Weekend Trek to Bhimashankar from Surat – Adventure, Spirituality & Nature

 A thrilling journey from Surat to the mystical Bhimashankar Jyotirling, filled with foggy roads, jungle trails, waterfalls, temple darshan, and campfire fun. This blog captures my recent trek with Yuva Yatri, where 30+ adventurers from Surat, Bharuch, and Vadodara came together to explore, celebrate, and create lifelong memories.

🚍 Surat to Bhimashankar – The Beginning

Our adventure began on Friday evening, 22nd August at 5:30 PM from Katargam, Surat. Led by our trek organiser Mr. Brijesh from Yuva Yatri, the bus made pickups from Botanical Garden and Decathlon, where more trekkers joined in.

The energy was already high with delicious evening snacks, chilled lassi, and even a surprise birthday celebration for one of the fellow trekkers. With 30+ people onboard, from different parts of Surat, Bharuch, and Vadodara, the journey felt like a mix of old friends and new companions.

As we moved towards Dharampur–Nashik road, the weather turned magical – foggy, cool, and mysterious, setting the tone for the trek ahead.

🏕️ Reaching Base Camp – Euphoria Wildlife Resort

By early morning, we reached our base camp at Euphoria Wildlife Resort & Camping, Bhorgiri. After freshening up, a classic Surti breakfast of khaman, fafda, and masala chai gave us the perfect boost.

Our guides – 4 from Surat and 1 local expert – briefed us with trek instructions. Carrying our packed lunch (thepla & dahi), we set off on the trail.

🌳 The Trek to Bhimashankar Temple

The 6 km jungle trek began with a mix of flat and inclined paths, rated as easy to moderate. The route was breathtaking – misty forests, chirping birds, and the soothing flow of the Bhima river running parallel.

With small breaks and photography sessions, we enjoyed every step. After about 3.5 hours, we finally reached the sacred Bhimashankar Jyotirling temple. Taking darshan on the last day of Shravan month felt truly divine and memorable.

🌧️ The Descent – Fog, Rain & Fellowship

Descending took about 2.5 hours, with light-to-heavy showers blessing our way. The fog, drizzle, and cool breeze made the return magical. Trekking alongside new friends, sharing laughter, and helping each other through slippery patches created a bond that will last long.

🍲 Dinner & Campfire Night

Back at the base camp, we freshened up and were treated to a delicious Gujarati dinner – kadhi, bhaat, roti, paneer sabji, gulab jamun, and buttermilk.

The night turned into a celebration with campfire, karaoke singing, garba, and dancing. For three hours, the jungle echoed with our joy. Though we slept late around 1 AM, the spirit remained fresh.

🏞️ Bhorgiri Fort & Hidden Caves – Day 2 Exploration

Next morning at 6:30 AM, after poha, toast, and tea, we set out for a short 1.5 km trek to Bhorgiri Fort. The trail was steep and slippery, but at the top awaited a Shiva temple inside a cave with 12 Jyotirlingas carved around.

We performed abhishek, prayed for everyone’s well-being, and explored another nearby cave with a water passage leading to Vaibhav Laxmi temple.

A further hike revealed an infinity-style natural pool, where some of us dipped in to refresh. On the descent, we enjoyed a waterfall shower before returning to camp.

🚌 Return Journey – Memories for Life

After lunch, we packed up and left at 2:30 PM. The return was long, with highway traffic, but dinner breaks with pav bhaji kept us going. Finally, on 25th August morning at 8:00 AM, we reached Surat – tired but filled with memories.

This trek with Yuva Yatri was not just about reaching Bhimashankar Jyotirling – it was about:

• Meeting amazing people from different cities

• Experiencing foggy roads, jungle trails, and waterfalls

• Spiritual darshan at one of the 12 Jyotirlingas

• Dancing, singing, and celebrating life around a campfire

Waterfalls, Treks & Camps Near Surat – Monsoon Travel Guide

 Explore Waterfalls, Treks, Campsites & More – Perfect for Rainy Season Travel

Hello friends!
If you’re in or around Surat and wondering where to go this monsoon, this blog has you covered! Here is a handpicked list of nature spots, campsites, waterfalls, religious places, and trekking destinations—all within a 150 km radius of Surat.

