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 Peb-Fort-Trek

Scroll down for the story of our first experience... Trek from Neral to Peb to Matheran...  

A Pebulous Trekking Adventure ...

My Diary on Pebâulous Trek to Matheran. (2004 adventure)

A Nature Knights adventure.

I jumped on my feet even before the first Decibel of my 3:30 wakeup alarm was completed. The clock gave me signal to start off a long awaited adventure; I was joined by Jyoti, Sameer, Rupa and Mithali at Andheri Station. We boarded the train for Santacruz station accompanied by hoards of crowd rushing to the starting point of Marathon race.

I confirmed the attendance of Mohanty, Nimesh and Uma who were reaching kurla station along with a few more people. We had missed the 5:30 am train to Karjat and We boarded the next train was scheduled at 6:09 am. Nimesh waited back for the late comers, to catch the next train.

The morning looked as fresh as a due at 20 degree centigrade, my instinct told me that nothing could go wrong today as we approached Neral Station to join Melky, Sidharth, Karishma and Harsh at the railway INN.

We had introduction secession with crisp biscuits and steaming tea to complete the warm environment.

With clock striking 8:45 am, we had 15 pairs of legs taking the North Direction along the western side of railway track. We went along the road which goes to Matheran until we came to the cross road between the highway and one mud road going straight, we took the mud road going in the west direction. The mud road was lined on one side by palm trees as we approached the poultry farm as mentioned in the Map. We hired 2 tiny guides with single digit age from the last Hamlet on the way to Peb Fort.

With the sun basking on our back as we started to the climb up the mountain, which got steeper as we progressed to our next mile stone the Power Cables towers and then towards the KOL. At the saddle of KOL we could see both sides of the mountain, on one side we could see the Haji Malang, Sanshi and the Konkan plains and on the other side we saw the railway line and the route from where we started our trek. We climbed over the narrow hump of the mountain with 360 degree view of valleys on both sides, the view was creating some kind of optical illusion. We climbed the mountain gradually till we came to our next landmark the white rock which we had to do a miniature rock climbing holding a few smooth holds and a perform a two step chimney climb. With team effort we overcame this obstacle.

As we climbed ahead the path forked ahead into two, we took the one on the western side on the mountain and headed south. Now we had a rock wall on one side and a deep valley on one side, as we walked along the narrow path.

Peb trek route.

The pleasant breeze cheered us to march along against the Sun who seemed to follow from one side of the mountain to the other. At around 1:15 pm we finally reached our first major halt at the Cave shelter near Peb fort. The Sadhus had converted the caves into a kind of semi luxury hotel considering the circumstances. They had a nice hammock hanging on one of the overhanging rocks which a 5 star view of the valley, nice china wear wash basin and to finish it up a toilet made of canes from karvi shrub with a drain pipe. Great going!

We put our feet up as few practiced caving in the three narrow caves which led to a meditation chamber in side; it reminded me of Saddam’s hiding spider hole. But this one had a good meditation facility.

After we confirming our direction towards with a Pune party who was camping at the Cave shelter we proceeded towards Matheran.

We progressed along the narrow path we were reminded by a stunning whooshing alarm caused by a flock of hiding Night Jars (a species of nocturnal birds) that it was time to halt for lunch, we stopped at beautiful semi circular carved mountain rock, with an enchanting view. Soon there was noise like on any Railway Junction for eatables, Spice Theplas, Saucy Baked Beans, Pav Bhaji, Alu Bhaji and what not, Finally Jalabiâs to wash it down.

The appetite was quenched and we proceeded on the adventure, now the trail really got very narrow as we turned toward south east along the mountain curve, the grass here was dry and had a unique golden colour reminded me of Phantom’s Golden beach. The only unromantic part about this grass was that it was highly slippery and we had no choice to walk on it with the rocky wall on one side and deep valley on the other. The silent was pin drop as we approached the KOL between Peb Fort and Panorama Point.

We thought of taking a break for two purposes, 1) to catch up with our nerves and 2) to make a crucial decision to progress on the every growing difficult trail.

First we confirmed our location seeing the map, the sun the land marks.  The next thing we started was a management brainstorming about our decision to go ahead, we decided to send 3 scouts ahead to understand the degree of difficulty. Nimesh, myself and Ajay went ahead to scout, Nimesh was way ahead gave a feedback that the route was not as-difficult-as it looked and not impossible.

We again sat down to have a round table debate, We were in a true catch 22 situation, either 4 hours backwards or 1 hour of tough route ahead. The route backward was also not so easy. Suddenly out of nowhere the famous Mini train of Matheran came whistling and chug chugging a song so sweet, that Mere Sapno Ki Rani might seem shadowed in its melody.

The site of train and its song worked like magic potion; the decision made and unanimous as the train bade us good-bye just few meters above us, we were going in the direction of Panaroma Point.

We made some safety preparation; we cut our few spikes of sticks to be used as additional support while walking the very narrow trail. As we began or next phase the breeze suddenly became loud and strong we could hear a clear chilling WOOOOOoooossss, but we used the breeze to our advantage as it pushed us towards the wall. Every body was now silent and concentrating very hard on every step they took, with each baby step we progressed forward, till we came to the 6 meter wall. This wall had a small exposed climb, a small make shift loose rattling ladder and a bamboo clamped on the wall to complete the climb. We laid down our strategy to overcome this obstacle, Nimesh, Sidharth and Ajay climbed this 6 m obstacle first, Ajay went ahead to scouft as other scaled up one by one. In 5 more minutes we heard a large hurry screem by Ajay, we all knew that he might have reach the railway line, the motivation had suddenly given us a boost of energy. We all joined Ajay in his celebration. We celebrated our climb to the summit. The walk along  the railway line up to Dastury Nak (Matheran) was like a green poetry with happy laughters of team Nature Knights in backdrop. We had a high tee at Dastury naka canteen to windup our adventure. As we boarded the train back to Mumbai from Neral Station at 8 pm, we all knew the success behind overcoming the difficulties during today’s adventure was the spirit of team and bond of togetherness, which exists in Nature Knights adventure. We all know that this spirit and bond will remain for years and years to come and overcome all adventure in our life

Cheers and C U soon on more adventures..

So are you planning to on the Pebulous Trek...

About Peb Fort

This fort is not heard by many until few years back but recently  is getting more and more popular with trekkers.  It’s a small fort near the ranges of Matheran (the famous hill station in Maharashtra). It is situated on northeast side of Panvel, on Mumbai-Pune road, at a distance of 3-4 km on west side of Neral. This is a one-day trek and also one of the most enchanting trek in Monsoon. It is also known as Vikatgad. The forts and hills in and around Peb Fort are Nakhind, Chanderi, Mahasmal. Prabalgad is another fort opposite this small fort. Peb fort overlooks the Konkan region and also is approachable from Pune. So Chatrapati Shivaji must have given a thought before building this strategic fort. The fort is at a height of 2100 feet above mean sea level.

This fort is visible from the edge of Panorama Point at Matheran or from Matheran Toy Train after you cross the One Kiss Tunnel. The Panorama Point at Matheran is at much higher level and gives a clear view of the small fortification of the fort.

Trek Name: Peb Fort

Region: Neral, Matheran Region

Trek Grade: Medium to Difficult

Altitude: 2100 feet above mean sea level

Duration: One Day

Checklist:

Attire:
Track Pants; Leggings or Three Fourth
Full Sleeves T-Shirt or Normal T-Shirt
Hat or Cap
Rain Wear
Trekking Shoe or Canvas Shoe (Don't wear Running or Gym Shoe)
Sun Glasses
2 to 3 Liter's Water Per head
Flash Light
Trekking Pole / Stick
Personal Medical Kit (General Medical Kit will be available Team Nature Knights)

 Konkan Kada Rappelling

 One of the highest Rappelling Adventure Experience in the World...

RAPPELLING OVER HIGHEST CLIFF HANGER IN MAHARASHTRA STANDING AT 4670 FEET...

The experience is a complete adventure with Night Trek; Exploring Konkan Kada and Rural Countryside and the journey to reach there and all the experiences thereafter. One can add their own flavors to the adventure...

Rappelling height: 1800 feet (in 4 stages)

Minimum age: 18 years and above.

Batch Dates:

Batch 1 - March 26th (Starting from Mumbai on the 25th night)

Batch 2 - March 27th (Starting from Mumbai on the 26th night)

Batch 3 - March 28th (Starting from Mumbai on the 27th night)

Batch 4 - March 29th (Starting from Mumbai on the 28th night).

 

25 Participants per day. (One Batch per day)

 

Budget Rs.5200/- per participants

Booking amount Rs.1500/- balance to be paid at Konkan Kada in cash.

 

asif@natureknights.net / natureknights@gmail.com

WhatsApp: +91-9619182010

 

Inclusions:

================================

Adventure Event Management

Escorted transfers as per plan; Safety Equipments and Gear; Skilled Manpower; Rappelling Support and Shared Common tents for keeping luggage and resting.

 

Participation Certificate

 

Travel by privately booked local Mahindra Jeep

Kasara to Paachnai

Belpada to Kalyan Station

 

Meals

Basic Village breakfast (Kanda Poha and Tea); Packed Veg Lunch.

======================================

 

The Plan:

Board CST-Kasara Local train that departs from CST at 10:50 pm

This train is scheduled to reach Kasara at 1:30 am.

Transfer to the base village Paachnai (We will be using local Utility Vehicles / Local Jeeps for transfers)

4:00 am Village Paachnai to Harishchandragad night trek (2:30 hours trek)

6:00 am / 6:30 am

Breakfast (Kanda Poha and Tea)

8:00 am onwards Rappelling Activity in 4 stages.

