Posted: 01 Oct 2015 03:00 PM PDT

Garo Hills are in the north-westernmost tip of the famous Indo-Burmese Biodiversity Hotspot and especially South Garo Hills is considered to be one of the best places to watch and study butterflies, both for the amateurs as well as the professionals. The butterfly fauna is extremely diverse. Kuthe et al reported 298 butterfly species from the Garo Hills, eight of which are legally protected under Schedule I and 33 under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The team also projects that the total number of species could be nearing 600 to 650 and almost half of them remain yet to be described. Notable among many species found are like the Blue Begum, Scarce Jester and Pointed Palmfly, along with other rare species like the China Nawab and Stately Nawab.
This extremely rich biodiversity hotspot also offers you 'bonus' sightings of other wildlife like the Hoolock gibbon, Malayan giant squirrel and the hoary-bellied squirrel. During the expedition, we will be covering Baghmara Reserve Forest, Balpakram National Park, Siju Wildlife Sanctuary, Community forests. Team DCP is heading towards a thrilling expedition at the Garo hills this winter.
ITINERARY
Scheduled dates: 2nd to 8th October 2015
Optional Meghalaya road trip: 8th to 13th October 2015
Day 1: Guwahati / Baghmara
Drive from Guwahati to Baghmara. Baghmara is the district headquarters of South Garo Hills district and gateway to Balpakram NP and Siju WLS.
Overnight Stay at Karawani Homestay
Day 2: Karawani / Baghmara Reserve Forest
Butterfly watching at Karawani stream. Karawani stream is located in Karawani village, a forest village situated within Baghmara Reserved Forests. Karawani is considered as one of the hotspot for butterfly watching in Garo Hills. Beside butterfly, Karawani forests also harbor many rare birds, mammals, herps and plants including Meghalaya's endemic carnivore plant Pitcher Plant and Sundews. Overnight stay at Karawani Home-stay.
Day 3: Panda stream & Balpakram National Park.
Our nest destination will be Panda stream located in Panda village. The Panda stream originates from the Baghmara Reserve Forests and flow towards Bangladesh. This rocky and sandy stream provides ample opportunities to spot interest butterflies. Panda stream is good herping (frog & reptile)! We will be having our lunch at Panda village. After finishing our lunch we will proceed to Balpakram National Park which is about 55 km from the Panda village. Overnight stay at Mahedeo Forest Inspection Bungalow.
Day 4: Balpakram National Park.
Butterfly watching at Maheskola stream. Overnight stay at Mahadeo Forest Inspection bungalow.
Day 5: Balpakram National Park & Siju Wildlife Sanctuary
Butterfly watching at Balpakram National Park. Balpakram NP is covers an area of 220 sq.km. Along with rich wildlife, Balpakram NP is famous for its local cultural belief. Garos' believes that the soul after death rest at the Balpakram. At around 12:00 AM, after our lunch, we will be heading towards our next destination Siju. SijuWildlife Sanctuary, is around 100 km takes 3 hours drive. Overnight stay at Siju Tourist Lodge.
Day 6: Siju Wildlife Sanctuary
Butterfly watching at Siju Wildlife Sanctuary. Evening we will be visiting to Dobakol Cave which is situating close to the Siju Eco Camp. Overnight stay at Siju Tourist Lodge.
Day 7: Siju – Guwahati
Proceed to Guwahati from Siju Tourist Lodge.
STAY
Accommodation at all sites will be on twin sharing basis, consisting of a mix of camping tents and huts. At Baghmara and Balpakram accommodation will be mixture of camping tents and room. All the sites have common toilet facilities both western and Indian. Three meals per day will be provided during your entire trip – breakfast, lunch and dinner and morning and evening tea. Packaged lunch in the field, wherever necessary. Meal timing on all days (tentative) are morning tea at 6:00 am, breakfast at 6:30 am, lunch at 1:00 pm (packed lunch, if in the field), evening tea at 4:00 pm and dinner at 7:00 pm.
GETTING READY
Carrying your macro lens is a primary need. However, there are good opportunities to use wide angle lenses for landscapes as well.
Carry fully charged batteries for your camera / flash.
Carry battery charger. Carry extra pack of camera batteries
Carry backup memory cards / HDD storage drives, Laptop
Fill your camera bag with silica gel to protect your gadgets from moisture. They are available in chemist shops.
You must carry headlights / torches for the night search. Headlights make your both hands free to operate your camera.
We also advise you to carry protective footwear – gumboots are best. These boots give enormous confidence while walking through the forest floor or marshy areas. In case you are reluctant to use Gum Boots, do carry tough shoes (preferably covering upto ankle).
Carry Leech socks and way to use them will be demonstrated during workshops
Do carry protective rain gears for yourself and for your equipment. We find Ponchos very good
Carry basic first aid along with you. Carry regular medicines if you are on medication. Carry Odomos to keep you protected from mosquito bites. Carry Permite cream to keep you protected from tick bites.
