Complete guide for trekking in Maharashtra

Trekking has become popular these days. There are many blogs on the Internet to guide you for the trek you desire. But what matters is how well prepared you are for any trek. My love for trekking has taught me a lot of things which I would like to share with you all. It is strictly for trekking in Maharashtra. Some points you might have never heard about, while some are basic but still ignored.

1. Start with Easy trek

Many a times I have seen people doing their first and only trek swearing themselves to not do it again due to bad experience. You cannot have a good experience if you expect picnic. You cannot have a good experience if you aren’t well prepared. So what can you do? 

Choose an easy level trek for your beginning. I would personally recommend treks like Sinhgad, Lohgad or Karnala which take less time for hiking. Then you can plan your trek to forts like Salher, Torna, Harishchandrgad. During trek when you are tired, avoid sitting down on the trail. This will only increase tiredness further and make it difficult to start walking again.

2. Trekking group 

Before going to trek with trekking group check few things like Group establishment date, Website / Facebook page / Facebook Group Page, Treks completed in previous year. Feedback from friends / fellow trekkers on social media. Speak with Group Leader before joining a trek, Check group size being handled and no of leaders on trek. And the most important thing is to follow the instructions of the trek leader. 

3. Research

Research as much as you can. Learn from other people’s experience who have already done that particular trek. With the Internet so much handy these days, reading information and blogs is one of the best ways. There are even many books written on Sahyadri mountains (many are in Marathi). The most important thing is research about the structure of the forts. Be curious about the architecture of the forts. Nowadays many people just wanted to enjoy the trek but no one wants to know about the history of the place. Before you leave for the trek make sure you know the history of that place. 

4. Base village 

Go for any trek, and you will find at least one village of huts inhabited by people at the base of the mountain. Most of the villagers speak Marathi and are very humble. You can request them to prepare snacks or lunch for you. There is no   fixed cost for it. Whatever you give them humbly, they accept it. You can even stay overnight with your sleeping bag or tent in the veranda of a temple or a primary school. Knowing basic Marathi will help you in communicating.

5. Never challenge the nature

Keep a check on each others activity while trekking. Do not try random things beyond your limits like climbing extreme rock patches, crossing waterfalls, standing on the edge for clicking selfies, etc. There have been incidents where a few members were stuck on rock patches while trying to go through shortcuts. Time shouldn't be a factor in Trekking. Short cuts are a strict NO.

6. Water, healthy snacks and good shoes

Wear a decent sports shoe or trekking shoes like Actions or Quechua.

Carry at least 2 liters Of water with you. You should always keep some water with you as a backup also. Most of the water streams and water logging are portable. The mud beneath is calm and you can safely drink the water. In any case, if you feel that the water is not clean and you still want to drink, you can filter the water using handkerchief or some other cloth. Using water purification tablets is also a good option.Bladder or Hydration pack are ideal to carry water.

Bring Snacks like cakes / biscuits / chocolates / Glucose powder which will help you to maintain stamina.

7. Things to carry 

1. Backpack 

2. Water bottle (2 liters) 

3. Trekking shoes

4. Sunglasses (optional) 

5. Extra T-shirt and track pant

6. Wind / waterproof cloths like poncho sweatshirts etc. (considering the season) 

7. Swiss knife 

8. Cap

9. Torch with extra batteries 

10. Bedding material ( sleeping bag, tents, mats etc.) 

11. Snacks (energy bars, Biscuits, cakes, chocolates, dry fruits, Glucose/ ORS, fruits etc.) 

Cooking utensils (optional) 

(Ps. do not use plastic dishes or glasses) 

12. Personal medical kit (consult your doctor). You can also carry basic antiseptic medicines, tablets, band-aids, relief spray etc. 

13. Personal utilities 

Toothbrush and toothpaste, Sunscreen cream, Odomos, Moisturiser, Lip balm, Toilet Paper & wipes, Hand sanitizer. 

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Please do not pollute the place you visit with PLASTIC BAGS and other waste material.