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Overnight Herping Trail at Matheran

Matheran is a unique eco-sensitive hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, just a short journey from Mumbai. Known as India's only automobile-free hill station, its dense forests, lateritic plateaus, and seasonal streams create the perfect habitat for a remarkable diversity of reptiles and amphibians.

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The region is home to an array of fascinating herpetofauna, including shieldtails, vine snakes, pit vipers, geckos, skinks, and a variety of endemic frogs that emerge during the monsoon. The cool, moist forests and rocky outcrops of Matheran provide refuge to many Western Ghats specialists, making it an exciting destination for herpers, naturalists, and wildlife photographers alike.

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Join us as we explore Matheran's forest trails after dark and uncover the hidden world of reptiles and amphibians that thrive within one of Maharashtra's most biodiverse landscapes.

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Benefits

  • Herping in a dense forest

  • Spotting reptiles, amphibians and mammals

  • Understanding Herpetology and Basics of Ecology

  • Group learning activity

Images from our previous trails at Matheran. Credit: Dr. Anish K

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Inclusions:

  • Dinner and Breakfast

  • Travel from Neral Station to Matheran and back by shared cab

  • Group discussions, on-trail games and knowledge sharing on basics of field identification

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Details

  • Date: 15th - 16th August (Saturday and Sunday)

  • Location: Matheran, Raigad

  • Expedition Timing: 15th August 3 PM to 16th August 12 PM

  • Limited Seats: 18

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Requirements: Participants have to carry along the following -​​

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  • Sufficient Water

  • ORS or Electrolyte

  • Umbrella / Windcheater / Poncho

  • Proper Covered Shoes (mandatory) / Rainy Shoes

  • ID Proof

  • Torch with sufficient batteries

  • Extra pair of clothes 

  • Forest coloured clothes

  • Camera (Optional) 

  • Binoculars (optional)

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Please note:

  • Participants are requested to not carry any food or water/drinks in a plastic bottle.

  • Parking is available at Matheran for both 2-wheeler and 4-wheeler at an additional cost to be borne by the participants.

 

Rules and Guidelines

  • Consumption of alcohol, smoking, drugs, narcotics is strictly not allowed and would lead to expulsion from the trip.

  • Leader's decision will be final and binding to all members. No arguments will be entertained.

  • Each member is responsible for their own safety and baggage.

  • Please refrain from wearing any jewellery or gold ornaments / wear at your own risk.

  • Respect the Naturalists and follow their instructions.

  • Making loud noise and playing music in the forest is STRICTLY not allowed.

  • Do not try to touch or feed wild animals.

  • Do not litter. Keep the area clean. Carry chocolate wrappers, plastic covers, paper and other waste with you and dump it in the dustbin.

  • We strongly believe in saying - Wherever we go, leave only footprints and take back only memories.

Trail Fee:

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[Including travel from Neral to Matheran]

Original Price: Rs. 3400

First Early Bird (4 seats): Rs. 3150

Second Early Bird (4 seats): Rs. 3250

Ex Participant: Rs. 2950

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[Excluding travel from Neral to Matheran] Parking cost for personal vehicle not included

Original Price: Rs. 3160

First Early Bird (4 seats): Rs. 2910

Second Early Bird (4 seats): Rs. 3010

Ex Participant: Rs. 2710

Bank details

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Account type-current

Account name- Wildlifearc

A/C no.: 3346750332

IFSC. :KKBK0002040

UPI ID: Wildlifearc@kotak

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Please make direct payment to the bank account if the amount applicable to you is not on the payment button. 

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Please send a screenshot of your payment to +91 9167975387 (Sandra Pereira) to confirm your payment receipt

Cancellation Policy for Outdoor Events

 

Thank you for booking with us! We strive to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. As outdoor events are subject to a variety of factors including weather conditions and other external elements, we have established the following cancellation policy:

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1. Cancellation by Participant

  • More than 10 days before the event: You may cancel your reservation for a full refund (minus a 10% processing fee).

  • Within 10 days of the event: Cancellations made within 10 days of the event will be eligible for a 50% refund of the ticket price.

  • 2 days or less before the event: No refunds will be issued for cancellations within 48 hours of the event.

 

2. Event Postponement or Cancellation by Organizer

  • In the event of unforeseen circumstances, including inclement weather, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control, we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule the event. If the event is canceled, you will receive a full refund or, if you prefer, an option to transfer your booking to a rescheduled event.

  • If the event is postponed, we will notify you as soon as possible with the new event date and you will have the option to reschedule your booking or request a full refund.

 

3. Weather-Related Cancellations

  • Our events are held outdoors and are subject to weather conditions. We monitor weather forecasts closely to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. In cases of severe weather (e.g., thunderstorms, extreme temperatures, etc.), we may postpone or cancel the event.

  • If the event is canceled due to weather, you will be notified in advance and given the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

 

4. No-Shows

  • If you do not show up for the event without prior notice, no refunds will be issued.

 

 

By booking and paying for an event, you agree to the terms of this cancellation policy. Please make sure you review these terms carefully before completing your reservation.

 

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at:

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Email: thepeopleoftheforest@gmail.com | communications@peopleoftheforest.in

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Call/Whatsapp: 9167975387 (Sandra Pereira)

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