Hit that nature trail

When it's pouring cats and dogs, you'll find these city slickers hitting the nature trail or kayaking on a river

Mumbaikars share a love-hate relationship with the rains. While we can't wait for the rains to wet our dusty streets, we're quick to complain about the floods, and the miserable weather. The majority of us simply mutter the refrain: "Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day," but there are a few who choose a more adventurous path - and hit the monsoon nature trails.

"Mumbaikars have forgotten how to celebrate the monsoon. They are so paranoid about flooding, that they forget to look at the positive aspect," says Shubhalaxmi, head of the Conservation Education Centre (CEC), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). "Every Sunday, we organise half-day trails, which are family oriented. These nature trails include bird watching and observing the local flora and fauna."

Ageism is no excuse here; the treks are tailor-made for all age groups. Sudeep Barve, secretary of Chakram Hikers, says, "People between the age group of 15 and 60 years attend our monsoon treks. There is more response to the treks during the rains because of the greenery and the water bodies." The fact that they are great stress-busters is a bonus. 

Ankit Kothari, camp coordinator of Sahyadri Hikers, concurs: "Non-monsoon treks are generally activity-oriented while these concentrate on simply relaxing and taking in the beauty of nature."

With the number of people offering treks on monsoon trails, in and around the city, you'd almost forget that the city is fighting tooth-and-nail for green spaces. Some companies also offer overnight camp facilities.

Chinmai Divekar, who is the proprietor of Nature Trails, says, "We organise packages for schools and corporates. People can take part in adventure sports like valley crossing, white water rafting and trekking."

And for a small, but loyal, band of Mumbaikars, these trails are like a breath of fresh air in an otherwise polluted and over-crowded city. There's something for everybody.
While science students use this time to observe the flora and fauna, photographers lug their gear up mountains and through waterfalls in search of that perfect frame. "Besides, it's only when we are close to nature that we really understand its worth and work towards preserving the environment," says Gautami Deshpande, a regular trekker.

There's something wild and romantic about communing with nature and enjoying the sights on offer. Of course, the knowledge that help is just a phone call away placates the fears of many a Mumbaikar; who's more at ease in the urban jungle.

Snehil Gupta, a trek-junkie, says, "Besides the adrenaline rush that you get while taking part in unconventional activities, these treks are a great way to boost your confidence levels."

As people gradually discover the joys of the wild, or rather what Mumbai calls the wild, organisers, too, have become more environment conscious. During such trips, trekkers are given recycled plastic bags, and are advised not to litter.

"We make it a point not to throw food or plastic waste around. It harms the environment, and it makes me feel sad when I see people littering such beautiful spots," says college student Shiksha Puri, who goes on hikes regularly.

For those who are not content to simply wallow in the lap of luxury, there is a range of water sports and other such activities on offer. "We go kayaking, river rafting and water rappelling," says hiker Devendra Kumar. In his opinion, this is the best time to try your hand at river crossing. "The rivers start filling up during the monsoon," he says.

So the next time you find yourself griping about the 'crappy' weather, take some time to discover the other side of Mumbai - one that is still green, relatively unspoiled and a perfect haven for those looking for a quick weekend respite.
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