Overview

About Fireflies : There are about 2,000 firefly species. These insects often live in humid regions of Asia. Fireflies also known as "Kajwa" are indeed fascinating creatures known for their bioluminescent displays. They use their light to “talk” to other fireflies and find a mate. They have special organs under their abdomens that take in oxygen. Inside special cells, they combine the oxygen with a substance called luciferin to make light with almost no heat. They use this light, called bioluminescence, to light up the ends of their abdomen. There are indeed thousands of species worldwide, each with its own unique flashing pattern used primarily for mating purposes. In India, particularly in May and June, these enchanting insects light up the night skies, engaging in their brief but vital reproductive cycle. There average life span is about 1-2 months only. 

Important : Please note that too much night time light can be harmful to wildlife, affecting their migration patterns and hunting abilities. For fireflies, light pollution interferes with their attempts to signal each other. So we need to explore and witness such gems of Nature with utmost care and precautions.

Kajwa Mahotsav can be witnessed at multiple locations in our Magical Sahyadri. Below are some must visit locations to experience this magical phenomenon ;

1. Bhandardara Fireflies Festival

2. Rajmachi Fireflies Festival

3. Bhimashankar Fireflies Festival

4. Sandhan Valley Fireflies Festival

5. Aadrai Fireflies Festival

Bhandardara camping offers a serene escape into the lap of nature in Maharashtra, India. Situated by the Pravara river, Bhandardara is blessed with peace and tranquility with a relaxing view. You can spot many famous landmarks including the Kalsubai , Ratangad, Harishchandragad, Sandhan Valeey, Amruteshwar Temple and many more wonderful places are situated nearby. As situated amidst the Sahyadri mountain range, Bhandardara boasts picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and lush greenery. Camping here allows visitors to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the tranquil surroundings. Activities such as lakeside camping, star gazing, nature walks, and bonfires make for a memorable outdoor experience. With its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance, Bhandardara camping is perfect for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Disclaimer: Sighting of fireflies is a natural phenomenon and is completely

based on the rains, so if it rains heavily we may see less or no fireflies.

1 Night 2 Days 21 Jun
Highlights
  • Bhandardara Jungle
  • Magical Fireflies
  • Fun Camping 
  • Mesmerizing Sunset
  • Amruteshwar Temple
  • Stunning Natural Beauty

About Trek 

  • Location : Samrad Village, Ahmednagar. 
  • Trek Distance : 2-4 km approx 
  • Trek Duration : 1-2 hrs appox
  • Trek level : Easy
  • Endurance : Medium
Itinerary

Pune to Pune :

DAY - 0 
 Arrival at Bhandardara – Fireflies Camping Experience
  • 03:30 to 04:00 PM: Reach the campsite at Bhandardara. You will get time to freshen up and relax after the journey.
  • 05:00 PM: Evening refreshments will be served. After that, head to Bhandardara Dam to witness the beautiful sunset.
  • 06:00 PM: Tent allocation and settling in at the campsite.
  • 08:00 PM: Dinner time with a cozy outdoor setup.
  • 09:00 to 11:00 PM: After dinner, head out to witness the magical fireflies in their natural habitat.
  • 11:00 PM: Return to the campsite and enjoy fun games and bonding activities.
  • 12:00 AM: Sleep time.
DAY 01 Sandhan Valley Visit
  • 07:00 AM : Wake up and freshen up
  • 07:30 AM : Breakfast at campsite
  • 08:30 AM : Check out from campsite and depart for Samrad Village
  • 09:30 AM : Arrive at Samrad Village and begin Sandhan Valley Half Trek
  • 01:30 PM : Enjoy local lunch at Samrad Village
  • 02:30 PM : Depart from Samrad towards Pune
  • 09:00 PM : Reach back to Pune & bid farewell to all amazing souls with beautiful memories.

