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Rajmachi Fireflies Trek With Camping | Pune

Udhewadi, Maharashtra

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  • 2 Days  1 Nights 

  • Rajmachi Trek and Camping’- the name itself tells what this trek is most famous for in Maharashtra. One of the wonders you will witness on this trek is watching Fireflies at night. The environment here in Sahyadri Hills is very favorable for fireflies to live and flourish. During Rajmachi camping at night, you can easily enjoy nature's light show by playing with them while the little creatures will amuse you, the whole night. Stargazing during the night while camping on this fort would nurture the astronomical interest in one. The Rajmachi trek will be a lifetime experience for you. 
  • Rajmachi Fort is one of the many forts that have been cuddled by the Sahyadri mountains with its rugged and lush green arms in the western ghats which is the world biodiversity heritage site. The fort is 2700 ft. above the sea which promises the most scenic view of western ghats and their flora-fauna along with the backwaters of the Shirota dam. Rajmachi Fortification comprises two forts- Shrivardhan Fort and Manaranjan Fort. Shrivardhan Fort was used as a watchtower due to its height (3000 ft.) while Manaranjan Fort is comparatively low in height but one can enjoy views of Karnala Fort from here.
  • From the roots of Indian history, it is found that the Rajmachi fort was built as a defensive fort to have a lookout on Bor Ghats since this is a significant route for traders to reach Mumbai, an important trade center in the west. Because of its significant importance, it has a very interesting history. This fort was built by Satavahana who established their kingdom after the decline of the Maurya Empire. The fort came to light when Shivaji became the king of Marathas. In the year 1657, Shivaji fought with Adilshaha and brought this fort under his control. In 1704, after the death of Sambhaji Maharaj (son of Shivaji Maharaj), the Mughals attacked the fort and took it under control only to lose it again to Marathas when they attacked it in the following year. In the 19th century, the Maratha dynasty started declining, and finally, in the year 1818, this fort was under British-India rule. 
  • After India’s independence, this fort was announced as an ancient heritage place and a protected monument in Maharashtra. Different Buddhist caves, manmade water storage tanks, temples, ruined complexes, and walls of forts attract a lot of archeological, architectural, and historical enthusiasts. Apart from the historical and architectural brilliance, one would surely fall in love with the beauty of nature and the surrounding in which this fort has perched. As Rajmachi fort is situated midway between Pune and Mumbai, and just a few km away from the all-time favorite Lonavala hill station, it’s one of the best trekking places in Mumbai. In short, the Rajmachi fort fireflies trek and Camping is the all-in-one package to get one step closer to nature and experience it thoroughly.
  • With time, the fort has developed its identity and came up with the new identity as 'Rajmachi Trek’. It attracts trekkers from all around the world to enjoy the trails that are an indivisible part of the Western Ghats. It also excites novice trekkers more because of its easy to moderate difficulty level but an exhausting trail at the same time. Generally, it takes two days to completely explore this trek as a result 'Rajmachi camping’ becomes a synergistic part of this trek. After getting exhausted by exploring the trek on day 1, camping at night encourages your energy level to explore unexplored parts of this trek on day 2. Rajmachi trek and Rajmachi camping together make a complete package that you are looking for to spend your valuable holidays in nature's surroundings.
  • Witnessing the sunrise and the sunset from the fort during Rajmachi camping is a mesmerizing memory that can be preserved for years to come. It also helps you to experience the fascinating night at Sahyadri hills by witnessing the fireflies during Rajmachi camping. The fort has witnessed a lot of mesmerizing treks and campings but still waiting for you to come and enjoy its glorious legacy.

Highlights

  • Base Village: Udhewadi
  • Fort Name: Shrivardhan
  • Nearest City: Lonavala (15km Approx. from Udhewadi- offroading)
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Trail Trek Length: Approx. 7 km one way (From the Start point Of the trek to the Base Village)
  • Duration of Night Trail Trek: Approx. 2 hrs (From the Start point to the Base Village)
  • Shrivardhan Fort Trek Elevation: Normal
  • Duration of Shrivardhan Fort Trek: 45-75 mins
  • Endurance: Moderate
  • Height of fort: 3000 feet approx. (From Sea Level)
  • Accommodation: Tent stay (Triple/ Quad Sharing)
  • Sightseeings: Shrivardhan Fort Exploration, Shiva Temple, Lake
  • Meals: Maharashtrian Veg food
  • Washrooms: Basic Village Toilets / Toilet Tents

Private Vehicle

Tents

Breakfast, Dinner

Itinerary 01: (Lonavala To Lonavala)

Day 01:

  • 06:00 PM: Reach Lonavala Railway Station and report to the Trek leaders 
  • 06:30 PM: Post briefing and instructions start the journey towards the start point of the trek by private Jeeps.
  • 07:15 PM: Reach starting point of the trek. We will start the trek to the base village post briefing and instructions by Trek Leaders.

