A Nature Trail to Mumbai's Highest Point" is a trek to Jambulmal the highest point in Mumbai which is located in the core of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Borivali (E) above the Kanheri caves complex.
This nature trail will be led by Nikit Surve, the young and promising wildlife zoologist whose recent project in June 2015 on leopard census in SGNP made breaking news across the city.
About Jambulmal:
'Jambulmal' is considered as the highest point in Mumbai at a staggering height of 468 meters (1535 ft) above sea level. Enveloped by a dense forest in the core area of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the trail is 2.5km from the gate of Kanheri Caves.
This trail is ideal for beginner trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts. At the top of Jambulmal, one witnesses an absolute amazing view of Tulsi and Vihar lakes along with a panoramic view of Powai to Dahisar.
With Nikit Surve's guidance and presence on this trail, one stands to experience and learn much in detail about the wondrous wildlife specifically in the SGNP forest. His deep understanding of the SGNP forest and its inhabitants will make this trail an enriching experience for any nature lover.
Trip Itinerary:
1. Meet at Sanjay Gandhi National Park main gate at 7 AM.
2. Meet and greet the team and other participants
3. Start journey to Jambulmal via vehicle
4. Reach Kanheri Caves followed by briefing about trek
5. Start the trek with bird watching, identifying flora and fauna en route
6. Reach the summit by 10 am and indulge in the beauty of being on the highest point of Mumbai.
7. Feast on Breakfast
8. Descend towards Kanheri caves and board our vehicle back
9. Trip ends by 12 - 1 pm.
As per the pricing regulations of Archaeological Survey of India, Foreign Nationals have to pay an additional amount of Rs. 300/-
Inclusions:
1. Transportation by Vehicle (Taxi/bus) from SGNP main gate to and fro
2. Main Gate Ticket, Kanheri Caves Ticket
3. Permissions & Special Ticket for entering the restricted Jambulmaal trail
4. Breakfast
5. Wildlife Expert fee
6. Certified Trek Expertise
7. First Aid by Certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Difficulty Level:
The difficulty level of this trek is MEDIUM, however this varies from person to person. Most of the trek consists of wide trails; some patches have natural rock-cut steps and a few small boulders. Participants must be ready to walk uphill for a maximum of 2 and a half hours, downhill is about an hour. There will be stops during the trek for rest and re-hydration.
If you haven't been on a trek, you should know that there is a lot of walking. Moderate treks begin to present more of a challenge to first time trekkers. So, these treks are suitable for any walker looking for something that is a little more challenging and energetic. However, we believe that the best views come after the hardest climbs. The payoff is always equivalent to the effort. At every summit, you are welcomed to the most majestic views & at the end of every trek, you learn that you are taking back home lifetime memories.
HOW TO PACK & PREPARE
No.1 Rule of trekking is Pack Light
Grab a small to medium sized bag and put in items mentioned in our Essentials list.
The less heavy your bag is, the easier your trek will be.
A Sturdy Pair Of Shoes:
This is CRUCIAL as a bad pair could turn your trek into a nightmare. Check your shoes for possible wear and tear.
ESSENTIALS:
- 2 litres of water
- Snacks and munchies to keep you high on energy
- Personal Identification
- Personal medication if any (Please do let us know in advance about any medical conditions).
THE RIGHT CLOTHING
Sportswear is recommended (Jean/Loose clothes or bright colours are not recommended)
Ensure that you are comfortable in what you choose to wear and that the material does not restrict your movement while trekking and climbing.
Full clothing is recommended to avoid direct contact with plants and trees that might cause an itch.
TREK GYANN / ATTITUDE- Staying open minded, positive & faithful
A trek in the forest requires for one to stay positive and open minded at all times regardless of the situation. Mind you, this is not a picnic but a trek in the mountains. Mother Nature could choose for the weather and environment to be tough or easy on us. However it is important for us to stay grounded and keep our heads over our shoulders, to not panic and to keep confidence in the decision of the trek leaders.