Overview
Nestled in the bountiful Sahyadri ranges, Bhandardara is a gorgeous hill station with abundant natural beauty. Turquoise lakes hemmed by mountains, gurgling waterfalls surrounded by lush forests, and rustic villages dotted with ancient temples - this offbeat destination has it all. And the best way to immerse in raw natural splendor? Go camping in Bhandardara of course! Waking up to mist wafting through tall trees, birdsong echoing through the valleys, stargazing through clear unpolluted skies – it’s a magical experience. However, to ensure your Bhandardara camping trip goes smoothly, you need to make some preparations beforehand. Here’s a handy guide on camping essentials to pack, handy tips, and everything you should know before embarking on this outdoor adventure.
Choosing a Campsite
With so many pop-up campsites in Bhandardara, pick one strategically located close to attractions yet secluded for privacy. Shady woods by the lakeside or breezy hilltops make great locations. Opt for operators with good amenities and service ratings for a quality experience.
Some top-rated camps in Bhandardara include:
By The Lake Camping with riverside Swiss tents
Bhandardara Hilltop Camp amid mango groves
Fireflies Jungle Camp on Kalsubai peak
Sahyadri Campers near Ratangad Fort
Bhandardara Lakeside Camp on Arthur Lake Beach
Make bookings well in advance for popular campsites, especially on weekends. Look up cancellation policies too in case plans change.
When to Visit
October to February is the best season for camping in Bhandardara with cool weather. Summers get uncomfortably hot. The monsoon season from June to August brings lush greenery but heavy rainfall can play spoilsport.
The ideal duration for a camping trip here is 2 nights/3 days. This allows sufficient time to cover key landmarks like Mount Kalsubai, Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, etc along with leisurely nature walks.
Who Can Come
Bhandardara camping is suitable for all age groups since the terrain is not very steep or strenuous. Elders, kids, and even friends and family groups enjoy the outdoors here. However, do check specific campsite rules. Some don’t allow loud music or alcohol which may not work for big raucous groups.
Look for ones that conduct adventure activities like rappelling, ziplining, and ATV rides if traveling with adventurous teens. For a more relaxed holiday with just scenic nature trails, pick campsites nearer the lake instead of atop hills.
What To Pack
Now for the camping essentials checklist of stuff you need to carry. Remember the mantras “Pack Light” and “Layer Up”.
Bedding & Clothes- Though camps provide basic mattresses/sleeping bags, do carry your bedding for comfort and hygiene. Pack warm layers like sweaters, and jackets plus weather-proof ponchos. Include sweat-wicking clothes, quick-dry fabrics, and comfy trekking shoes.
Toiletries- Carry biodegradable soaps, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a first-aid kit, towels, bio-degradable tissue packets and hand sanitizer. Ladies should pack personal hygiene products too.
Others - Don’t forget caps/hats, sunglasses, bottles of drinking water, snacks, electrolytes, flashlight, power bank, and medications if any. Though washrooms are common, do carry an extra mug and soap case.
Kitchen & Supplies- Check what meals & refreshments are provided by the campsite. Accordingly, carry extras like ready-to-eat snacks, fruits, juices, etc. Pack plates, cups, and cutlery to minimize waste.
Activities – Research trekking routes beforehand. Carry hiking sticks, binoculars, and bird-spotting guidebooks if interested. Some camping packages include various activity equipment so do confirm those details.
Tips & Tricks
Once you’ve packed the gear, keep these camping pointers in mind:
Choosing Tents – Pick positions avoiding anthills or slanting ground. Reinforce tents with stones/twigs to handle strong winds. Face entrances eastwards for morning sun warmth.
Sleeping Right – Layer sleeping bags for insulation. Keep boots inside to prevent insects but not stinky socks! Use eye masks and ear plugs if sensitive to light or sound.
Campfire Rules – Place ring stones around fires for safety. Keep buckets of water and sand handy in case of emergencies. Never leave fires unattended.
Food & Water – Carry collapsible jerry cans for hauling water. Have one mug, plate, and cutlery per person to conserve washing. Store food correctly so monkeys/rodents don’t steal it!
Bathroom Business – When nature calls, walk 200 feet away from camp & water bodies. Dig holes for solid waste instead of polluting the environment.
Waste Management – Collect plastic wrappers, cans, etc diligently in bags to dispose of at campsite bins. Make the conscious choice to generate minimal non-biodegradable trash during your trip. Use reusable containers and bags as much as possible.
First Aid – Have ready supplies for minor cuts, bruises, and sprains plus over-the-counter medication for headaches, allergies, etc. Know your medical history and applicable emergency protocols.
Lighting – Solar lamps are handy and eco-friendly. Use flashlights minimally after dark so wildlife isn’t disturbed. Let your eyes adjust instead and enjoy amazing starry skies unfettered by artificial glare.
Etiquette – Whether enjoying loud music or a noisy game, be mindful of neighboring camps. Follow guidelines related to alcohol, campfires, etc. issued by local authorities and camp owners.
Emergency Contacts – Save numbers of campsite managers, doctors, police stations, and ambulances for medical or disaster scenarios. Ensure phones are fully charged or carry power banks.
Security – Lock valuables inside car trunks or give them to managers rather than leaving them inside tents easily ripped by monkeys. Never wander into a dense forest alone; you may lose your way. Drink bottled water to prevent tummy issues.
So are you all pumped to pack your rucksacks and head out on that awesome Bhandardara camping adventure? Just follow these recommendations and you’ll have an amazing time bonding with nature and creating lifelong memories! Waiting for what? Block those calendar dates, grab your gang, and let’s go camping!