 

Belpada is a village at the base of rappelling

 

Transfers from Belpada to Kalyan Station (in batches of 10s)

 

note: Prior rappelling experience required for the event.

 

 

 

         

 

Exclusions:

Extra meals; Bottled Water; Beverages etc

Travel cost beyond the scope mentioned of what’s is mentioned above.

Any kind of Insurance coverage

Anything that is not included is excluded.

Resources not utilized will not be refunded.

 

Things to carry: Mandatory -

 

Proper and comfortable rucksack,

2 liters of water, comfortable shoes, torch with extra pair of cells, light bedding, extra clothing,

Glucon 'C' or 'D', 'Enerzal' powder, personal medical kit, extra Optional - Cap, goggle, spoon, slippers, snacks, fruits, towel, etc. Do not carry: Slippers High Heels Alcohol, Drugs

 

■ In case of cancellation of the event, the money will be refunded to those who have enrolled, without any deductions.

 

 Terms And Conditions:

It is up to the individual to arrange their own holiday/accident insurance and; each adult would be asked to sign a liability waiver.

Organizers hold the right to change the venue, or date, of the event,

The event may be canceled or postponed due to natural calamity, any system error,

In case the event place or venue is changed, organizers will notify the same to participants by phone, web, and Facebook.

In case of cancellation of the event, the money will be returned to those who have enrolled, without any cancellation charges.

All our adventure holidays/events follow strict eco-tourism guidelines; we follow the policy take only memories and leave only footprints.

Smoking and Drinking alcohol during an adventure event is strictly prohibited if anyone found doing that will be expelled from trek without refund.

In case of cancellation of the event, from the participant's side, the money will be returned to those who have enrolled, with 1. In case cancellation done before, December 28, Rs. 500/- will be deducted. 2. In case cancellation done in the same week as the event is happening, Rs. 1500 will be deducted. 3. In case cancellation done on the same day as the event date, no refund will be given. All our treks are Eco-friendly treks; kindly take care of nature around us.

 

Safety remains our first priority as always*

 

More info on Harishchandragad and Konkan Kada

 

Harishchandragad is a hill fort in the Ahmednagar region of India. Its history is linked with that of Malshej Ghat, and it has played a major role in guarding the surrounding region. The height of the fort is 4671 ft MSL.

The most interesting point on this fort is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people for many years. The cliff faces west and looks down upon the Konkan. From here, one can have a breathtaking view of the surrounding region and the setting sun. This cliff is not just vertical, but it is an overhang, almost like a cobra's hood.

 

The Konkankada, a unique formation in the Sahyadris, is really tough and a challenge for the trekkers. This is a semicircular cliff of about 2,000 ft straight drop + 1000 ft slant fall in the Konkan plains. The surrounding grandeur and beauty of the plains and the mountains leave us totally spellbound. It is one of the highest direct fall cliffs to be found in Maharashtra and the Western Ghats.

This is a combination of thrill and bliss that every true adventurer would say ‘YES!!!’ to… Rappelling, also known as abseiling is an act of descending a mountain face by sliding down a rope, which is attached to a body harness and fastened to an overhead projection, with sufficient friction provided as to make the speed of the descend controllably.

 

 High Altitude Check List - Ladakh

Checklist for Ladakh and other high altitude Himalayan travel / trekking trips 

General Instructions on Clothing

Wear clothes in layers. i.e. Multiple layers of thin clothes. (Avoid bulky T-Shirts, Bulk Jacket, Bulky Sweater absolute no no).


In Himalayas/Trans-Himalayan Ladakh region during summer/early autumn  at one moment you may be sweating at 25 to 35 degree centigrade and in next hour you may be at Freezing Temperatures any below zero to -15 degree centigrade with altitudes varying from 10,000 feet to 18,500 feet even during road trips "Road Level".. All three highest motor-able roads in the world are in Ladakh Region.


So at 10,000 feet you may be wearing just an inner and a t-shirt and as your gain altitude you can keep adding layers.. Sweeter, Jacket, Muffler, Gloves etc.. and as you descend keep removing layers..

Always wear clothes in layers.

Layer 1 - Starting with inner thermals (Preferable wear thermals that are made of quick dry fabric / dry fits) 
Layer 2 - full sleeves t-shirt and track pants; Woolen Socks (One double woven woolen socks with one warm nylon or normal woolen socks inside). Carry enough spare socks and other undergarments. 
Layer 3 -  Woolen Sweater or Fleece Jacket / pull over. 
Good thick Woolen Monkey Cap or Balaclava with woolen Muffler 
Layer 4 - Wind Proof Winter Jackets with a wind proof hood.
(down jackets or Snow Jackets meant for extreme cold weather if you are going to Ladakh during Ladakh Winter).
A Pair of good snow gloves and one pair of inner glove.
Good Pair of Sun Glasses with Good UV Protection. 

For Winters (Those who are too sensitive to cold can also carry personal pocket size warmers. Available on most adventure sport gear shops)

Quantity of Clothes to pack on a Ladakh Trip

Pack few full sleeves t-shirts (full sleeves help you protect against harsh sun as-well-as harsh cold.) - 3 to 5 Pairs (Depending upon duration of your journey)

Carry shorts/tights/dry fits and full sleeves t-shirt for River Rafting (You may an opportunity)

Track pants, Lite Cotton Khakis, Tights etc (Wear trousers that are made of light material, Comfortable and have stretch) 

Two pair of thermal inner

Spare Undergarments (Plenty).

Normal Socks – two to three pairs

Woolen Socks - two pairs

One pair of leg warmers

Personal Towel

Light Jacket (Winter Jacket)

Muffler / Monkey Cap

Poncho (Rain-wear)

Woolen gloves (One pair) / Snow Gloves (One Pair)

Other handy items

UV Goggles

Cap / Hat (with a good shade)

Compressed Sleeping bag or one light bed sheet or shawl (Optional)

Shoes optionally with anklets and a pair of slippers or floaters (washable)

Spare laces for the shoe might be a good idea

Shaving kit

Pocket knife / spoon set

Sun Screen – SPF (35 to 45 or higher)

Lip Guard or Balm (with UV protect)

Hand Sanitizer

Toothpaste and tooth brush

Moisturizer and cold cream

Liquid soap and shampoo

Paper tissue / hand towel

A roll of toilet paper

Personal Medical Kit

Anti-septic skin cream

Velbet Skin cream

Asprin / Anti-vomit

Small bottle of dettol

Dimox or equivalent (Please consult your doctor), for Altitude sickness.

Medicine for cough and cold

chlorivate 

food poisoning medicine - diarrhea can be an unpleasant experience while trekking

bandages and cotton

generic antihistamine for allergy attacks

Food poisoning - Norfolk

generic painkiller

Any other personal medication

Camphor  (smelling camphor is helpful when you feel giddy) 

Other items

Flash light and Spare Batteries

padlock + chain for the train travel

Small mirror

Comb

ziploc bags for cameras with water proof pouch.

Camera with spare battery and memory

matches / lighter

Spike Guard – for mobile / camera charging (We may have only one socket per room in hotels, so kindly carry spike gard with multiple sockets)
spare cells for Mobile Phone and Cameras (Cells discharge faster in extreme colds)..

Emergency Food and Water

1 small Can of Food for emergency

Biscuits / Chocolates / Salad items (can be bought from local market)

2 litres water bottle or hydration pack

Bags

Carry one Backpack - 60 Liters (as main bag)
Carry one Daypack - 30 to 40 liters (to carry during the day for camera, sweater, jackets, poto-ids, water bottle, flash light, personal medical kit etc)
A Waist Pouch can help too.

Packing

All items are to be wrapped in plastic or poly bags or waterproof nylon pouches..

Carry an additional smaller backpack (for 1 day trip kind of) where you can leave your heavy baggage at the camp and travel with lighter bags if needed.

Pack bulky and light stuff at bottom and top. All heavy stuff towards the center of the bag and towards your body.

Use Compression straps if you have them in your bags, these will help you keep all items in place.

Keep all handy stuff in day pack (Photo IDs, Tickets, Woolens, Camera, Personal Medicines, Money etc). 

Telecom

Most of the remote places only BSNL mobile is available (Leh / Kashmir most networks are available). In some places no network will be available. So you can inform your when you are at places like Sarchu, Pangong Lake, Pso-Moriri, Nubra Valley etc you will not have phone signals most of the time.

Important To Dos

Always reach 30 minutes before scheduled time for all activities reduces stress

(Better early than late, better sure than sorry).
Keep photo ids, tickets in places where you can reach them easily.

Don’t make the baggage too heavy; maximum one backpack and one handbag (day pack). Don’t carry items not require or more quantity than required.

Airport security check-in. Pack all  Liquids, paste tubes, shaving kit; scissors; any sharp objects in check-in luggage; pressurized bottles etc..

Photo-IDs

Original + Copy (Options)

1) Passport (Preferred)
2) Aadhar Card (Preferred)
3) Driving License ID + Election ID-Card
4) Driving License + PAN Card 

(at least 5 copies of photographs and photo ids; this will be required for permits at certain locations).

Emergency Money Please carry emergency money with you; this in addition to the money towards camp fee (Rupees 10,000/-; and credit card); this fund is your reserve for any emergency is not shopping money). 

E.g. emergency like we are not able to reach the planned destination due to land slide or bridge breakdowns or due to any other un-avoidable circumstances we may have to halt at another place which was not part of the planned trip etc.; or it could be any other situation. 

All items to be packed in 60 liter backpack; and additional (duffel bag / nap sack)

  

Planning for your days


Most days you can go for early morning walking trips. (This is only possible if you hit the sack previous night before 11pm).


