articles that will make you want to splurge on them mindlessly.
Connaught Place is the most sophisticated corner of Delhi with a range of high-end restaurants, boutiques and movie theatres. Janpath, in Connaught place is popular for its sarees, bags and accessories. Connaught Place is the business and financial hub of Delhi where everyone is seen hustling during the day and chilling at night. This place marks the urbanization and development of Delhi like no other.
Don’t be surprised if you come across other breathtaking sites in the city that I haven’t made a mention of! The weather can’t get better for you to take a quick trip to Delhi. Get amazing discounts and offers while booking your flight tickets and enrich your online booking experience like never before!
Bangalore and Mumbai are the cities where any Indian would like to pass his/her youth in. The cities are major metropolis cities of India. Bangalore being the IT hub of India and Mumbai, the fashion and bollywood capital, the cities are bound to attract Indian youths. Mumbai and Bangalore are approximately 1000 kms from each other by road. Mumbai and Bangalore, both have some of the top institutions of the country for making youth capable.
Bangalore is situated at an elevation of 900 meters, enjoying pleasant climate almost throughout the year while Mumbai enjoys the ocean. Both the metros have a brilliant infrastructure.
Mumbai has this amazing transportation solution called Mumbai local, which is risky with the ever increasing population in Mumbai. Recently, an unlucky stampede took place at one of Mumbai’s stations. You can get amazing fashionable clothes at cheap prices in Mumbai. Mumbai has a National Park in the center of the city. Mumbai has this unique Parsi community. Mumbai celebrates every festival of India. You can get everything you need in various bazaars of Mumbai. Mumbai is the hub for opportunities.
On the other hand Bangalore have pubs everywhere! Bangalore is a paradise for music lovers. Bangalore is the clean and green city, having less of a traffic problem, which is increasing though. Bangalore like Mumbai is safe for women and has a low crime rate. In and around Bangalore, there are wonderful places for vacationers like Mysore, Nandi hills, BR hills, Vellore, Coorg, Ooty, and Tirupati.
If one wants to travel from Bangalore to Mumbai, there are plenty of flights available between the cities. The daily count of Bangalore to Mumbai flight is around 80. With such a great air connectivity, one can travel between the cities at any given time. The major operators that provide their services from Bangalore to Mumbai are Jet Airways, IndiGo and Spicejet.
A Bangalore to Mumbai flights takes around 1 hour 45 minute of time for flying 1000 km. Due to around 80 flights between the cities daily, it is easy to find a cheap flight from Bangalore to Mumbai. Majorly the travelers between Bangalore to Mumbai include corporate professionals. Also, with the type of connectivity in place today in India, there are people who travel between these major cities every month or even every week.
But seriously, both Mumbai and Bangalore are havens for youth of India and the youth studying and working in these two cities is the trendsetter for the rest of the country.
Curved roads can sometimes lead to a destination near paradise, and that my friend is called Spiti. This Tibet valley located in the Himachal is surely heaven! It’s a place where clear water lakes flow and where nature is at its best. The snow covered desert mountain valley is as mesmerizing as Tibet, and thus it is called as Little Tibet. Spiti will make you a permanent lover and you can’t help but to visit the place time and again.
This destination is accessible only during summer. Surrounded by mountains and glaciers, Spiti is place where you can find villages on mountain crests, old monasteries, crystal clear rivers and streams, and monks in their robes that evokes strong comparisons with Tibet and often leaves tourists spellbound!
The word Spiti literally means middle land. Why may you ask? Well, it’s because it is bordered by Tibet in the east, Ladakh to the north, Kinnaur to the south east, and Lahaul and Kullu to the south. This beautiful little destination is situated at an average height of around 12,500ft above sea level. Spiti, along with its twin valley of Lahaul, has retained its pristine charm. So, if you’re planning a trip to this destination make sure you carry a jacket, pullovers, and warmers. This destination is perfect for trekkers! You not only get an awesome climate but also experience an adrenaline rush while trekking your way to this beautiful destination. Why book flights to other awesome international destinations, when you can experience an adventure of a lifetime in Spiti.
Image Source: indiauntravelled.blogspot.in
Getting to this magnificent destination is simple. You can book cheap flights to Delhi and then take a bus to the destination. The alternative entry to this mesmerizing destination is via Shimla. Do checkPlaces to Visit in Shimla During Your Trip So, wait no more, and get your domestic flight tickets to Shimla booked today, because there is no other place in this world you would rather be than Spiti!
Trekking enthusiasts cannot have it better than Maharashtra. This state offers innumerable trekking spots. The trekker who loves variety has to visit this place. Whether it is listening to the thunderous roar of a waterfall. The soft rains in a naturalistic setting. The sound of wildlife on a nature trail. Or simple embracing the diversity of the Western Ghats. There is much to explore here.