  • 09:30 PM: Enjoy beautiful jungle trail hiking with mesmerizing view of fireflies and reach the base village. Get relaxed and settle down.  
  • 10:00 PM: Have a delicious Dinner ( Authentic Maharashtrian Veg Thali)
  • 11:00 PM: tent allotment by Trek Leaders and time to Enjoy the overnight camping stay with strangers turned into the family under the sky full of stars, and enjoy the view of lightning fireflies. Have rest and reenergize yourself for the next morning trek.

Day 02:

  • 05:00 AM: Wake up call, Get freshen up
  • 06:00 AM: Start trek to Rajmachi Fort (Shrivardhan Fort)
  • 07:00 AM: Reach the peak and enjoy a beautiful view of sunrise and the surrounding. Click photos.
  • 08:00 AM: Start descending to the base village
  • 09:00 AM: Reach base village, relax, and have breakfast
  • 10:30 AM: Start return journey to Lonavala by private vehicle
  • Due to sudden High Demand and low availability of jeeps, it might take longer than usual to get the return jeep for Lonavala to the base village. we recommend you take Mumbai to Mumbai or Pune to Pune package to avoid unnecessary waiting time at the base village for jeeps.
  • 11:30 PM: Reach Lonavala. Goodbye until the next time!!!

Note:

Due to the heavy rush of trekkers in this season and the scarcity of local vehicles, return transportation service from Base Village to Lonavala may get delayed by a few hours. also, we may have to transfer the participants in batches, so we request you to be patient and cooperative)

Also, If you're going to book Return Journey train/ bus/ flight tickets to your respective cities in advance, kindly concern with Sales and Operations team once so that you will not face any inconvenience in your return journey.


Itinerary 02: Pune to Pune (With Bus Transportation)

Day 01:

  • 09:45 PM: Report to the Trek Leaders at Fergusson College Main Gate, FC Road (opposite Starbucks) ( https://goo.gl/maps/53XNsyDPwcSVReZW9 )
  • We request you have dinner before boarding the bus or bring packaged dinner. We won't take a Hault for Dinner.
  • 10:15 PM: Pickup from Wakad ( https://goo.gl/maps/8aTY1UsQmiSciTfR9?coh=178573&entry=tt )
  • 12:30 AM: Reach Base Village. Enjoy the view of the mesmerizing view of Fireflies on the way. Get Relaxed. Tent allotment by Trek leaders.
  • Enjoy the overnight camping stay with strangers turned into the family under the sky full of stars, and enjoy the view of lightning fireflies. Have rest and reenergize yourself for the next morning trek.

Day 02:

  • 05:00 AM: Wake up call, Get freshen up
  • 06:00 AM: Start trek to Rajmachi Fort (Shrivardhan Fort)
  • 07:00 AM: Reach the peak and enjoy a beautiful view of sunrise and the surrounding. Click photos.
  • 08:00 AM: Start descending to the base village
  • 09:00 AM: Reach base village, relax, and have breakfast
  • 10:30 AM: Start return journey to Pune by Private Bus
  • 02:00 PM: Reach Pune. Goodbye until the next time!!!

Note:

1. Half Way from Lonavala To Base Village Rote is off-road. and thus if it rains it becomes Muddy and thus non-motorable. In such circumstances, we will have to take a walk for 6 to 8 km. So please be cooperative.

2. Arrival time in Pune is subjective to road congestion till Lonavala and weather conditions. It may get delayed by an hour or two.


