Fireflies Special: Rajmachi - Kondana Caves Trek

Rajmachi is among the most stunning trekking destinations in the Sahyadris. Our adventure starts from Khopoli and Lonavala, heading towards Rajmachi by vehicle on an off-road path, ensuring an exciting experience. Upon reaching Rajmachi, we will embark on a brief hike to Rajmachi Lake and the historic Godhaneshwar Temple.

As night falls, prepare to be mesmerized by a spectacular display of fireflies illuminating the surroundings. These tiny creatures, with their magical glow, create a surreal atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly. Observing their dance against the night sky is a truly enchanting experience that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders. To enhance this unique adventure, we will stay at a villager's house, immersing ourselves in the local culture through a homestay experience. Here, you will be welcomed with warm hospitality, allowing you to connect with the community and learn about their traditions. Indulge in delicious homemade local food, prepared with love and care, which will add a delightful touch to your journey.

The following day, we will rise early to set out on an invigorating hike to the twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. The early morning hours provide the perfect opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise, as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the landscape in a golden hue.

After breakfast, we will begin our descent towards the ancient Kondana caves, which are renowned for their intricate rock-cut architecture and historical significance. These caves, dating back to the 1st century BCE, are a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. As we explore the caves, you will be amazed by the craftsmanship of the ancient artisans and the stories that these walls hold. This adventure promises to be a perfect blend of nature, history, and cultural immersion, making it an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Tungarli Dam.

• Homestay at Rajmachi.

• Local homemade cuisine.

• Hike to Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts.

• Ancident Kondana caves.

• Fireflies sighting

  
  

Trek facts:

• Grade: Easy

• Endurance: Moderate

• Highest Elevation: 826M

• Trek Distance on Day 2: 11KM approx.

• Start point: Tungarli

• End point: Kondiwade

Itinerary from Mumbai:

Day 1

• Reporting at Khopoli Railway Station – 02:45PM (Board 12:20PM Khopoli Fast Local from CSMT, Please refer to M-Indicator for other stop timings).

• Travel by hired jeep from Khopoli to Rajmachi - 2 hours.

• Event Briefing & Introduction – 15 min.

• Visit the anicent Godhaneshwar temple & nearby lake, witness the sunset.

• Dinner Break – 1 hour.

• Short walk in the jungle to witness fireflies.

• Homestay at Villager's house.

• Bedtime.

Day 2:

• Wake-up Call – 05:00AM.

• Hike to the twin forts Shrivardhan and Manaranjan - 3 hours.

• Fresh up & Breakfast – 1 hour.

• Descent hike to Kondana caves and Kondhane village - 4 hours.

• Lunch break at the village - 1 hour.

• Return journey to Karjat Railway station – 45 minutes.

Itinerary from Pune:

Day 1

• Reporting at Lonavla Railway Station – 04:30PM. (Board 03:00PM Lonavla - Pune Local Train).

• Travel by hired vehicle from Lonavla to Rajmachi - 1 hour.

• Event Briefing & Introduction – 15 min.

• Hike from Tungalri to Udhewadi (Rajmachi) - 3 hours.

• Dinner Break – 1 hour

• Homestay at Villager's house.

• Bedtime.

Day 2:

• Wake-up Call – 05:00AM.

• Hike to the twin forts Shrivardhan and Manaranjan - 3 hours.

• Fresh up & Breakfast – 1 hour.

• Descent hike to Kondana caves and Kondhane village - 4 hours.

• Lunch break at the village - 1 hour.

• Return journey to Karjat Railway station – 45 minutes.

• Prefer express train departing after 4:30PM to Pune from Karjat.

How to Reach

From Mumbai:

By train – Board 12:20PM Khopoli Fast Local from CSMT

From Pune:

By train – Board the 03:00PM Pune to Lonavla local train.

From Mumbai: ₹1600

Included

• Transport by hired vehicle from Khopoli Railway Station to Rajmachi on Day 1, Kondhane village to Karjat Railway Station on Day 2.

• Veg Dinner on DAY 1, Breakfast, Veg Lunch on DAY 2.

• Village Homestay on sharing basis.

• Forest entry fee & our Expertise.

Excluded

• Any personal expenses

  
  

From Pune: ₹1400

Included

• Transport by hired vehicle from Lonavla Railway Station to Rajmachi on Day 1, Kondhane village to Karjat Railway Station on Day 2.

• Veg Dinner on DAY 1, Breakfast, Veg Lunch on DAY 2.

• Village Homestay on sharing basis.

• Forest entry fee & our Expertise.

Excluded

• Any personal expenses

• Travel to Pune from Karjat.

Registration Process:

Step 1: Book Your Seat  

• Scroll below and select your ticket. Click on Checkout, fill in your details, and choose your preferred mode of payment. (Refer to the Manual Payment option if you wish to pay via UPI/NEFT.)