FIELD LEARNING
On field learning from the experts is said to be one of the best methods of improving your skillsets. Our Wildlife Photography Expert will hand hold you at every possible step for a better understanding of perspectives, camera controls and how to make use of the best opportunities to get better images. The training will focus on the following
How to approach Wildlife in the field
Exposure control in field under difficult light conditions
Use of external lights and creative wildlife photography
Mastering metering techniques (Spot, partial, center weighted, evaluative)
Mastering auto focus, focusing points, AF locking and focus tracking for moving subjects
Framing and composition in the field
Ethics in Wildlife photography
EXPERT
Amit Rane is one of the most skilled Wildlife photographers in the DCP panel of experts. He has travelled extensively across Indian geography for more than 15 years and has in depth knowledge of difficult terrains spread across the Indian subcontinent. He has brilliant photography skills in all genre of Wildlife photography starting from bird photography to mammals, from landscapes to macro photography, from reptiles to amphibians. He is a trained Herpetologist and loves reptiles. He is a regular travel photographer and writer. He also has a deep interest in product and fashion photography. He has a fantastic teaching acumen. He is a trainer, biodiversity expert and Wildlife Photography advisor associated with DCP group since its inception.
COST
Write to us at info@dcpexpeditions.com to get the cost of the trip
The quoted cost will include
Accommodation
Meal in all sites.
Local guide to show you around all sites.
Community fee.
Park entry fees.
Pick up and dropping from Guwahati to Guwahati
Local transportation.
The post South Garo Hills Expedition, Meghalaya – October, 2015 appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 06 Oct 2015 10:00 PM PDT

INSTRUCTIONS FOR 21st IMF WEST ZONE SPORT CLIMBING COMPETITION 2015
21st IMF West Zone Sport Climbing Competition will be held from 7th October to 11th October 2015.
1. Lead, Speed & Bouldering Climbing competitions. for Men, Women, Junior boys & girls. (Only Lead competition for Sub-Junior boys & girls) will be held at Bombay Engineering Group & Centre, Kirkee, Pune-411003 (Bombay Sappers Rock Wall)from 7th October to 11th October 2015.
2. Qualifying Age. For Sub-juniors-Born in 2002 and after, Juniors- Born in 1999, 2000,2001 Open-17 years and above.
3. Registration. Each candidate will be required to pay Rs. 200/- to register himself. Registration must be done by 30th September 2015.
For registration, kindly get in touch with Mr. R K Sharma Mobile: 09414139950 & Mr. Shripad Sapkal Mobile : 08380054988 & imfwestzone@gmail.com
4. Registration forms etc. will be available with imfwestzone@gmail.com
5. Screening of candidates. Each candidate should be screened by a West Zone Committee member. Candidates must have some standard to participate in the zonal competition.
6. Accommodation & Food. Dormitory type Accommodation will be provided from 7th October 2015 & Vegetarian food will be provided from 7st October 2015 (Dinner) to 11th October 2015 (Dinner)
7. Reporting Time. 7th October 4pm onwards at Bombay Sappers Rock Wall. Only Accommodation & Dinner will be provided on the reporting date.
8. Opening Ceremony. 8th October 0800hrs
9. Railway Station/ Bus Stand in PUNE: PUNE Railway station is 5 km from Bombay Sappers in Kirkee. Kirkee Railway station is 3 km from Bombay Sappers in Kirkee. Any one travelling by bus should take the bus to Pune Station bus stand which is next to Pune Railway Station.
10. Contact Persons. Mr. R K Sharma -09414139950
Mr. Shripad Sapkal -08380054988
Ms. Prajakta Ghode -08380054989
11. Organizer/Co-coordinators. Organizer- Mr. Shripad Sapkal— 08380054988, Co-coordinators — Mrs. Manjiri Satarkar-09850950860 & Mr. Nitin Khanna – 09422505491
12. Venue for Open, Junior & Sub-Junior Categories. At Bombay Sappers Wall in Kirkee, Pune-411003.
13. Climate in Pune. Month of October is usually pleasant, little cold in the night and warm during the day time. Please bring appropriate clothing.
14. Important Points for Registration. Send the details of participant in excel file with name, father's name, date of birth,address, mobile no. age category. Open/Junior/Sub-junior) by 30th September 2015. Application forms with birth certificate will be collected on 7th October 2015. After 30th September no registration will be accepted.
All participants are requested to bring their original and authentic age proof for physical check at the time of registration to avoid any controversy and appeal by any person.
PARTICIPANTS WILL BRING THEIR PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT
15. Closing Ceremony & Prize Distribution. Will be held at Bombay Sapper Rock Wall Site at 4pm on 11th Oct
The post 21st IMF West Zone Sport Climbing Competition 2015 appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 08 Oct 2015 12:00 PM PDT

Brahmand Darshan inviting you to join for Astro Tour – Star Gazing On the Mountain Top
In this modern age of bright lights and big cities, busy lifestyles, and constant social connections, it is sometimes easy to lose sight of life's simpler pleasures. Take, for example, a beautiful night sky with countless stars shimmering overhead. There are few things that can inspire a feeling of awe and wonder like gazing up at the celestial light show taking place above us every night.
