The trek of the matter Mumbai-based trekker Rameshwar Sawant shares lessons picked up from 22 years of being in the wilderness

The trek of the matter

Mumbai-based trekker Rameshwar Sawant shares lessons picked up from 22 years of being in the wilderness

I love the rains. For me, it is the best season to go trekking — pleasant weather, verdant nature and an abundant supply of water. The trekking expeditions I organise in this weather see the greatest turnout. In Maharashtra, Rajgad, at a height of 1,300 metres is my favourite destination. From the top of the fort, you can see a treasure trove of forts around you — Seemagad, Raigad, Ajinkyagad, Sajjangad and Kondhana among others. Another fort that is a favourite is Torna, believed to be the resting place for ghosts. Rumour had it that these ghosts are friendly and ever willing to help a lost stranger. One expedition I conducted had us spending the night at the Torna temple in a bid to meet the ghosts. We were, however, unlucky. Ready, set, go Preparation is key before any expedition, especially in extreme weather like the monsoon. It is important to map out your journey and the route you plant to take. Familiarising yourself with the path is helpful in case of emergencies. I learned this lesson in the beginning of my trekking days. I was part of a group that was visiting the Ajneri Fort in Nashik. I was ahead of the group when after awhile I realised I had lost them. I had no phone, and just a pack of biscuits and a bottle of water. It was also raining. Luckily, my survival instincts kicked in and I found a safe place to spend the night, essentially an overhang of the mountain. At sunrise I managed to reach Ajneri village where the locals helped me with food and directions. There are a few basics that you should carry when on a trek — hunter shoes, extra slippers, a plastic sheet for camping, a raincoat, a tiffin box, biscuits, some snacks, fruits, minimal clothing and your personal medicines. Insects like leeches are commonly found in this season so carry some lemon or salt, both of which kill the leeches. Never try to pull leeches away from your skin. Travails of the sport There may come an unforeseen time during a trek when all you can do is wait for a problem to negate on its own. During a trek to Harishchandra fort, we were to climb the steep creek of the Konkan Kada which was a straight rock of about 1,500 metres. While we were climbing, it began to rain. There was no village nearby to take shelter in and it was impossible to continue. We sat there through the night, in the rain under our plastic tents. Only in the morning were we able to continue our journey. It is thus important to be supportive and help out each other. It’s the responsibility of a group leader to motivate the group in case of mishaps. If alone, only your will and strength to move ahead can help you.