• Once completed, you will receive an email containing your ticket and the mandatory disclaimer form.

Step 2: Fill Mandatory Disclaimer Form  

• After payment confirmation, participants must complete the participation disclaimer form accurately to provide necessary information.

• Compliance with the disclaimer is mandatory for participation in the event.

Step 3: WhatsApp Group Creation 

• On the day of departure, a WhatsApp group will be created in the evening.

• All registered participants will be added to the group, which will serve as the official platform for communication, updates, and coordination during the event.

Trek Checklist

Clothing and Footwear:

• Trekking/Hiking Shoes: Sturdy shoes with a strong grip, suitable for the terrain.

• Full Sleeve Quick Dry Shirt/T-shirt:  Quick-dry fabric helps keep you dry and comfortable.

• Full-Length Hiking Trousers:  Protects your legs from scratches and insect bites.

Things to carry in a Rucksack:

• Water: Minimum 2 litres to stay well-hydrated during the trek.

• Cap/Hat: Protects your head and face from the sun.

• Food Items: Fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, and healthy snacks provide sustenance.

• Toiletry Kit, Sunglasses/ Shades and sunscreen lotion.

• Rain Gear: Rain jacket or poncho to stay dry in case of unexpected showers. Extra Set of Clothes: Useful in case you get wet or need to change.

• Extra Pair of Socks: Keep your feet dry and comfortable.

• Flip-Flops: During Travel.

• Hiking Pole: Provides stability and support, especially on uneven terrain.

• Personal Medicines: Carry necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.

• Identity Proof: Carry a valid Government ID proof.

Fireflies Observation Guidelines:

• No Bright Lights: Avoid using flashlights, camera flashes, or any other bright lights while watching fireflies. This can disrupt their natural behavior and make it difficult for you to see them.

• Keep Noise Low: Fireflies are sensitive to sound, so try to keep noise to a minimum while observing them. Avoid talking loudly, playing music, or making sudden movements that could startle them.

• Respect Their Space: While it's tempting to get a closer look, try to maintain a respectful distance from the fireflies. Getting too close can disrupt their natural behavior and cause them unnecessary stress.

• No Catching: Resist the temptation to catch fireflies or disturb them in any way. They play a vital role in their ecosystem, and interfering with them can disrupt their mating patterns and overall population.

• Avoid Chemicals: Refrain from using insect repellents, perfumes, deodrants or other chemicals that could harm fireflies or their habitat. These substances can have unintended consequences on the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

• Protect Their Habitat: Be careful not to trample vegetation or disturb the soil in areas where fireflies are active. Respect their habitat by staying on designated paths or observation areas.

• No campfires: Firefly habitats are sensitive; avoid lighting fires nearby.

Event Disclaimer:

• Mandatory Disclaimer Form: Accurate details in the online disclaimer form are mandatory. Inaccurate details will require refilling; no exceptions will be made.

• ID Card Requirement: Participant must bring an ID card for safety purposes.

• Punctuality: Respect the schedule and other participants' time; avoid causing delays.

• No non-swimmers are allowed in the pond without a life jacket.

• Parental Consent for Under 18: Participant under 18 years old must have parental consent to participate.

• Itinerary Modifications/Cancellations: Participant will be informed in advance about any itinerary changes or event cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.

• Weather and Organizer Authority: We have the right to cancel or reschedule the event due to unexpected weather changes. Team Ramblers india or the Outdoor leader or the local guide at the site may not be held responsible if the entry is closed by local authorities or governing bodies.

• Equipment Care: Participant must take proper care of provided equipment to prevent wear and tear.

• Damages/Loss of Equipment: Charges will apply for any damage, loss, or theft of equipment.

• Expense Responsibility: Participant is responsible for expenses not mentioned in the event fees. If extra expense occurs when the location is changed, then every participant had to pay the extra expense incurred that will be notified by our team.

• Misconduct and Prohibited Activities: Misconduct will not be tolerated. Strictly no alcohol consumption, smoking, or any kind of intoxication. Participant must refrain from playing loud music or teasing animals during the hike.

• It is essential for everyone to honor the local customs and follow the rules of the place they are visiting.

• Personal Hygiene: Avoid using deodorant or perfume on the event day. Strictly adhere to Leave No Trace principles; do not litter plastic.

• Bring appropriate gear for the planned activity, review the event checklist.

• Facilitiy Information: A basic washroom facility is available at the village home, and accommodations can be arranged in a villager's house, where multiple groups may stay if it becomes crowded.

• The sighting of fireflies depends on weather conditions, and we are not liable for any changes in weather patterns that might affect the sighting.

• Neither Team Ramblersindia nor the team leader at the site can be held accountable if local authorities or governing bodies close the entry.

• Trail and wildlife caution: stay on marked routes; avoid night treks alone; exercise extra caution in forested areas as nocturnal wildlife, including reptiles, may be active.