Most days the Safari starts early in the mornings, as there are many roads that have rivers cutting across them. As the day progresses the river swells up and it may not be possible to cross them. Also U have to plan buffer time in case of Land slides / or time required during your trip for Photography.


You can also buffer for 30 to 60 minutes everyday for Landslides or Jams due to some vehicle breakdown on the way.


Evenings can be just spend chilling out at camp site or casual stroll in the market place, enjoying the local culture.

Precautions (For high altitude)

It’s advised that for first couple of days to minimize exertion as you may be rapidly gaining altitude (over 10,000 feet), so that your body has enough time to get acclimatized to the thin atmosphere. 

Prevention First 2 to 3 days of your journey take is EASY .. Literally let your body adapt to high altitude. Especially those who land in Leh directly should take total rest the first day and keep second day only for light trip. Drink plenty of water, eat even if you are not hungry.

Some of you may face symptoms of High altitude sickness like headache; some may have vomiting tendencies; mostly this condition should go in a day or two.

You may take Dimox tables or equivalent a day or two before (kindly consult your Doctors on the medicines)

Sniffing Camphor is also helpful for those getting headache.

We have to carry Asprin tables.

We are also be carrying emergency oxygen bottles as extra precaution.

Drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic); this will also help.

(Ladakh Altitudes of few locations)  

In Ladakh Safari is one of those trip where Journey may be as important if not more important thatn the destinations, Kashmir (Stay and Enjoy Kashmiri Hospitality in Luxury House Boat) – Shikara Ride – Sonmarg – Gumra (11,250 feet) – Sonmarg – Experience thrill of crossing Zoji La Pass (11,250 feet) – Baltal – Zoji La Pass (11,200 feet) Landscapes changes from Green Medows to Ladakh Arid Zone – Gumra (11,250 feet) - Drass (Second coldest habitat place in Planet Earth) –  Cross over to Kargil under enemy observation – 45 km from Kargil Mulbek (10,600 ft) 30 feet statue of Maitreya Budha carved on cliff – Namkila Pass (12,204 ft) – Bodh Karbu (10,890 ft) – Heniskot (11,640 ft) – Fatu La (13,479) Highest pass between Leh and Kashmir – Camp at UlheyTopko – River Rafting in Indus and Zanskar Sangam – Herigate and Culture (Alchi, Pathar Sahib, Likir),  Exhotic ( Magnetic Hill, Pangong Lake, Camping at UlheyTolpko, Camping in Wilderness on way to Tsomoriri lake, Camping at Tsomoriri Lake, Camping at Sarchu, Exhotica Keylong (in Lahaul Spiti Valley), Cross Rohtan La also to Manali, Also experience Baralachala (4892 m) – Lachung La (5065 m), Pang, Debring (4500 m), TanglangLa – Morrey Plains – Manali to Delhi – Mumbai. There are lots of opportunities for Camping, make most of it.

Important Note: To make most of Ladakh Adventure, go there with an open mind. Don't have preconceived expectations. Be Bold, be adventurous. 

Physical Pre-preparation for high altitude trip

One to two hour walk or any other cardio exercise every day at least 4 days a week

Breathing exercise

Stretching exercise

Drink plenty of fluid; especially during last week and on the trip

Avoid Alcohol / minimize smoking if possible avoid it totally

Eat good food (Add plenty of vegetables; salads; fruits to your diet).

 Bombay seven Islands

The Seven Islands of the Great City to be...

Story of 7 Islands

Over a period of 5 centuries Bombay, which was one of oldest and best example of fight for human survival in Indian history, has slowly transformed into today’s Mumbai (or Greater Mumbai).

 “All things exist in sevens, since it is the nature of the universe to exist in sevens” – Enoch Tan, creator of Mind Reality

7 days in a week, 7 deadly sins, 7 notes in music, 7 colors in a rainbow, 7 states of matter, 7 continents of the World, 7 seas, snow white’s 7 dwarfs so on and so forth…

The story of Mumbai also starts with 7 – The Seven Islands of Bombay.

 Once upon a time there was an archipelago of lush green seven islands, dotted with 22 hills at the west coast of India, with the Arabian sea washing through them at high tide. These were the habitat of Kolis, the local indigenous people of western India whose main means of living was fishing.They consisted of Bombay, which was only 24 km long and 4km wide from Dongri to Malabar Hill (at its broadest point) and was the main harbour and nucleus of British fort around which the city grew, Colaba, Old Woman’s Island, Mazagaon, Worli, Parel and Mahim.

The East India Company saw Bombay's potential and leased all the seven islands from the British Crown in 1668 for an annual rent of 10 pounds. The visionary governor, General Aungier, who tool over in 1669, set out to plan the city. The British began building themselves a Fort to live in, docks trade from, and a mint and a printing press to press home their hold over their new properties. All this was, in fact centered on Da Orta's crumbling home, which we resurrected as Bombay Castle.

The British settled themselves in their sea-front Fort, sharing it reluctantly with the more prosperous of the Indian communities, like the Parsis, the Banias and the Bohras. The rest of the incoming Indian communities settled around the bazaar area.

Bombay's fine harbour made it an ideal trading centre and it flourished. Warehouses, counting houses and wharves where Bombay actually lived, and lifeblood was the trade boom, as skilled shipswrights built sturdy vessels of Malabar teak.

Zoroashtrains who fled presecution in Persia in the seventh century, the Parsis, were an enterprising community that fuelled much of Bombay's growth. The Parsi merchant-princes of the 18th and 19th centuries - the Wadias, the Camas, the Jeejeebhoys, the Tatas - not only propelled trade but also endowed Bombay with amenities.


By the 1850s, then, Bombay was a mix of cultures and already distinct from other colonial or traditional Indian urban settlements. This was when the city actually took off. The cotton boom of the mid-1800s spawned the textile industry, with the Bombay spinning and Weaving Company at Tardeo being the first mill to come up in 1854. These mills mushroomed in areas like Tardeo, Lalbaug and West Parel and were run by migrants from the Deccan and the Konkan.

This, in fact was how Bombay was able to cash in on the sudden surge in demand for cotton during the American Cival War, with opening of Suez Canal the trade also got boost with demand from Europe. By 1870s Bombay had become a Manufacturing base from trading hub. 

During the last decade of 19th century the city started getting institutionalized building docks like London, setting up Bombay Municipal Corporation, got itself horse drawn tramways, first chamber of commerce and then a stock exchange. The City Gazzetteer records that in December 1864, there were 31 banks, 16 financial associations, 10 shipping companies, 20 insurance companies and 62 joint stock companies in Bombay.

A range of public institutions came up like Telegraph Office (1874), the General Post Office (1872), the Secretariat (1874), The High Court (1878) and the Victoria Terminus (1888). There was a distinct architectural unity of these buildings, making Bombay a prime example of post-industrial urban design.

By the turn of the 19th century, Bombay had expanded exponentially with impressive array of buildings and efficient civil superstructures and a network of transport and communications. It was poised to become the commercial capital of India.

Mumbai is also the film capital of India with over 300 feature films each year. Film stars, Mumbai's night life are also among the popular attractions of the city. 

The city also played a major role in the birth of modern India. The first session of the Indian National Congress that spearheaded the Independence movement was held in Mumbai in 1885 and the Quit India movement, which culminated in the ouster of the British, was also launched from there in August 1942.

In independent India, the state of Bombay was divided on basis of language to form Maharashtra and Gujarat. Bombay becoming the obvious choice of capital for Maharashtra. 

Over the period the city has grown beyond its capacity to accommodate migrant population that come here to make their fortune. Spilled over the neighboring towns of Navi Mumbai and Thane.

The Reclamation and merging of seven islands.

City authorities also went about systematically reclaiming land from seas and developing it. Under the first project, causeways were developed over small creeks of Umarkhadi and Pydhonie to join Mazagaon to Bombay. The Colaba causeway was completed in 1838 joining Colaba, Old Woman’s Island and nearby small islands to Bombay. In 1870, the hills of Chinchpokli and Byculla area were quarried and thrown into the sea, to fill up the gaps around railway lines and land masses. The Bombay City Improvement trust completed reclamation of a massive 90,000 square yards of land alongside the west coast of Colaba by 1905. Later to accommodate the exponentially growing population major constructions happened in Bombay from 1870 to 1970 which ended with the Backbay Reclamation.

Back Bay (Marine Lines) and Girgaum Chowpatty as spotted from Malabar Hill)

The Supreme Court slowed down the reclamation since 1970 in the interest of protecting the shoreline and fishermen. And the Supreme Court has added more restriction in 1990s with the Coastal Regulatory Zones. 

Go back to Exploring - Bombay to Mumbai

 Goa - Pearl of the Orient

Sun kissed beaches, palms, cashew plantations, forts, centuries old cathedrals, Goan fish curry rice, cashew fenny dominate, back waters, festivals, flea markets, Santa Monica Cruise Ride, Spice Farms and a very relaxed style of life is what Goa is all about.

Goa also known as the "The pearl of the orient" is an ideal holiday destination to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Goa lies on the west coast of India, the 25th State in the Union of States of India, were liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961 after a 500 year reign. A period long enough to have Portuguese colonial influence which brings in a 'East meets West culture', makes Goa a attractive tourist destination attracting tourists from all over the world.

There is a lot more to discover here than the exquisite pleasure of warm sand between your toes. Pep up your stay with a wander around a vanilla-scented spice plantation, stroll the bird-filled banks of the state's gentle rivers, poke around centuries-old cathedrals, and venture out to white-water waterfalls. Venture out for fishing or crab catching or visit nearby islands. Trek in the Jungles, go for a canoe rides in rivers cutting across deep forests. Try a hand at snorkelling or other adventure sports.

Goa can be enjoyed round the year; but the best time to visit Goa is from mid July to September end or November end to mid February.

