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Rebranding India’s Party Town with Scuba Diving in Goa

Go goa?

Monotony and boredom become an ever-raging battle as you continue to grow older. At no other time was this more apparent to all of us than when we were riding our rented scooters through the charming by-lanes of Goa for the umpteenth time and found it to be tiresome. We were in the holiday capital of India and we were bored out of our minds.

Luckily, one of my friends spotted powerful allies in our ongoing battle with the usual; novelty and a sense of adventure. A board that advertised scuba diving in Goa was just the thing we needed to add depth to our holiday. We looked at each other nodded with glee.

We contacted the diving school right away and booked a dive for the next day. We had rediscovered excitement and adventure; it was hiding under the pristine waters that surround Goa all along.

Pre-dive

We reached the beach earlier than our instructed time. The instructors greeted us and geared us up figuratively with a quick briefing session. We then took a relaxing boat ride to one of the nearby islands from where we were going to dive. We had humpback dolphins keep us company throughout our ride.

Our instructors pointed out a number of historic and monumental buildings all along such as the Modern Light house, Governor’s Palace, Aguada Fort among many others. I, however, could not peel my eyes away from the golden glow cast by the morning sun on the pristine waters of Goa.

We geared up, literally this time around, getting into our dive suits once we reached the island and went through a scuba training session to get ourselves ready for the adventure that lay ahead.

The hidden world

We had consumed videos and images of scuba diving the night before but no amount of Googling could have prepared us for what happened next. Following our trained instructors we dived into the sea. A whole world, unlike anything I had ever imagined, was hidden underneath these turquoise waters.

There were fish of all shapes and sizes that swam right past us. Coral reefs that gleamed in a million different colors. This world underwater seemed alien but at the same time strangely familiar. The soothing silence accentuated the feel and the visual appeal.

At first I was tense and nervous but a few minutes in I was lost to the splendor that had captivated me. I did not even realize when the 30 minutes of the dive were up. It was only when the instructor pointed out that some of us were running out of oxygen, that this underwater spell was broken.

We spent all our time on the boat and in the scooter as we headed home discussing the dive. Scuba diving in Goa had allowed us to see not only Goa but the rest of the world in a different light.

[thegreatnextin]

Rebranding India’s Party Town with Scuba Diving in Goa

Go goa?

Monotony and boredom become an ever-raging battle as you continue to grow older. At no other time was this more apparent to all of us than when we were riding our rented scooters through the charming by-lanes of Goa for the umpteenth time and found it to be tiresome. We were in the holiday capital of India and we were bored out of our minds.

Luckily, one of my friends spotted powerful allies in our ongoing battle with the usual; novelty and a sense of adventure. A board that advertised scuba diving in Goa was just the thing we needed to add depth to our holiday. We looked at each other nodded with glee.

We contacted the diving school right away and booked a dive for the next day. We had rediscovered excitement and adventure; it was hiding under the pristine waters that surround Goa all along.

Pre-dive

We reached the beach earlier than our instructed time. The instructors greeted us and geared us up figuratively with a quick briefing session. We then took a relaxing boat ride to one of the nearby islands from where we were going to dive. We had humpback dolphins keep us company throughout our ride.

Our instructors pointed out a number of historic and monumental buildings all along such as the Modern Light house, Governor’s Palace, Aguada Fort among many others. I, however, could not peel my eyes away from the golden glow cast by the morning sun on the pristine waters of Goa.

We geared up, literally this time around, getting into our dive suits once we reached the island and went through a scuba training session to get ourselves ready for the adventure that lay ahead.

The hidden world

We had consumed videos and images of scuba diving the night before but no amount of Googling could have prepared us for what happened next. Following our trained instructors we dived into the sea. A whole world, unlike anything I had ever imagined, was hidden underneath these turquoise waters.

There were fish of all shapes and sizes that swam right past us. Coral reefs that gleamed in a million different colors. This world underwater seemed alien but at the same time strangely familiar. The soothing silence accentuated the feel and the visual appeal.