Those who come to Maharastra head straight to the Sahyadris. Especially during the rains. Unsurprisingly so. Because trekking in these mountain ranges during the monsoons is a different experience. Many people have vouched for the magical feeling of encountering the mountains and forts along the way. Most trails have an enormous wealth of naturalistic treasures. Lush green mountains. Crisscrossing streams. Seasonal waterfalls. Mountain faces teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Nature in its full bounty by way of blossoming flower meadows of different colours, shapes, and sizes. Placid lakes with cool and freshwater. The list goes on. Be it a weekend or a holiday, trekking avenues in Maharashtra are many. Here are some of them.
Summers are often looked upon as the worst season of the year. Why? Well, because of the scorching heat during noon and sometimes the humidity that lasts all day and night. If given a chance, most of us would have an AC or a fan tied to our bodies at all times. But let’s be realistic. Since that is not possible, we choose the other feasible option, which is planning a weekend gateway to some cool hill station. But as they as, bad times don’t last long, it is similar with this season. Summer is soon followed by the monsoon, which is by far one of the most loved seasons of the year. From adults to children, everyone eagerly looks forward to the rains. And, why wouldn’t you? It takes away all the humidity and heat away. And what is brings along are cool, breezy days and the smell of freshly wet mud.
Furthermore, the rains also make it possible for us to take up some fun, recreational activities like trekking. I don’t know about you, but I sure do love trekking! And trekking in the rains is even more fun! It sure does get a little mucky, but hey, what’s the fun in always being neat and tidy. We all do need an opportunity to let loose and enjoy, and trekking in the rains helps me do so. So, coming down to the main point, what are the best places in Maharashtra that one can choose to go on a trek for during the rains? There are several places that one can opt for, but let’s make a list of the most visited places for treks during the rains. Hopefully, it might help you get an idea as to which place to choose for your next adventure.
#1. Matheran Trekking in Maharashtra from near Mumbai
To most Mumbaikars, Matheran is a place where one can relax and unwind while not burning a hole in your pocket. Apart from accommodation, travelling to this place too is reasonable. It is a popular hill station located in Maharashtraand is easily accessible from cities such as Mumbaiand Pune.
This location makes for a splendid option for a weekend trek. This hill station offers several trek trails that one can choose depending on the comfort level. For a beginner, you can choose the Neral to Matheran trail. If you’re a pro at this, then opt for a more adventurous route that is the Dhudani trail. Either ways, when you reach this location, don’t forget to enjoy the breath-taking views from points of interest such as the Porcupine Point, Panorama Point, and One Tree Hill.
A. Garbett Point / Garbut Point (Near Matheran) Starting from the Bhivpuri railway station and passing through the Diksal village, the trek passes through the lush landscape of the Dhom dam. Along the way are water bodies and streams. The Diksal waterfall is en route. Trekkers can witness the culture of the region because there are many rustic villages along the way. The route eventually leads to a steep ascent to the Garbett Plateau. From there, the trek commences up to a wide ridge which is the Garbett Point hill.
B. Vikatgad / Peb Fort (Near Matheran) Vikatgad Peb Fort is nestled in the Matheran hill range. Situated at an elevation of 2,100 feet, trekking up to the fort is a popular activity for those looking for an adventurous nature trail. The fort was used as a place of storage. Food, ammunition, and several other items were stored here. There are also places to visit nearby such as Louisa point, Panorama point, Porcupine point, Heart point, and One Tree Hill point.
C. Irshalgad (Near Matheran) A fortress located between Panvel and Matheran, Irshalgad starts at the Chauk railway station. The pinnacle of the fort takes 2 hours to ascend. The path is easy to moderate. Some sections are steep and narrow. At Irshalwadi village along the way, many pay a visit to a nearby temple and then proceed to the Irshalgad plateau.
#2. Ratangad Fort Trekking in Maharashtra
Ratangad in Maharashtra is located at a distance less than 200km away from Pune and Mumbai. Just like Matheran, Ratangad Fort is also a great destination for a trek. The view from this fort is breath-taking while the climb up is equally adventurous.
The trek starts at the lovely Ratanwadi village and goes through forests, streams, and rocky terrains. Since this trek is a bit difficult (given the slippery terrains during monsoon) it is advised that someone with a good trekking experience go on this trek. Furthermore, this trekking trail also diverges into the route to Harishchandragad, another popular trekking destination in Maharashtra. The entire trekking route will take nearly 4 hours.
#3. Harishchandragad Fort Trek in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district lies the Harischandragad fort. Considered to be a challenging trek, beginners or experienced are dissuaded from taking the Taramati Ghal or Nalichi Vaat route. Especially during monsoon – because the surface might get slippery. But getting to the fort via the Pachnai or Khireshwar routes is easier and enjoyable.
After one gets to the fort, which is situated on a hill, from the Konkan cliff, panoramic views of the surrounding can be seen. Called locally Konkan Kada, the concave-shaped fall is high with a sharp drop of more than 1800 feet. It is suggested that one does not go too near the edge as the winds are very strong.