Night life in Goa, shack Parties, terrace top parties, cruise ship parties, barge parties, dance the night away to the vibrant tunes of Trance music. Never mind even if you are not a party animal, Goan Nightlife has something for everyone. The lazy bones can stretch around a bonfire on the beach front and watch the sea tides washing the shore.

 If you arrive on a Saturday you can step into Ingo Saturday night bazaar at Arpora. A fun spot with no cover charge, you can experience a shopping extravaganza with food, sights and entertainment from all over the world.

For Goa  4 Days Holiday Plan click here

For Goa 4 Days on a shoe string budget click here (Group booking only).

More about Goa

Arambol beach

With its Bohemian atmosphere, Arambol has long been a destination for many of the long-term hippies, youthful backpackers, Found in India’s northern Goa, it is also a popular backward retreat for the partygoers of nearby Anjuna Beach, the so-called "Freak Capital of the World."

The largest coastal village in the Pernem district, Arambol has some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the entire Goa region. Characterized by a calm atmosphere, old wooden fishing boats, soda-white sands, swaying palm trees, and traditional village houses, the beaches beg to be swum in. Watching the dolphins, relaxing by the shores or just taking in the charming nature are other suitable activities. Arambol, however, doesn't pulsate with vibrant nightlife so those who feel the urge to party would do best to head to Anjuna, and return when it is time to rest.

Tourists can go trekking to a small freshwater lake found near the beach. Hidden behind dense jungle foliage, it is noted for its hot springs that are lined with sulfuric mud. This mud in particular is said to possess curative effects which make some visitors lather it on their bodies. One can also see nearby a stone carving called the "Money Stone" alongside a sprawling banyan tree. Sculpted by the American Conceptual and Land Art artist Jacek Tylicki, it bears an inscription stating: "give if you can; take if you have to," and passers-by often leave or take some money.

Don’t forget to try line of Shack that serve multi cuisine along the beaches.

There is also the Teracol Fort found by the banks of the Teracol River, used by the Portuguese in defending the land years before. Visitors can still make out some of its old turrets, and even its moat, though now dry. One, too, can glimpse inside the Chapel of St. Anthony that brandishes a distinct classical Goan-style façade.

Tiracol fort

Drive down to the northernmost tip of Goa. Mounted on a rocky plateau is theTeracol fort. 45km from Panaji. Once a key Portuguese fort for the defense of Goa, it now converted to  low-key luxury hotel. In the forts square is the four-hundred-year-old chapel of St.Anthonys. Set amidst beautiful surroundings with the lovely backwaters on one side and the lush green forests on the other makes it worth a climb to the top. You can reach the base of fort you need to take a ferry from the hamlet of Querim beach. 

Mandrem

By its rustic ambience, Mandrem takes us back in time. The northern village of Pernem has been surrounded by a hill-range covered with caju plantations and a shoreline with a twin-beach buckle. It's known for fine Goan feni and expert stonecarvers

Stay at a beach Resort in Mandrem. Surrounded by coconut palms, the resort ensures a comfortable stay in 35 traditional huts with an enchanting sea view. Classical Indian concerts and live DJ shows are organised on Sunday evenings

Chapora fort

 Built by Adi Shah of Bijapur on the southern most headline of the Chapora river, it was intented as the border watch post to see various Hindu raiders  during the 17th centuary. Later the  Portuguese took control of Goa and re-built the fort in 1617.

This is the fort where the shooting of the famous Film Dil Chahta hai. You can get a scenic view of Vagator and Anjuna beaches from the southern ramparts, and of Morjim Beach from the Northern ramparts.

 Vagator beach

The beach lies on the northern side of the Bardez taluka. Offering a stretch of soft white sands, coconut palms, and a scenic view of the Arabian Sea, Vagator Beach has dramatic red cliffs looking down on the shore and two fresh water springs within a stone's throw of the sea.

Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach is popularly known as the freak capital of the world. It claimed popularity for its Trance Parties and the Hippies who tried to synthesize the spiritual traditions of the East and the art, ideas and the music of the West. Anjuna comes live with its ever-famous full-moon parties and the Wednesday flea market to take one on to a trance trip.

Calangute beach

 This palm fringed beach was first discovered by the hippies. Bringing hordes of European tourist calangute beach is the haven for hippies.  The beach is lined with shacks and stalls under the shade of palm trees selling everything from fried prawns and beer to trinkets made of seashells.  You can also have you fill of adventure with parasailing, water-skiing, wind-surfing and dolphin trips. With a mind-blowing nightlife, bustling flea markets and generous contributions of history, you can let your spirits scale high on the sky of experience.

Tambdi Surla

A 8 km trek to Tambdi Surla temple situated at about 18 km from the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary ghat. It is the only surviving structure of the Kadamba Yadava dynasty. Thus it is the oldest temple of Goa that survived from the Portuguese as it was set next to a stream in the middle of the small clearing, hidden in the dense.

Spice Village 

Spice village an organic spice farm is situated at the foot of the Western Ghats, on the banks of the river Khandepar. It is about an hours’ drive from the capital city of  Panaji. It is 7 kms from the temple town of Ponda. This 50 acre farm has almost all the tropical spices and fruits along with about 2500 species of garden plants and flowers.

 You will given a traditional welcome with a Garland  and a shower of flowers and a welcome drink. Followed by a tour around the plantation with well trained guides who will expain the various spices and the medicinal use.  You will then be lead to the sitting area and served a local Hindu village lunch.

Old Goa

Old Goa, the erstwhile  capital of the Portuguese  domination, and the regal capital Sultan Adil Shah of Bijapur  before the arrival of the Portuguese on the Goan shores, witnesses a   profusion of magnificent churches and majestic buildings- Sé Cathedral (St Catherine’s Cathedral), Francis of Assisi Church and Archeological, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Tomb of St Francis Xavier

Panaji

Located on the western coast of India, Panjim or Panaji is situated at the distance from Dabolim Airport in Goa. Panaji is the smallest but pleasant state capital The church on the main square, the Baroque architecture, pretty villas, cobbled streets and interesting buildings give Panaji a distinctly Portuguese ambience.. The Old Portuguese quarter of Fontainhas, a charming section of Panaji with its narrow cobbled streets, quaint taverns, tiny pubs and bars, are a nostalgic kickback to the days of yore.

Dona Paula

At the place where two famous rivers meet the Arabian Sea lies the once secluded bay of Dona Paula with the fine view of Marmugao Harbour. This place carries with it an aura both romantic and mythical. Here's a peek into this enigmatic scene.

Dona Paula is nestled on a rocky, hammer shaped headland. This former fishing village has now become a commercialized location for beach resorts and restaurants. With the romance and myth attached to it, tourists throng the Dona Paula beach and Jetty in search of the mystery, besides indulging in water sports.

 Top River Rafting Locations in India

India has many locations where white water rafting adventure sports is gathering popularity by the day. These rivers are located in locations well above 10,000 feet above sea level in the Himalayas to few hundred feet above mean sea level in the Western Ghats of India. The variety varies from high altitude above the tree line Grand Canyon type landscapes of in Ladakh and the every green Conifer forest in Himalayas to Deciduous and Tropical forest and hills in Western plains of India.

Rafting or whitewater rafting is a challenging recreational activity utilizing a raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. This is usually done on whitewater or different degrees of rough water.

River Rafting Grades: What do the classes mean?

Grade I:   Small, easy waves; mainly flat water

Grade II: Mainly clear passages; some areas of difficulty

Grade III:  Difficult passages; narrow in places and with high waves

Grade IV: Very difficult, narrow and requiring precise manoeuvring

Grade V: Extremely difficult. Very fast-flowing waters which can be manoeuvred only by experts Grade VI: For all practical purposes, unmanageable- even suicidal

Contact for Inquiries and Booking: 

9619182010 / 9619182098 / info@natureknights.net

Top Places to Go Rafting in India

Rishikesh

Grades and Runs:

Chandrapuri-Rudraprayag (26 km, higher grades)

 Mandakini; Matli-Dunda (12 km, mixture of grades)

Jangla-Jhala (20 km, a mixture of grades)

Harsil-Uttarkashi, Dharasu-Chham (12 km, a mixture of grades) on the Bhagirathi.

Grades: Mix of 1 to 4

Season: September to June.

The Ganga at Rishikesh is one of the world’s best rivers to raft. A 16 km stretch from Shivpuri to Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh, rapids range from grade 1 to grade 4. Almost all the camps are located on the river bank, 13 to 22 kms out of Rishikesh town, on the road leading to Devprayag and Badrinath. The rapids in this 70-km stretch from Rishikesh to Devprayag are graded according to difficulty, so you can choose the rapids you wish to encounter according to your level of skill and expertise.

There are as many as 13 rapids with curious names like Return To Sender, Roller Coaster, Three Blind Mice, Double Trouble, Tee Off and Golf Course. An excellent combination of chilled and beautiful white sand river beaches against the scenic Kumaon Mountains, the best season to go there is from September to June.

Zanskar

Grade: Level IV

Best Season: July to August

The Zanskar river is one of the major tributaries of the Indus river. Doda river which flows along the main Zanskar valley towards Padum and Kargyag river which flows from Baralach La are the two main branches of Zanskar river. Doda and Kargyag rivers unite in the Zanskar valley forming the Zanskar river. The Zanskar river flows along the large canyon also known as the grand canyon of asia and joins the Indus river near Nimmu in Leh.

Zanskar River is one of the best white water rafting sites in India with rapids ranging up to III and IV along the river.

Rafting is held between Padum and Zimo regions in the Zanskar river gorge at the height of 12000 feet of the sea level. Walls of mountains rise to hundreds of feet on both sides. The rafting route ends as the river merges with the Indus. The route passes through some very rough terrains and remote places in Ladakh. Best time to go is July to August as the river freezes during winters.