At first I was tense and nervous but a few minutes in I was lost to the splendor that had captivated me. I did not even realize when the 30 minutes of the dive were up. It was only when the instructor pointed out that some of us were running out of oxygen, that this underwater spell was broken.

We spent all our time on the boat and in the scooter as we headed home discussing the dive. Scuba diving in Goa had allowed us to see not only Goa but the rest of the world in a different light.

[thegreatnextin]

An anniversary to remember at the Valley of Flowers

“Really? Has it been five years?”, was Abhey’s response to my comment that our five year anniversary was looming large. That reply disappointed me, but at the same time, it spurned me into action. That reply confirmed what I already knew but did not want to admit; our relationship had lost its luster

I browsed the internet for ideas to reignite the lost spark and the idea of an adventurous trip caught my attention. We had, after all, met on one such occasion. As I looked through the different adventure activities in India, treks seemed the most appropriate and one among them, the valley of flowers trek, seemed and sounded the most appropriate.

Averaging about a week, the trek cut through the Nanda Devi National Park. A world heritage site, the valley of flowers is bustling with well over 300 different species which includes the exquisite Blue Poppy as well as Brahamakamal, something that stirred the nature lover within me.

The valley is home to not only these radiant flowers but also thick forests of rhododendron and oak in which live diverse wildlife like red fox, Asiatic black bear and musk deer as well as the elusive snow leopard.

After much pushing and prodding, a reluctant Abhey took some time off from work and we made it to the valley during the monsoon months, just in time for the blooming season. With new flowers blooming every day, the valley of flowers seemed like it was alive, changing its looks and coloring itself anew every few hours.

Abhey’s grumpiness melted at the first sight of those rainbow colored hills and the trip only got better on from there on out. We hiked on stony roads that zig-zagged their way through the flowering meadows glowing in all colors from lemony yellow to snowy white.

Located at a comfortable altitude of 3650 meters, the valley of flowers trek is of moderate difficulty which explains why we had so many first-time hikers in our trekking group. We spent time socializing with the others but mostly kept to ourselves because this was time that we had taken out for each other.

We also explored Auli, a hill station that rivaled the valley in terms of appeal by its virtue of its alpine beauty. The group as a whole also visited the Badrinath temple and the Hemkund Sahib gurudwara, two places of worship, famous not only in Uttarakhand but all of India.

The two temples mesmerized us in much the same way the Garhwal Himalayan ranges seduced our senses with their crispy air and stunning vistas. None of these, however, came close to replicating the feeling we experienced when we first laid our eyes on the valley carpeted with flowers.

It instilled within us a sense of wonder and awe, unlike any we had experienced in a long time. As we held hands and sit amongst the flowers, we found joy within us and we found each other once again.

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A Water Baby’s Paradise – Scuba Diving in Andaman

Water baby

I have always had an affinity to water. Every time I step on the beach, the sounds of the long breaths of the oceans fill me with life. The sea calls out to me and I find myself drawn to it like an electron to its nucleus. So when my friend, Mrigank, asked me if I would accompany him to a week long holiday to Andaman I could not resist.

We planned and packed and after a couple of flights found ourselves on the mesmerizing beaches of this tiny island floating in the Indian Ocean. It goes without saying, the moment we dumped our bags in the hotel room, I pulled Mrigank and we were dashing towards the sea.

Discovering scuba

Walking about, taking in the salty air and feeling the crystalline sand under my feet, I saw a few people getting off a boat. Dressed in heavy suits, they looked exhausted but ecstatic. “They were scuba diving”, Mrigank noticed that I was gawking at them shamelessly. That got me curious and laid the foundation for my life long love affair with scuba diving.

After enquiring around, I signed up for a scuba diving course in Andaman and pestered Mrigank to do the same. It was to be my first open dive in the Andaman Sea, the first of many.

Scuba diving in Andaman is arguably the best scuba diving in the country given the blooming coral reefs and the exotic marine life unlike any you will see all over the waters of this country.