• Group Coordination and Cooperation: Participant should coordinate, maintain discipline, and work together as a team. Appreciate cooperative behavior with fellow participants.

• Safety Disclaimer: While safety is prioritized, Ramblers india as a company and its trek leaders, hired local guides are not responsible for severe injuries or fatalities.

• Eligibility & Participation: All participants must meet the physical and mental fitness levels required for the activity. By registering, participant confirm they meet these requirements and understand the risks involved.

• Withdrawal: Participant is liable for any emergency evacuation costs and any legal proceedings arising from accidents or injuries during the trek/ travel. Ramblers India, along with its trek leaders and hired local guides, will not be held responsible or accountable for any such incidents.

• Liability & Risk: Please be advised that if a participant decides to withdraw from the activity at any stage, they will be solely responsible for making their own travel arrangements from that point onward. Our team will not be liable for any transportation, lodging, or other related expenses due to the participant’s decision to exit.

• Personal Belongings: We are not responsible for personal losses such as theft or damage to personal belongings. Participant is usually expected to take personal responsibility for their belongings and exercise caution to prevent such incidents.

• Payment and Registration: Participant is responsible for bearing convenience fees charged by payment gateways.

• The participant has thoroughly reviewed and accepted our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy. This step is crucial as it ensures that you are fully informed about the terms and conditions under which you are engaging with our services.

• The Disclaimer outlines the limitations of liability and the scope of information provided, clarifying that while we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, we cannot guarantee its completeness or reliability.

• By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and have reviewed all relevant terms, risks, and responsibilities associated with the activity.

• The event requires a minimum strength of 8 to happen.

Payment Policy:

• Third-Party Payment Gateways: We utilize third-party payment gateways for a smoother registration process. The total amount at checkout includes both the main event fee and a convenience fee, convenience fee is borne by the customer and displayed before finalizing the payment.

• Manual Payment Option: Participants may opt to manually transfer the payment via UPI (Unified Payments Interface) or NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer). A transaction ID or reference number will be provided for this purpose. The manual payment option is available for only

  one hour from the time the ticket is marked as unpaid. If the payment is not completed within this time frame, the order will be automatically canceled.

• The entire amount must be paid upfront; we do not accept partial payments, such as half in advance and the remainder on the event day.

• Transaction Confirmation for Manual Payments: Participants paying through UPI or NEFT (where the convenience fee is not applicable) must confirm their payment by providing the transaction reference via email or WhatsApp.

• Service Availability: No refunds, discounts, or concessions will be issued if participants choose not to use specific services provided during the event.

• Withdrawal: If a participant withdraws from the event after registration, the amount paid cannot be carried forward to future events. Refunds will be processed according to the refund policy in place at the time of withdrawal without convenience fee.

Refund Policy:

• Refund Medium: Refunds will be processed through the same payment medium used for the original transaction. Payments made via UPI will be refunded to the UPI ID, while bank transfers will be refunded to the designated bank account.

• Processing Time: Refunds will be initiated on the event date or the next business day. Refund processing time may vary between 3 to 10 working days, depending on the payment gateway. In case of delays, the recipient should contact the payment gateway support for assistance.

• Refunds will be initiated on the event date or the next business day and processed within 2 days.

• For UPI payments, refunds will be transferred to the UPI ID.

• For current account payments, we will request either the UPI ID or bank account details for processing.

• Refunds cannot be issued to a payment wallet or phone number—only UPI IDs are valid.

• Refund Issuance: Refunds will not be issued in cash or coupons unless previously agreed upon with the participant. Refunds will not be processed on weekends due to team unavailability.

• Exclusion of Convenience Fee: Refunds exclude the convenience fee. If the payment includes a convenience fee from a third-party gateway, only the event fee will be refunded. For instance, if the event price is ₹1000 and the convenience fee is 5% (making the total paid amount ₹1050), the refund will be based on ₹1000, excluding the convenience fee.

Refund Percentages for Cancellations:

• 50% refund for cancellations made 5 or more days before departure.

• 40% refund for cancellations made 4 days before departure.

• 30% refund for cancellations made 3 days before departure.

• 20% refund for cancellations made 2 days before departure till the day of departure.

• No refund will be provided for no-shows.

• Event Cancellation:

  In the event of a cancellation by the organizer, the full event fee will be refunded, excluding the convenience fee. Any personal transportation costs (e.g., train, bus, flight, cab, hotel) will not be refunded. If the event is forwarded to another Organization, an extra fee needs to be paid by the participant if the other organizer's fee is higher than our event fee.

• If the minimum attendance isn't reached, the event will be canceled. For events starting in the morning, the decision will be made the day before in the evening, while for those beginning at night, the decision will be made in the evening.

• If the event is canceled midway due to unforeseen circumstances, no refund will be given, and no amount will be transferred to other events.