On a clear evening, in the right location, it can be almost overwhelming.
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to enjoying these views, however, as light pollution, smog, and other manmade elements can conspire with one another to blot out the heavens. But fear not: There are still destinations on Planet Earth that offer spectacular views of the night sky for us to enjoy.
Proudly standing in front of the 2nd highest plateau in Asia – Table Top (1334 meters) and most popular Panchgani (Mahableshwar) the Five Mountains. Panchgani
sparkles with endless opportune moments to catch a glimpse of that starry night sky and you will witness an extraordinary sight. Twinkling before you, like a set of shimmering diamonds upon a silken sheath of black velvet, are countless colorful stars & constellations. Dazzling with celestial bodies from the Cassiopiea – Queen to the Orion, the Hunter, to Leo – Lion you don't have to be an avid astronomer to appreciate these breathtakingly beautiful star patterns.
The perfect Weekend Gateway for Family, Friends and Wanderers….
Event Date: 9th/10th October 2015 (Fri-Sat)
Schedule:
9th October 2015 (Friday)
• 6:00 AM Start from Bhayender
• 7:00 AM Borivali (National Park),
• 8:00 AM Andheri
• 9:00 AM Vashi
• 10:00 AM Halt at FoodMall/Lonavala
• 11:00 AM Pick at Pune (Expressway)
• 1:00 PM Lunch at Panchgani (Only Veg)
• 2:00 PM Reach Site – Introduction
• 2:30 PM POWER NAP (Till 4:30PM)
• 5:00 PM Astronomy Orientation (1 hour)
• 6:00 PM Night Sky Gazing – Session 01 (WEST SKY) – Sun Set, Saturn, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Hercules, Lyra, Cygnus, Cassiopeia, etc8:00 PM Dinner Break (Hill Top Courtyard)
• 10:00 PM Night Sky Gazing – Session 02 – Cassiopeia, Pegasus, Andromeda, Aries, Perseus, Auriga, Taurus, Orion “The Hunter”
10th October 2015 (Saturday)
• 00:00 AM Astro Photography – Participant to Bring their own DSLR Camera, Tripod and Remote.
• 2:00 AM Power NAP (Till 5:00AM
• 5:00 AM Wakeup – Early Morning Gazing – Session 03 – Gemini, Canis Major & Minor, Cancer, LEO, Venus, Jupiter, Mars and Moon. Iridium Flares, ISS, Sunrise (6:30AM), Solar Observation
• 9:00 AM Breakfast /TEA
• 10:00 AM Panchgani Market /Strawberry Picking (Optional)
• 12:00 Noon Lunch Break
• 1:00 PM Afternoon NAP (Till 4:00PM)
• 4:30 PM Assemble for Tea & Briefing, Visit to Table TOP Land
• 6:00 PM Night Sky Gazing – Session 04 – (Table TOP Land) – Sun Set, Saturn, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Beautiful Milky Way Galaxy, Cassiopeia, etc..
• 8:30 PM Dinner Break – Hill TOP Courtyard
• 10:00 PM Night Sky Gazing – Session 05 – Cassiopeia, Pegasus, Andromeda, Aries, Perseus, Taurus, Auriga, & Orion
11th October 2015 (Sunday)
• 00:00 AM Astro Photography – Participant to Bring their own DSLR Camera, Tripod and Remote
• 1:00 AM Power NAP (Till 5:00AM)
• 5:00 AM Wakeup – Early Morning Sky Gazing – Session 06 – Gemini, Canis Major & Minor, Cancer, LEO “The Lion”, Venus, Jupiter, Mars and Moon. Iridium Flares, Satellite Spotting, Sunrise 6:30AM, Solar Observation.
• 8:00 AM Breakfast – Informal discussion / talk/contact sharing
• 9:00 AM Get Ready, Pack-up and Feedback Session
• 10:00 AM Start Return Journey to Mumbai
• 12:00 Noon Halt at Food Mall Lonavala/Lunch
• 1:00 PM Vashi
• 2:00 PM Andheri
3:00 PM Reach Mumbai (Event Closure)
Participants are free to observe all night or retire for a short sleep and join us again for observations as per the sessions.
We greatly encourage informal interactions/ discussion with us at any time during the night. We will answer (or try to be as close to your satisfaction as possible) all your questions.
