From best locations to safety tips: Your complete trekking guide around Mumbai this summer

Where can I trekKothaligad at nightPopular spots like Kalmandavi Domzira and Gokundi waterfalls are not spacious and get flooded with trekkers If yoursquore seeking peace your expectations might fall flat I recommend the Kothaligad night trek The weather is much cooler and the crowd is manageableHow to get there Board a train to Neral Make your way to the base village Peth or PinglasLog on to mischieftrekscomJahnvi Mehta trek leader Mischief TreksHarihar fortThe panoramic view from the Harihar Fort summit PIC COURTESYOMKAR JOSHIThe ideal escape from this heat would be in the regions closer to Nashik or Ahilyanagar formerly Ahmednagar For a day trek head to Harihar Fort which is nearly 160 km from Mumbai The fortrsquos 80degree incline carved in stone steps is an exciting climb that ends with a 360degree panoramic view of the SahyadrisHow to get there Board a train to Kasara Use public transport or rent a cab to Harshewadi or Nirgudpada the base villagesLog on to shivsahyadritrekkersOmkar Joshi mountaineer and instructorPrabalmachiPrabalmachi trek campsite PIC COURTESYT TRIKONPrabalmachi is an easy trek near Panvel for those seeking a break from the cityrsquos air quality Itrsquos ideal for a night trek but afternoons can get hot You donrsquot need to be a trekking expert to make the climb to the summit The temperature is the same as Mumbai but early starters can expect pleasant weatherHow to get there Board a train to Panvel Choose public transportation to reach the base village ThakurwadiLog on to ttrikoncomMayur Mundale trek leader T TrikonKarnalaTrekkers on the Karnala Fort trail PIC COURTESYMOUNTMEIf you must step out in the day start early in the morning to avoid a heat stroke in the later part of the trek You can drive to the base villages at night camp there and continue the trek early in the morning for an extraearly start It is also an interesting way to explore the local culture and cuisine Kohoj or Karnala Fort are my ideal picks for plans like these How to get there Board a train to Panvel Hop into an auto rickshaw to the Karnala Bird SanctuaryLog on to mountmeinChirag Dhabalia trek organiser MountMeWhat can I eatgtgt Before the trek opt for a meal rich in good fats and carbohydrates to maintain energy levels Breakfast options like poha or upma work wellgtgt During the trek bananas are a lifesaver They provide instant energy and prevent cramps Sip on lemon juice and grab a protein bar or dry fruits in breaksgtgt After the trek itrsquos important to rehydrate with electrolytes Complex carbohydrates and high protein aid good recovery Avoid fried food and chilled drinksWhen should I stopgtgt Can you walk five to six km without a break If not scrap your plans and start walking at least three km daily for at least a month before you venture out on a trekgtgt Severe muscle cramps are a warning sign Donrsquot ignore themgtgt If you are dehydrated take a break hydrate yourself and start descending Do not gulp water down Sip slowlyWhat can I weargtgt Opt for light pastel coloured breathable dryfit tshirts and pants Remember no jeans or denimsgtgt A cap and sunglasses are nobrainers but donrsquot forget a sunscreen with at least SPF 50 protectiongtgt Check the grip of your shoes before heading out and always carry a trekking poleMake the climbSign up for these easy treks this monthgtgt Garbett PlateauON April 20 and 27MEETING POINT Bhivpuri Railway StationLog on to treksandtrailsorgCOST Rs 799 includes breakfastgtgt RatangadON April 18 19 25 and 26MEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station Log on to trekpandainCOST Rs 1199 includes food and accommodationgtgt SondaiON April 20 and 27MEETING POINT Karjat Railway StationCALL 8828004949COST Rs 999 includes transportationNote Experts suggest against trekking solo if yoursquore a beginner Join an experienced group accompanied by a local guide to avoid mishapsatOptionskeyd0ddb8ef8f1a62a8cdd22fac27fc5ea7formatiframeheight90width728params