River Indus on Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

The Indus River, locally known as the Singhe Khababs (out of Lion’s mouth), flows across the north west to the south east, passing through Ladakh and flows into Pakistan where it joined Shayok and Suru to become major historical Indus River. Landscape around Indus comprises of  deep gorges, towering snow-capped peaks, hilltop monasteries, hillside villages, Ladakh offers a range of rafting options on the Indus and its major tributaries. The rafting season begins in the months of June upto late August on the river Indus when the water levels are high. Tamer in comparison to the more rugged water flow of the river in Nepal, rafting is more commonly done from (Phey to Sasphol) Spitok to the Indus-Zanskar confluence at Nimmu, and from Nimmu to the ancient temple complex at Alchi, graded an average of 2-3. The more challenging route lies between Alchi and Khalsi, which takes in the kilometre long series of rapids at Nurla.

Bhagirathi River

Grade:  Levels 3 and 4

Season: October to Mid-May.

Total Length: 150 KMs.

The source of the Ganges is at the Gangotri glacier whose melting waters form the Bhagirathi river. The Bhagirathi river flows for approximately 320 kms through spectacular scenery until it reaches Devprayag where it merges with the Alaknanda river to become the Ganges.

Gorges, charming villages and white sandy beaches, the Bhagirathi offers 150 kms of pure white water rafting thrill. Rated as a class IV river (demanding), the Bhagirathi river expedition is considered as one of the best river trips in the Indian Himalayas. The raft run is down the lower Bhagirathi gorge and is graded between levels 3 and 4. Rapids like “Elephant rock”, “The Chute”, “Sharp S”, “Confluence rapids” are encountered till Bhagirathi’s confluence with the Alaknanda at Devprayag to form the Ganga. Further ahead are the best rapids of the Ganga, ‘Daniel Dip’ and ‘The Wall’. The best season for a rafting adventure falls between October and mid-May.

Teesta river, Sikkim and Darjeeling

Grade: IV

Stretch:

Best Season: October to April

The Teesta River is said to be the lifeline of the Indian state of Sikkim, flowing for almost the entire length of the state and carving out verdant Himalayan temperate and tropical river valleys. The river then forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal before joining the Brahmaputra as a tributary in Bangladesh. The total length of the river is 309 km. The rugged Teesta River, the main river of Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong Hill Region, with a series of rapids with varying intensity, has been rated at Grade 4. The turbulent Rangit, a tributary of the Teesta, with its multi-dimensional rapids, it offers a challenge to more experienced rafters. In Teesta rafting is confined to the winter months, between October and April. Spring or early summer is ideal for river rafting. Paddle rafting and oar rafting can be done in the Teesta River.

Brahmaputra River Rafting Expedition

Grade: IV

Stretch: 180 KMS

Best Season: November to March.

Both mystifying and ferocious, the river finds its way down from the Tibet region by cutting Greater Himalayas and then enters Arunachal Pradesh from where the expedition initiates. A week long run in the river of Brahamputra takes the rafters through remote hill sides with a few tribal settlements in thick rainforests. The expedition starts from Tuting in Arunachal Pradesh on the Subansari river, the primary tributary of the Brahmaputra, and ends after 180 kms of rafting at Pasighat.  The trip also gives an excellent exposure to remarkable sceneries and unparalleled locations making this river’s white water rafting amongst premier expedition in India.

The rafting is rated at Level IV. What makes it doubly interesting is the area has virgin beauty, Arunachal Pradesh being closed for tourism until recent days. The best rafting season for Bramhaputra is November to March.

Kali/Sharda River Rafting Expedition

Best Season: May to June or September to November.

Kali (also known as Sharda) in India while Mahakali in Nepal, originates in the Pithorgarh district of Uttarakhand. It is located along the border of India and Nepal; and forms a natural eastern boundary between India and Nepal.

The Mahakali River trip is an exciting river journey along scenic terraced cultivation of the quaint and remote Kumaoni villages, coupled with sparkling water and wonderful sandy beaches. Even the drive is quite adventurous and picturesque which takes us through many important towns of Kumaon. This trip promises a wilderness journey of a lifetime with view of various wild animals, and birds, while rafting through the pristine, and deserted environment. Put-in point for rafting varies according to the season, starting at Jauljibi / Jhulaghat for pre-snowmelt season (March / April) and Pancheswar for post-snowmelt season (May / June or Mid-Sept / Oct / Nov).

Pancheswar is also a famous fishing site for the mighty Mahseer and a rafting expedition could be combined with an angling trip.

Tons in Garhwal

Grade: III, IV and V

Garhwal, the part of Uttarakhand that borders Himachal Pradesh is the home of the river Tons. Rising from the Bandarpunchh Mountain range at 20,720 ft., the river is the biggest Yamuna tributary and is believed to have more water than the Yamuna itself. The Tons river expedition provides you the thrill of running a river that have grade 3-4 and even some grade 5 rapids. It is considered to be one of the most challenging white-water rivers to run in the country and has a lot of adventure to offer.

It is considered as one of the most challenging white water river rafting expeditions in the country today.

The Tons Valley is a remote area and has a culture unlike any other in the region. The villagers in the Tons valley are believed to be descendents of the Pandavas and Kauravas from the epic Mahabharata. It also has some uncommon traditions such as that of polygamy.

Kolad, Maharashtra

Grade: II, III

Run: 14 Kilometers.

Season: Round the Year (But best experience Monsoon  July to September).

Kundalika, the fastest river of the South, at Kolad, is an excellent rafting destination South of the Himalayas. Situated amidst the magnificent Sahyadris, the almost 14-kilometre stretch of rapids along this river provides ample opportunities for an exciting experience. Rapids range between Class II & III. The best months for rafting are in the months of monsoon when the water levels are high.

Barapole in Coorg

Grade: 2 to 4.

Best Season: June to September.

River Barapole in Coorg, Dakshina Kannada, specially the upper river, provides excellent rafting opportunities. Situated in the Western Ghats edging along the Deccan Plateau, the grades range between 2 and 4.There are approximately 4 to 5 rapids in the regular upper section & about 6 to 7 rapids in the lower section, these rapids depending on water levels are between grade 2 to 3 or 4. The best season to raft is in the monsoon and post-monsoon months of June to September.

Dandeli is yet another popular white water rafting spot in Karnataka that offers both long and short runs along the river.

You may also want to explore some of our other links given below:

Few camping options in Maharashtra

Custom Treks in Maharashtra 

Our Corporate Services​   

Team Building Program 

Some of our credentials 

Adventure Hobbies - Know more  

Our upcoming events, trips and treks  

​Why us

 River Rafting Sport - An Introduction

A Paper on River Rafting Sport

Rafting or whitewater rafting is a challenging recreational activity utilizing a raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. This is usually done on whitewater or different degrees of rough water, in order to thrill and excite the raft passengers. The development of this activity as a leisure sport has become popular since the mid 1970s.

Classification of whitewater

The most widely used grading system is the International Grading System where whitewater (either an individual rapid, or the entire river) is classed in six categories from class I (the easiest and safest) to class VI (the most difficult and most dangerous). The grade reflects both the technical difficulty and the danger associated with a rapid, with grade I referring to flat or slow moving water with few hazards, and grade VI referring to the hardest rapids which are very dangerous even for expert paddlers, and are rarely run. Grade-VI rapids are sometimes downgraded to grade-V or V+ if they have been run successfully. Harder rapids (for example a grade-V rapid on a mainly grade-III river) are often portaged, a French term for carrying. A portaged rapid is where the boater lands and carries the boat around the hazard.
A rapid's grade is not fixed, since it may vary greatly depending on the water depth and speed of flow. Although some rapids may be easier at high flows because features are covered or "washed-out," high water usually makes rapids more difficult and dangerous. At flood stage, even rapids which are usually easy can contain lethal and unpredictable hazards.

Class 1: Very small rough areas, requires no maneuvering. (Skill Level: None)

Class 2: Some rough water, maybe some rocks, small drops, might require maneuvering. (Skill Level: Basic Paddling Skill)

Class 3: Whitewater, medium waves, maybe a 3-5 ft drop, but not much considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering. (Skill Level: Experienced paddling skills)

Class 4: Whitewater, large waves, rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed. (Skill Level: Whitewater Experience)

Class 5: Whitewater, large waves, large rocks and hazards, maybe a large drop, precise maneuvering (Skill Level: Advanced Whitewater Experience)

Class 6: Whitewater, typically with huge waves, huge rocks and hazards, huge drops, but sometimes labeled thusly due to largely invisible dangers (i.e., a smooth slide that creates a near-perfect, almost inescapable hydraulic, as at Woodall Shoals/Chattooga). Class 6 rapids are considered hazardous even for expert paddlers using state-of-the-art equipment, and come with the warning "danger to life or limb." (Skill Level: Expert)

Whitewater rafts

Rafts were originally the simplest form of man’s transportation in water and were then made of several logs, planks or reeds which were fastened together. Nowadays, inflatable were used as rafts which were later adopted by the military for beach assaults. It consists of very durable, multi-layered rubberized or vinyl fabrics with several independent air chambers. Its length varies between 3.5 m (11 ft) and 6 m (20 ft), the width between 1.8 m (6 ft) and 2.5 m (8 ft). The exception to this size rule is usually the packraft, which is designed as a portable single-person raft and may be as small as 1.5m long and weigh as little as 4 lbs.
Rafts come in a few different forms. In Europe the most common is the symmetrical raft steered with a paddle at the stern. Other types are the asymmetrical, rudder-controlled raft and the symmetrical raft with central helm oars. Rafts are usually propelled with ordinary paddles and typically hold 4 to 12 persons. In Russia rafts are often hand made and are often a catamaran style with two inflatable tubes attached to a frame. Pairs of paddlers navigate these rafts. Catamaran style rafts have become popular in the western United States as well, but are typically rowed instead of paddled.