Equipment Details:
1. 10 Inch Dobsonian Reflectors (2 Qty)
2. Binoculars 10 x 50 (2 Qty)
3. Celestron Automated Mount (80mm Refractor)
4. EQ1 Manual – 75mm Solar Scope
5. 8 Inch Newtonian Konus Astrograph (Optional)
For Booking Details:
Event Charges : Total Charges INR 6999/-**
Rules and Regulations:
While at the camp-site you (Participants) are requested to strictly adhere to the following rule:
1. Registration is compulsory for all the participants.
2. Due to camp-site constraints we won't be able to accommodate half-night, half program charges.
3. Smoking and Drinking Alcohol is strictly prohibited at the Premises & Observation Site during the Entire Event.
4. Although the camp-site is secure with fencing, NO ONE should wander off the camp-site without intimating the organizers or without organizer's permission.
5. You will be provided with a red cellophane paper at the time of registration, kindly put that on to your torches and use the same while on the premises.
6. Use of mobile phone, and camera's is to be minimal as possible or as Instructerd by the INSTRUCTORS /ORGANIZERS during the Observation Sessions.
7. Donot Flash Bright Torch or Camera Flash on others during Observation Sessions. Human Eye requires 30 Minutes to completely adapt to the Dark Night Sky.
7. If you are carrying your own observation instrument like telescopes, Imaging equipment (DSLR Camera andaccessories), binoculars, tripods, stands, etc., then you yourself are responsible for all your equipment. If need be we will arrange for a shared power connection at free of cost.
Instructions and Pointers:
1. Carry enough warm clothing (particularly to keep your ears, body and feet warm) like scarf, sweaters, jackets, caps, shawls / sheets, closed shoes, etc. (Temp in Night will dip considerably).
2. It is advisable to carry your own mattress – we will be providing a basic mattress to facilitate sitting.
3. Carry a bright torch with red Cellophane paper, personal medication and mosquito cream.
4. For Astrophotography participant should bring in their own DSLR Camera, Tripod, Remote, Charger and Extra Battery
5. We recommend that participants stock themselves with light snacks and personnel water bottle (Need to drink water regularly).
6. Morning Veg Breakfast and Veg Dinner are covered in the Event Charges, however Lunch is not covered. Participants can venture out and enjoy Lunch at the various hotel in Panchgani (at their own cost).
7. It goes without saying that littering at the camp-site is not permissible and we will be making arrangements for garbage bin that can be put to their optimum use.
What's Included in Event Charges:
• Mumbai – Panchgani – Mumbai Transportation
• 2 Night Stay at Panchgani – Hill Top Annexe and Associate Bungalows (Rooms on Quad-Sharing Basis)
• Breafast, Tea, and Veg Dinner (Onsite Only).
• Astronomy Orientation and Night Sky Gazing++
• Planisphere and Night Sky Gazing Book
What's not included in Event Charges:
• Anything not mentioned in the what's included list.
• Local Site Seeing & Entry Fees.
• Lunch and Shopping
Contact Details: Any Queries or Tour Customization or Group Discount Call
Bhavin Parekh – Pri: 9594943435 / Sec: 9820134054
Mangesh Sutar – Pri: 9987744889 / Sec: 9833986686
Post RSVP please call/sms for Bank Account Details
Special Note:
** Post Complete Payment only Seat will be considered as Booked (We have only 30 Seats for the Event) Non-payment RSVP will be Cancelled within 2 Days.
++ Observation depend on subject to availability of object & weather condition.
++ No refund on cancellation & postponed of shows.
Once payment is done, please send an email with Transaction ID, Participant Name, Email ID & Mobile Number tobrahmanddarshan@gmail.com
Visit: http://www.brahmanddarshan.com–> Events –> Astronomy Panchgani
How is the Sky condition on day of program?
Use the following link to view satellite images. These images are updated intervals of normally 8 hours. General thumb-rule is if more water vapor seen in image there is likelihood of cloud formation. http://www.imd.gov.in/section/satmet/dynamic/insatsector-wv.htm
The post ASTRO TOUR – STAR GAZING ON MOUNTAIN TOP appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 04:00 AM PDT

TreksandTrails, India – Trek to Salher-Salota-Mulher-Mora-Hargad on 10th and 11th October (starting 09th October Friday night).
The Highest forts in Maharashtra, Salher stands adjacent to Salota Fort in Selbari Mountain Range in Baglan region, Nasik district of Maharashtra at the height of 5141 ft approx. Mulher-Mora and Hargad fort is in the Dolbar Mountain Range. The fiercest and the largest open battle between Mughals and Marathas was fought here in the year 1671 and won by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Summary:
Name: Salher / Salota / Mulher / Mora / Hargad
Height: 5140ft / 4290ft / 4450ft/ 4450ft
Grade: Medium / Easy / Easy / Easy
Time: Maximum 3 hrs from base villages
Base: Waghambe / Salherwadi / Mulher
Location: Baglan Region
Minium: 6 participants
Maximum: 25 participants
Trek Leader: Muhammed Yahya Virani
TreksandTrails itinerary for the trek is as follows: Friday 09 October 2015 – 22:00 Departure from Dadar.