The Harishchandragad Fort is ancient, having its origin in about the sixth century BC. All over the fort, one can see caves. It is believed that these caves were carved in the 11th or 12th century. Khubi Phata is the basecamp if the trekking route is Khireshwar and Pachani if the trail is via the Pachnai route. A typical trekking sojourn starts at the base village, and towards Kokankada. After having breakfast, trekkers visit the fort, the temple, and the nearby Kedareshwar caves.
Regarded as the main structure protecting the Malshej Ghat, the Harishchandragad Fort is a famous hill fort. Located in the Ahmednagar district, it has an ancient history. Various Puranas have a reference to the region. The citadel is said to be built during the 6th century. The caves in this region were carved during the 11th century.
There are many ways to hike to the fort. Khireshwar, Belpada, and Pachnai are the well-known base stations for trekkers. Some routes take about 3 hours, some even lesser. Trekking through this route means going through dense forests.
#4. Kalsubai Trek in Maharashtra – Highest Peak of Maharashtra Kalsubai Trek Peak is the highest peak in Maharashtra Kalsubai, known as the highest peak in Maharashtra, is called the ‘Everest of the Sahyadris’. The peak is a famous trekking destination for trekking enthusiasts and is definitely on the must-do list. Located at a distance of 140km from Mumbai, there are multiple trails to Kalsubai. Its starting point for
Located at a distance of 140km from Mumbai, there are multiple trails to Kalsubai. Its starting point for trek is Bari village, which follows a rocky and difficult terrain to the peak. This exciting trek will take about four hours.
#5. Rajmachi Fort Trek in Maharashtra
Among the best places for trekking in Maharashtra, Rajmachi Fort is considered as one of the most challenging. Located nearly 94kms from Mumbai, this fort offers a picturesque location for trekking that is loved by all nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The trail offers a challenging climb and plenty of attractions to see along the way. However, be careful not to slip on the steep slopes in certain parts especially on account of the rains.
#6. Vasota Fort Trek in Maharashtra
Vasota Fort, also known as Vyaghragad, is one of the famous forts for trekking in the Sahyadri. It is known as one of the best treks in this region on account of its wilderness and beauty.
The fort is surrounded by thick forests and a river which makes the destination ideal for trekkers to delve into its charming beauty. Since this fort was originally associated with the famous Maratha history, the fort exudes rich historical charm, thus giving trekkers a chance to explore the fort and indulge in some educative history about our culture. Additionally, the fort also offers a breath-taking view of the Konya Backwaters and the forests.
That being said, now it’s up to you which place you choose to go on an awesome trek. Make sure you have a check-list ready as to what things you need to carry on your trek. Remember, it’s going to be raining, so make sure all of your bags are waterproof! Apart from that, all I can say it choose wisely, spend decently, and have the most amount of fun on your little adventure!
#7. Bhimashankar trek in Maharashtra Considered by many trekkers as their favorite trek, the Bhimashakar trek is taken mostly during the monsoons. The trekking trail winds through the hot spots of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. During the expedition, one can see a variety of birds and animals. Spotted deer, langurs, and many species of birds have made their home here. Trekkers lookout mostly for the exotic Malabar Giant Squirrel, also called by the name of ‘shekru’.
Depending on the route taken, the trek is easy or moderately difficult. For first time trekkers, the Shidi Ghat route is not recommended. Rather, the Ganesh Ghat route can be taken. So what can one see throughout the trekking adventure? Lots and lots of flora and fauna, exotic visuals, hilltops. Of course, there are the ladders and man-made bridges one has to cross. Which makes the trip even more exciting. The basecamp of the trek begins at the Khandas village. At the Neral railway station or Karjat, there is private transportation to use to get to this base camp.
#8. Prabalgad fort trek in Maharashtra Prabalgad fort trek can be taken at any season of the year, but taking it during monsoons is the best way to experience the weather, the surroundings, and the unique environment. The fort was built during the Bahamani sultanate. It is located in the Raigarh district. Surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain range, the fort is situated at an elevation of more than seven hundred meters above sea level. From the fort, one can see the Kalyan fort and Irshalgad fort.
Prabalgad fort has historical significance owing to its elevation. It was used extensively as a watchtower. Under Shivaji’s rule, the fort was refurbished. Currently, this magnificent structure serves as an offbeat retreat. Tourists throng this place to shed their exhaustion from a city-based existence. To enjoy the lush green blankets of thick vegetation and the fresh ecosystem of the region.
The trek is as interesting as well. Narrow trails pass through thickly set forests. The terrain is rocky, mostly uphill, and in some places steep. Steps are carved out of rocks in some places. Ascending the fort is an exhilarating activity. Because once one gets to the top, the feeling of being on the top is natural. Awe-inspiring sights await from atop. Thakurwadi is the basecamp and local transportation is available at Panvel to get here.