Itinerary 03: (Base Village To Base Village)

Day 01:

  • 09:30 PM: Reach the base village which will be followed by Tent Allotment By Trek Leaders and time to get relax and settle down.
  • We insist you on carrying your own mat and blanket or a sleeping bag.
  • 10:00 PM: Have a delicious Dinner ( Authentic Maharashtrian Local Veg Thali)
  • 11:00 PM: Enjoy the overnight camping stay with strangers turned into the family under the sky full of stars, and enjoy the view of lightning fireflies. Have rest and reenergize yourself for the next morning trek.

Day 02:

  • 05:00 AM: Wake up call, Get freshen up
  • 06:00 AM: Start trek to Rajmachi Fort (Shrivardhan Fort)
  • 07:00 AM: Reach the peak and enjoy a beautiful view of sunrise and the surrounding. Click photos.
  • 08:00 AM: Start descending to the base village
  • 09:00 AM: Reach base village, relax, and have Breakfast
  • 10:30 AM: Your trip ends here

Trekhievers

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Trekhievers is an Adventure Travel Company. Our journey began with a profound realization: a noticeable gap existed within the travel industry, leaving a generation of adventurers underserved between the realms of luxury and budget experiences. As we witnessed a shift in interest among friends, from tourist spots to hidden gems and local culture exploration, an opportunity emerged to curate unique experiences for the new-age traveler. At Trekhievers, our core values are deeply rooted in transparency, unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, and the cultivation of trust. What sets us apart is our relentless dedication to crafting budget-friendly itineraries infused with adventure, ensuring unparalleled experiences for our clients. Despite encountering challenges along the way, Trekhievers has achieved significant milestones, with thousands of successful trips and an impeccable reputation for delivering quality service. However, our vision extends far beyond mere business success. We aspire to champion adventure travel, create employment opportunities within the industry, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of rural India through the promotion of local tourism. At Trekhievers, we transcend mere destinations; we're about the journey, the experiences, and the profound impact we make along the way. Join us as we embark on an adventure of a lifetime, where every step taken is a testament to the spirit of exploration and discovery.

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Inclusions

 

  •  Transportation by Jeep from Lonavala to the Starting Point of the trek and return from the Base village to Lonavala/ (For itinerary 1)
  • Pune to Pune Transportation By Private  Bus (For itinerary 2)
  • Dinner (Veg Thali) (Only for itineraries 1 and 3)
  • Breakfast & Tea 
  • Accommodation: Camping Tent Stay with Ground sheets inside the tent (Triple/ Quad sharing)
  • Forest Entry Charges.
  • Experienced Trek leaders and Trek Expertise Charges. 
  • First Aid Charges

Exclusions

  • 5% Gst
  • Travel till pickup points
  • Lunch for the second day
  • Dinner ( Only For Itinerary 2 - Pune to Pune)
  • Pillow and sleeping bag (however you can carry a shawl or chaddar as per your requirement)
  • Mineral water or Lime water or purchased for personal consumption
  • All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks ordered 
  • Any kind of personal expenses
  • Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the cost including above
  • All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
  • Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
  • Any kind of Health/ Medical Insurance

THINGS TO CARRY

(Highly Required and Mandatory Things)

  • ID proof
  • backpack (waterproof or covered with waterproof cover) 
  • trekking shoes or any sports shoes with a Good grip
  • Trekking pants (compulsory), 2 T-Shirts (Preferably full sleeves or Half T-shirt with sleeves), Raincoat/ waterproof jacket/ windcheater, Handnapkin/Towel, etc
  • Water Bottle (1- 2 ltr)
  • Ready-to-eat food like plum cakes, Dry fruits, dry snacks and biscuits, Chikki, chocolate bars, etc.
  • Torch 
  • Personal Medicines and Personal First aid 

(Required but Optional Things)

  • Sleeping Bag/ Shawl etc
  • To change after trekking - Facewash, Extra pants/ shorts, Extra T-shirt, sleeper/ floaters, an extra bag to carry your trekking shoes, innerwear, etc
  • Sweater For bus journey
  • Electoral or Glucose D powder. 
  • Portable Phone Charger, Earphones, etc.
  • Sun protection cap, sunglasses, Sunscreen lotion, toothbrush-toothpaste, etc
  • Proper face mask or shield 
  • Sanitizer 
  • Extra Pair of clothes.