Rivers with high current is used for White water rafting. Specially, White Water Rafting is popular in Himalayas due to high current of water falling through hills and rocky mountains.

HOW TO HANDLE YOUR RAFT IN THE WHITE WATER

HOW DO WE GET ALL OF THIS TO WORK TOGETHER?

If you are interested in some of the tips and tricks to properly navigate your boat down the river, take a few minutes to read some of the things that we teach you just before you get on the river. This is not a complete instruction, but you'll get some goodies here that you'll want to hear a bit more about before you take off for your first run.

THE BASICS TO GET STARTED

Well, part of the fun is figuring it out for yourself, but if you are going to get your feet wet, and want to know a bit more about it, here it is.

First you decide on what type of trip: Guided, Group Guide Assisted, or Rental.

Then you choose the length of the trip you would like to try. Usually a full river.

Then you select your boat size and style based on the size of your group.

Then you are ready to go, right? Not yet anyway.

When you get your boat, and you are ready to pile in and make a go of it, there are a few things to consider. The most important is how to position your paddlers. Consider weight and paddling strength as your primary factors. You want to balance the weight and paddling power, so when you call "All Forward", you go straight, and not left or right. It will be up to the guide, or the boat captain to steer the boat, so if you are fighting an unbalanced boat, its going to make you do a bit of additional work if you are going to keep the boat straight.

You as a guide can use your paddle behind your hip like a rudder on a sail boat. Holding the blade back and forth in the water to move the rear of the boat. When you move the rear of the boat, the front is going to angle also. Remember, it is best to steer the boat, or change it's direction when the boat is moving, but not under full power. You call "All Forward", and the boat begins to move forward. You make wide sweeps with your paddle from behind the boat to the side, and from the side of the boat to the rear of the boat when you need to make solid corrections. Minor adjustments can be made using the rudder technique. It is more effective to yell, "All Rest", and make your correction strokes, then "All Forward Again". If you need to slow down, you can call "All Back", and everyone will back paddle to slow you down.

If you really need to turn fast or you want to spin while paddling through some curling waves, you can call "Right Back, and Left Forward", or you can use the reverse to get the other side of the boat wet.

The basic idea of navigating the river is "Turn the Boat, Paddle Forward, then Turn the Boat and Paddle Forward". When you are paddling, and you look ahead and see a big rock, you need to get back to the basics. Turn the Boat, paddle forward far enough to clear the rock, then turn the boat back straight, and either rest, or paddle forward. Practice fine tuning your steering, because you never know when you will need to make that precise adjustment.

WE ARE STUCK ON A ROCK, NOW WHAT DO WE DO?

Well, you can wait until the river goes down, and then get out and carry your raft to the bank! . Or you can helplessly jump up and down in the boat and yell at everyone else for not being in sync with you. Or maybe you pump out a few wise cracks about that extra biscuit you ate this morning. Or you can listen to all of the other rafters passing by that think they have a solution for you. Or maybe some friendly river guide will be passing by and give you a bump. If all of that doesn't work, then you must be really stuck, and might need a bit more ideas. Well, here they are! Remember that there are two major factors here to consider. One is the weight of the passengers in the craft (not the biggest factor), the other is the location of the rock that is holding you, and last but not least, the water factor. This will work in just about every situation you find yourself in except for the fact that you just floated into the Raft

Cradle or the Raft Trap

Find the location of the rock that has a hold of the bottom of your raft. Move the largest amount of the weight to the other end of the raft. Lean way out of the raft, away from the rock, and use your paddles against the strongest part of the curent to pull you off of the rock. Try to twirl it off of the rock.

Don't fight the water, it always wins. Use the water to help you lift the side of the boat. If you can slowly lift one side of the boat, just enough that you can get a flow of water back under the boat, you can break the suction on the rock and usually break free. Prior to your rafting trip, we will tell you about undercut rocks and foot entrapments. Pay very close attention. These are very real dangers.

If that doesn't work, someone always ends up getting out of the raft, and giving it a shove or two. Just remember, the rocks are slippery. If you are going to get out of your boat despite the dangers, do it on the up river side of the raft. Never take your hands off of the raft, and always try to keep your torso over the side of the raft. If you slip, you'll bounce on the raft, and save an unexpected dip in the water. Just remember that foot entrapments are real and you should keep your foot movement to an absolute minimum.

The best option is to wait a few more minutes. There will generally be another boat behind you with a qualified guide to give you a bump, or shove, or even get out of his craft and get you off of the rock.

I FELL OUT OF THE BOAT, NOW WHAT?

Well, we will show you the recommended swim position for the river. Lay on your back, feet downstream, and float to safety. Push off of any rocks that might get in your way, and use your arms to paddle to safety. Personally, I turn over on my stomach, and swim back to the raft. What happens if you cannot swim back to your raft? Well, you'll have to swim to the bank, unless you want to do a bit more floating. Just remember, don't stand up until you can sit on the bottom of the river keeping your head above water, or you can do a pushup on the floor of the river and still keep your head well above the water. Foot entrapment or not, you'll be Ok. Hang on to your paddle, it might be the last couple of extra inches that you need to get someone in the boat to pull you back close enough that you can get back in. You can always find your raft, and your buddies. But will they let you back in the boat if you have lost your paddle? We'll tell you how to help a passenger back in the raft using the life jacket as handles. I know what you're thinking. How in the world can I get him back in the raft? I can't pick him up! We'll also tell you a little secret about that too. Just remember what a cork does when it is shoved under the water. On the count of three, just a little shove down into the water makes the feet really start kicking, and they'll pop right out of the water like a cork. This really works good on Dad's when they fall out!

Don't you tell him I told you to do that!!

If you happen to get tossed out of the boat at the end of your run, amidst all of the excitement, you might hear someone yell "ROPE"! That's your cue that help is on it's way. Many people enjoy setting up at the falls to catch what we call "River Carnage". When you hear "ROPE", look up and reach! Someone is throwing you a rope. Just grab onto the rope, pull your hands in close to your chest, route the rope over your shoulder, lay on your back, and hang on. The rope, current, and your weight all work together to quickly swing you to the bank of the river. A quick smile, and a big "thanks" are really appreciated by the rope throwers. Don't forget, Pat King just took your picture at the falls. Those pictures are the ones you really want to hang on the wall.

They'll be talking about them for years to come.

These are some of the things that you'll get in our safety briefing and river instructional, and we make it fun! We cover all aspects of Safety, and try to cover the most likely situations that you might experience while on the river.
The more you know, the more comfortable you will be, and the more you will enjoy the wonderful sport of White Water River Rafting.

About Whitewater

Whitewater is formed in a rapid, when a river’s gradient drops enough to disturb its laminar flow and create turbulence, e.g. form a bubbly, or aerated and unstable current; the frothy water appears white. The term is also used loosely to refer to less-turbulent but still agitated flows.
The term "whitewater" also has a broader meaning, applying to any river or creek itself that has a significant number of rapids. The term is also used as an adjective describing boating on such rivers, such as whitewater kayaking.

Rapids

Four factors, separately or in combination, can create rapids: gradient, constriction, obstruction and flow rate. Gradient, constriction and obstruction are streambed topography factors and are relatively consistent. Flow rate is dependent upon both seasonal variation in precipitation and snowmelt and upon release rates of upstream dams.
Streambed topography
Streambed topography is the primary factor in creating rapids, and is generally consistent over time. Increased flow, as during a flood or high rainfall season can make permanent changes to the streambed by displacing rocks and boulders, by deposition of alluvium or by creating new channels for flowing water.

Gradient

The gradient of a river is the rate at which it loses elevation along its course. This loss determines the river's slope, and to a large extent its rate of flow. Shallow gradients produce gentle, slow rivers while steep gradients are associated with raging torrents.

Constriction
Constriction can form a rapid when a river's flow is forced into a narrower channel. This pressure causes the water to flow more rapidly (hence the name) and to react differently to riverbed events (rocks, drops, etc.)

Obstruction

A boulder or ledge in the middle of a river or near the side can obstruct the flow of the river, and can also create a "cushion"; a "drop" (over the boulder); and "hydraulics" or "holes" where the river flows back on itself--perhaps back under the drop--often with fearful results for those caught in its grasp. (Holes, or hydraulics, are so-called because their foamy, aerated water provides less buoyancy and can feel like an actual hole in the river surface.) If the flow passes next to the obstruction, an eddy may form behind the obstruction; although eddies are typically sheltered areas where boaters can stop to rest, scout or leave the main current, they may be swirling and whirlpool-like. As with hydraulics (which pull downward rather than to the side and are, essentially, eddies turned at a 90-degree angle), the power of eddies increases with the flow rate.

Stream flow rate

A marked increase or decrease in flow can create a rapid (where previously wasn't one), "wash out" a rapid (decreasing the hazard) or make safe passage through previously-navigable rapids more difficult or impossible. Flow rate is typically measured in cubic meters per second (cumecs), or in cubic feet per second (cfs), depending on the country.

Features found in whitewater

On any given rapid there can be a multitude of different features which arise from the interplay between the shape of the riverbed and the velocity of the water in the stream.