Day-1 – Saturday 10 October 2015
06:00 Reach Mulher village
06:30 Breakfast – Tea
07:00 Leave for Someshwar Temple
08:45 Someshwar Temple
09:00 Start trek for Hargad
10:30 Reach Hargad Top, explore, photography
11:30 Descend to Someshwar Temple
12:30 Lunch
14:00 Start Mora trek
15:00 Reach Moragad atop, explore, photography
16:00 Start descend for Mulhergad
17:00 Reach Mulhergad top. Explore the Mulher gad, Bhadangnath Mahadev Temple, etc
18:30 Start descend – Night Trek and reach Someshwar Temple by 20:00 Hrs.
21:00 Mulher Village – Have dinner at 21:30, rest for the day
Day-2 – 11 October 2015, Sunday
06:00 Breakfast-tea at Mulher village.
07:00 Start for Vaghambe .
08:00 Vaghambe village.
08:00 Start trek for Salota
10:00 Reach Salota atop.
10:30 Start Descend to ridge between Salota-Salher
13:00 Salher atop – Lunch, Explore, Enjoy panoramic view from the Salher fort top, Lord Parshuram Temple.
14:30 Descend
17:00 Salher village
TreksandTrails rules
1. Smoking and drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited.
2. Trek leader's decision will be final and binding. Participation confirmation via bank transfer only.
3. TreksandTrails reserves all the right to change/deviate/cancel the plans without prior notice.
4. Telephonic confirmation is mandatory, if unable to contact. send a text message we will call you back.
5. Sleeveless, low neck, figure hugging shirts/tops, short pants, hot pants not allowed.
6. Please avoid wearing Gold and other jewellery (at own risk)
7. Please do not carry handbags or Jolas or Sling bags on treks.
Call for confirmations:
Yahya Virani +919768143706
TreksandTrails, India +918976265060
More Details visit http://www.treksandtrails.org
The post TreksandTrails, India – Trek to Salher-Salota-Mulher-Mora-Hargad on 10th and 11th October (starting 09th October Friday night). appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 04:00 AM PDT

Enjoy the retreating monsoon by the beach, in a quaint little village. Spend time with the friendly natives of this village by the sea. End the days with a game of football or cricket on the beach. And finally, be amazed by the sunset!
Album Link : https://goo.gl/photos/dLohiKNA8gSS2SyY6
Things you must know:
Velas:
Velas is a village situated in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. It is known for the baby turtle hatching festivals.
Harihareshwar :
Roughly 200kms from Mumbai, this is a great weekend getaway to relax for the busy and workaholic metropolitan crowd.
Bankot Fort
Region: Mandangad
District: Ratnagiri
Height: Sea Fort (Slightly above sea level)
Difficulty: Simple
Itinerary:
09th October (Friday Night)
Meeting Point:
11:00pm: Pritam Hotel, Dadar East
Pickup Points:
11.20 pm: Chembur Diamond Garden
12.00 pm: Vashi Below Main Bridge
12:30 pm: Panvel ST Depot (For people heading from Pune)
10th October , Saturday
05:00am: Reach Velas
06:00am: Freshen up, Visit Velas Beach for that amazing sunrise!
07:30am: Return to the Villagers Home for some local breakfast
08:30am: Post breakfast, head to Bankot Fort and explore around. (15 Minutes Trek)
01:00pm: Return to Velas for devouring some delicious Veg. Konkani Food. Spend the afternoon lazing around by the shore or in the village, talk to locals, explore around. Perhaps, play with the kids and stroll around
05:00pm: Velas again!
This time with the perfect setting of the sunset and beach games. Beach cricket, beach football or just laze around!
08:30pm: Return post all the fun for Dinner and a Night Walk around the village.
11th October , Sunday
05:30am: Wake Up Call (We sing loud songs in our ugly voices to make up for the lack of alarm clocks to wake you up!)
06:00am: Freshen up and head to the beach for some walking, posing, clicking and beach games. Time to go into your childhood with Lagori, Son Sakhali or Kabaddi.
09:30am: Return for Breakfast and then with the troop, we’ll head to Harihareshwar Temple
11:00am: Enroute Harihareshwar
01:00pm: Lunch at Harihareshwar/ Mangoan
03:00pm: Bid goodbye to the sands and beaches! Enroute Mumbai.
10:00pm: Reach Dadar
Note: – The above beaches have strong RIP currents so we will not allow you to go into the water with or without Life jacket / Life Guards.
Cost:
Rs. 2250/- per head (With transport from Mumbai)
Due to Facebook words limitations the whole itinerary, cost, other payment options, cancellation policy and details cannot pe posted here:
For payment options, queries and registration,please contact :
Prakash:8605556325(whats app) 7744003602 email:sahyadrikingtrekkers@gmail.com website: http://www.sahyadrikingtrekkers.com
The post CHILL AT THE BEACH VELAS – 10TH AND 11TH OCTOBER 2015 -SKT! appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 05:00 AM PDT

Enjoy the retreating monsoon by the beach, in a quaint little village. Spend time with the friendly natives of this village by the sea. End the days with a game of football or cricket on the beach. And finally, be amazed by the sunset!