The first dive

The day began with a shallow water training session on the shore where a number of scuba newbies had gathered. We learned basic scuba skills such as understanding and handling the scuba equipment as well as underwater communication and simple navigation. While we were all gearing up, I was prancing about like a child and gaping at the vibrant flora all around.

Once we were all set, we got on to a boat that took us to the middle of the Andaman sea. Our scuba diving course in Andaman was well and truly underway.

We stopped at a spot not too far from the coast where the water was as clear as polished glass. One by one we went in with the instructors in tow and descended to the depths of the pleasant and gentle waters.

What lay in front of me is a sight that will forever persist in my memory. A whole world hiding beneath the cerulean waters. Fish of all colors and sizes ranging from shrimps, sea horses to clownfish.There were corals glowing with fluorescent hues under the light of the morning sun with sand so white that it could put snow to shame.

Scuba diving in Andaman not only added depth to my love for the ocean but also reignited my passion for all adventure sports as I contemplated staying back and doing more dives on our way back to the shore.

[thegreatnextin]

Crashing an All-Boys Ladakh Bike Trip – Why Should Boys Have All The Fun?

“Why are you so curious?”, asked Jeet, with a hint of snideness layering his voice. “Not like you are coming along on this trip.” “Why not I added?”, referring to their animated discussion of a Leh Ladakh bike trip. “Girls do not do a Ladakh bike trip”, Abhishek added. And just like that, this girl was doing a two week long bike trip to one of the most legendary bike routes within the country, Leh Ladakh.

We hired monstrous bikes from the city itself and left at the crack of dawn the next day after deciding on the routes, itineraries and doing some final checks.

I was adamant about not riding pillion in the beginning itself and managed to convince the boys to be one of the earlier riders. I had been reading bikes for nearly a decade by then which instilled within them, and me, confidence.

The cold desert, as it is often know, Leh Ladakh is a place unlike any other you will experience, not only in India but all over the world. Every biker in India dreams of traversing this stupefying and mystifying landscapes that has established itself as one of the most iconic bike rides in the country.

We started off from our base in Delhi, riding north towards the idyllic city of Srinagar, moving on to the historic Kargil before finally arriving at our first destination, Leh Ladakh.

Over the course of the next few days, we traversed the Ladakhi terrain, visiting the multi-hued lakes of Two Moriri and Pangong, the sand dunes of Sumur and Hundur hiding in the picturesque Nubra Valley as well as the historic monasteries that rivaled the natural allure that Ladakh had on offer.

What makes a Ladakh bike trip so acclaimed within the bikini community are the open roads that snake through the terrain, extending to infinity and beyond. It was hard to keep our eyes on the road considering all the beauty around us.

We made our way through the winding roads; engines roaring and riders howling. We rode during the pleasant days with the colossal snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas keeping us company throughout our journey.

We spent our nights chowing down on local delicacies and animatedly dissecting the events of the day. I would go to bed every night, tired to the bone but looking forward to waking up and doing it the next day all over again. Such was the vibe and energy of Leh Ladakh.

Two weeks roared by, moving faster than our Royal Enfields on the roads of Ladakh. The gang was already discussing the next adventure as we rode through the thriving green valleys of Manali on our way back to Delhi and this time they included me without even asking.

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A much-needed retreat from work – river rafting in Kolad

The monotony of city life had been getting to me and I was itching to break away, even if on my own. I couldn’t break away far or for too long because I had only weekends off from work which is why kolad rafting seemed like the perfect way to scratch the itch.

Nestled within the lap of the Sahyadris, Kolad is a quaint village located only a couple of hours away from the bustling city of Mumbai. It is the ideal way to spend two days mixing relaxation with a bit of adventure. Rafting in Kolad takes place on the serene Kundalika river which roars into life every morning when the adjoining Bhira Dam is opened.

I was lucky enough to discover Kolad in the midst of the monsoon season because it is during this time that Kolad is at its best. The Kundalika river is vibrant and brimming throughout the year but it is the landscape that varies during the different seasons.