Strainers

Strainers are formed when an object blocks the passage of larger objects but allows the flow of water to continue - like a big food strainer or colander. These objects can be very dangerous, because the force of the water will pin an object or body against the strainer and then pile up, pushing it down under water. Strainers are formed by many different objects, like storm grates over tunnels, trees that have fallen into a river ("log jam"), bushes by the side of the river that are flooded during high water, or rebar from broken concrete structures in the water. In an emergency it is often best to try and climb on top of a strainer so as not to be pinned against the object under the water. If you are in a river, swimming aggressively away from the strainer and into the main channel is your best bet. If you cannot avoid the strainer, you should swim hard towards it and try to get as much of your body up and over it as possible.

Sweepers

Sweepers are trees fallen or heavily leaning over the river, still rooted on the shore and not fully submerged. Its trunk and branches may form an obstruction in the river like strainers. Since it is an obstruction from above, it often does not contribute to whitewater features but may create turbulence. In fast water sweepers can pose a serious hazard to paddlers.

Holes

Holes, or "hydraulics", (also known as "stoppers" or "souse-holes"), are formed when water pours over the top of a submerged object, causing the surface water to flow back upstream toward the object. Holes can be particularly dangerous—a boater may become stuck in the recirculating water—or entertaining playspots, where paddlers use the holes' features to perform various playboating moves. In high-volume water, holes dramatically aerate the water, possibly to the point where it may even lose the capacity to carry any water crafts.

Some of the most dangerous types of holes are formed by lowhead dams weirs, underwater ledges, and similar types of obstruction. In lowhead dams, the hole has a very symmetrical character - there's no weak point - and where the sides of the hydraulic are often blocked by a man-made wall, making it impossible to slip off the side of the hydraulic. Lowhead dams are insidiously dangerous because their danger cannot be easily recognized by people who have not studied whitewater.

Waves

Waves are formed in a similar nature to hydraulics and are sometimes also considered hydraulics as well. Waves are noted by the large smooth face on the water rushing down. Sometimes a particularly large wave will also be followed by a "wave train", a long series of waves. These standing waves can be smooth or, particularly the larger ones, can be breaking waves.

Because of the rough and random pattern of a riverbed, waves are often not perpendicular to the river's current. This makes them challenging for boaters since a strong sideways or diagonal wave can throw the craft off.

In fluid mechanics, waves are classified as laminar, but the whitewater world has also included waves with turbulence ("breaking waves") under the general heading of waves.

Pillows

Pillows are formed when a large flow of water runs into a large obstruction, causing water to "pile up" or "boil" against the face of the obstruction. Pillows can be dangerous because sometimes the object that forms the pillow is undercut and so paddlers can be swept underwater - possibly to be entrapped. Pillows are also known as "pressure waves".

Eddies

Eddies are formed, like hydraulics, on the downstream face of an obstruction. Unlike hydraulics, eddies swirl on the horizontal surface of the water. Typically, they are calm spots where the downward movement of water is partially or fully arrested - a nice place to rest or to make one's way upstream. However, in very powerful water, eddies can have powerful, swirling currents which can flip boats and from which escape can be very difficult.

Undercut rocks

Undercut rocks are rocks that have been worn down underneath the surface by the river. They can be extremely dangerous features of a rapid because a person can get trapped underneath them, under water. This is espcially true of rocks that are undercut on the upstream side. Here, a boater may become pinned against the rock underwater. Many whitewater deaths have occurred in this fashion. Undercuts sometimes have pillows, but other times the water just flows smoothly under them, which can indicate that the rock is undercut. Undercuts are most common in rivers where the riverbed cuts through sedimentary rocks like limestone rather than igneous rock like granite. In a steep canyon, the side walls of the canyon can also be undercut.
A particularly notorious undercut rock is Dimple Rock, in Dimple Rapid on the Lower Youghiogheny River in Pennsylvania. Nine people have died here, including three in 2000.

Sieves

Another major whitewater feature is a sieve, which is a narrow empty space that water flows through between two obstructions, usually rocks. Similar to strainers, water is forced through the sieve, resulting in higher pressures which forces water up and creates turbulencem


Whitewater Craft
A solo kayak paddler performs a high brace in foamy water. One of the hazards of whitewater paddling is that highly-aerated water decreases the effect of buoyancy.

There are many different types of whitewater craft that people use to make their way down a rapid, preferably with finesse and control. Here is a short list of them.

Whitewater Kayaks differ from sea kayaks and recreational kayaks in that they are specialized to deal with moving water better. They are often shorter and more maneuverable than sea kayaks and are specially designed to deal with water flowing up onto their decks. Most whitewater kayaks are made of plastics these days, although some paddlers (especially racers and "squirt boaters") use kayaks made of fiberglass composites. Whitewater kayaks are fairly stable in turbulent water, once the paddler is skillful with them; if flipped upside-down, the skilled paddler can easily roll them back upright. This essential skill of whitewater kayaking is called the “Eskimos Roll" or simply "Roll." Kayaks are paddled in a low sitting position (legs extended forward), with a two-bladed paddle.

Rafts are also often used as a whitewater craft; more stable than typical kayaks, they are less maneuverable. Rafts can carry large loads, so they are often used for expeditions. Typical whitewater rafts are inflatable craft, made from high strength fabric coated with PVC, Urethane, Neoprene or Hypalon. While most rafts are large multi-passenger craft, the smallest rafts are single-person whitewater craft Catarafts are constructed from the same materials as rafts. They can either be paddled or rowed with oars. A specialized cataraft, designed without any metal frame, is a Shredder. It was invented in 1982 by Tom Love is manufactured by his company Airtight Inflatables in Ohiopyle, Pa. A Shredder is specifically designed to be paddled. It is usually paddled by a two person crew, though highly skilled paddlers are able to negotiate extreme whitewater in a Shredder paddled as a solo boat. Typical catarafts are constructed from two inflatable pontoons on either side of the craft which are bridged by a frame. Oar propelled catarafts have the occupants sitting on seats mounted on the frame. Virtually all oar powered catarafts are operated by a boatsman with passengers having no direct responsibilities. Catarafts can be of all sizes. Many are smaller and more maneuverable than a typical raft.

Modern Whitewater Canoe

Canoes are often made of fiberglass, kevlar, plastic or a combination of the three for strength and durability. They may have a spraycover, resembling a kayak, or "open," resembling the typical canoe. This type of canoe is usually referred to simply as an "open boat." Whitewater canoes are paddled in a low kneeling position, with a one-bladed paddle. Open whitewater canoes have large airbags to prevent the boat from being swamped by big waves and holes. Like kayaks, whitewater canoes can be righted after capsizing with an Eskimo Roll, but requires more skill.

C1s are similar in construction to whitewater kayaks. However, they are paddled in a low, kneeling position. They employ the use of a one-blade paddle, usually a little shorter than used in a more traditional canoe. They will have a spraycover, essentially the same type used in kayaking. Like kayaks, whitewater canoes can be righted after capsizing with an Eskimo Roll.Mckenzie River Dory or "Drift Boat" by some. A more traditional "hard sided" boat. The design is characterized by a wide, flat bottom, flared sides, a narrow, flat bow, a pointed stern, and extreme rocker in the bow and stern to allow the boat to spin about its center for ease in maneuvering in rapids.

Have a nice rafting Adventure with Nature Knights

Asif

Explore more on White Water Rafting.. and other similar adventures..

One Day Program for White Water Rafting - Click here

An Introduction to White Water Rafting Sports

Know more about white water rafting sport

Top White Water Rafting Locations in India

Moonlight Kayaking and Camping

Few more pictures

Also check

Camping around Maharashtra

Trek around Maharashtra

Adventure club Programs 

 A Days Trip to Eco-Village

Eco-Summer Camp

Summer Camp with a Unique Eco-Experiences

Walking tour of Eco-Village; Bullock Card Ride; Warli Painting; Organic Farming; Nature Trail; Constructing Village Mud House; Unique Gokul Cattle Farm Shed; Vedic Cooking..

Also available in the complex (Swimming Pool; Adivasi Huts; Forest Cottages; Massage Centre; Pottery Workshop Centre; Handicraft Centre etc)..

Local  Eco-ransport

Click here to see more pictures of Eco-Village

Location: Govardhan Eco-Village

Duration: 1 Day

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Food: Vegetarian  (breakfast, Lunch and Evening Snack).

Commercials:

Does not include:

Meals if any during travel; Shopping; Tips; Any thing that is not part of the standard package.

Includes: Activities as per summer camp plan in Eco-village; Stay; Food (2 Lunch, 2 Dinner; 1 Breakfast; 1 Evening Snack);

Excludes: Travel cost; Any item ordered outside standard package with Eco-Village;

How to reach campsite? Either drive down ; or Train + Local Public transport bus or pickup Van

Botanical Garden

Nursery

Complex for Stay

Organic Farming

Waste Recycle

How to Reach directly?

From Mumbai

Eco Village is well connected by road from Mumbai, India’s business capital.   Eco Village is about 100 km from Mumbai. Visitors need to travel north along the western express highway. Traveling further along the Mumbai-Surat national highway (NH8) cross the toll gate at Virar and keep heading north. After traveling 28 km due north take a right turn at “Ten Naka”. You will see some land marks like Hotel Decent and Hotel Vegas just before reaching Ten Naka. After turning right at Ten Naka, travel another 3 km and be on a look out for a narrow turn right at “Hamrapur Phata”. Take the right turn along this narrow lane and follow the long winding road for another 7 km to reach “Galtare”, where   Eco Village is located.

From Palghar

 Eco Village can also be reached from Palghar which is 36 km from   Eco Village. From the Palghar, take the Manor highway and travel along the picturesque ghat road to reach Manor. Continue further along the same direction for 3 km to join the Mumbai-Surat national highway (NH8) at “Mastan Naka”. Take a right turn at Mastan Naka and head south 1 km to reach “Ten Naka”. Take a left turn and follow the route described above. There is a state run public transport bus at 7:30 AM from Palghar station, that drops you directly to   Eco Village. The destination bus stop is called “Galtare.”