#9. Manikgad fort Trek in Maharashtra Although a ruinous fort, Manikgad in its heyday was a grand structure and used extensively as a watchtower. At more than 1800 feet above sea level, the fort is strategically located. So much that it is not easy to climb up the fort from three sides except the main entry. The upper part of the fort is accessible only from the south.
From atop the fort, one can see a commanding view of the land beneath. The valleys, Prabalgad fort, and Karnala pinnacle can be viewed from here. At the site of the fort, there is a large water tank, a rock-cut that was built for rainwater harvesting. During those times, tanks such as these were essential to supply water to surrounding regions during the summers. The total trekking distance one way is 5 kilometers. Ascent distance is 1734 feet and the time required for ascending and descending the fort is 5 hours. The base village is at Washivali.
#10. Visapur & Lohagad Fort Trek in Maharashtra During the monsoons, trekking in Maharashtra’s numerous trekking trails is a favoured activity. The Visapur and Lohagard Fort trek is one such trek that is easier than the rest. A beginner-friendly trek that starts from the Bhaje village the trail winds through exotic vegetation. One good thing about the trek is that it is near to the Mumbai-Pune expressway, hence it is easily accessible.
The ideal base camp for this trek is the Bhaje Village. The trek takes up to 3 hours one way. The Visapur fort is at an altitude of more than 3500 feet. The terrain type through the trail is rocky and thickly wooded. The trekking route can be tricky for first-time visitors. So it is recommended to take a guide.
Those who visit the fort also visit the Bhaje caves when returning. These caves are very ancient, dating back to the 2nd century. Being rock-cut caves, it is an amazing place to visit. The fact that 2nd-century human beings had built these caves makes it mind-blowing. Built as part of the fortification of Visapur and Lohagad, the trail offers an entire range of experiences. It is a forest trail, waterfall, boulders, staircase, skiing, and even a motorized trail. Visapur Fort is considered to be one of the highest structures in the state. Standing tall on a green plateau, this place is visited by trekkers, campers alike.
#11. Takmak Fort Trek in Maharashtra
If dense forests excite, then this is the fort to visit. Surrounding the fort is a thickly set forest. A 12th-century fort, the Takmak fort has been managed by the Marathas and Portuguese over a history of more than 800 years. Trekkers have to exercise caution because the eastern entrance is not easy to locate. The way to the top requires familiarity as well. So going into groups and hiring a local guide is recommended.
The trek starts at the Sakawar base camp. The trekking trail plies through the Palghar region, which is known for its dense forests. Rich in flora and fauna, one can find starflowers aplenty here. During the monsoon season, these flowers are resplendent in their full bloom status. Most of the trail is through paddy fields. The total trek duration is only about two kilometers, but it takes about an hour to complete it. The highlight of the trail is walking through the forest and the ridge walk.
#12. Rajgad Fort Trek in Maharashtra
The fort was an epicentre of power. Serving as the capital of the Maratha empire, the fort was the main bastion under Shivaji’s tenure. At a height of more than 4000 feet, the fort offers breath-taking views of the Sahyadri mountains. The Rajgad Fort was the seat of power of the Maratha empire. Located in the Pune district, the tall structure raised above 1000 metres above sea level, still has remains of what would have been a thriving fort complex. Water cisterns, caves, and palaces – the remains of which can still be seen. The trek to this fort plies through the best lush green parts of the Sahyadri mountain range.
The trek is not easy. Narrow paths, zig-zagging, lead to the massive structure. The trail starts from Gunjavane, which is a popular basecamp. Once at the fort, there is no looking back. Because from atop, many surrounding forts can be seen, namely Torna, Sinhagad, and Lingana. Watching the sunrise from the fort is another popular activity.
A naturally created hole on the Suvela Machi is a sight to behold. The opening is so wide that it can be spotted from several kilometres away.
#13. Torna Fort Trek in Maharashtra
Shivaji’s first conquest as a teenager of 16 years is the Torna fort. Also called Prachangad because of its huge size, the fort is a favorite with trekkers because of the variety of experiences on offer. Stream crossings, ridges, waterfalls are part of the nature trail, which makes it a perfect escapade for adrenaline junkies.
Once at the fort, one can view the surrounding regions in a full 360 degrees view. Singhad, Khadakwasla dam, Raireshwar, Mahabaleshwar, Bhatgar, Makarangad, and Pratapgad can be seen from atop the fort.
#14. Naneghat Trek in Maharashtra Lying between Pune and Junnar is a mountain pass and a famous one at that. Called Naneghat, this pass was once a prominent trade route connecting Junnar and Kalyan. In the local language, Nane is translated as coin, and ghat is translated as pass. Along the way, there are caves to explore. Inscriptions in the caves date back to the Satvahana dynasty.