When I went for rafting in Kolad during the monsoon, the mountains and the surroundings were awash with greenery in stark contrast to the perpetually cloudy and grey skies. I was told that the land is relatively barren during the summers and the weather somewhat unbearable. During winters on the other hand, the days are pleasant but the surroundings not as vibrant.

I hired a private taxi to take me to the campsite because it is much safer for a girl to travel this way. You can reach Kolad by other forms of public transport such as train and bus or even take your own car to make for a fun road trip.

I reached the campsite early evening around 5 pm and was immediately directed to my tent. The camp operators were polite and helped me get comfortable rather quickly. I was given some snacks and tea as part of the package to curb the post road-trip hunger pangs. I was told that rafting would take place the following morning and was free to spend the rest of the evening as I saw fit.

I took a stroll around in the light drizzle to catch some clean air and take in the beauty of nature. When I returned to the campsite, I was served a tasty local dinner post which I socialized with my fellow rafters before calling it a night.

I woke up the next morning buzzing with excitement. Post early morning tea, we went to the kolad rafting point. After gearing up and being briefed about the rafting, we tamed the wild Kundalika river over a distance of 12 kilometers as we conquered Grade-II and Grade-III rapids. Exhausted, we took a small dip in the cool waters before going back to the camp for a deserved local lunch.

Post a hot shower, I was ready to head back to the city. I hailed a private cab and was already searching for my next rafting adventure.

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My trek to Kheerganga – Parvati Valley’s Paradise

“Dude. Kheerganga. This weekend. You and me. In or out?”, is the voice note I receive from Kush as I open his chat on WhatsApp; his voice laced with impatience. “I am in”, my voice decorated with frustration.

It had been a long and hectic few days on both personal and professional fronts and my mind was craving for some down time, away from the bustle of Chandigarh. I went on a google bender to know what I had signed up for in the first place.

Nestled within the heart of the Parvati valley at a height of about 9700 feet, Kheerganga is a flourishing grassland, famous for its natural hot springs and as the place where Lord Shiva is said to have meditated for years on end. It is also infamous among hippies and Israelis for illicit recreational activities.

I could see why the place called out to Kush. As I researched more and read about the Kheerganga trek and saw photos of its stunning landscape, the mountains called out to the adrenaline junkie within me and I could not ignore their call.

We left for Kasol, the beginning point of our two trek, on Friday night and arrived there in the morning. We woke up to the crispy air and tranquil atmosphere of this peaceful hamlet, looked at each other and exchanged huge grins, albeit for different reasons altogether.

After feasting on the delicious food and heartfelt humility of Kasol we began the Kheerganga trek by hiking our way towards Rudra Nag, home to a serpent shaped waterfall, a stunning work of art created by Mother Nature herself.

We continued on our journey, making our way through the charming villages of Kalga and Pulga while our trail twisted and turned through the mountains. We stopped at an idyllic location to feast on some packed food as well as mesmerizing views of the Parvati Valley.

By evening we reached our destination, standing amongst lush meadows surrounded by thick forests. We dipped our aching feet into the natural hot springs and felt our tiredness melt right off.

Invigorated by the warm water and cool breeze, we setup our tents. We picked up our dinners from a quaint cafe and ate like ravenous beasts. We eventually went to sleep while taking in the gorgeous views of Pin Valley National Park.

We woke up to absolute silence among the towering mountains. After packing up, we retraced our steps as we began our descent back towards Kasol. The views back were somehow even more stunning than the first time around. We spent the entire downward journey making more plans to go upwards further into the mountains.

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Just me and my wolf pack – my epic trek to Kedarkantha

I had seen my older brother and parents lose friends steadily as they aged; they said it was because life gets in the way. I thought this could never happen to me and that the bonds I have forged with my friends will only get stronger over time. Then it happened; life got in the way.

I sent out WhatsApp messages to a group of our closest friends and a few calls later, we found ourselves planning a week-long adventure to conquer the Kedarkantha trek and strengthen the bonds of our “wolf-pack.”

After much consideration, Kedarkantha seemed like the ideal choice because of two primary reasons. We were all beginners and we all shared a common love for snow. While it is one of the few treks in India that is accessible throughout the year, the best time to go hiking through the region is the winter season. The area is blanketed with thick, pristine snow which adds to the challenge and the beauty of the hike.