By Train

The nearest railway station is Palghar Railway station which is 36 km away from   Eco Village. Palghar is well connected by train from Mumbai and Gujarat. From there travel by road as described above.

Visitors can also come via Mumbai and then reach   Eco Village by road. Mumbai is very well connected by rail to almost all the major cities in India.

 Lonavala Khandala

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” – T. S. Eliot.

“Lonavala”, What’s in the name?

Folklore, legends, mythology and a bit of history and culture, if we blend it well, makes the story of any place very interesting.

Once upon a time the entire region of Lonavala was covered in thick forest, the place was known as Lonali. Many explorers, adventurers and historians say that “Lonavala” its name is derived from the Sanskrit word Layan, which means to lay or relax. The local tribes then used to speak a local language or dialect called “Prakrit”, and called “len” as the place where you rest. Since the entire region was rocky, they termed it as “Avali”. The name evolved from Lenavali to Lonavala over the period.

History series… summary.

Present day Lonavala was a part of the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty. Later, the Mughals realised the strategic importance of the region and kept the region for an extended time. The forts in the region and the "Mavala" warriors played an important role in the history of the Maratha Empire and that of the Peshwas.

In 1871, the Lonavala and Khandala hill stations were again made popular by Lord Elphinstone, who was the Governor of Bombay Presidency at the time. It developed the reputation of being a travel destination in 1870s, when the British administrators of East India Company started using it as a vacationing/ hunting spot.

Bhor Ghat was an ancient trade route that connected Konkan Region Ports to Deccan plains of Peninsular India played an important role in making Lonavala more popular after the discovery of a route to make a motorable pass in Bhor Ghat came after information was provided by a local Dhangar tribesman called Shigroba. Later, the Great Indian Peninsula Railway laid a railway line from Mumbai to Pune. The section through Bhor Ghat with 28 tunnels, and old bridges was opened in 1863. The Ghat opened Mumbai to the Deccan plains of Peninsular India. The building of this railways was marked by many challenges and adventures but that story is for another time. Let’s come back to the present time and explore further as inquisitive travelers.

Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Karla caves, Bhaja Caves, Bhedse Caves, Tikona Fort, Scorpion's sting, Kathingad,  are some of the famous spots of historic importance in Lonavala. But there is so much more to be explored at Lonavala for an avid traveler and explorer… Fort, Caves, Hills and Valleys, Lakes, Eateries, Nature, Camping and Glamping Sites, Resorts, Farm Stays, Villas and Bungalows on rent come and explore with us. Let’s camp, glamp, trek, go on long exploring walking tours, cycling trips, become a local, experiment staying in villas, cottages or in remote basic home stays of rustic and humble homes of Adivasis. 

Exploring the know and lesser-known secrets of Lonavala and Khandala with NatureKnights

One of the most favorite monsoon holiday and picnic destinations for Mumbaikars and Punekars. It is at a height of 2050 feet / 620 meters above mean sea level. From Bombay Lonavala is 128 km by railway and 97 km by road. To Reach Lonavala Trains take about 2.30 hours from Mumbai and 1 hr from Pune. Local Trains from Pune take 1 hr 30 min. to reach Lonaval. There are 2 cinema theaters. Places worth visiting here for tourists are Bushi Dam, Nagpani, Rajmachi Point, Duke's Nose, Kune Point, Khandala Dari, Rye-wood Park, Tiger's Leap, Tungarli Lake, Valvan Dam, Yoga Institute, Ghambir Nath Caves, Bhusi Lake, I.N.S. Shivaji (A Navy Training Center) and for those seeking adventure seeking travel explorer Lonavala and Khandala has many hidden secrets to be explored and discovered.

Besides all these the Lonavala Chikki, fudge, Jellies, Jams are the most popular sweets over here. 

Caves And Forts (REQUIRES A LITTLE FURTHER EXPLORING, WALKING OR TREKKING)

Few Popular Treks around Lonavala / Khandala with distances mentioned are from Lonavala

Lohgad Fort14 km

VisapurFort 14 km

Korigad Fort 20 km

Tikona Fort - 25 km

Rajmachi Fort 20 km

• Rajmachi Trek - One Day Trek with Off-road Safari
• Rajmachi Overnight Camping in Wilderness, Trek and Off-road Safari
• Rajmachi One Day Trek from Karjat Side

Dukes Nose 8 km

Tungi or Kathingad Fort 24 km

Bedsa Caves 21 km

Bhaja Caves 14 km

Karala Caves 12 km

VILLAS AND COTTAGES FOR RENT AT LONAVALA / KHANDALA CLICK HERE

 

WAIT FOR THE DETAILED PAGE TO BE PUBLISED – WE WILL BE EXPLORING AND PUBLISHING MANY TRAVEL DIARIES AND STORIES ABOUT LONAVALA AND KHANDALA… SO KINDLY BOOK MARK THIS PLACE FOR FUTURE UPDATES.

PLACES THAT ARE EASY TO EXPLORE AND ENJOY.

• Rey Wood Park
• Bushi Dam
• Gambhirnath Caves
• Tiger's Leap
• Dukes Nose
• Khandala Valley
• Pavna Lake
• Tungarli Lake

​We will be sharing Camping, Glamping and Villa Options in a few days.

Rey Wood Park: 

Once a Botanical Garden, during the years of British Raj, initiated by ‘Mr. Rye’, has now been converted into a park frequented by picnickers. The Garden is spread over 25 acres of manicured land, the park provides lawns, that are equipped with swings where the children can play and have fun. Hence it is an ideal visiting spot for the tourists as well as for the local people, to sit on the clean wooden benches, stroll around the tall trees and relax with the near and dear once. Apart from the varieties of trees and flowering plants, the park also has an old Shiva Temple within its premises.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE - There are lot of temples around this place that you can pay a visit to like Shri Siddheshwar Temple, Koli Temple, Laxmi Mata Temple and Ram Temple. Apart from the temples, the Tiger’s Leap, Lonavala Lake, Bhor Ghat, Kune Falls, etc. also lie close to the park.

GETTING THERE - The park is located close to the Lonavala market and is just half a kilometer away from the railway station. To reach here you can easily get an auto-rickshaw or simply walk down. 

Bhushi Dam:
Ideal time to visit this place is in the month of August. The Dam overflows and fun lovers hate to miss this golden opportunity. The extra water overflows from the staircase like structure. This is like a outlet for the water and this is the point after coming where one feels like being in Lonavala that one has heard of. 

Gambhirnath Caves :
The most adventurous place over here is Gambhirnath Caves. This place lies between Monkey Hill and Thakarwadi while going towards Mumbai. After bearing some amount of nuisance you reach this place. Coming here includes climbing the narrow path on the hill. When you enter the cave, you will feel the underlying suspense and darkness in this place.

Tiger's Leap:
Popularly known as Vagdari. You will also find the Echo point over here. Nagphani and Tiger's Leap were close to each other, hence often visited at a time. 

Dukes Nose:
Also known as Nagphani, Duke's Nose is an ideal place for those who like adventures. Mahadevi temple has been built recently over here. At the end of rainy season Maharashtra's Everest "Kalsubai" is visible from here. After reaching Khandala when you walk a certain distance towards khopoli water electricity Centre, you can see a rock oddly penetrated into the hill, that is Duke's Nose.

Khandala Valley:
Popularly known as Khandal Dari or even Canino Trek for some. This is the only place which is advised not to be visited in the rainy season. The place is my favorite of all trekkers. This place lies in between Rajmachi Point and Rajmachi fort. You come across the Ulhas River in this valley. The easiest way to reach the bottom is to first reach the Kune point and then walk to the bottom.

Pavna lake: 
This beautiful Lake on Pavna Dam. 

Tungarli Lake:
This lake is at the north of S. T. Stand near Tungarli village. The hill gives a beautiful view of Rajamachi, Lohagad, Visapur fort and Lonavala City. 

 

Lakes And Dams
Lakes And Dams Name Distance from Lonavala 
Bushi Dam & Lake Approx 04.00 km
Lonavala Dam & Lake Approx 02.40 km
Pavna Dam & Lake Approx 32.00 km 
Shirota Dam & Lake Approx 11.00 km 
Tungarli Dam & Lake Approx 03.00 km
Valvan Dam & Lake Approx 03.00 km

Some Of the Other Points 
1. Rajmachi Point or Rock Garden: It is about 6.5 km from Lonavala Railway Station. Regular S.T. Buses run in between Rajmachi Point and Lonavala S.T. Stand.

2. Bairamji Point: It is 8 km from Khandala Station.

3. Reversing Point: It is near Rajamachi Point. It is known for its panoramic view.

4. Kune Point: Midway to Lonavala and Khandala On the highway. It is known for its scenic beauty.

5.Barometer Hills: It is 24 km from Lonavala Railway Station with Tungi and korigad fort is an extensive table and called sakur Pathar, famous for healthy climate.

6. Ambavane Village: It is 22 km from Lonavala.

7. I.N.S. Shivaji: This is a basic naval camp.

8. Kaivalydham: It is 22 km from Lonavla.

9. Tata Duct Line: 3 km from Khandala Railway Station

NOTE: THE AUTHOR/S MAKE NO CLAIMS FOR THE AUTHINTICITY OF ANY HISTORICAL OR ARCHEOLOGICAL OR CULTURAL CLAIMS. SUGGESTIONS ARE WELCOME. IF POSSIBLE, IT MAY OR MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE TO ADD YOUR SUGGESTIONS TO THE ONGOING UPDATES OF THE CURRENT PAGE, SO KINDLY EXCUSE US IF IT DOES NOT GO AS PER YOUR SUGGESTIONS.