From the caves, one can climb up to the Jivdhan fort. The trek is divided into ascents through rocking and boulder-laden terrain. Trekkers congregate at the Vaishakhare base camp village to start the trek.
#15. Devkund Waterfall Trek in Maharashtra This waterfall is in the deepest part of the jungle. It is a secluded region. The forests of Bhira Dam embrace this waterfall as their own. The Devkund waterfall was largely unexplored until recently. Many believe that the Kudalika river had its origin from here.
The waterfall drops from a height of more than 80 feet. A small pond at the bottom of the cascade is where tourists enjoy an afternoon dip. There is a prevailing belief that the utensils emerged from this pond whenever an important ceremony or festival was about to commence in the village.
#16. Sinhagad Fort (Near Pune) Trek in Maharashtra A hill fortress, the Sinhagad fort has witnessed many battles. One of them is the famous Battle of Sinhagad. Previously called as Kondhana, the fort is perched about 1300 metres above sea level on an isolated cliff that is part of the Sahyadri range.
The fort was strategically built as a watchtower. Katraj to Sinhagad Fort trek during the night is a popular activity. The trek begins at Old Katraj Tunnel Top. The trek traverses through a 16 kilometre long mountain chain.
#17. Pratapgad Fort / Pratapgarh Fort (Near Mahabaleshwar) Trek in Maharashtra Starting from the basecamp at Pratapgad parking, the trek to the Pratapgad fort takes approximately two hours. Considered to be a beginner-friendly trek, the best time to trek is during the winter. Once at the fort, one has to climb more than 450 steps to get to the top. At the fort, it is common to camp at the site. Trekkers carry tents and pitch them to enjoy an overnight stay.
There are many places to visit in and around the fort. Such as the Sahyadri hills, Rahat Lake, Bhavani Temple, Afzal Buruj, Canon atop the fort, etc. There is a large equestrian statue of Shivaji at the site. This bronze statue can be seen from afar.
#18. Karnala Bird Sanctuary (Near Lonavala) Trek in Maharashtra Centred around the Karnala Fort, the sanctuary is bordered by the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and several other sanctuaries. Bird-watchers, nature lovers, and trekkers visit the Karnala Bird Sanctuary to witness over 200 species of birds of which more than 150 are resident species. Those who visit the bird sanctuary also visit the Karnala fort lying inside the bird sanctuary.
#19. Chandan – Vandan Forts (Near Satara) Trek in Maharashtra Chandan fort and Vandan fort are both located in the Satara district. Both forts are popular with trekkers and hikers. Being adjacent forts, it is common to see trekkers visiting both forts. At the forts, there are many sights of interest. Water cistern, dargah, bastion, temple, rooms, etc. can be seen. The nearest town from the forts is Bhuinj.
#20. Vishalgad Fort (Near Kolhapur) Trek in Maharashtra Called Khelna by the local populace, Vishalgad is the site of many popular battles fought between princely kingdoms. Shivaji conquered the fort in 1659. Situated at a height of more than 3500 feet above sea level, the fort covers an area of 1130 metres. Such dimensions make it a giant structure.
#21.Sindola Fort Trek (Near Malshej Ghat) Trek in Maharashtra It is one of the lesser-known treks but is fast becoming known. Located in the Malshej Ghat, Sindola Fort was built during the times of Nimgiri as a watchtower. Compared to other forts in this region, this fort is small. But the view from atop the fort is spectacular. For trekkers, the ridge walk is something to be cherished. On either side of the ridge, spectacular sights are there for the taking. Pimpalgaon Joga Dam is on one side, and mountain ranges such as Bhojgiri, Devdandya, and Nimgiri-Hanumantgad are on the other side.
#22.Naneghat Trek (Near Malshej Ghat)
At an elevation of more than 2500 feet, the Naneghat pass is a high mountain pass. It is an ancient route that connected Junnar with the Konkan coast. Along the route, one can witness ancient caves that date back to the Satavahana dynasty. There are many remnants of the Mauryan Empire here too. The base station of the trek is the Naneghat trekking point.
#23. Jivdhan Fort (Near Malshej Ghat)
Located in Junnar, Jivdhan fort is more than a thousand metres above sea level. Set in the Sahyadri mountain range, Jivdhan is a famous trekking destination. When trekkers visit Hadsar, Chavaand, Shivneri, and Naneghat, they visit Jivdhan as well. It is a difficult trek because the jungle routes are deceptive, and trekkers may get lost. So taking a local guide is recommended.
#24. Shivneri Fort Trek in Maharashtra Shivneri was where Shivaji was born. The Shivneri fort has a unique triangular shape. Seven spiral gates constitute the structure of the fort. Inside the fort, there are several buildings such as a mosque and a prayer hall. There is also a place where executions took place. In the centre of the fort there lies a water pond. Two water springs still exist in the fort providing water all year round and named Ganga and Yamuna. Trekkers reach this fort from the Junnar town.