(Note:

  • We provide Tent Accommodation with a ground sheet. We request you to carry a sleeping bag/shawl/chaddar and pillow as per your requirement.
  • Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pants,  this will protect your body and skin from Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles, etc) 


PICKUP LOCATIONS

Fergusson College Main Gate


Wakad bridge



HOW TO REACH

(For Mumbai Participants)

Option 1:

   Take Konark Express 11019 (Mumbai to Bhubaneswar)

  • 01:45 PM: CSMT
  • 02:15 PM: DADAR
  • 02:33 PM: THANE
  • 02:55 PM: KALYAN 
  • 04:27 PM: LONAVALA 

Option 2:

HYDERABAD EXP (22732)

  • 02:10: C SHIVAJI MAH T 
  • 04:43: LONAVALA

Option 3:

Take the Local train to Khopoli. From Khopoli, take local jeep transportation to Lonavala Railway Station.

(For Pune Participants)

Take Pune To Lonavala Local Train 

  • 04:25 PM: PUNE 
  • 04:31 PM: SHIVAJI NAGAR 
  • 04:52 PM: CHINCHWAD
  • 05:13 PM: TALEGAON
  • 05:45 PM: LONAVALA 

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Policy and Terms

  • 100% amount is to be paid in advance to book the trip.
  • If the booking is canceled 10 days or before the event date then 50% of the booking amount will be refunded.
  • No refund if canceled 9 days before the event.
  • No show = No refund.

Terms and Conditions

  • Seats will be reserved only after full payment.
  • Fees paid are non-refundable but transferable on the same event.
  • The complete schedule of the trek will be given later to registered participants
  • Organizers have all the right to modify or change the schedule in case
  • Organizers hold the right to cancel any event and refund with prior notice.
  • We strictly follow a no alcohol, no drugs, and no litter policy.

Frequest Questions

Can I travel solo for the Rajmachi trek?

Of course yes, even we encourage people to travel solo so that they can meet more like-minded people on trek and enjoy the trek in a whole different way. While coming to safety, safety is the first most priority of our community. So there are almost zero problems with doing a solo trek to Rajmachi.

Is the Rajmachi trek difficult?

It’s an ideal trek to start your trekking routine with as the difficulty level of this trek is easy to moderate. There are not many stiff climbs but one will get exhausted while walking the trail full of lush greenery and views to the fort. So even experienced trekkers won’t get bored while doing the trek.

What is the best time to visit Rajmachi trek?

The ideal time is in the monsoon as you can enjoy lush green vegetation all around the region along with a lot of waterfalls on the way to the trek. These scenic views and experiences would help you to feel fresh throughout the trek. In addition to the treat to your eyes, you can experience a lot of adventures like slippery trails and climbs, dense fog, rain, and windstorms that won’t let you stand steadily. Winter is also a good option to do this trek as the trek will keep you warm in the cool and pleasant weather of winters. The hidden peaks of forts above the clouds are yet another lifelong lasting experience one can take during winters. Summer is not a good time to visit this place as humid and hot weather in summer will trouble you trekking this fort and perhaps will not let you enjoy the real fun of trekking this fort.

What is the best time to visit Rajmachi fireflies?

Monsoon or pre-monsoon is an ideal time to visit Rajmachi fort to experience the view of fireflies at night. There is some chance where you can get to see fireflies in the winter but if you have to experience the real thrill of watching fireflies, visit the place in the monsoon.

When will Rajmachi fireflies season 2021 start?

Rajmachi fireflies season 2021 will arrive before the monsoon starts, the weather between summer and rainy season, a period where you can play with fireflies, the little creatures while they keep awaken you all night.

What is the Rajmachi trek distance from Mumbai?

It is approximately 94 km away from Mumbai if you are traveling by road from the Lonavala side. You will have to reach Lonavala which is 75 km away from Mumbai. Lonavala to Rajmachi is approximately 17 km.

If you are traveling from the Karjat side, you will have to reach Karjat by local train. There are auto transport services from Karjat to Kondhana village- the base village.

What is the Rajmachi trek distance from Pune?

Rajmachi is approximately 82 km away from Pune if you are traveling by road through Lonavala. You will have to reach Lonavala which is 65 km away from Pune. Lonavala to Rajmachi is approximately 17 km.

Are toilets available on the Rajmachi trek?

No, but if it’s urgent you can attend nature's call in open. Toilets are available in the base village so you can freshen up there too.

