Aadrai is a Jungle Trek that is strong and very peaceful in the Sahyadri mountain ranges of India; it is the best trek to provide peace and discovery. Every waterfall, every cave, and shepherd’s trail leads up to the peak on this riveting 1-day trek, and there is so much more to explore. So much nature is wrapped up in a single day. So that you don’t feel disappointed at the last moment, Booking the trek ahead of time would be wise.
Aadrai Jungle trek in India is a perfect spot for natural reserves and a good getaway. The quietness of nature is divine and every inhalation feels like a rebirth.
The hike starts at Malshej Ghat and is said to take between three and a half to four hours to finish, as it is approximately 7.5 km long. This trek, with its base village around 2240 feet, will give you an experience of a hidden waterfall deep in the forest at an altitude of about 2490 feet.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sights like the Kalu Waterfall, the Nageshwar Temple, and the nearby caves, which offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The trek also includes a visit to Khireshwar village, where you can learn about the history of this fascinating region.
The scenic drive through Malshej Ghat is an adventure, with hundreds of waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides. Expect fog-covered hills, stunning viewpoints, and panoramic vistas, including sights like Naneghat, Bhairavgad, Thidbi Village, the Old Malshej Ghat Route, MTDC Malshej Ghat, and Pimpal Joga Dam.
As we take our weekly treks, Let’s ensure we do not miss this great opportunity and that you can participate in this event! Please make your reservations as soon as possible to enable and prepare oneself for the event of a lifetime!
The Aadrai Jungle Trek is in the Malshej Ghat region, near the town of Junnar in the Pune district, Maharashtra. This beautiful trek lies within the dense forests of the Sahyadri mountain range, part of the Western Ghats, and is renowned for its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere.
The trek starts from Khireshwar Village, which serves as the base village and takes you through the pristine Aadrai Jungle, ultimately leading to the stunning Kalu Waterfall. It is also home to rich biodiversity and appeals to nature lovers and adventurers alike.
The Aadrai Jungle Trek is graded as moderate, making it accessible to most trekkers with a basic fitness level. Most trekkers with basic fitness will find the difficulty level of the trek to the Adrai jungle moderate. The trek is not very technical but involves a long walk of several kilometers along dirt trails, rocky boulders, and uphill paths.
The way can be muddy and slippery, especially during the monsoon season; thus, good grip and balance are needed. The Aadrai Jungle Trek offers a balanced mix of challenges, making it perfect for trekkers comfortable with moderate difficulty but not looking for an extreme adventure.
The Aadrai Jungle Trek is a one-day trek that typically takes 6 to 7 hours to complete. This includes breaks and time spent at key spots like the Kalu Waterfall. The trek generally begins early in the morning, with trekkers reaching the base village by 4:00 AM, followed by a breakfast and trek initiation.
After reaching Kalu Waterfall and spending time there, trekkers return to the base village by afternoon, usually around 2:30 PM, before starting the journey back home. The entire trip, including travel time, usually concludes by 11:00 PM.
The best time to visit the Aadrai Jungle Trek is during the monsoon season, typically from June to September.
The region’s beauty shows itself during the monsoon season when the forest alters from mist to garden, and lush green vegetation surrounds waterfalls. During monsoon season, the rains complement the beauty of the trek, as the foliage is at its most vibrant.
The view of the Kalu Waterfall also becomes magnificent as the water cascades over the cliff in large volumes. However, be ready for the muddy pathways, and as some parts of the mountain can be off-slippery, ensure you wear the right shoes to manage the wetter conditions easily.
While the trek can be attempted outside the monsoon season, the monsoon period is when Aadrai Jungle reveals its full beauty, making it the ideal time for a visit.
Your journey begins as you arrive at Khireshwar Village, a picturesque settlement nestled at the base of Harishchandragad and the starting point of the Aadrai Jungle Trek. The village is tranquil at this early hour, giving you peace and anticipation. Once you arrive, you’ll rest on the bus briefly before heading out. This break lets you relax after the long travel and prepare for the trek ahead.
This is when the sun is about to rise and the tapping marks the end of sleep and the start of your journey. There will be enough time to get ready and loosen your stiff muscles before you embark on the journey. As the day breaks, the calm and refreshing breeze in Khireshwar further enhances your expectations. Ensure you are well rested and ready for the upcoming day full of experiences.
The day’s highlight is breakfast, the meal that comes before the day’s challenges and is sure to boost one with lots of energy. After that, one can try out some local delicacies, sandwiches, and other snacks essential for eating properly. It’s the ideal chance to chat with other trekkers, express your thrill, and get ready for the escapade through Aadra Jungle jungles where all the trekkers are set out.
With your energy levels topped up, it’s time to begin the trek towards Kalu Waterfall. The path through the Aadrai Jungle is a mix of shaded trails, dense trees, and narrow paths that bring you closer to the beauty of nature.
