Do you know that there is a Marathi school in Karachi, Pakistan? Yes, Pakistan Marathi School. It was really shocking for me for the first time when I read about the same. Being Maharashtrian and true Indian, this fact was unacceptable for me. Obviously, who will think that in Muslim dominated country like Pakistan can have Marathi school in Karachi.

As a resident of Mumbai, many friends, relatives ask me what are Top things to do in Mumbai or places to visit in and around Mumbai. What are different experiences that one can enjoy during Mumbai tour? Previously, I was not able to guide them properly but now I have the list of top things to do in Mumbai. Things that most Mumbaikars are also not aware of or have experienced all of them.

Velas Turtle Festival is all about an Olive Ridley turtles which are going to be endangered species if we don’t work on it right now. Hence, Velas Turtle Festival is held by an NGO (SNMC). I will be sharing all info below in my Blog. Be patient, if you want to know all about Olive Ridley Turtles and Velas Beach Turtle Festival. Here is the detailed travel guide for your tour planning and plotting. If you don’t want to plan and want to join group tours of Small Steps Adventures then directly visit – Velas Turtle Festival dates to opt for.

Hampi is the world heritage site in the Northern part of Karnataka state, with 50+ mind-boggling places to visit in Hampi. Magical Hampi attracts tourist from all over the world due to its famous laid-back hippie’s culture. Also, It’s backpackers Paradise as there is lot to explore, you just need to have time. People visit Hampi and get to know the architecture of Hindu temples, history of the lost city, go for rock climbing, dive into the river or go for sunset trek.

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.

We decided to visit at least 10 Konkan beaches and started with Shrivardhan beach first and then next day return journey was along the coastline exploring remaining Konkan beaches. West coast line i.e. Konkan beaches never disappoint if you are on road trip.  From Mumbai, we took Goa highway till Mangaon and then right turn for Shrivardhan.

Especially, tucked behind rolling hills of Gangapur and surrounded by the serenity of its calm climate, Sula Vineyards has got new avatar. Approximately, Sula Wines is 230 kms from Mumbai. Sula Wines was founded by Mr Rajeev Samant in 1998. Initially, he experimented with the crops such as mangoes, roses and teakwood and then he realized that climate and temperature of Nashik is best for growing wine grapes. In consultation with Kerry Damskey, Samant set up the first winery in the Nashik region of India. Sula was named after Samant’s mother ‘Sulabha’.