Sahyadrica

My feet are happy. Scaling the tallest peak of Thane was no easy feat, but it was the most adventurous trek I’ve been on this month, and surprisingly my feet did not ache. Armed with only water that we weren’t sure will last till the end, but well equipped to document anything that we may stumble upon, we began our journey on one fine bright sunny morning, with the peaks hiding in the clouds. The Rocky cliffs of Mahuli A fine, bright sunny morning lasts for a very few minutes in the northern Western Ghats, however. Very soon it began to grow hotter and humid on the ground below the tall peaks – where lay a temple – the first and the last stopover for anyone who trudges Mahuli. Over here, a few yards from the temple, runs a small stream teeming with life. With Guppy fishes swimming in the cool shades of Cattails and dragonflies occupying the tallest summit amongst these reeds, there were very many tiny damselflies along the banks that caught my attention. One of the cutest was t...

Mahuli - 19th July 2009 A Nature Trail was organized by WWF MSO, India to Mahuli. Mahuli is a fort, the highest point in Thane district at 2815 feet. The forest surrounding Mahuli Fort has been declared as a sanctuary – Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. The place is dominated by semi deciduous forests, and gives a different picture in wet and dry seasons. It is near Asangaon – a station on the Central Railway line, which easily connects Asangaon to Mahuli. The State transport bus service is an economic way to reach the Mahuli Gaon (from Asangaon), but there are auto-rickshaws that might take you there too. However, having own vehicle will save a lot of effort. The climb to the fort is considered tough and tougher during wet season. But it is a favorite destination for serious trekkers. It is also flocked by picnickers during monsoon to enjoy the abundance of free water in the shape of streams, rivers and waterfalls. Last but not the least, it is a favorite sought after destination for natur...