Let’s divide the destinations by categories so you can easily choose based on your mood:

🏕️ Campsites

Perfect for nature lovers and peaceful overnight stays.

1. Mahal Eco Campsite – Purna Wildlife Sanctuary

📍 Google Maps
🔗 More Info

2. Padam Dungari Eco Tourism Campsite

📍 Google Maps
🔗 More Info

3. Kevdi Eco Campsite – Near Mandvi

📍 Google Maps
🔗 More Info

4. Devinamal Campsite

📍 Google Maps

5. Kilad Nature Education Campsite – Near Waghai

📍 Google Maps
🔗 More Info

💦 Waterfalls

The monsoon magic comes alive here—ideal for short treks & photos.

• Dhulda Waterfall – Near Mahal: Maps

• Girmal Waterfall – Dang’s highest: Maps

• Medha Waterfall - Near Songad  Blog

• Gira Falls – Waghai-Saputara Road: Maps

• Barda Waterfalls – Near Ahwa: Maps

• Wonder Water fall - Near Kaliebel Blog

• Shankar Waterfall – Near Wilson Hill: Maps

• Bilpudi / Jodiya Waterfall – Dharampur: Maps

• Chimer Waterfall – Near Songadh: Maps

• Devghat Falls – Near Umarpada: Maps

• Dabhosa Waterfall – MH Border: Info

⛰️ High Altitude Hill Stations

For scenic views, cool weather, and cloudy vibes.

• Don Hill Station – Maps
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  🔗 Trekking Blog 2

• Saputara Hill Station – Maps

• Wilson Hill – Near Dharampur: Maps

• Ajmal Gadh – Vansda: Maps

🛕 Religious Places

Combine your spiritual journey with natural beauty.

• Maya Devi Temple – Near Bhenskatri: Maps
  🔗 More Info

• Shabri Dham & Pampa Sarovar – Dang:
  📍 Pampa Sarovar
  📍 Shabri Dham

• Anjani Kund (Anjani Parvat) – Near Ahwa: Maps

• Goumukh Temple & Falls – Near Songadh:
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  🔗 More Info

• Shri Sadguru Dham – Barumal: Maps

🌳 Nature Parks

Great for kids and family nature walks.

• Waghai Botanical Gardens – Maps

• Vansda National Park – Maps

• Janki Van, Bhinar – Vansda:
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  🔗 More Info

🥾 Trekking Spots

Adventurers—don’t miss these green trails and forts!

• Pandava Caves – Maps

• Hatgad Fort – Near Saputara:
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  🔗 More Info

• Ajmal Gadh Trek – Vansda: Maps

• Mangi Tungi Peak – Near Gujarat-MH border:
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  🔗 More Info

• Roopgadh Fort – Only Fort in Dang:
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• Toranio Dungar – Near Vansda:
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• Kadia Dungar – Near Rajpipla:
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• Banbha Dungar – Near Netrang:
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• Pilva Dungar - Near Chorvani
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✅ Tips Before You Go:

• Always check weather and road conditions before traveling during monsoon.

• Wear proper trekking shoes and rain gear.

• Carry light snacks, extra clothes, and basic first aid.

• Respect nature and local customs wherever you go.

🌿 Whether you are an adventurer, peace-seeker, or family trip planner, Surat has a range of monsoon destinations waiting to be explored. Bookmark this post and share with your travel buddies!

A Refreshing Monsoon Trek to Pilva Dungar – 20 July 2025

 Some weekends are meant to hit pause on the chaos of everyday life. 20th July 2025 was one such day when our small group of nature-lovers packed their bags, prepped their playlists, and set out for a peaceful monsoon escape to Pilva Dungar, a hidden gem nestled near Chorvani. 

🛣️ The Route – Surat to Pilva Dungar

We began our journey early morning from Surat, taking the scenic route via Palsana, Bardoli, and onwards to Vansda. The greenery was already setting the tone — fields lush with monsoon love, the air cool, and a promise of something beautiful ahead.