What is the condition of the mobile network at Rajmachi fort?

While climbing up the trek, you can get poor network connectivity but when you reach the top there is less possibility of not getting a network. If you are lucky enough then you can get a good network to send some messages and to make some calls but again possibility is close to zero.

Is smoking and drinking alcohol allowed during the Rajmachi fort trek?

Smoking and drinking alcohol are strictly prohibited on this trek. One found doing this is not allowed to join the expedition and will be told to leave the place immediately. This place comes under the world biodiversity heritage site so it's our national duty to not spoil this place with such notorious activities.

Is Rajmachi fort trek safe?

Yes, it is completely safe. You will be guided by professional trekkers and your safety is their first most priority. While trekking you will be provided with safety equipment where there is a need. Also, you will be told to bring personal safety-related things e.g. First aid kits, insect repellant, and other such things to ensure your safety. You will need to be more cautious if you are visiting trek in the monsoon as there will be many slippery places.

Is there an ATM nearby?

There are ATMs of union bank, IDBI Bank, Vijaya bank, state bank of India, Bank of India, and several other banks near Rajmachi.

How can we get food during camping?

You can ask locals from the base village to cater your food as per your requirement. They will provide you food at your preferred time at the campsite. You can also camp at the base village and get food from them. As a part of camping activities, You can also carry some easy-to-make food packages with you on camping like Maggi, Eggs, etc. to have it while enjoying bonfire but don't spoil the beauty of the premises by throwing empty packets in open. Keep them with you and take them down the fort to the dustbins.

How many days will be required for this Event?

Two days and one night are enough to enjoy trekking, night camping, and other activities at this fort. If you are short of time then you can also do one day trek. Again it’s as per your convenience.

Can we drive to the base of this trek?

You can drive from Lonavala to the base village of this trek but you should check that your car has enough ground clearance to tackle that 16km of the off-road patch. It will be more dangerous if you are planning to drive in the monsoon as the complete off-road patch would be full of pebbles and slippery mud. So it’s good to avoid driving here in the monsoon.

Where can we park our cars?

Lonavala. But if you are planning to cover the Rajmachi trek distance from Lonavala to base village Udhewadi then you can park your car at the village. You can ask nearby local people to take care of your car but again it’s at your own risk. There is no commercial car parking at all.

Are kids allowed on the trek?

Kids below the age of 9 are not allowed on the trek hence you will need to carry an I card so that age of the kid can be identified. Moreover, kids under the age of 17 should be accompanied by the parents to enjoy the camping activities more safely.

How can I get drinking water on the trek?

You can carry water with you on the trek. If it gets over then there is no chance of getting filtered water throughout the trail to the fort. But you can get normal well water which can be refilled in the reusable water bottles that are carried by you. At the top, you can get water from the old manmade water tanks which will quench your thirst with some real natural flavor, which is also a camping activity.

Can I charge my phone?

Udhewadi village doesn’t receive electricity so carrying a Power bank would be a great option to look for.

Can we listen to music on a Bluetooth speaker?

Listening to music on a speaker or earphones is not allowed while trekking the fort for safety purposes. You can listen to music at the campsite on speaker unless and until no one is getting disturbed. Again using speakers at homestays is not permitted.

Can we complete the trek in one day?

Yes, you can complete the trek in one day but it is advisable to give it two days to explore the complete fort and the caves.

Which trekking route is most preferable?

If you want to enjoy the trek in a full-fledged adventurous way then you should go from the side of Kondhane caves which will take up to 4 hours to climb. This is considered one of the best treks in Maharashtra. You can also drive right up to Udhewadi village and climb up the trek in 30-40 min to the top. You can choose one of these two routes at your convenience.

Can we do an overnight trek to Rajmachi?

Overnight trek to Rajmachi is one of the things in camping activities which is possible and an adventurous thing to do in full moonlight. Also, make sure you carry torches and wear full shoes during the night trek and night camping.

What are the permissions and charges for the Rajmachi trek?

You don’t need any permission to trek this fort however a fee of rupees 5 is collected at the base village by the local committee for the wellness of the trekkers. If you are traveling in your own vehicle from Lonavala and Rajmachi then Rs 100 needs to be paid for a 4 wheeler and Rs 20 needs to be paid for 2 wheeler

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