Prabalmachi Fireflies Trek & Camping 2025
Join Sherpa Escapes for an unforgettable night under the stars at the Prabalmachi Fireflies Festival Camping 2025. Witness the enchanting glow of thousands of fireflies in their natural habitat—an awe-inspiring phenomenon best experienced with your own eyes and captured through your lens.
Set amidst the tranquil meadows of Prabalmachi, perched below the dramatic Kalavantin Durg, this overnight trek combines the thrill of a short hike with the serene beauty of nature at its most magical. As night falls, the forest comes alive with shimmering fireflies, creating a dreamlike atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
Surrounded by the majestic views of Prabalgad and Kalavantin Durg, with sweeping vistas of the Panvel valley, Prabalmachi offers a unique camping experience. The region’s rugged cliffs, rocky trails, and grassy meadows set the stage for storytelling, star-gazing, and connection with raw, untouched nature.
A favorite weekend getaway near Mumbai, Prabalmachi has become one of the most sought-after camping and trekking destinations. The historic Kalavantin Durg, once used as a watchtower, features remarkable rock-cut steps that lead up to panoramic views—making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
Come be a part of this magical journey with Sherpa Escapes, where adventure meets wonder, and every step tells a story.
About Prabalmachi.
Nestled on a plateau between Matheran and Panvel, Prabalmachi is a peaceful mountain village perched at the base of the towering Kalavantin Durg and Prabalgad Fort. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, forest trails, and open meadows, this scenic hamlet serves as a gateway to some of the most thrilling hikes in the Western Ghats.
Did You Know?
During fireflies season, Prabalmachi transforms into a glowing spectacle as thousands of fireflies light up the forested landscape in a breathtaking nocturnal display. With its proximity to Mumbai and Pune, it has become a favorite weekend escape for trekkers, nature lovers, and stargazers seeking solitude, adventure, and a touch of mountain magic.
Whether you’re watching the sunset over the Sahyadris, hiking up zig-zag rock-cut steps of Kalavantin Durg, or simply camping under a sky full of stars, Prabalmachi offers a perfect blend of thrill and tranquility.
Itinerary Plan.
| DAY 1 Schedule | DAY 2 Schedule |
|---|---|
| 4:00 PM – Arrive and Report at Panvel Station. | 6:30 AM – Wake Up Call & Tea |
| 4:30 PM – Drive to base village. | 7:00 AM – Hike to Kalavantin Durg Fort (Trek is optional) |
| 5:00 PM – Start hiking towards Prabalmachi. | 9:00 AM – Breakfast. |
| 7:30 PM – Reach at Campsite & Get in allotted Tents. | 10:00 AM – Departure |
| 7:45 PM – Tea & Snacks. | |
| 8:30 PM – Bonfire & BBQ session. | |
| 10:00 PM – Dinner & Leisure time (Sight Fireflies) |
Distance to Prabalmachi Campsite.
- From Mumbai: approx. 55 km (2 hrs drive)
- From Panvel Railway Station: approx. 17 km (30 mins drive)
- Trek Distance from Base to Campsite: 3.5kms One side.
- Trek Duration: 2-3 hours approx.
- Location Sharing – Upon confirming your booking, you’ll be added to our Firefly Festival WhatsApp Group, where the exact campsite location, travel coordination, and final instructions will be shared.
Packages & Pricing
🔹 Plan A: Without Transport (Reach Thakurwadi directly)
Child (4–9 yrs): ₹799
Adult (10+ yrs): ₹1199
🔹 Plan B: Panvel to Panvel (Transport included from Panvel Railway Station)
Child (4–9 yrs): ₹1399
Adult (10+ yrs): ₹1599
🔹 Plan C: Mumbai to Mumbai (AC Bus)
Child (4–9 yrs): ₹2399
Adult (10+ yrs): ₹2899
- Note: Solo tent occupancy would be available on a additional cost of ₹500/-
| INCLUSIONS | EXCLUSIONS |
|---|---|
| Tent stay on triple sharing (double sharing for couples on request) | Forest Entry Fee. |
| Veg/Non-Veg Meals. | Extra meals, drinks, or mineral water. |
| Hi-tea + Snacks | Any personal expenses |
| Dinner (Roti, Sabji, Dal, Rice, Pickle, Salad) | Taxes as applicable |
| Breakfast (Tea, Biscuits, Poha/Maggie) | Travel till Panvel (for Plan B) |
| Local Guide | Medical/emergency evacuation |
| Bonfire (weather permitting) | Costs due to unforeseen weather/roadblocks |
| Trek Leader | Single Occupancy tent |
| All permissions & local support | Double Occupany tent |
| Transport (only in Plan B and C) | Parking Charges at Base Village. |
Important Notes
🌧 Firefly sighting is a natural phenomenon and depends on weather.
🕓 Reach on time — late entries not allowed by forest dept.
🚑 Inform us about any medical conditions in advance.
💍 Avoid carrying gold/jewelry.
🏕 In case of rain, stay will be inside shed.
🛑 Trek leader’s decision is final.
🛏 Carry blankets or 2 bedsheets for comfort.