#25.Brahmagiri Hill (Near Nashik) Trek in Maharashtra Brahmagiri Hill is located in the Western Ghats and the Nashik district. The famous Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple is here. The Godavari river’s origin is near to the Trimbak location. The terrains of the hills are undulated. They present challenging spots for nature trails. Rich with natural attractions, trekkers have to trudge their way through thickly wooded terrain.
#26. Tringalwadi Fort (Near Igatpuri) Trek in Maharashtra This is a comfortable trek for hikers looking for a one-day sojourn. Some attractions on this trek are the Talewadi village and the Tringalwadi Dam. The surrounding regions of the dam are used as camping spots. From the base village of Tringalwadi, a one hour trek gets one to the fort. There are caves in the vicinity of the fort, dating back to the 10th century.
#27. Harihar Fort (Near Nashik) Trek in Maharashtra Located in the Nashik district, this fort is elevated at about 3500 feet above sea level. Built during the Yadava dynasty, the edges of the fort are vertical and hill on which it is situated in triangular-shaped. The steps that lead to the fort are almost 80 degrees inclined. This means only those who are fit and experienced can attempt it. From the fort, one can witness beautiful sights such as peaks and forts.
#28. Tapola (Near Mahabaleshwar) Trek in Maharashtra Tapola has been referred to by many as a mini Kashmir. It is located 25 kilometres from Mahabaleshwar. The region has many cascades, flowering meadows, valleys, and such visually appealing sights. At Tapola, there are a variety of water sports to enjoy. Trekkers also enjoy boating on the Shivsagar Lake as an off activity.
#29. Tikona Fort (Near Lonavala) Trek in Maharashtra Tikona fort was the nerve centre of the Maratha Empire. Also called the Vitandgad fort, the fort has a mammoth entrance. This is often cited as the main attraction of the fort. For adventurous tourists, the Tikona Fort trek is the thing to do. At the fort, one can get panoramic views of the Pawna Dam, Lohagad, and Tung forts. Inside the fort, there is a lake. Satvahan caves are here inside too. The Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple is located inside too.
#30. Korigad Fort (Near Lonavala) Trek in Maharashtra This is an easy trek in Lonavala. The time taken to get to the fort and climb it is 1 day. The base village of the trek is Peth Shahpur. Atop the fort, there are two lakes. The fort is open for visitors all throughout the year. Trekkers visit the fort during night times too. Campers also make the cool settings of the fort a place for an overnight camp stay.
#31. Duke’s Nose Point (Near Lonavala) Trek in Maharashtra Once at the Duke’s Nose Point, there are plenty of activities to do. Camping, rock climbing, and rappelling to name a few. Located between Khandala and Lonavala, the point is at about 3000 feet. Takes about 2 hours to ascend it. There is a Shiva temple on the Dukes Nose Plateau. During the rainy season, this is the place to enjoy the cold climate, fog, and rains.
In the past years, the way people perceive travel has changed drastically. Some travel for business while others for leisure. But some travel because they just love doing it. Travel shouldn’t be a forced option. Rather it should be something that one enjoys doing. But before you come down to asking someone, can you live without travelling, we need to understand what does travel mean.
So, what exactly is travel? According toOxford Dictionary, travel is to ‘make a journey, typically of some length’. It is also known as ‘the action of travelling’ or ‘moving typically in a constant or predictable way’. It is not necessary that ‘this journey or place’ you are travelling to has to be a specific location. It can be just about any place. Now comes the next question, can you live without travelling? Why is it important to travel? Well, this can vary from person to person, as everyone individual has a different ideology and understanding of the term.
For a person who travels for the kick and not for the money, it may mean so much more. While the person who doesn’t really love travelling but does so for financial purposes, it might mean something different. The path of travel is like a road to self-discovery and happiness. It helps you live a life with exploration and new experiences.
Travelling helps you learn, grow, and understand oneself even better. To understand all of this or rather experience it, you can travel to just about any place. Be it a town or city, a country or state, you can choose a place that calms you, gives you peace. One you find this place, you surely won’t let it go.
So, if you ask me, whether can I live without travelling, the answer is, no. Travelling is important because it transforms oneself. It helps you broaden your horizons and makes you more aware. You get to connect with other cultures, gives you a much-needed break from your mundane lifestyle, and also helps you discover one’s fears and strengths. Another thing that travel teaches you or gives in return (something that I personally love) are the memories and experiences that will stay with you for life. You also tend to become more appreciative of what you currently have.
Thus, like I mentioned earlier, travel not because you are forced to but because you want to. And it’s not a bad thing, it might, in fact, make you love life even more than you already do. Decide your location, choose which airlines you want to travel with, book your air tickets, and get on flights! So, I’ll continue travelling till I guess I can, hoping to pick up new memories, meet new people, and gain experiences that will help me better myself.