The peak of Kedarkantha was quite literally, and figuratively, the pinnacle of the hike, as far we were concerned. Not only did we get to experience the satisfying feeling of conquering the mountain despite the difficult nature of the trek but we were also left with a feeling of awe and wonder as we took in the 360-degree view on offer.

The region boasts of some of the tallest Himalyan peaks like the Black Pearl. The trail cuts through the Govind wild life sanctuary and national park which is home to some of the most diverse and mesmerizing flora and fauna that India has to offer, let alone Uttarakhand.

Most of the treks that we had researched averaged around a week and we took one of the shorter ones because not all of us could coordinate a longer period at a stretch. While we were hiking every day felt like an eternity because of the physically challenging but mentally gratifying nature of the trek. When it was over though, it felt like we had spent but a moment up in those snowy mountains.

The days were spent pushing through the snow and cutting through pine forests. The nights were spent surrounded by silence and the chilly winter air with a thousand stars putting on the most magnificent of displays.

I can safely say that the Kedarkantha trek renewed and sealed the bonds of friendship between the four of us as we camped next to a frozen lake, cut through thick forests and feasted on stunning views of snow-clad mountains set on fire by the soft rays of the sun. Till date, the four of us continue to go on our annual hikes.

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Bird? Plane? No, Just A Father-Son Duo Enjoying Paragliding in Kamshet!

“Papa, how come birds can fly but we cannot?”, Ansul had once asked me with innocence that is exclusive to a child. “I wish I too, could fly”, he followed up with a longing that is also the sole domain of children. “You too will fly”, I lied to make him smile.

A few weeks later I had the opportunity to overturn that lie when I saw an advert for Kamshet paragliding. I could not simply turn down this chance given Kamshet’s proximity to Mumbai and the stunning views of the Western Ghats the advert displayed.

During mid-week I told Ansul that he should look forward to flying like a bird during the weekend. I do not whether I was more excited and impatient in that moment or him. I researched a few paragliding schools and selected the one that I felt was the best option.

Come weekend, we packed a small bag, fueled up and were soon on our way to the picturesque town. Kamshet is one of the most recommended places for paragliding not only within Maharashtra, but all of India. It lies somewhat in the middle between Mumbai and Pune within the laps of the Sahyadris.

Green hills as far as the eyes can see and ideal wind conditions make Kamshet paragliding one of the most sought after adventure activities in the state. I had booked an early afternoon slot and we arrived well in time to ensure Ansul runs off Tower Hill and takes to the cerulean skies.

We were greeted warmly by our instructors; given a small briefing before Ansul was made to gear up. I had booked a tandem paragliding session for Ansul in which a pilot operated the glider while Ansul gawked at the mesmerizing views of the valleys and hills from several thousand feet in the air. I swear I could see him smiling even when he was all the way up there.

After a flight of about ten minutes, the duo landed safely on the ground. As soon as he was released from his harness, Ansul dashed towards me, giddy and excited. “Papa, I was a bird”, he answered before I even questioned him. “You have to get up there”, he pester and prodded me.

I was hesitant at first but gave in eventually when the pilot told me that he will accommodate me without a booking. I, too, took the tandem session having no prior experience but was told that I could learn to paraglide over the course of a few days.

I was given the briefing all over again, harnessed in and before I knew it we were running towards the edge of the hill. My heart leapt out of my chest as we jumped off the cliff. The view was indescribable when we gained peak altitude. I felt less like a bird and more like a child as I waved to a tiny Ansul from between the clouds.

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Reviving adventure with a trek to Hampta Pass

I could feel it within my veins, my adrenaline had been building up over the last few months and I needed to find release. My friend’s instagram post featuring a story of trekking through snow-capped peaks offered me the ideal outlet. I roped in my friend, Simran and together we decide to conquer the Hampta pass.

