Bhimashankar

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For the easy-going, Bhimashankar, about 275 km from Mumbai by road is a weekend getaway. For others, like us, at 3250-ft high and a 4.5-hour gruelling trek from Khandas village – it is a test of endurance for our muscles, joints and of perseverance for our minds. To reach Khandas, take the Mumbai-Pune highway till Chauk and take a left, drive 40km from Chouk via Karjat to Khandas village. From Khandas, it is an up-hill climb to the first plateau, then a trail through forests, and again an up-hill climb to the Bhimashankar plateau.
The temple on top, dedicated to Lord Shiva, dates back to 18th century. Legend is that Lord Shiva, killed Bhima, an Asura who lived there. Bhimashankar wild life sanctuary is home to a variety of endangered species of flora and fauna. The Giant Indian Squirrel is a major attraction, while the other species present include Panther, Sambar, Wild Boar, etc. The Bhima river originates from here and joins river Krishna. Trekking during the monsoons is ideal and the most enjoyable, with endless stretches of greenery right from the base, with water falls and gushing streams. But it is also the most risky.
Initially, we planned to cover only the first plateau and a hike through the forests, since trekking up to Bhimashankar and back on the same day could be a daunting task. But the enthusiasm was infectious and each had a point to prove to oneself. Even the first timers were determined.

So here it goes… Click the photos to get a bigger view.

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Sattelite image

Google Mapping Courtesy: Chakram Hikers

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Sattelite image. A closer look

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'Courage' has now a new meaning and expression.

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Introduction. The tallest mountain in the background is our destination

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Small victories. After climbing a small hill on our trail

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Moving on

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Waiting for the direction. Straight or Right?

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Trail by the river (remains of a river/stream). During monsoon it is a different story

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Water break

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An up-hill task

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Snack break. A reason to sit for a while

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Back on track

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Charlie's Angels

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Turning back?

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An endless climb

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Photo-break

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View of the first mountain to climb

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Crossing between two mountains. Typically waterfalls are formed at these places. During monsoons, it could have been a difficult task to cross this

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Moving on

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The waterfall trail

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An amateurish attempt to catch the sun rays on the camera

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Forest trail in the first plateau

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.....

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Crossing a fallen tree. A dilapidated hut, one among the many which tribals have constructed for trekkers

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A view of the village in the first plateau

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A tight spot

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A view of the valley

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View of Padargad fort

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A view of the village in the first plateau, from a further height

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Looking behind at the valleys we crossed. And a view of Padargad Fort

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On the top

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Journalists realise that at times a stick is mightier than a pen and a sword.

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Trotting down

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Another dream lived together

Nature Knights

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Nature Knights is a group of adventurers from diverse background bonded by a common interest for outdoors, environment and eco-tourism.

Nature Knights organizes expeditions, camps and treks providing opportunities for studying the environment and explorations to places of historical importance and heritage.

Nature Knights also organises adventure trips to Himalayas, rich Valleys in Western Ghats and Nilgiri mountains.

You can reach Nature Knights at natureknights@yahoo.com