Western Ghat is famous for its rocky terrain & natural beauty that it offers in many ways. Such is the Kalavantin Durg near Panvel. It is the most dangerous trek near Panvel. Trek is divided into two parts – first one hour trek from base to the Prabalmachi Plateau which is a rest point and second is from Prabalmachi to Kalavantin Durg Top (Which makes it more difficult and interesting at the same time). The first half is very easy trek for beginners as well. Forest Trail starts from a big banyan tree at the Base Village where paid parking is available. Initially, you walk for 15 minutes and then gradually gain height while walking in the forest of Kalavantin Durg. Irshalgad, Prabalgad, Chanderi, Karnala is visible from the top.

The rainy season just started and the plan was to trek near Mumbai. Finally, Korigad fort was selected for trekking in Lonavala, Aamby valley region due to a scenic location. Korigad trek is one of the easy treks near Mumbai and Pune. Do read Lonavala-tourist travel guide if you are interested in exploring in and around the city.

Andharban trek is well known for its interesting specialities like waterfalls, streams, dense jungle walk and beautiful lakes at the beginning & end of the route. Andharban Jungle trek is highly recommended for all as its a descending trail. There is no ascend or any difficulty rock patch as such.

It was the end of summer and after the first rain, we decided to explore Konkan till Goa. We started our ride from Pune. It was our regular road till Tamhini ghat and it was very much familiar for us. Pune city didn’t enjoy the first rain as expected. The land was still dry as we came out of the city. As suggested by a senior biker, monsoon is the best season for a long bike ride like Goa route.

There are many unique experiences that Small Steps Adventures regularly offers to their customer base and such interesting event was – Midnight Cycling in Mumbai. I booked with the help of Ravi – 7738073691. I received confirmation mail with all details. They provide both Gear & non-geared cycles for both men and women. One can choose from the available options, if you reach early to the start point of Cycling in Mumbai.

Dodhani waterfall is located on the western side of Matheran hill station near Mumbai. There is road accessible from Panvel else one can trek down to Dodhani waterfall from Sunset point of Matheran. Approximately, two hours required to descend till Dodhani waterfall of Panvel region. Instead of that, one can drive from Panvel side till Dodhani village and trek for 30 mins to reach waterfall base. There state transport buses available from Panvel but one needs to inquire the recent Panvel to Dodhani bus Timings at Bus Depo. There were two-morning buses, one id at 6:00 AM & second at 7:00 AM.

Sailing in Mumbai Gateway of India was on my list since last year. But this time I booked a sail with Small Steps Adventures to celebrate my wedding anniversary. This was the surprise for my wife.

We decided to go for Lohagad Fort trek on a weekday just to avoid the crowd and enjoy the natural beauty to the fullest. On Tuesday morning after breakfast, we left from Navi Mumbai. Weather was awesome for Lohagad Fort trekking. Last 3 days, continuous rain in Mumbai was forcing me to go for trekking in Lonavala and suddenly plan made to hike with the parents.

Lohagad literally means a fort which is unbeatable & strong like Iron. It is one of the best treks near Mumbai & Pune. Being in Lonavala region, it attracts tourist on weekend due to its easy accessibility. During monsoon, it gets covered with dark clouds creating a good weather for trekkers. Lohagad is a part of western ghats & stands 3400 ft above sea level. Most importantly, it offers commanding view of Pawna Lake and surrounding region. Fort stands strong till date along with its twin fort Visapur. According to history, fort was under Maratha Empire for most of the time except 5 yrs of Mughal reign.

Pawna Lake Camping was on my list from last year but I was waiting for the perfect time. Mostly, winter is considered as the  best season for camping. After Diwali, I went to this Pavana dam for camping along with my wife. Before that, I searched for vendors online.