From Vansda, we passed Ajmalgadh and Bedmal, finally reaching Near Chorvani – our last stop before the trek began.

The route was smooth, and the drive itself felt like part of the adventure.

🧺 Snacks That Fuelled the Soul

Before the climb, we laid out a simple but delicious homemade spread –
🥪 Sandwiches
🍲 Khaman
🌶️ Khichu

Nothing fancy, but every bite tasted better under the open sky, surrounded by hills and friends.

🥾 Trek Begins – Pilva Dungar Trail

From Chorvani, the trail to Pilva Dungar begins. It’s a moderate trek, suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. The route is scenic — a gentle mix of slopes, flat stretches, and forested patches. The sound of chirping birds, occasional glimpses of butterflies, and the rustle of leaves made the climb peaceful and grounding.

It’s not too steep, but comfortable shoes and a water bottle are must-haves. The monsoon mist added a magical touch, and by the time we reached the top, it felt like entering a quiet world above the noise.

⛺ At the Top – Tents, Maggi & Memories

One thing we had all planned and looked forward to was our little outdoor kitchen setup.
We carried a portable stove, utensils, Maggi packets, water, and a tent — and set up our tiny cooking zone.

There’s something special about cooking Maggi in the hills. The steam rising with the fog, laughter echoing across the valley, and those first hot bites made with group effort — it all felt perfect.

The tent gave us a space to sit, relax, and take in the views while enjoying chai and Maggi.

⚠️ A Quick Note for Future Visitors:

• There are no shops or water sources at the top, so carry your own snacks and sufficient water.

• Wear good trekking shoes and keep rain protection handy during the monsoon.

• Please carry back all waste – let’s keep nature clean and safe.

❤️ More Than a Trek – A Reconnect with Nature

The return trek was just as beautiful, with every turn offering a new view. But more than the photos or the Maggi, this trip to Pilva Dungar gave us time to breathe, laugh, and feel grounded again.

Sometimes, all you need is a hill, a few friends, homemade food, and some clouds to clear your mind.

📍Thinking of your next weekend plan?
Let Pilva Dungar near Chorvani be your peaceful monsoon escape.

🔗 Want the exact route or checklist for this trek? Comment below and we’ll share everything!

Wonder Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Divadyawan, Gujarat

 

 A Monsoon Marvel – Wonder Waterfall, Divadyawan

There are places where time slows down, nature speaks, and your soul finds peace. One such hidden gem I recently discovered on 13th July 2025 is the Wonder Waterfall, nestled in the lush green village of Divadyawan, Gujarat. This offbeat destination offers an ideal escape for nature lovers, weekend adventurers, and monsoon trekkers looking to reconnect with raw beauty.

🗺️ How to Reach Wander Waterfall

The journey itself is a part of the adventure:

• Starting Point: Surat

• Drive towards Vyara, passing through scenic countryside.

• Continue towards Bhenskatri, a small town surrounded by rural charm.

• From there, head to Kalibel and look for a left turn towards Bhalkhet village.

• As you approach Divadyawan, you’ll sense the terrain turning greener, with hills and mist-covered trees lining the way.

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Once you park near the village, it’s just a 5-minute easy walk through a narrow trail that takes you through dense greenery and gentle slopes. The sound of cascading water grows louder with every step, building excitement as you near your destination.

💧 The Waterfall Experience

And then — there it is.
The Wander Waterfall, in all its glory, tumbling down from the rocky cliff, surrounded by thick monsoon greenery. The force of the water, especially in July, is incredible, creating a refreshing mist in the air. It’s not too crowded, making it a perfect peaceful spot to relax, meditate, or just soak in nature’s grandeur.

What makes it special isn’t just the waterfall, but the serenity of the location. Birds chirp from treetops, cool breeze rustles through the leaves, and every corner around the fall offers Instagram-worthy views.

📸 Tips for Visitors

• Best time to visit: Mid-June to August (Monsoon Season)

• Travel gear: Wear good grip shoes, carry raincoat, and a change of clothes

• Photography: Early morning light creates the best pictures

• Food: Carry your own snacks and water – no shops nearby

• Cleanliness: Please don’t litter. Let’s keep this place beautiful.

