Standing at 3,000 feet, enveloped by nature and breathtaking vistas, the pain and effort to reach the summit vanish, replaced by a mesmerizing sense of achievement. Mountain trekking captivates with its unique blend of challenges, exploration, and discovery. Each step tests your limits, while the journey reveals hidden wonders and stunning landscapes. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak makes every hardship worthwhile, creating unforgettable memories and a profound connection with the natural world.
Situated in the northwestern region of India, the Aravalli Mountain range is one of the world's oldest fold mountains, extending approximately 670 kilometers southwest. This ancient range plays a significant geographical role by separating the Thar Desert from the plains and plateaus of eastern Rajasthan. Within the Aravalli range lies Jessore Hill, which is the second highest peak at 3,000 feet. Jessore Hill is part of the Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, located at the Gujarat-Rajasthan border. The sanctuary is a vital habitat for various wildlife species, contributing to the ecological diversity of the region. The Aravalli range, with its unique geological and ecological features, is an important natural landmark, influencing the climate and biodiversity of northwestern India.
Our journey began at the base camp near the Jessore Hills, from where we could admire the towering Aravalli peak. Nestled beside a small, beautiful lake, our camp offered a serene setting. After settling in, we spent the evening enjoying the stunning view of the lake, watching the sunset, and marveling at the reflection of the surrounding forest. We prepared coffee by the lakeside, enhancing our experience with a touch of warmth and comfort. Later that evening, we planned our trek and met our guide, who would lead us to the mountain's peak. The anticipation of reaching the summit, where a breathtaking panoramic view of the Aravalli Forest awaited us, filled us with excitement and energy.
After a comfortable nap, we woke up early in the morning, gearing up for our trek. We took a short walk along the lake, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the morning energy. We had hoped to witness a stunning sunrise illuminating the forest, but instead, dark clouds filled the sky, casting a lazy, moody atmosphere over the landscape. Despite the weather's change of plans, we remained undeterred. With our essentials loaded into our backpacks, we quickly jumped into our pickup truck and headed to the trailhead. The anticipation of the adventure ahead kept our spirits high as we prepared to embark on our journey to the mountain's peak, where the promise of breathtaking views awaited us.
The previous night's rain left the weather a bit humid, but as we ascended the hilly mountains, refreshing gusts of cool, forest-scented air encouraged us to keep moving. It was June, and the monsoon was just around the corner, but the forest's streams and waterfalls remained dry, exposing deep pits and massive boulders. We trekked through a dry riverbed before entering the dense forest. Our guide led the way, providing valuable information about the local trees and wildlife. He also instructed us to stay close together, as the sanctuary is home to over 200 sloth bears and various other wild animals, and we were trekking right through their habitat. The thought of encountering a bear, even from a safe distance, thrilled us. The blend of adventure and the natural beauty of the Aravalli range made our journey both exhilarating and educational, heightening our appreciation for the wilderness around us.
We took small breaks along the way to regain our energy and explore the untouched surroundings. As we crossed several small and large waterfalls and hopped from one rock to another, we reached a spot that would forever remain etched in my memory. We found ourselves resting under a colossal banyan tree, its vast canopy spreading meters in all directions. This serene place exuded calmness, a perfect sanctuary where I could spend an entire day soaking in the tranquility, breathing the fresh air, and listening to the distant bird songs from the jungle. The banyan tree, undoubtedly century-old, had branches that spread out like it was holding the entire mountain. Despite our desire to linger longer, we had to move on, as our destination was still halfway ahead. The path from this point promised to be more challenging, with steep tracks and dense jungle awaiting us. The anticipation of the tough journey ahead only added to the excitement, knowing that the reward of reaching the peak and experiencing the panoramic view of the Aravalli Forest would be well worth the effort.
Vast canopy a Banyan Tree
Resting place under the Banyan Tree
Our path to up Hill
After approximately four and a half hours of trekking, we reached the small and beautiful Shri Muniji Ashram near the mountain peak. A saint from the ashram warmly welcomed us with refreshing tea, providing a much-needed break. We spent an hour and a half there, discussing the ashram and our journey, and making plans to revisit and explore the remaining unseen areas. Feeling refreshed, we began our descent, opting for a different route to add excitement to our return trip. Along the way, we captured numerous photos to preserve our memories of this incredible adventure.
Before our final departure from the trail, we took some time to visit the Shree Kedarnath Mahadev Temple. This beautiful temple is renowned for its two natural springs located on either side of the shiv temple. The serene atmosphere and the gentle sound of the springs added a sacred touch to our journey.
The diverse experiences and breathtaking beauty of the Aravalli mountains made our trek unforgettable. From the welcoming ashram to the scenic temple, each moment enriched our adventure, leaving us eager for future explorations and more memories in this majestic landscape.
|| SOME TIPS ||
If you are planning a trek to Jessore, it is highly recommended to hire a local guide. This sanctuary is home to several wild animals, and having a knowledgeable guide can help you avoid unintended encounters. Although these animals generally keep their distance from humans, it is better to be safe. Carry enough water, as the only reliable source is at the top of the mountain at Shri Muniji Ashram. Pack some food and energy bars, but avoid eating if surrounded by langurs, as this might attract them. Take appropriate breaks to rest and rejuvenate, as the trek is challenging. A local guide will enhance your experience, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure in the Aravalli mountains.
|| BEST TIME TO VISIT ||
Although you can visit Jessore in any season, each offering unique experiences, I recommend avoiding the summer months due to the intense heat in Gujarat. However, summer does increase the chances of spotting wild animals near the campsite lake, as they often come out in search of water. If you want to enjoy the rain and waterfalls, plan your visit at the start or towards the end of the rainy season. However, avoid the peak of the monsoon when heavy rains can make trekking difficult and potentially dangerous.
Winter is the best time to visit, especially from September to November. During this period, you can enjoy pleasant weather and witness the waterfalls in their full glory. Trekking during winter is also less exhausting, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The cool climate and scenic beauty of Jessore during these months provide a perfect backdrop for a memorable adventure.
|| MOMENTS ||
The welcoming resident
The curious kid
Local Musics
The stone mushroom
An amazing view of the lush forest and cascading waterfall at Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Jessore, Gujarat—June 2024
|| EXPLORE JESSORE TREK IN MAP ||
|| AUTHER ||
Hemant Singh Sikarwar ( Travel Photographer )
|| CREDITS & SPECIAL THANKS ||
Mihir Bhai Dave, Gitansh Kaushik, Amandeep kaur Mehta, Akshay Metha, Akanksha Mishra, Nandini, Dhruv Trivedi
