Humbling Hikes – Ajobagad Trek with Waterfall Hopping at Dehene Village

Naturesapien is proud to present you with Humbling Hikes, a monsoons trek series with an eco-friendly and mindful approach. As part of this trek series we will be hiking through some amazing locations in and around the city with a naturalist, as well as learn about local cultures, get involved in volunteering or even learn to be more eco-friendly. This one is a trek to Ajobagad with waterfall hopping at Dehene Village..

About Dehene
Local Community – Hindu Marathas
Distance – 96 Kms from Thane toll naka (Mumbai)
Time of travel – 2.5 – 3 hours (By car) | 3.5 – 4 hours (By local transport – train and local jeep)

This tiny village surrounded by mountains on all sides is a perfect weekend getaway. Beautiful drive through open fields and forests adds greatly to the overall experience. The house of a warm community, the hospitality will amaze you. At Dehene you can experience rural life at its best, help out in the fields, tend to the catlle, cook with the local women, fill pots at the handpump, lend a hand in all activities around the village and play lagori with the excited bunch of village kids. The authentic rural Maharashtra cuisine is a humble yet delicious experience. This village is located at foothills of mount Ajobadad (Rishi Valmiki’s last resting place) – trek to the top and witness a piece of religion and history. and yes not to forget, the view from top is breath-taking.

About Ajobagad
Standing tall in the Sahyadri ranges, Ajoba or Aajaparvat is one of the highest peaks in the region. Nestled amidst thick greenery, the Ajoba Hill fort is a delight for trekkers as it presents an exciting trail to the top. It is believed that Valmiki wrote the epic “Ramayana” on this fort. Midway to the fort, lies Valmiki Ashram which is a heaven of peace and tranquillity. Carvings on the Ashram wall depict stories of Gods and Goddesses and is considered to be a holy place by pilgrims.

A little downhill from the Ashram, lies a mountain stream carrying clear potable water. On crossing the rivulet behind the Ashram one can reach Luv-Kush cave which has the carved footprints (called “Padukas”) of Sita’s twin sons Luv and Kush. It is believed that Sita stayed here after giving birth to her sons. Above this cave there is a precipice called ‘Cradle of Sitamai’ which is challenging yet alluring for rock climbers. The fort was named “Ajobagad” after the great sage Valmiki who was called “Ajoba” or grandfather by Luv and Kush.

Difficulty level: Medium
Endurance: Medium

Height: 4511 feet approx above sea level

Highlights
Guided Trek | Waterfall Hopping | Rural tour | River visit

Timeline
🔹7:00 am Reach Asangaon railway stn. And meet at the ticket counter.
🔹 08:30 am Reach village, And begin trek after munching on a few vada pavs and tea.
🔹 10:30 am- Reach the top, explore the fort and its history.
🔹 11:30 am Begin descent
🔹 13:30 pm Freshen up & share a meal with the villagers.
🔹 2:30 pm Visit the river & then hop to the variety of waterfalls that the valley has to offer.
🔹 4:00 pm Return to the village and freshen up
🔹 5:00 pm Drive back to Asangaon post tea and snacks.

Inclusions
✳️ Meals:Morning tea and vada pav, breakfast, lunch and tea with snacks prepared by villagers.
✳️ Local guides.
✳️ Trekking expertise at Ajobagad.
✳️ Transport in local jeeps from & to Asangaon.
✳️ Village walk.
✳️ Visit to the river and waterfalls
✳️ First aid kit.

Exclusions
✳️ Transport to Asangaon from Mumbai and vice versa .
✳️ Any additional meals or expenses.
✳️ Anything not mentioned in Inclusions.

Price with transport (Ex Asangaon)
₹ 2150/-
Price without transport
₹1799/-

Some important things that need your attention

GENERAL INFORMATION
✳️ Respect time and schedules provided. If you aren’t reaching on time, kindly inform us. We don’t want to waste food.
✳️ The locals from the village can help you with information. As for your luggage, please help yourself.
✳️ No gifts, tips and old clothes are needed here. We believe in empowerment over charity.

ACCOMMODATION AND WELL-BEING
✳️ Good sleep is important. Your accommodation will have a clean mattress, pillows, covers and sheets. Washrooms are available on-site.
✳️ Electricity and flowing water are subject to availability. Take a break from phones and the internet. And please don’t waste water.
✳️ Follow instructions. In case need arises, first-aid kits are available at the campsite. Contact your guide.

FOOD AND WATER
✳️ Pure It – filtered water is part of the tour, and bottled water is available at the village for purchase.
✳️ Fancy menus are not available. Locally grown vegetarian food is served with love. We sit and eat on the ground.
✳️ Only black tea is served. Local snacks and biscuits will be available. Indicate food allergies, Jain meal requirements 24 hours in advance.

PERSONAL CARE
✳️ Carry personal medicines and toiletries. Avoid swimsuits and skimpy clothes. Carry a spare set of clothes in case you want to take a dip in the river.
✳️ Please carry a torch with you. There are no street lights, this will help you navigate without
tripping.
✳️ The surroundings are rustic. There is no room – service. Insect and birds are part of nature. Don’t be scared.
✳️ CREATE A GOOD IMPRESSION ON THE RURAL YOUTH, NOT AN UNNECESSARY ONE. Consumption of alcohol & contraband substances are not allowed at the village.
✳️ Don’t leave your rubbish behind, pack it and take it back to dispose properly in the city.
✳️ Let nature make the noise. Avoid playing loud music. Try headphones instead.
✳️ The rural communities are richer than you think. Respect them with your actions and words.

Things to wear/carry
💠 Personal medications & toiletries
💠 Sanitizer
💠 Reusable water bottle (2 ltr)
💠 Power Bank
💠 Trekking appropriate clothing
💠 Change of clothes
💠 Sun glasses
💠 Rain wear
💠 Cap/ hat
💠 Mosquitoes repellent
💠 Shoes with good grip
💠 Fruits / snacks to munch.
💠 A humble attitude.

Cancellation Policy
75% refund if notified via phone conversation 8 or more days prior to the event date.
50 % refund if notified via phone conversation 4 to 7 days prior to the event date.
No refund if the cancellation requested is less than 3 days prior to the event date
No show, No Refund.
Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another person against cancellation.
If the event is cancelled due to any natural calamity, political unrest or other such reasons beyond our control, the same cancellation policy will apply.

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