Kolad is all about pristine waters and unexplored forests

Kolad is to Maharashtra, what Rishikesh is to Uttarakhand or Coorg to Karnataka. If you are amongst those who wish to escape the city madness and on the look out for that perfect destination, a place by a river amidst natural abundance, then look no further than Kolad. Apart from the unwinding experience this getaway offers, add some adrenaline rushing water or jungle sport to your itinerary and let nature’s thrilling and powerful forces work their magic on you.

The campsites in Kolad lie on the banks of the River Kundalika. The majority of these camps have their own sports equipment and facilities. So, all you need to carry with you is your sporting spirit.

The adventure starts from the moment you get out of your vehicle and buckle up for the boat ride that takes you across the river (if you’ve chosen a campsite on the other side of the road).

Most of the campgrounds here are set in cleared parts of the forest. This is an experience you would love to enjoy for a romantic evening or with a group of friends or even like-minded strangers.

You can set up your own tent or take a package that includes accommodation. From the standard twin tent to a family tent or cottage, you’ll definitely find something that suits your pocket.

The campsites also have central eating areas surrounded and shaded by trees. How often do you get to eat your meal right in the middle of a forest? This is one of the many delights that Kolad offers.

For most of us, our only complaint post the vacation is that we’re now a few pounds heavier. Camp resorts in Kolad have therefore made a conscious decision to serve low-fat home cooked meals so that guests have a healthy and happy stay.

There are a number of things you could do in your camp areas, and the camp manager takes you through all your options. You’ll also be given guidelines on camp dos and donts.

When in a village, do as the villagers! The locals grind their own flour, so get down to work and grind some fresh flour for the meals that you’re going to enjoy.

Mother Nature needs us! Get your hands into the earth and plant some saplings. Try your hand at ploughing land and much more, just as it happens in the villages.

What’s an Indian village without a bullock cart? This village has some too, but for your adventure. Hop on to one or set your children off on that bullock cart ride through the jungle. Let the bullocks take you on some rugged paths back to the village.

Did you know: Thanks to the waters of the Bhira Dam, the Kundalika offers the ONLY ALL-YEAR white water rafting experience in India?

Enjoy river rafting, kayaking, flying foxes, speedboats, river crossing and other exciting water sports amidst spectacular scenery.

Revive yourself with an evening chai or coffee break before you set out for the night walk in the jungle.

If you’re in no mood for activity, you could just sit back and enjoy the sunset or sunrise by the river.

Feel the experience of letting go off the world here as in no other place. Disconnect your network and connect with nature instead.

On the night walk, you will follow the river trail that leads right into the forest. There, you will find true serenity, just the sound of your own breath, and perhaps, now and then, some animal sounds. No honking, no chattering, no pollution; the best kind of relaxant.

One of the treats on the night walk is eating smoky jacket vegetables cooked in the bonfire. During the walk, if you find any leaves that can accentuate the taste and smell of the food, feel free to put some of them into the cooking pot.

Location?

Kolad is located off the Mumbai – Goa Highway, approximately 117 km from Mumbai and 113 km from Pune. Road and Rail are the only access options. The drive is quite scenic, especially as you get closer to the destination.

What else to do?

Other than camping and adventure sports, Kolad offers a river trail with over 30 day trip options to choose from. There are beaches, ancient temples, caves, hill forts, sea forts; in short, you’ll probably need more than a couple of trips to fully explore this place.

Must carry items?

Sport shoes and a torch for the jungle, mosquito repellent for the jungle and the nights, floaters, cap / sunscreen / sunglasses for the day. And lots of excitement for the whole trip!

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