Amidst the sound of swaying leaves, the fragrance of soil after rain and the breeze help make the travel and the climb thrilling and relaxing. This stretch will take you through a part of the Sahyadri mountain range that hasn’t been affected by civilization and will help you appreciate the unblemished surroundings.
It would help to appreciate the various flowers and animals as you travel. The environment includes many plants, such as green bushes, native blooming plants, and animals. Don’t forget to scout out some ‘rare’ birds, insects, and other astonishing creatures of this jungle.
After nearly three hours of climbing uphill the last stretch of trekking the Aadrai Jungle, which is amongst the most scenic and beautiful places in India, now the Kalu Waterfall is in sight, a must-see place as it’s amongst the Kalu Waterfall Range. Although not wide, the tall waterfall drops down into a pool of deep blue, above which are magnificent hills, providing scenery that one cannot yearn for.
The soothing calmness of the raging water around only makes the place even more perfect for someone looking to relax. So, the spectators should come closer to admire nature and capture this moment forever. Don’t worry if this is your first time visiting this site because there is enough time and space to get a nice view and bath under the waterfall to relish this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Once you are well-rested, it’s time to head back to where you started your odyssey, the Khireshwar Village. The return trek will also let you appreciate the trail from a distinct angle as you walk through the same forest, which, on the way, is new yet captivating. Scan the area as you backtrack; there might be spots you missed paying attention to. Admire the stillness of the forest one more time.
You will not be disappointed as this part of the trek is also special, like the previous stage, as you can see the things you have seen along the way and what you have done with your fellow companions on this particular trek.
Having returned to the Khireshwar Village, you will be hungry. Lunch should be satisfying so you can rest up and return to work. Generally, the meal will be basic but satisfying, simply focusing on a healthy, home-style dinner to fill up after several hours of trekking.
This break then allows relaxation, catching up with other group members about some of the most exciting parts of the day and the beautiful silence of the village.
You’ll leave the hills behind as the day ends and return to Mumbai. The hassle of returning home shouldn’t take too long, as it should take roughly three to four hours.
Thanks to the memories from the excursion, you have nothing to worry about as your local aesthetic and sense of beauty stay intact. The return trip encapsulates the best moments of the day within one to two hours, where you can share the stories of how amazing the trek was with your comrades.
You’ll return to the city around 11:00 PM, accompanied by Mumbai’s amazing views and intricacies. Depending on whether the Aadrai Jungle Trek weather is moody and the roads are crowded with traffic or not, each of these predictions can vary; hence, it’s always important to be adaptable. In quotations, “All great things come to an end,” as soon as we touch base, we will be dropped off at the location we provided before the trip.
The Aadrai Jungle Trek is one of the most exhilarating treks in the Sahyadri range, offering a chance to explore the untouched wilderness of the Malshej Ghat region. To embark on this incredible journey, you’ll first need to reach the starting point of the trek, Khireshwar village. This picturesque village is the gateway to the Aadrai Jungle Trek and the base for the famous Harishchandragad trek.
Getting to Khireshwar may seem challenging initially, but reaching this serene village is easy with a few travel options. Whether you’re coming from Mumbai or Pune, we’ve outlined the best ways to reach Khireshwar so you can kickstart your trek without a hitch!
1) By Road:
The most convenient and flexible way to reach Khireshwar is by road. You can drive your vehicle or hire a cab from Mumbai or Pune. Here’s how to get there:
Aadrai Jungle Trek From Mumbai:
This Aadrai Jungle Trek route is relatively straightforward, and it’s a scenic drive through the foothills of the Sahyadri range. You’ll be treated to beautiful landscapes as you approach Khireshwar village.
Aadrai Jungle Trek From Pune:
Route:
This route takes you through the lush greenery of Rajgurunagar and Junnar, making for a pleasant and peaceful journey to the starting point of your trek.
2) By Train:
If you prefer to travel by train, Kalyan is the nearest railway station to Khireshwar. Here’s how you can reach Khireshwar by train:
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kalyan to Khubi Phata and catch another bus to Khireshwar. However, this option is a bit more complicated, as the frequency of buses is low and may require some patience.
3) By Bus:
Traveling via bus can also work, though the timing can be an issue, and it’s better to stick to the option of using cabs as public buses are infrequent. The end goal is the same – to reach Mumbai. To tackle the planning section while traveling by bus, the main aim should be to focus entirely on the budget.
This option is not the most convenient due to the limited frequency of buses, and it’s better suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind a slightly less direct route.
4) By Air:
If you’re flying in, you can land at Mumbai Airport or Pune Airport, which are well-connected to major cities. Once you land, you can take a train or cab to Kalyan and follow the above-mentioned route to Khireshwar.
