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Situated in the Sahyadri mountain range near Pune, the Durshet forest is a tropical paradise hidden away from the chaos of city life. As an adventure seeker and nature lover, I recently had the chance to explore this forest reserve, and want to share my experiences to inspire you to take a break from urban living and connect with mother nature.
Why I Chose to Explore Durshet Forest
Having grown up in Mumbai, I rarely got a chance to wander through woods and listen to birds chirping. The concrete jungle had separated me from the luscious greens I longed to embrace. So when my friends suggested we go backpack through Durshet forest, I jumped at the opportunity.
I wanted to breathe in the freshness of the flora and lose myself on jungle trails. I yearned to search for exotic birds and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Above all, I hoped to leave the digital world behind and find inner peace in nature's lap - even if just for a weekend. Durshet seemed like the perfect forest retreat.
Planning My Backpacking Trip
As first-time trekkers, my friends and I had to make significant preparations before embarking on our Durshet backpacking adventure. I browsed online blogs and travel guides to curate a forest exploration itinerary, point out sightseeing spots, choose a safe camping site and compile a checklist of essentials.
We booked an overnight bus from Mumbai to Pune, packed light backpacks with supplies like tents, sleeping bags, torches, medkit, snacks, comfortable shoes and rain protection. Though initially skeptical of managing on my own in the wilderness, motivation from experienced wanderers pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Immersing Myself in The Forest Wilderness
Arriving at bamboo-lined Ambivli village, a short trek from Durshet forest, felt almost magical after 18-hours of bus travel. Lush greenery beckoned me to explore its hidden gems. Stumbling upon the centuries-old Mahadev Temple and seeing Tribal community kids giggling and playing tag lifted my spirits.
Venturing into the thick jungle lined with Teak and Sandalwood sent my heart racing with childlike excitement. My friends and I maintained slow pace, watching our step while admiring our spectacular surroundings. Colorful birds calls echoed around and monkeys rustling trees reminded me I was deep in the unfiltered wilderness.
Setting Camp Under The Starry Skies
Hiking uphill for hours, my friends and I decided to set up camp by a gushing stream as the sky darkened. We stuffed down noodles then cuddled into our tents anticipating nocturnal jungle sounds. Cracking jokes and reminiscing our crazy college shenanigans, we slowly dozed off.
Waking up next morning to misty drizzle tapping my tent, I emerged feeling amazingly refreshed, devoid of everyday stress. Birds tracks marked the damp mud while fog blanketed the canopy skyward. My heart filled with gratitude for the humbling experience as I journaled this once-in-a-lifetime backpacking adventure.
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Key Takeaways From My Durshet Trip
Through intimate encounters with raw jungle at Durshet forest, I gained rare opportunities to admire nature, reflect internally and bond deeper with friends. Slowing down and embracing minimalism far from urban grind has taught me to live simply.
I now better appreciate little joys life offers us freely. Be it the symphony of forest streams or the harmony of camping under galaxies with loved ones. I’m inspired to advocate for conserving our planet’s precious biodiversity. My dreams of further backpacking journeys in India’s forests feels well within reach after this confidence boosting episode.
I hope by sharing my perspective on exploring magical Durshet forest, others feel inclined to plan relaxing breaks too. Don’t hesitate, just make that move towards rejuvenating jungle therapy sessions. You won’t regret it.
Maximize our brief existence by occasionally straying off routine. Immerse in nature, bond with tribes, reflect inwards. Let wilderness replace wifi and birdsongs disrupt pointless WhatsApp scrolling.
So pack your bags, book jungle accommodations and set out to discover India’s rich forests. I assure you the universe will whisper precious lessons while you rediscover yourself far from the madding crowd.