One of the most famous treks within the country, the Hampta pass trek offers stunning vistas of mountain ranges, pine forests and vast meadows in addition to thrilling challenge for anyone with moderate levels of fitness, even first time trekkers.

The pass is most accessible from the village of Prini, located in Himachal Pradesh, which is where Simran and I started our adventure along with a few other trekkers who were part of our group.

The path was steep and difficult but our spirits were high and we hiked our way through in about two hours cutting through thick forests, apple orchards and some endearing villages. We found a clearing among the dense forests where we had dinner and rested our weary bones for the night. I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the sleeping bag.

The second day of the Hampta pass trek took us through Chikka, a surreal place, as if right out of one of those stock internet photos. Huge conical columns of bare rock kissed the sky creating a horizon unlike any I have ever witnessed. Simran’s jaw was left hanging when she caught her first glimpse. We cut through the chilly waters of Rani Nulla and decided to camp for the night on the other side, in a meadow. The views at night were just as mesmerizing as those in the day.

The third day was one of the most defining days of the trek. Simran and I were dreading it and looking forward to it in equal measure, for this is the day of the ascent. Thankfully, the slope was not too steep and had us climbing gradually while our eyes soaked in the views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks.

We reached our destination and I found out that I had been lied to. The Hampta pass was nothing like I had been told, it was much more gorgeous. From a height of 14000 feet we sipped on some warm tea and feasted on panoramic views of tall peaks and beautiful glaciers. Reluctantly, we made our way back to Juara camp to catch the last sunset of our unforgettable adventure.

We woke up the next day with heavy bodies but light minds. The group traced its way back to Jobri from where the trek culminated in the village of Manali. I and Simran could not stop talking the trek for days on end even after coming back to the city and were already planning which mountain range to conquer next.

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Every hiker’s bucket list topper – the Everest Base Camp trek

As I was going about my monthly house cleaning, I chanced upon an old list which I had made with a lot of thought and love and then promptly ignored. It was my bucket list, a list of all the things I want to do before I turn old. Right at the top (pun intended) was the Everest Base Camp trek mocking the hiker within me.

The Everest base trek features on the list of many experienced trekkers and rightly so. A rendezvous with the highest mountain in the world is an opportunity every high-altitude climber relishes for the mountains offer a shot at self-actualization and bragging rights for life. I finished cleaning my room, then cleared my schedule and set off to Nepal in the next few days signing up with a renowned tour operator for the hike.

I feel obliged to mention here that one cannot simply jettison off to Nepal for an ebc trek. While it is a non-technical climb, it is by no means an easy one. The trek lasts for an average of 12-15 days during which you battle punishing weather and extreme terrains while climbing to a height of 18000 feet.

I met up with my guide and the rest of the group at the capital from where we proceeded to take another flight to a serene village tucked away at the foothills. Over the course of the next two weeks, we saw not only the terrain but also ourselves undergo drastic changes.

What started off as a landscape blanketed with pine forests and gorgeous streams soon transformed to a rocky terrain coated with pristine snow and glacial moraine. What started off as a group of smug hikers soon transformed into a bunch of humbled humans with an appreciation of the mighty mountain.

Over the course of the ebc trek we spend our days crossing shaky bridges, cutting through forests of pine and mingling with the irrepressible Sherpa community. We interacted with their yak caravans, gorged on local delicacies and were handed life lessons by rosy children living blissfully in idyllic tiny villages.

Our nights were spent at charming tea-houses where we fueled our depleted bodies with delicious food, warm showers and deep sleep. I would end every night tired to my bone and wake up ready to do it all over again.

In fact, I enjoyed my trek so much that I, along with few others, opted to scale Kalapathar in the wee hours of the morning to catch a view of the morning sun setting fire to snowy peaks of Everest; a view that is indelibly seared into my soul.

I would say that the Everest Base Camp trek is a journey within as much as it is a on the outside. The experience affected me on a personal level and I have taken many more hikes since then trying to capture the elusive feeling I felt when we made it to base camp.