Album Link : https://goo.gl/photos/dLohiKNA8gSS2SyY6
Things you must know:
Velas:
Velas is a village situated in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. It is known for the baby turtle hatching festivals.
Harihareshwar :
Roughly 200kms from Mumbai, this is a great weekend getaway to relax for the busy and workaholic metropolitan crowd.
Bankot Fort
Region: Mandangad
District: Ratnagiri
Height: Sea Fort (Slightly above sea level)
Difficulty: Simple
Itinerary:
09th October (Friday Night)
Meeting Point:
11:00pm: Pritam Hotel, Dadar East
Pickup Points:
11.20 pm: Chembur Diamond Garden
12.00 pm: Vashi Below Main Bridge
12:30 pm: Panvel ST Depot (For people heading from Pune)
10th October , Saturday
05:00am: Reach Velas
06:00am: Freshen up, Visit Velas Beach for that amazing sunrise!
07:30am: Return to the Villagers Home for some local breakfast
08:30am: Post breakfast, head to Bankot Fort and explore around. (15 Minutes Trek)
01:00pm: Return to Velas for devouring some delicious Veg. Konkani Food. Spend the afternoon lazing around by the shore or in the village, talk to locals, explore around. Perhaps, play with the kids and stroll around
05:00pm: Velas again!
This time with the perfect setting of the sunset and beach games. Beach cricket, beach football or just laze around!
08:30pm: Return post all the fun for Dinner and a Night Walk around the village.
11th October , Sunday
05:30am: Wake Up Call (We sing loud songs in our ugly voices to make up for the lack of alarm clocks to wake you up!)
06:00am: Freshen up and head to the beach for some walking, posing, clicking and beach games. Time to go into your childhood with Lagori, Son Sakhali or Kabaddi.
09:30am: Return for Breakfast and then with the troop, we’ll head to Harihareshwar Temple
11:00am: Enroute Harihareshwar
01:00pm: Lunch at Harihareshwar/ Mangoan
03:00pm: Bid goodbye to the sands and beaches! Enroute Mumbai.
10:00pm: Reach Dadar
Note: – The above beaches have strong RIP currents so we will not allow you to go into the water with or without Life jacket / Life Guards.
Cost:
Rs. 2250/- per head (With transport from Mumbai)
Due to Facebook words limitations the whole itinerary, cost, other payment options, cancellation policy and details is given in the below link :
http://mappingjourneys.blogspot.in/2015/09/chill-at-beach-velas-10th-and-11th.html
For other payment options, queries and registration,please contact :
+91 9867697306
+91 9867693107
http://www.mappingjourneys.com
The post CHILL AT THE BEACH VELAS – 10TH AND 11TH OCTOBER 2015 – MAPPING JOURNEYS! appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 07:30 AM PDT

Travolution brings you Scuba Diving and water sports Event Malvan / Tsunami Island
How many beautiful places have you visited? How many uncharted areas have you explored? How many adventures have you had not being on land?
Well, here you can have a positive answer for all of those questions. Visiting a serene beach which can be all yours. Exploring the world beneath the waters of Arabian Sea. Going away from land and deep inside the world of fishes.
#TRAVOLUTION presents Scuba Diving at Malvan followed by 5 water sports.
And add to that exploring an isolated Tsunami island, deep sea corals, dancing with the fishes and dancing around a campfire.
All of that is possible with us within a short time span of your free weekends, in a fraction of your salary. And most importantly, you may not know how to swim but still do it.
So are you busy corporate bees ready for some real fun?
It's a 2-day event, inclusive of A/C travel, Non-ac accommodation, Meals, Scuba diving and Water sports.
Date: 9th,10th & 11th October 2015 (Saturday & Sunday)
Itinerary:
> Leave from DADAR at 8:00 PM Evening on 9th October 2015 Friday
>Reach Malvan at 7:00 AM morning, rest for some time and move out for Scuba diving and water sports followed by bonfire and activities at night on 10th October 2015.
>Depart from Malvan at 8:00 AM and reach Dadar at 9:00PM Evening on 11th October i.e. Sunday
Expense – 6500/-
Highlights of the Trip:
Inclusions:
> Traveling from DADAR and back by Ac Bus. DADAR-MALVAN-DADAR
> Meal Cycle (2 BF, 2 Lunch, 1 Dinner Veg / Non Veg options available- Thali System)
> Accommodation on Twin/Triple Sharing Basis- 1N2D.
>Scuba Diving Equipment and expertise Charges.
>All Activities: Scuba Diving, Boat Ride to Tsunami Island, Watersports-Banana boat ride, Jet Ski, Bumper ride, motor boat, speed boat and PARASAILING.
> Scuba Diving Under water Video and photographs.
