Fireflies Special: Samrad Camping

In this exciting trip, we will be embarking on an unforgettable journey to the interiors of Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife Sanctuary near Samrad, which is renowned as the base village for two popular treks nestled in the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain range.

As the sun begins to set, we will spend the evening hours at the picturesque Samrad Kokankada, a vantage point that offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The breathtaking scenery here is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, providing ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the Sahyadris. After soaking in the views, we will hike to our serene campsite located at the foothills of the majestic Ratangad fort. Camping in such a scenic spot allows you to connect deeply with nature, as the sounds of the forest and the fresh mountain air create a tranquil atmosphere that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Relishing homemade food during our camping experience adds to the authenticity and enjoyment of the trip. If the weather is favorable, we might even be treated to the enchanting sight of fireflies illuminating the jungle around us, creating a mesmerizing natural light show that adds to the charm of our camping experience.

The following day promises to be equally enriching as we set out to visit the ancient Amruteshwar temple, a significant historical site that showcases exquisite architecture and spiritual significance. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is steeped in history and is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era in which it was built. As we explore the temple grounds, we will learn about its rich heritage and the legends associated with it, deepening our appreciation for the cultural tapestry of the region.

After our visit to the temple, we will make our way to the Bhandardara Dam, a stunning reservoir that is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. The dam is surrounded by lush hills and offers opportunities for photography, leisure walks, and simply soaking in the beauty of the water body. We will enjoy a homemade lunch at our regular stop near Bari village, where the flavors of the local cuisine will provide a satisfying appetite to our trip.

Facts

• Difficulty: Easy

• Trail type: flat path

Highlights:

• Fireflies sighting

• Serene camping location

• Ancient 1200 years old Amrutheshwar Temple

• Bhandardara backwaters

• Samrad Kokankada

• Homemade Local Cuisine

• Sandhan Valley View Point

Itinerary from Mumbai by AC Vehicle

DAY 1:

• Travel by AC Bus from Borivali at 10:00 AM with pickup points at Goregaon, Andheri, JVLR, Bhandup, Thane Teenhath Naka. (Exact pickup points willl be share to the registered participants)

• Lunch Break on the Highway - 30 min.

• Event Briefing & introduction – 15 min.

• Hike to the Samrad Kokankada – 1 hour.

• Reach the campsite and set up tents.

• Take a short hike to the forest to observe the fireflies.

• Dinner at the campsite.

• Behold the fireflies near the campsite.

• Bedtime in tents (bring your own bedding).

DAY 2:

• Wake-up call – 06:30 AM.

• Fresh up and breakfast – 45 min.

• Travel to Ancient Amruteshwar temple - 30 min

• Expllore Amruteshwar temple - 30 min

• Travel to Bhandardara - 45 min

• Relax at Bhandardata Dam view point - 20 min

• Travel to Bari village via Bhandardara - 45 min.

• Lunch Break at Bari village – 1 hour.

• Resume the Road Journey to Mumbai – 5 hours.

Itinerary from Kasara by hired jeep

DAY 1:

• Reporting time at Kasara Railway station - 03:00 PM (Board the 12:30 PM CSMT - Kasara local train, Please refer to M-Indicator for other stop timings).

• Snacks Break on Kasara Highway - 30 min.

• Event Briefing & introduction – 15 min.

• Hike to the Samrad Kokankada – 1 hour.

• Reach the campsite and set up tents.

• Dinner at the campsite.

• Behold the fireflies near the campsite.

• Bedtime in tents (bring your own bedding).

DAY 2:

• Wake-up call – 06:30 AM.

• Fresh up and breakfast – 45 min.

• Travel to Ancient Amruteshwar temple - 30 min

• Expllore Amruteshwar temple - 30 min

• Travel to Bhandardara - 45 min

• Relax at Bhandardata Dam view point - 20 min

• Travel to Bari village via Bhandardara - 45 min.

• Lunch Break at Bari village – 1 hour.

• Resume the Road Journey to Kasara Railway Station – 1 ½ hour.

Price from Mumbai: ₹2500

Included

• Transport by hired AC Vehicle from Mumbai.

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

• Camping in Tents on Triple/ Quad sharing basis

• Forest Entry fee & our expertise

Excluded

• Snacks break on the highway or any personal expenses

  
  

Price from Kasara: ₹1700

Included

• Transport by hired local jeep from Kasara to Kasara

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

• Camping in Tents on Triple/ Quad sharing basis

• Forest Entry fee & our expertise

Excluded

• Snacks break on the highway or any personal expenses

  
  

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.

Checklist

Clothing and Footwear:

• Sandals/ Sport Shoes: With a strong grip, suitable for the terrain.

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

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

Things to carry in Rucksack:

• Water: Minimum 2 litres to stay well-hydrated during the event (Please carry water bottle from home).

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

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

• Sunglasses/ Shades.

• Toiletry Kit: Basic hygiene items like soap, toothpaste, and sunscreen lotion.

• Bedding: Carry a sleeping bag/ blanket along with Yoga/ Hiking mat.

• Extra Set of Clothes.

• Rain Gear: Umbrella or rain jacket or poncho to stay dry in case of unexpected showers.

• 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 resting outdoors and for the planned activity.

• Facilitiy Information: Camping will take place on open ground without washroom facilities. Participants should bring a sleeping bag or bedsheet. Basic washroom facilities can be accessed at a villager's home during breakfast and dinner on the first day, and lunch on the second day. In the event of rain, camping in tents might not be possible, and accommodations may be arranged in a villager's house instead.

• 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 12 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.