🌄 Final Thoughts

Wander Waterfall is not just a travel spot – it’s an experience of purity and peace. Hidden in the arms of Divadyawan, this waterfall reminds you of how beautiful unexplored Gujarat can be. Whether you're looking for a one-day trip from Surat or a peaceful weekend retreat, Wander Waterfall won’t disappoint.

Rupin Pass Trek – A Journey Through the Clouds

After years of healing others, I decided to gift myself something rare – a journey that would heal me. The Rupin Pass Trek wasn’t just another trip; it was a life-transforming experience that tested my body, mind, and spirit. Let me take you through the day-by-day moments of this adventure.

🚆 Day 1: June 13 – Delhi to Shimla

With a heart full of excitement and a backpack of essentials, I boarded a bus from Delhi, heading to Shimla – the gateway to our trek. The overnight journey was the first step into the unknown.

🚐 Day 2: June 14 – Shimla to Jiskun

Early morning, our journey resumed from Shimla to Jiskun, a quaint little Himalayan village nestled amidst pine forests and wooden houses. Twisting roads, picturesque landscapes, and chilling breeze marked the long drive. We reached Jiskun by evening and spent the night soaking in the raw mountain energy.

🛖 Camp Site: A charming homestay-style camp with wooden rooms, cozy blankets, and breathtaking valley views. Perfect to acclimatize and slow down.

🥾 Day 3: Jiskun to Jhaka 

The real trek began. We walked past Jhaka, the famed “hanging village”, and gradually entered denser forests and meadows. The air turned cooler. Cool homestay with rainy trek. 

Evening visit near by village temple and play games

🥾 Day 4: jhaka via Suruwas thacth to Dhanderas Thatch 

The trail took us through snow bridges and alpine forests to the expansive Dhanderas Thatch. We crossed scenic bridges and flowing streams, feeling one with nature.

🏕️ Camp Site: A flat, open meadow at the base of mighty cliffs and waterfalls. It looked like something out of a fairytale.

Overnight rainfall and morning weather is cloudy 

⛺ Day 5: Acclimatization / Buffer Day

We stayed back an extra day to acclimatize and regain strength. Short hikes and bonding with fellow trekkers filled the day. The mountains were kind, and our bodies adjusted.

🧗‍♂️ Day 6: Dhanderas to Upper Waterfall Camp

A steeper and more dramatic climb led us to the Upper Waterfall Camp – nestled just below the mighty Rupin Waterfall. The sound of cascading water echoed through the valley.

🏕️ Camp Site: Surrounded by snow, ice, and rocks – a rugged campsite with views that made every hardship worth it.

🏔️ Day 7: The Summit Day – Upper Waterfall to Rupin Pass (2:30 AM start)

This was the most challenging and rewarding day. We started our ascent at 2:30 AM in the pitch-dark cold. Walking on snow, through steep ridges and switchbacks, we finally reached the Rupin Pass summit at 7:00 AM.

Standing at 15,250 ft, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, I felt silence within and outside – a rare kind of peace. Tears rolled down – not from exhaustion, but from gratitude.

Then began our descent to Ronti Gad, the base camp on the other side of the pass. It was a long walk down, but the views kept our spirits high. 

🌄 Day 8: Ronti Gad to Sangla Village

Our last trek day. We started at 8 AM and descended to Sangla, a serene village in Himachal’s Kinnaur Valley. The trail went through forests, apple orchards, and welcoming locals.

🚐 Day 9 & 10: Return Journey – Sangla to Shimla to Delhi

We drove back from Sangla to Shimla and then took the road back to Delhi. The body was tired, but the heart was full.

💭 Final Reflections

This journey reminded me of life's essence – slow, unpredictable, yet so beautiful. I met amazing people, faced my limits, and returned stronger.

If you ever feel stuck in the chaos of life, walk into the wild. The mountains don’t just challenge you – they heal you.

“Rupin Pass didn’t just give me memories, it gave me a new mindset.”