🚐 Minimum 10 participants required for Kasara transport.
🍽 Minimum 6 required for Jain food.
Things to Carry
Water (2–3 liters)
Blanket or 2 bed sheets
Dry snacks / energy bars
Torch with extra batteries
Sunscreen, cap
Backpack (20–30L)
Personal medicine / first aid
Identity proof
Full sleeves & full track pants
Booking Procedure
- Fill Out the Registration Form
Start by filling out the official registration form with your details and preferred dates.
👉 Click here to register
- Make Your Payment
After submitting the form, proceed to make the payment to confirm your spot. You can choose either of the following options:
UPI ID: rajeshgiri95@okicici
Bank Transfer:
Account Name: Rajesh Muleshwar Giri
Account Number: 0116101077899
IFSC Code: CNRB0000116
Bank Name: Canara Bank, Kalina Branch.
💡 Please mention your name in the payment note.
- Confirmation & Invoice
Once your payment is received, you’ll get a confirmation email along with an official invoice.
- Join the WhatsApp Group
Post-confirmation, you’ll be added to a dedicated WhatsApp group for participants. This will be your space for all festival-related updates, travel assistance, and final instructions.
❓ Need Help?
Have questions about the festival, travel plans, or anything else?
We’re here to help you out!
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 7977187436
📧 Email: sherpaescapes@gmail.com
📍 Instagram: @sherpaescapes
Whether it’s about logistics, what to pack, or just sharing your excitement—we’d love to hear from you!
Changes, Cancellations & Refund Guidelines
We understand that unexpected situations may arise. To ensure fairness to both participants and organizers, Sherpa Escapes follows the policy outlined below:
Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 16 to 30 days (720+ hours) before the event.
- 75% refund if cancelled 11 to 15 days (360+ hours) before the event.
- 50% refund if cancelled 06 to 10 days (240+ hours) before the event.
- No refund for cancellations made within 05 days (120 hours) of the event.
No refund will be applicable in case of:
- Last-minute dropouts. (less than 120 hours)
- Missing the pickup bus or meeting point.
- Voluntarily quitting the event mid-way.
Rescheduling Policy
- Free rescheduling if the request is made at least 120 hours before the event date and time.
- For requests made within 120 hours, 50% of the event fee will be charged to cancel the current booking before rescheduling to a future batch.
Refund Process
- Refunds are processed based on the slabs mentioned above.
- Refunds are initiated 24 hours after the scheduled event date.
Timeline for credit:
- UPI Refunds: Typically processed within 2–3 hours by your bank.
- Credit/Debit Card Refunds: May take 5–15 business days to reflect on your statement.
In Case of Event Cancellation
If the event is cancelled by Sherpa Escapes due to unforeseen circumstances (such as weather or emergencies), you will be offered:
- A 100% refund, or
- The option to switch to another available date or event
A Note from Team Sherpa Escapes
This policy exists to protect both participants and organizers from financial losses due to last-minute changes. We kindly request you not to argue, offer medical reasons, or pressure the team for exceptions in the last 5 days. Your understanding helps us maintain fair and sustainable adventures for all.
Rules & Guidelines – Fireflies Festival
As we gather under the stars in a peaceful Himalayan village, it’s important we honor the environment and local community. To ensure a meaningful, safe, and respectful experience for all, please follow the guidelines below:
🌿 Respect the Village and Nature
- 🚫 No loud music – This is a serene village setting. Let’s embrace the natural sounds of the forest and fireflies.
- 🧘 Silence hours after 10 PM – Help maintain peace and quiet for the villagers and fellow campers.
- 🚭 No smoking in public or shared spaces – Respect the clean air and local customs.
- 🍺 No alcohol or intoxicants – This is a family-friendly, culturally sensitive environment.
- ❌ Strict no-drugs policy – Any violation will result in immediate removal from the event.
🚷 Safety & Boundaries
- ⚠️ Do not wander near the lakeside or forest areas at night – For your own safety and the safety of local wildlife.
- 🧭 Follow all instructions by the trek leader and local guides – They’re here to keep you safe and informed.
- 🛑 No trespassing into private village homes or fields without permission.
🍲 Food & Stay
- 🥣 Local meals will be simple and nutritious – Please don’t expect an extensive menu.
- 🙏 Be patient and grateful for the hospitality – Food is freshly made with love using what’s locally available.
- 🛌 Accommodation is basic village-style – Embrace the simplicity of mountain life.
🐾 Environmental & Cultural Ethics
- 🌱 Do not pluck flowers, disturb wildlife, or litter – Leave no trace behind.
- 🚯 Carry your own water bottle and avoid plastic waste – We aim to keep the village plastic-free.
- 🛕 Respect local customs and dress modestly – You’re a guest in a sacred space.
❤️ Be Kind, Stay Humble
- 🫱🏼🫲🏾 Treat fellow participants, villagers, and team members with respect
- 🎒 Travel light, walk mindfully, and soak in the silence
- 📸 Always ask before clicking photos of villagers or their homes
By joining this festival, you agree to follow the above guidelines. Let’s create a warm and responsible community experience together.