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Kolad Rafting

Kolad was once a peaceful fishing village along the Kundalika river. It is surrounded by paddy fields and lush forests, and remains cool and pleasant for most months of the year. However, with the growing popularity of camping and Kolad Rafting, it is now becoming one of the adventure hubs of Maharashtra. Travellers from Mumbai and Pune visit every weekend to enjoy the weather and the activities here.

Adventurous rafting on the Kundalika River

 The river is usually serene and feeds the fields and greenery around. However, every morning, excess water from Bhira dam is released into the river, turning the river into a seething, churning beast for a couple of hours. This is when you'll be river rafting in Kolad, enjoying a 12 km stretch with rapids of Grade II and III. When you're safely past the rapids, your guide will allow you to jump in the water for a swim (with life jackets on).

Types of rapids on Kundalika River

 The flow of the Kundalika River is controlled by a dam, hence the rafting sessions are conducted when the dam releases the water every morning and afternoon. This thrilling experience takes you through different levels of rapids, from Grade II to Grade III rapids. Grade II rapids are moderate, with slightly stronger waves and are a great way to perfect your manoeuvring skills. Grade II rapids are more challenging, with strong eddies, high waves and sudden falls. You need to be alert while entering these rapids and follow the instructor's instructions.

Things to do in Kolad – a short adventure weekend getaway near Mumbai or Pune

 Kolad is located in the midst of the Western Ghats, surrounded by greenery. You'll do your rafting in the morning, and will have the rest of the day to enjoy. Most campsites and resorts offer a Kolad river rafting package with rafting as well as activities like kayaking, ziplining, and other fun outdoor activities. Meals are usually Maharashtrian cuisine, served at campsites, although you'll have to pre-book. In the evening, a campfire and BBQ are the best way to enjoy the starry skies and the fresh air at your riverside campsite.

One day Kolad rafting package

 A day picnic is one way to enjoy river rafting in Kolad. Leave early in the morning to make sure you arrive in Kolad by 8:30 or 9:00 a.m, so you'll be in time for your rafting. The most economical Kolad river rafting package offers only rafting, but you can also book packages that include breakfast and lunch at a campsite nearby. This is a better option because you'll be very hungry after your rafting session in Kolad, and there are not too many restaurants around. For those who want to stuff a lot of fun into one day, there are rafting packages that include adventure activities at the campsites.

Kolad rafting package with overnight stay

 Kolad has a few picturesque campsites, some as large as 50 acres, located in the middle of hills or alongside the river. You can choose from Swiss tents, cabins, caravans, rooms, cottages or dorms, depending on your group size. You'll eat lavish buffet meals, go rafting in Kolad, try your hand at all kinds of adventure activity, and spend time in nature.

Best time to go

 River rafting packages in Kolad are available throughout the year, but the best time to go is during the monsoons. During this season, the Kundalika river is wild and rafting on it is an exhilarating experience. The surrounding landscape too is flourishing and turns into a green paradise. Winter is also a great season for rafting as the mornings are misty and the nights cool.

How to reach Kolad

 Kolad is located at a distance of 120 km from Mumbai and 145 km from Pune and is well connected to the two cities by road and rail. You can reach Kolad by train as there are daily trains connecting to Kolad from Mumbai and Pune. You can also catch a state or privately run bus to reach Kolad. However, if you prefer to drive your own car, then you can reach Kolad by either of the two routes, one via Khapoli on the Mumbai-Goa road, and second from Khapoli Exit on the Mumbai-Pune expressway.

You can also reach Kolad on your motorcycle as the route is quite scenic and makes for a great ride. And since motorcycles are not allowed on the expressway, you need to take the old Mumbai-Goa road to reach Kolad.

Things to keep in mind while Kolad rafting

 While Kolad river rafting, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. First and foremost is safety, so never remove your helmet or life jacket while on the raft and always follow the instructor's directions. Next, do not carry expensive gadgets, jewellery, phone, etc. while rafting as you might lose it in the river. Also, wear clothes that are comfortable and non-restrictive along with sandals or light shoes which won't fall off. Remember to carry some spare cash so you can have vadapav and water at the rafting endpoint.