Exclusions:
> Mineral Water
>Anything other than Mentioned Above.
Registration Details:
Last Date of Advance Payment would be 28th September 2015.
Registration:
For registration, kindly transfer Rs. 5000/- advance in the following A/c:
Payee Name Abhijit A Khadapkar
Bank Name: Standard Chartered
Account Number – 24410199217
IFSC CODE- SCBL0036067
MICR CODE- 400036019
For registration or queries, please contact:
Abhijit Khadapkar : +919967372491
Niranjan Bagal : +919664327195
Sanket Kulkarni : +919757018686
(After transaction kindly inform us through e-mailSMSWhatsApp, Your Name, transaction ID and mobile no.)
FOR SMS Inquiry:
Please drop a messageWhatsApp on +919967372491, we will get back to you ASAP.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
If the passenger wants to cancel the tour we shall refund the tour cost after deducting. Cancellation charges as under:
1.Before 15 days of tour departure 25% of the tour cost
2.Between 10 to 15 days 50% of the tour cost
3.Between 05 to 10 days 75% of the tour cost
4.Within 05 days – No Refund
The post Scuba Diving and Water Sports Malvan/Tsunami Island appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 09:30 AM PDT

Short info:
Trek: Harishchandra Gad via Nalichi Vaat.
Date: 9th Ngt -10th – 11th Oct 2015.
Region: Malshej.
Height: 4500 ft. (approx.)
Grade: Medium.
Base Village: Savrne – Bel Pada Village.
Cost:
Registered Member: Rs 1300/- per head.
Non Registered Member: Rs 1400/- per head.
To become a VRangers Registered Member: CLICK HERE
It includes: – travelling from Kalyan to kalyan by local vehicles like ST/Jeep, 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch-Sun & 1 dinner-Sat.
Not Included: – Insurance and any other things which is not mention above.
About:
Harishchandragad: The fort is quite ancient, considered to be from the medieval period. The various Puranas (ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. The Great sage Changdev (creator of the epic Tatvasaar) used to meditate on Taramati/Rohidas in 14th century. The caves are also from the same period. Harishchandra gad was captured by the Marathas in 1747 from the Moguls.
Taramati: Also known as Taramanchi. This is the top most point on the fort. It is the second highest peak in Maharashtra after kalsubai. Leopards are seen in the forests beyond this peak. From here we can have a glimpse of the whole range of Naneghat and the forts near Murbad and Napta twin peaks,Ghodishep (865 meters),Ajoba (1375 meters),Kulang fort (1471 meters)in the north near the Kasara region.
Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff): The most fascinating spot on this fort is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people from many years. The cliff faces west and looks down upon the Konkan with a breathtaking view of the surrounding region and sunset. This cliff is not just vertical; it is an overhang, almost like a cobra's hood. One amazing phenomenon that can be observed at this place is the vertical cloud burst, in which the clouds nearing the cliff get sucked into the pit fall area below are thrown vertically into the sky reaching more than 50 feet (15 m).
Kedareshwar: The cave of Kedareshwar has a big Shivlinga, which is totally surrounded by water. It is quite difficult to reach the Shivlinga because the water is ice-cold. There are sculptures carved out here. Local legend holds that when the forth piller breaks, the world will come to an end..
Trek Schedule:
Meeting Point:
09th Oct 2015: @ Kalyan ST Depo 9.50 pm.
10.00 pm: will catch the bus for Tokavade.
10th Oct 2015:
12.10 am: From tokavade will go by local transport to belpada.
01.10 am: @ Rest at belpada.
05.00 am: Wake up call.
05.30 am: Breakfast and intro round.
06.30 am: Will start for the trek.
01.00 pm: Lunch
03.00 pm: @kokan Kada & Explore suppbb views.
05.30 pm: At Harishchandra Gad Caves.
06.30 pm: garam garam Eve refreshment.
08.30 pm: Diner.
10.00 pm: Good night.
11th Oct 2015:
05.30 am: Good Morning Rangers.
06.00 am: Move towards 2nd highest pick of Maharashtra Taramati.
09.00 am: Visit kedareshwar Temple.
09.30 am: Will start descending towards Khireshwar.
01.00 pm: Will have Lunch at Aishwarya Hotel.
02.00 pm: At Khubi Phata to catch ST for Kalyan.
05.00 pm: Will reach to Kalyan.
Payment Details:
To confirm your seat Click on Account Details & please deposit (non refundable) Rs 200/- in any manner.
After transferring amount please send Details like Name, event name, transaction id, amount. (if we cancel trek then total money you will get refund)
Check List:
Compulsory items: Lunch for Saturday
A proper two sided haversack to put all the things, So that one has hands free while trekking, id proof, approx. 4 ltr water, Torch with extra batteries, plate, spoon, bowl, beading like shawl-mat Or Sleeping Bag, woolen jacket, towel, some snacks, Should wear good trekking shoes, full sleeve shirt/T-shirt & Full Pant, if you have any medical issue please carry your own medicine as we carry only First aid.