I am back from Sar Pass Trek 2016, best trek of my life. Back from touching the feet of Mother Nature. What a trip it was! Memories that I will forever hold close to my heart and tales that I can perhaps narrate to my grandchildren in future.
I am talking about my camping trip through the most heavenly stretch in India – Sar Pass Trek! A place that is 13800 feet above sea level in the Himalayan Range.
Below are some stills from Kasol!
The best time of the year when one can visit this place is during May. You’d see thousands of people pulling up their trekking gears and flocking away to cross Sar Pass Trek.
I signed up with YHAI (Youth Hostel of India) who were the organizers of the camp and paid them the fees of Rs. 5,000. This year I consider myself to among the lucky ones who made it to the YHAI Sar Pass trek 2016 (And if all goes well, I may perhaps even see myself next year in the YHAI Sar Pass trek 2017.)
Those 11 days spent on the Sar Pass trekking camp by YHAI had sweet and adventurous surprises each day. YHAI gets trekkers who hike in batches. I found myself in a batch of 50 trekkers from diverse walks of life. Each having their own dream and purpose of making it to Sar Pass. Regular trekkers, fitness freaks, photographers, and some like me who simply wanted to experience the divinity of nature’s kingdom.
Our batch was at the receiving end of the unpredictable weather. I mean it could not get more unpredictable. Every time dark clouds appeared and we thought it would pour but the sun smiled at us with its bright rays of hope. And on days when the sunlight was too excessively harsh on us without the hint of clouds, raindrops would splash down suddenly from the sky. Such was the treacherous weather. But that never let out spirits down even once. We bravely battled it all rain, hailstorms, sunburns, minus 15 temperature.
Before I tell you guys my Sar Pass Trek exeprience if you guys are planning to do Sar Pass Trek below things you need to carry with you do take a note of it:
Things to Carry for Sar Pass Trek as per YHAI
“Rucksack (if You have one),
Walking stick,
Woolens,
Cotton Shirts,
Slacks,
Cotton Pants,
Sun Cap,
Shoes,
Socks,
Enameled or Steel Mug / tumbler,
Plate,
Lunch box ,
Spoon,
Water purifying tablets,
Pen knife,
Needle,
Thread,
Spare buttons,
Goggles,
Cold cream / Vaseline,
Soap, Toilet Paper, Towel,
Rain sheet,
Medicines which you normally use at home,
Camera with extra batteries”
So, dive into my world and join me as I give you a glimpse of my entire voyage to Sar Pass trek and back…
Kasol:
Yhai Base Camp Kasol, Ariel View
Kasol Parvati River
Hills in Kasol
Yhai Base Camp Kasol
The base camp was located at Kasol, which is a small village situated near the banks of the Parvati River. While at the base camp, I managed to socialize with my fellow trekkers. Meeting new people, hearing their stories, and taking tips from the guides – were enlightening sessions for me.
The YHAI team was pretty organized and ensured we never faced hassles due to anything lacking from their end. The food served at the base camp was delicious and supplied enough energy to sustain daily activity including rock climbing and rappelling (which gave me an adrenaline rush all the time. The moment we arrived at the camp, we were served with welcome drinks. 2 hours later we got tomato soup. At 6pm tea and biscuits. At 7 dinner. And at 9, Bournvita. Well, that was the drill. In the evenings, we would sit by the camp fire and chat away.
I was super-motivated by my batch-mates as we wished and cheered for each other at the base camp each day.
Every single day had something surprising in store. A major challenge that we faced was curbing the weight of our bags. I needed my essentials including thermal wear, clothes, toiletries, trek gear, medical things, and other miscellaneous stuff. But that catch here was that we had to keep it under 6 kgs. Besides, YHAI provided us with rucksacks, sleeping sheets, and sleeping bags.
Grahan:
Beauty of Grahan Villiage
Hills and Trees in Grahan Village
Grahan Village Beauty
Sweet little Child in Grahan
A Dark Cold Dusk at Grahan
From Kasol we headed to Grahan, this place which is still 7000 ft above sea level is at a stretch of 9 km and is the closest to the village. Beyond this zone there were no signs of human settlements. The lush greenery with the background of the Himalaya Mountains was picturesque.
The trek was relatively easy with multiple plateaus in between that gave us a chance to take breaks. The shepherds with their sheep and cattle were a delightful sight. Fortunately, YHAI marked red arrows on numerous rocks to ensure were weren’t losing directions or our mind! 😛
All I had in mind were the breathtaking images of Sar Pass that I had seen on Google back home some days ago. I couldn’t wait for it anymore, but kept calming my heart that I would soon be there seeing the beauty of the place right in front of my eyes. Till, then I needed to focus on my next destination. From Grahan, we went to Padri, which is at 7000 to 9000 ft.