Mumbai to Mumbai :

Day 01: Mumbai to Bhandardara – Fireflies Camping Experience
  • 10:00 AM: Start the journey from Mumbai (Borivali – Andheri – Sion – Thane – Kalyan Bypass)
  • 01:30 PM: Individuals joining from Kasara should meet us at Kasara Railway Station, main ticket counter
  • 03:30 to 04:00 PM: Reach the Bhandardara campsite. Time to freshen up and relax
  • 05:00 PM: Enjoy evening refreshments followed by a visit to Bhandardara Dam to witness a beautiful sunset
  • 06:00 PM: Tent allocation and settling in
  • 08:00 PM: Dinner time with a cozy outdoor setup
  • 09:00 to 11:00 PM: Head out to witness the magical fireflies in their natural habitat
  • 11:00 PM: Return to the campsite. Enjoy bonfire, music, and fun games
  • 12:00 AM: Sleep time
Day 02: Sandhan Valley Exploration and Return
  • 07:00 AM: Wake up and freshen up
  • 07:30 AM: Breakfast at the campsite
  • 08:30 AM: Check out from the campsite and depart for Samrad Village
  • 09:30 AM: Arrive at Samrad Village and begin the Sandhan Valley Half Trek
  • 01:30 PM: Enjoy local lunch at Samrad Village
  • 02:30 PM: Depart from Samrad towards Kasara Station
Packages
  • Pune to Pune :- 2,999/- 
  • Mumbai to Mumbai :- 2,999/-
  •  Base to Base :- 2,199/-

Coupon Code Available

  • GROUP4  (for 4+ bookings)

  • GROUP9  (for 9+ bookings)
Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Transport to&fro Mumbai/Pune to Base village by AC bus
  • Kasara to Kasara transportation is also available
  • Meals : 1 Breakfast - 1 Lunch - 1 Dinner (Veg /Non veg) Local authentic Food
  • Tent stay (Triple/Quad)
  • BBQ (veg / nonveg) Limited
  • Evening Refreshment 
  • Basic First aid
  • All entry fees & permits for locations mentioned in the Itineray
  • Fireflies watching session
  • Our expert leader

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the inclusion.
  • Any kind of personal expenses
  • Meals that are not mentioned in inclusion.
  • Any kind of Insurance is not included.
  • Any Medical/Emergency evacuations if required. 
  • Additional costs due to road blocks or due to any unforeseen or unavoidable circumstances etc
How To Book
  • Step 1: Scroll down & tap on "BOOK NOW"
  • Step 2 : Select your departure date from the calendar and proceed.
  • Step 3 : Select your ticket type & no. of participants. (At this step you can use the coupon code if you have any)
  • Step 4 : Fill your details and proceed.
  • Step 5 : Tap on review & Payment to select your payment type (UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking) and proceed.
  • Step 6 : Once your tickets are booked, you will receive confirmation mail. WhatsApp us the booking ID details on  8799856476 & fill the google registration form.  

OR 

  • Step 1 : Make Payment on PhonePay/Google Pay   8799856476 (Maharashtra Gadkille)
  • Step 2 : Send a screenshot of the payment on WhatsApp number  8799856476 for confirmation.
  • Step 3 : Fill the registration form for the final booking procedure.
Offers
Use any one code to avail this offer
- Flat Rs.150 off on group of 3
- Flat Rs.300 off on group of 5
- Flat Rs.600 off on group of 8
- Flat Rs.800 off on group of 10
- Flat Rs.1800 off on group of 18
- GROUP4
Pickup Points

Pune Pickup Points

Terms and Condition
  • Please confirm on call about the seats availability before paying.
  • Once the payment is completed, inform our team via sharing a screenshot/copy of the payment confirmation. Make sure the date, time, and UTR number are visible in the copy and please fill the registration form to confirm your seats, names & age with the team.
  • Do note that your registration will be confirmed only after the acceptance of complete trek/tour charges.
  • Please note that the advance amount paid would not not refunded in any case, except if the trek/tour departure is cancelled by us. Do check cancellation policy in case any refunds or cancellations.
  • First two seats will always be reserved for leaders to lead & show route to the driver. 
  • Seats arrangement will be on first come first serve basis at the time of pickup and it will be same throughout journey. (Any disputes regarding seating arrangement would result in dismissal of both the parties and would not be liable for any refunds.) 
  • Please make sure you are added in the whatsapp group 6-8 hours prior to the trip as all the pickup & lead details would be shared in the group. 
  • Food and Stay arrangements are done as per the availability of the locations so kindly don't expect too luxurious. 
  • Backpacking trips are arranged for the people who are looking out for pocket friendly trips and are more about chasing experiences. 
  • Your payment implies that you have read & complied with all our terms and conditions.