Love trekking? Check out these beginner-friendly adventure spots around Mumbai

Camp on the rocksNandini Sharma mountaineerNot only is Kalsubai the highest peak in Maharashtra but itrsquos also an excellent choice for beginners The trek difficulty is moderate with some challenges like steep sections and rocky terrain However with a steady pace even beginners can conquer it For those seeking a slower more immersive experience therersquos the option to camp at the mountain This allows trekkers to take their time soak in the beauty of the surroundings and truly connect with natureHow to reach Board a local train to Kasara from where you can catch a taxi to Bari village where the trek beginsTogether to the topA trekker climbs his way to Kothaligad Fort right Chirag DhabaliaChirag Dhabalia trek organiserThe Kothaligad fort located near Karjat is the ideal trek for beginners and amateur hikers It is also a perfect option to introduce your kids to the world of trekking Situated within a 100kilometre radius of both Mumbai and Pune with convenient road and railway access Kothaligad provides the muchneeded respite from urban commotion The fort rises to a maximum altitude of 2033 feet and was primarily used as a watchtower and ammunition depot by the ruling armies The strategic location of the hill provides a commanding view of Padargad Malanggad and other forts in clear weather in the summer The trail is relatively safe and passes through charming villagesHow to reach Board a local train to Karjat A 25minute cab ride from Karjat to Ambivali village will take you to the base of the trek State public transport buses may be inconsistentRise and splashTrekkers take a plunge at the Kalmandavi waterfalls right Kuldip RathoreKuldip Rathore senior trek leader mischieftreksIf yoursquod like to trek in summers sunrise treks are the ideal These tend to start early around 3 am to 5 am and the ascent is completed by sunrise ensuring you do not get to face the dayrsquos heat until you reach the peak An ideal sunrise trek for beginners would be the Harihar fort trek that covers seven kilometres over a twohour ascend Apart from these sunrise treks you can also consider day treks but the options are few Kalmandavi waterfall trek in Palghar district is one of the best suited treks which also provides cliff jumping experience The trek is short and can be covered in 30 minutes to reach the waterfall Experienced experts help you with taking the 40 feet plunge This activity is suitable for nonswimmers tooHow to reach Take the Mumbai Ahmedabad highway and turn right at Manor junction towards Jawhar villageIn the cityrsquos backyardShubham Hadkar nature education officer SGNPThe Sanjay National Gandhi Park offers short and sweet one daytreks for city folk who do not wish to spend time travelling away from the city and are looking for a short getaway The Upper Kanheri trail stands out as a popular choice this season owing to a path that is shaded for the most part Nestled in the national park one can also expect to spot birds and bugs along the slow trail This provides safe and convenient opportunities for young trekkers to get introduced to the practice of birding and wildlife photography The Shilonda trail is another relaxed option with plenty of shade for enthusiastsBeginnersrsquo checklistDos Take regular walks at least two weeks before the trek or trail Wear light breathable fabrics that absorb sweat Cotton clothes are ideal A hat can be considered for sun protection Carry at least two litres of water and some energy bars Pack a few extras even for short oneday treks Ensure that your shoes have proper grip and are not worn outDonrsquotsx Do not play music on trails Sounds can agitate animals in the surroundingsx Avoid flashy and vibrant outfits and accessories that might attract attention from wild animalsx Do not continue with the trail or trek if you have lastminute apprehensions about your fitness and healthx Never step away from the designated path even briefly Reach out to locals for help if you are unsure or lostTrek timeKalmandavi trekON March 31 5 am to 6 pmMEETING POINT Grandmamarsquos Cafeacute Dadar EastLOG ON TO mischieftrekscomCOST Rs 1200 includes food and travelGarbett Plateau trekON March 31 and April 7 1250 amMEETING POINT Bhivpuri Road railway stationLOG ON TO treksandtrailsorgCOST Rs 799 includes breakfast Kalsubai sunrise trekON March 30 and April 6 930 pmMEETING POINT Kasara railway stationLOG ON TO mischieftrekscomCOST Rs 1100 includes food and travel Panshet lakeside campingON March 31 and April 6 10 amMEETING POINT Camp Panshet VelhePanshet Road PanshetCALL 7821092678 for directionsCOST Rs 999