This easy stretch was quite misty at certain places but had plenty of woods that would remind you of similar locales in the hit global TV show GAME OF THRONES. I couldn’t take my eyes off the mountains. It was a beautiful place where I enjoyed chatting up with my folks (yup we all batchmates had grown closer as a family by now). Later we played antakshri, dumcharade and a few other games. It was a memorable evening.
Min Thatch:
The journey from Padri to Min Thatch was excruciating. Walking on ice is not as easy as it seems. I had to carry a stick with me all the time to prevent slipping.
Thanks to global warming there wasn’t enough snow as it used to be years ago. Nevertheless, as we moved further away from ground level, no longer could I see the green meadows. Time seemed to tick very slowly and the climb looked never-ending. In fact, one of my batchmate’s DSLR missed to fall off the valley. Luckily, it didn’t!
My hands were freezing and I literally couldn’t feel my fingers when I took off my gloves. But, after enough walking, my energy increased thus generating warmth in my body. At the camp, we relaxed and enjoyed the beauty of Min Thatch while sipping on hot tomato soup and relishing the Maggi and Omlette sold at the canteen there.
Nagaru:
This was literally an ice trek. The sudden hail storms gave a chill down my spine but the subtle snowfall pacified it. Though I was wearing layers of clothing, I still wouldn’t stop shivering. This place being at least 2500 ft above sea level, the air couldn’t get thinner; while the view, whiter. At the camp site, we had the opportunity to bond further, play around, click pictures and have fun.
I knew my parents would be a bit worried back home. So since we got network here, I called them up to ensure I was doing great. Post that, a blizzard struck! It was terrifying! As a result, we had to protect our tents as well as ourselves.
Sar Pass:
Finally the time came! We were heading to our dream destination. Sar Pass! Yes, the renowned Sar Pass in Himachal Pradesh that is 13800 ft. I still couldn’t believe that I was almost there. There was anxiety and a sense of joy in reaching there after all the hardship faced in the past few days.
All we knew was that we had to follow our guide and not mess with the rules. Or else it would prove to be fatal to us alone. The place is such you have to climb from one side and get off the other side. But, the climb is quite steep with ruthless UV rays of the sun that show no mercy on your skin leaving you with sunburns.
ALAS! I WAS ON THE TOP! OVER THE HIMALAYAN RANGE!
I found myself breathing thin oxygen. The descent was super insane. You just cannot walk; you have to slide. We ended up toppling and sliding in weird positions. But, later we started gaining confidence as we slid further. So, practically, the journey to the Biskeri camp was all about sliding, falling, walking, and talking. LOL! 😀
By the time we reached Biskeri, a snow valley I felt feverish due to all the playing in the snow. Thankfully, medications and hot soup got me back on recovery mode. We rested at the camp and clicked pictures and replayed every moment spent at the Sar Pass. After some rappelling, we descended around 4000 ft in a day and reached the YHAI base camp at Kasol for comfort. My feet and palms were sore by then so I decided to take a short nap.
And I am Done. That’s it. It was a trip to remember forever. Seriously.
YHAI has to be given due credit for their honest efforts in organizing such wonderful expedition. Right from their supply chain, to the volunteers (who were their employees) and camp leaders – everything went in harmony. I felt blessed to have such a skillfully organized team taking us through the journey.
These 15 days gave me a sight and experience like no other. Large green pastures, sun-shaded forests, pine trees, noisy rivers flowing fresh water, ice-laden glaciers – I don’t think I could have ever enjoyed this experience had I not chosen to step out of a busy, polluted, and fast-paced urban city like Mumbai.
Will remember each and everyone from my SP-33 group.
When I went back home, more than anything else, I realized this trip was a self-actualization one. While glancing through the Sar Pass trek photos, it dawned upon me that it was that this expedition was a bond between Planet Earth and me. It was more of a digital detox where I never needed to check out Facebook or WhatsApp, text message, or answer phone calls – A complete disconnection from the virtual world.
If I have to describe the trip in few words, I would say it was –
Emotionally, mentally and physically challenging – How you can adapt to surroundings, people, circumstances, unexpected conditions – A game of survival where only you can conquer your fears.
Once you are able to do that, the word HAPPINESS will know no bounds in your dictionary because you would never be able to define it in words…
Last but not the least, this journey gave me the biggest lesson of life – Just enjoy and live your present, Feel every moment of your struggle towards your goals without worrying about how the fruits of your hard work would turn out to be.
It’s never about what is waiting on the other side… but it’s always about THE CLIMB… THE JOURNEY!
It would be rather crude to sum up the experience as ‘fun’. For starters, the empty roads come as a huge relief for us city slickers. Unless there are any major road repairs, you can be assured of not having any traffic snarls especially if you’re on two wheels. Secondly and more importantly, feeling the cold breeze through that tiny gap in your visor while soaking in the view of the mountains, the snow and the green pastures is somewhat surreal. Also, there are no unruly motorists in this land. Every one respects the other. Continue reading →
