Camping in Maharashtra
Try going for camping in Maharashtra if you can because there is a lot worth exploring in the state. Different topographical features like mountains, plateaus and coasts promise to give you varied experiences. Camping is done away from cities and towns, and amidst untouched natural surroundings. You will stay in tents with only a handful of basic amenities, and will learn not only to survive but also to appreciate nature. Your campsite may be located deep in the woods, which will further add to your excitement.
Maharashtra has a lot of tigers, and as dusk takes over the area, their roars may strike your ears. The sweet chirping of birds and the shining sun will wake you up in the morning, preparing you for an amazing day ahead. Many agencies or establishments, which have facilities for camping in Maharashtra, organise a range of high-thrill activities.
After an already-great start to your day, you will end it on an adventurous and adrenaline-rushing note. Campsites located in or around hills often take their guests on hiking tours. These are great opportunities for you to witness animals and plants of one of the most biologically diverse regions in the whole world – the Western Ghats. You may also be taken to some tribal settlements, where you may learn more about the region, its wildlife and how they have been assimilated in the tribal culture.
A good spot to pick for camping in Maharashtra is near the dam on the Koyna River, and the reservoir that it has created.
1. Koyna River: The Koyna River originates near the popular hill station of Mahabaleshwar and flows from north to south for roughly 130 km.
• The Dam: It is among the biggest dams and hydroelectric projects in the state, and the land near its reservoir makes a picture-perfect spot to camp.
• The Site: The banks of the reservoir and its backwaters are laden with jamun and mango trees. Whichever way you turn your head, your eyes and soul will marvel at a lush canopy of greenery. In the distance, you will be able to see thickly forested hills of the Western Ghats, which when enveloped in clouds look enchanting.
• The Camps: Most of the campsites in the area do not have TVs, so that you do not waste time watching them when you can gaze at the natural scenery. To compensate for this, they organise a horde of fun and exciting activities for you to do.
• Activities: Many activities that you will enjoy here are centred around the gigantic reservoir. Among the foremost such engagements is swimming in the backwaters of the lake. You may also navigate the reservoir on kayaks as many properties have this facility. Taking trips to Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary and hiking up to Vasota Fort are also possible.
2. Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary lies in the Western Ghats, and has elevations in the range of 2000 feet to 3600 feet. Its vegetation changes with altitude: moist deciduous forests are found in the lower reaches while the higher areas contain montane rainforests. A large number of shrubs, climbers and medicinal plants are also found in the area. While exploring the sanctuary, try to spot tigers, Indian bison, leopards, deer, sloth bears, langurs, giant squirrels and otters.
3. Kambre: Another place to go for camping in Maharashtra is the little village of Kambre. This destination is especially famous for its adventure aspect because the camps here host a range of such activities.
• Location: Kambre village is located in Pune district, and is about 55 km from the main city.
• Climate: The region experiences a combination of hot arid climate and tropical savannah climate types. April is quite hot with maximum temperatures of around 40 degree Celsius, and minimum temperatures of 20 degrees. The winter months see some respite from the heat as the highs drop to 30 degree Celsius while lows hover near 15 degree Celsius. Over 100 mm of rain falls in each of the monsoon months of June, July, August and September.
• Activities: Certain camping establishments here host activities like rappelling, rock climbing, zip lining, bouldering, valley crossing, slacklining and river crossing.
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