Vasota Trek and Baramotichi Vihir

Trekking to Vasota Fort is an exciting adventure for nature enthusiasts and history lovers. Situated in the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located in Satara district of Maharashtra, India. From Bamnoli, we take a boat ride to the base of the fort, which is the starting point of the trek. The trek to Vasota Fort is through the dense forest of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.

The boat ride to the fort is a thrilling experience, as you pass through the picturesque Shivsagar Lake of Koyna Dam. On reaching the fort, you can explore the ruins of the fort and see the old Babu Kada of Vasota, which is a cliff that reminds visitors of the famous Kokankada of Harishchandragad. The fort also has a rich history, having been under the rule of the Shilahara dynasty, the Marathas, and later the British.

Camping on the banks of the lake at Bamnoli after the trek to Vasota Fort sounds like a wonderful way to relax and unwind in nature

Next day we visit to Baramotichi Vihir, also known as the 'Twelve Pillar Stepwell', is a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture. It is a circular stepwell with twelve pillars that support the structure. The stepwell is around 30 meters deep, and its walls are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The stepwell also has an underground chamber, which was used for various purposes in ancient times.

Trek Facts:

• Grade: Easy

• Endurance: low

• Highest Elevation: 1170M

• Trek distance 7 k.m. approx

• Base Village: Bamnoli

Highlights:

• Boating in Koyna backwaters.

• Lakeside camping in the tents.

• Trek through forest cover.

• Baramotichi Vihir (12 step well) Guided Tour.

Itinerary:

Day 0: Departure from Mumbai

• Depart from Dadar East, Mumbai at 10:30 PM with pickup points at Chembur, Vashi, Panvel, and Pune (exact locations will be shared with registered participants).

Day 1: Trek to Vasota Fort and Lakeside Camping

• Reach the base village at 06:00 AM.

• Freshen up and have breakfast - 1 hour.

• Event briefing for 15 minutes.

• Start a 2-hour boat journey from Bamnoli to Met Indavali.

• Ascend trek to Vasota Fort -  3 hours.

• Explore fort & Lunch Break - 2 hours.

• Descend trek to the base -  2 hours.

• Take a 2-hour boat journey back to Bamnoli.

• Relax in tents near the lakeside.

• Dinner break for 1 hour.

• Rest for the night in tents.

Day 2: Visit Baramotichi Vihir and Return Journey

• Wake-up call at 6:00 AM.

• Freshen up and have breakfast - 2 hours.

• Travel to Baramotichi Vihir -  2 hours.

• Guided tour of Baramotichi Vihir for 1 hour.

• Lunch break -  1 hour.

• Start the return journey to Pune/Mumbai for 4 hours (Pune) or 7 hours (Mumbai).

Price: ₹3500 from Mumbai/ ₹3100 from Pune

Inclusive of

• Transport from Mumbai by hired AC vehicle

• Breakfast, Veg packed Lunch, Evening Snacks, Veg dinner on DAY1 & breakfast, Veg Lunch on DAY2.

• Camping in Tents

• Vasota Fort Forest admission fee, boating charges.

• Guided Tour of Baramotichi Vihir.

Excluded: snacks break during travel,  anything other than mentioned above, or any personal expenses.

Registration Process:

Step 1: Book Your Seat

• Visit the event website and book your seat by completing the registration process.

• Note: The booking will be auto cancelled within 1 hour if manual payment is selected and payment not made. Please refer to the instructions when manual payment is selected.

Step 2: Fill Mandatory Disclaimer Form

• After payment confirmation, participants will receive a participation disclaimer form.

• Fill up the form accurately to provide necessary information.

• Compliance with the disclaimer is mandatory for participation.

Step 3: WhatsApp Group Creation

• A WhatsApp group will be created in the evening on the day of the event departure.

• All registered participants will be added to the group.

• This group serves as a platform for communication, updates, and coordination among participants.

🧭 Trek Checklist

👕 Clothing & Footwear

• Trekking shoes / hiking boots: Sturdy, comfortable, and with good grip for rocky terrain

• Full-sleeve synthetic/polyester t-shirt/shirt: Lightweight and moisture-wicking

• Full-length hiking trousers / track pants: Protection from scratches, insects, and weather

🎒 Things to Carry

• Water (Minimum 3 liters): Hydration is essential—carry bottles or a hydration bladder

• Tiffin box, and Spoon for packed lunch.

• Winter clothing (windcheater/ fleece jacket/ sweater & beanie cap), blanket for a comfortable night’s rest

• Cap / hat & buff / bandana: Protection from sun and wind

• Food items: Fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, and healthy snacks

• Toiletry kit: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.

• Sunscreen lotion: UV protection

• Extra clothes (2 sets): Quick-dry clothing, towel, and extra socks

• Flip flops: during Homestay and travel breaks

• Head torch / Hand Torch with spare batteries: Night-time visibility

• Hiking pole: Support and balance on uneven terrain

• Personal medicines & basic first aid kit

• Identity proof: Required for emergencies and verification

Participation 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.

• 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 trek leader or the local guide at the site may not be held responsible if the entry is closed by local authorities or governing bodies.

• 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 trek.

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

• Basic toilet facilities will be available at the designated villager’s house. However, in the event these facilities are inaccessible due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., water shortage, structural issues, or overcrowding or unavailable), participants may be required to use natural outdoor alternatives.

• Caution is strongly recommended when hiking through forested areas. These environments may present natural hazards such as uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, dense vegetation, and limited visibility. Participants are advised to:

  • Stay with the group and follow the designated trail at all times.

  • Avoid disturbing wildlife or removing natural elements.

  • Wear full-length clothing and sturdy footwear to prevent insect bites, scratches, or slips.

  • Inform the trek leader immediately in case of injury, discomfort, or disorientation.

• Facility Information: Sharing accommodation will be in the camping tents with only mat and blankets, A basic toilet is available atthe campsite.

• Amenities and Expectations: Basic amenities will be provided. Participants are expected to carry personal essentials as per the packing list shared in the event itinerary. Ramblers India will not be responsible for individual comfort preferences beyond the stated provisions.

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

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

• Safety Disclaimer: While safety is prioritized, Ramblers India 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. 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 10 or more days before departure.

• 40% refund for cancellations made 7 days before departure.

• 30% refund for cancellations made 6 days before departure.

• 20% refund for cancellations made 5 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.