Mumbai may seem all sin and vice but there’s something for everyone in this city. Especially for those who like heading outdoors and climbing a peak! The city is located near the Sahyadris (Western Ghats) that run parallel to the western coast of India, separating it from the heartland.
The high point of trekking in the Sahyadris is Kalsubai, which is named after a local deity. At 1,646m over sea level, the mountain is the highest point in Maharashtra. Situated off Igatpuri and about 6km away from popular hill station Bhandardara, Kalsubai looms over the small village of Bari. Surprisingly, the trek itself is of an easy difficulty level but your endurance is put to the test.
Ratangad, in the same area, is a hill fort about 200 years old. The hike is mostly through thickets and across streams but it’s the entrance into the fort that’s the tricky bit. Once up, there are large cisterns, water catchments and a lesser peak enshrouded in clouds. Naneghat located near Junnar is a mountain pass built around 200 BC that cuts through the Western Ghats and take you to the Deccan Plateau. There are a few caves at the top, whose walls have inscriptions in the ancient Brahmi script.
The good thing about adventure sports is that there’s at least one for every season. In summer, the clear skies are perfect for paragliding. And in the Monsoon, it’s the best time to wrestle for catch in the freshwaters of Kolad.
{{/usCountry}}The good thing about adventure sports is that there’s at least one for every season. In summer, the clear skies are perfect for paragliding. And in the Monsoon, it’s the best time to wrestle for catch in the freshwaters of Kolad.
{{/usCountry}}Abseiling
Also known as rappelling, this sport involves climbing down the face of a valley with the help of a rope and harness. The entire Malshej region and hillocks, especially around Harishchandragad , are popular rappelling destinations.
Angling
This is similar to shore fishing in that both sports involve catching fish. Except, angling is done in deeper water — both in the river and sea — and requires a variety of equipment. The aim is to catch bigger game such as the barracuda, kingfish, tuna, mahaseer, trout and carps.
Mountain biking
Bikers are often given to exploring uncharted territories once they team up and set off. But they’ll assure you that the pleasure of riding down a hilltop at full speed is unmatched. For an adrenaline-soaked adventure, head to the Yeoor Hills in Thane on a clear day.
Watercraft skiing
This sport involves you sitting astride a personal watercraft (PWC) and riding the waves at full speed. Many experts have been handed a watercraft after a brief 20-minute induction tutorial. Riding a personal watercraft (PWC) doesn’t require much else if you know how to swim.
Paragliding
What outdoor adventure activity is complete without sauntering in the skies? The sport is popular during the summer months at Kamshet near Lonavala. There are two options available to those interested: one-off joyrides or introductory classes and training.
White-water rafting
Rafting on the Kundalika River in Kolad is a year-round activity since the river is fed by a hydro-electricity dam project. Though the rapids (Grade 2 to Grade 3) may not be of the same calibre as those in Rishikesh and Ladakh, it’s good fun nonetheless.
PHOTO: Cyrus Dastur