Important Note: Since Khireshwar is a remote village, planning your trip, especially during peak trekking seasons, is advisable. We recommend you check the bus or train timetables in advance to avoid missing out on any connections throughout the journey.
It is essential to pack the right equipment for the Aadrai Jungle Trek to help ensure your safety throughout the journey. Because the route often runs through dense forests and extremely muddy and slippery areas, it is bound to be brutal in the monsoon season. Given below is a thoroughly designed checklist so that you can be prepared for this thrilling adventure:
1) Comfortable Trekking Shoes
2) Backpack
3) Water Bottle
4) Aadrai Jungle Trek Weather-Appropriate Clothing
5) Rain Gear (If Trekking During Monsoon)
6) Sun Protection
7) Snacks & Energy Bars
8) First-Aid Kit
9) Camera/Phone
10) Insect Repellent
11) Personal Identification and Permits
12) Trekking Poles (Optional)
13) Torch/Headlamp
14) Extra Clothes (Optional)
15) Plastic Bags for Trash
The Aadrai Jungle Trek offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature, but it’s essential to plan for your accommodation and food. Since this is a one-day trek, the focus is mainly on the journey rather than overnight stays. However, there are still food and brief accommodation options during the trek.
As the Aadrai Jungle Trek is a day trek, you don’t need to worry about overnight accommodation if you follow the standard itinerary. In case you are looking to stay in the region before or after the trek here are some options:
1) Khireshwar Village Homestays
Because some villagers of Khireshwar Village, which serves as the starting point for the trek, have homestay options. These homestays allow one to enjoy the local culture and hospitality in a rustic and authentic atmosphere. The accommodation consists of simple, neat, comfortable structures and usually provides privies, beds, and clean rooms.
2) Camping Near Kalu Waterfall (for extended stays)
Many people prefer camping around the waterfall if they need to stay longer and see more of nature. Lodging a tent beside the waterfall also allows one to savor the sights and sounds of nature up close and personal. Some trekking groups also provide camping, and all the provisions, including tents, sleeping kits, food, etc., are available for the campers.
3) Nearby Guesthouses in Murbad
In Murbad, in case you require additional plans of accommodation before or after the trek, it is the closest town with guesthouses and hotels having basic facilities; it is slightly away from the point for starting the trek; hence, it is suitable for people who are looking for more comfort and easy access to food.
When it comes to food, the Aadrai Jungle Trek is typically organized as a one-day trekking experience, so meals are provided at strategic points along the journey. Here’s what you can expect in terms of food:
1) Breakfast (at Base Village – Khireshwar)
Before starting your trek, you’ll be served a hearty breakfast in Khireshwar Village. The breakfast is typically designed to give you enough energy for the long trek ahead, and might include:
2) Packed Snacks (during the trek)
As you begin the trek through the Aadrai Jungle and head towards Kalu Waterfall, you may be provided with packed snacks. These snacks are typically light and easy to carry, ensuring you stay energized during the trek. Common options include:
Such munchies are perfect for a short break and getting your energies back before continuing on the trail.
3) Lunch (at Base Village – Khireshwar)
Once the trek is done and after returning to the village, one will usually be provided with lunch in the local area. This lunch is satisfying and hearty enough to cater to the hunger pangs of a trekker who has spent much of his day actively participating in several physical activities. Common meals include:
This meal is bland in taste but effective in satisfying one as it is complemented with the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fluids needed to recuperate from the strenuous trek.
4) Optional Post-Trek Refreshments
While there are no formal post-trek refreshments, local vendors or small eateries in Khireshwar Village might offer basic snacks like tea, bhel puri, or vada pav for a small bite after you’ve finished your meal and before starting your journey back.
If you’re captivated by the beauty and adventure of the Aadrai Jungle Trek, why stop there? Cooltrails.com offers a wide variety of spiritual treks that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while exploring the spiritual heart of India.
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The trek begins at Khireshwar Village, about 137 km from Mumbai. It takes approximately 5 hours to drive there via the Malshej Ghat route.
No, prior trekking experience is not necessary. The trek is suitable for beginners, but it’s recommended to have basic fitness and endurance for the best experience.
The Aadrai Jungle Trek is rated as moderate in difficulty, making it a perfect fit for both novice trekkers and those with some trekking experience.
The ideal time to visit for the Aadrai Jungle Trek is during the monsoon season (from June to September), when the landscape is lush and vibrant, and the waterfalls are at their best.
The trek covers a distance of approximately 4 km one way, making the round trip about 8 km. It typically takes 6–7 hours to complete the trek, including breaks.
There are no entry fees for the Aadrai Jungle Trek as of the latest update. However, a local guide is required, so arranging one in advance is advisable. Be sure to confirm any updates before your trek.
Camping directly near the Kalu Waterfall might not be permitted, but there are campsites near Khireshwar Village. Make sure to check with local authorities for camping availability and regulations.