Non-compulsory items but helpful:
Cap, Sunglasses, Woollen Jacket, Camera , Avoid wearing Gold and other jewellery mosquito's repellent, Electoral / Energy powder, 2 Lemon, & 2 plastic bags for weight distribution.
Before registering please check: VRangers Rules & Regulation
For Reg. & more details, contact our “Rangers".
Kalpesh: 98679 12341.
Sudhir: 9167 546 547.
Join Us On
@ Facebook
@ Blog
@ Website
Cheerrrsss…!!!!
The post VRangers Harishchandra Gad Via Nalichi vaat on 9th Ngt -10th – 11th Oct 2015. appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.

Posted: 09 Oct 2015 09:30 AM PDT

Dear All,
We Bhramanti365 have arranged a two day Thrilling Trek to #Harishchandragad Via Nalichi wat, from 10th and 11th October
Harishchandragad is a hill fort in the Ahmednagar region of India. Its history is linked with that of Malshej Ghat,kothale village and it has played a major role in guarding and controlling the surrounding region.
Ascending Harishchandragad via Nalichivaat is one of the most exciting and exploring trek which test your endurance and Stamina to the Core , Trekkers paradise Harishchandra fort is best at any particular season .. Mesmerizing Kokan Kada and the Kedarashwar Temple makes the journey fruitful, in its own manner.
Brief Info about the Fort :-
Height: – 4245 feet
Elevation – 1,294 m
Grade: – Hard
Endurance Level: – Difficult.
Duration of the Event: – 2 Days.
District: – AhmednagarWho can join for the Event: – 15 years and above.
Trek Starts on 10 PM @ Kalyan ST Stand on 9th October Meeting at Kalyan ST Depot on 9th October at 10:00 PM (Sharp)
Moving towards Moroshi – Belpada by Public & Private Transport.
On 10th Morning…
Wake-up,Tea & Refreshments @ 5:00 AM
Start Ascend @ 6:00 AM
Lunch As per convenience {Carry Lunch for the Day}
Atop At Kokan Kada Around @ 4:00 PM
Rest, Sunset & Sightseeing.
Depart For Caves
Dinner (Cooking in d caves )
Camp fire at Night
Sunday 11th October
Tea breakfast 6:00 AM
07:00 AM Descend Via Tolarkhinda
11:00 AM Khireshwar
Khubi fata For Bus (ST BUS) or Private vehicle ( That depends on the availability )
05:00 PM Kalyan Bus Depot ( which is Tentative )
The Estimated expenditure for Trek is about Rs 1600 /-
Which is Inclusive of :-
Transport from Kalyan to Kalyan ( Public and Private – Jeep Transport both )
2 Breakfast
1 Lunch and 1 Dinner
First Aid , Gear Charges
Expertise etc.
Please book in advance with payment of Rs. 1000/-One has to transfer 1000 /- (In advance ) to confirm his / her Registration. (Non-Refundable)
Account Details:-
For registration kindly transfer money in the following A/c:-
In the Name of: Mr AMEY ARUN BHAGAT.
Bank :- SBI BANK
Branch : NEW PANVEL (EAST)
Account No : 20134246954
IFS Code: SBIN0011758
Once done with the Transaction please msg or send an email on ab@bhramanti365.in then fill up one time registration form "http://goo.gl/forms/2X81xzaH0M
Itinerary & Mandatory Things to Carry :-
A Water Bottle (~2 Ltrs) Mandatory, Carry Lunch for 10th October 2014.
Cap,Good trekking shoes, a pair of extra clothes, Torch ( with extra batteries ) and Extra Socks (a must)
Carry atleast 2 Lemons, Choclate Bars, Glucon D, Odomos.
Carry Bedding for Night as the weather is chill and windy ( Carry Mat , Sleeping bags or any bedding as per your convenience )
Personal basic medical kit ( carry your routine medicines if any to avoid complications).
Camera, Cell Phone, Binoculars (Optional)
No wearing of Gold or any other expensive Ornaments ( if Lost owns a sole Responsibility )
Some ready to eat food. Plum cakes, Biscuits,
.
A haversack to put all these things ( Kindly pack your bags with Extra and Solid Polythene to avoid from getting Wet )
Safety measure are to be followed on strict basis anybody not following will be discarded on the spot.
For confirmation and Registrations please contact on the below mentioned numbers ( Kindly message the transaction ID once done with the On line transfer )
If Number is not Reachable Kindly drop a message in the name of the Event e.g – Amit and Nalichi Waat.
Amey : +919987121415 / +919029209992.
Memories of the past Event :-
https://picasaweb.google.com/103390730025697413089/HarishchandraGadTrekViaNalichiWaat?noredirect=1
The post Bhramanti365 Harishchandra Gad Via Nalichi Vaat Trekking Event On 10th & 11 Oct appeared first on Mumbai Hikers Network.