Chasing Fireflies in Bhandardara, Maharashtra.

I’ve known about the fireflies of the western ghats for over a decade now. I have promoted the natural spectacle very proactively within my friend circle but personally could never manage time to see it myself. This year, I could! Last weekend (i.e. 8-9th of June 2024), I went to Mumbai to join Arjyak and his friends on a quick trip to see Fireflies in Bhandardara.

Bhandardara is a picturesque village nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, known for its lush greenery, serene lakes, and majestic waterfalls. This tranquil destination offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, providing opportunities for trekking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

Planning and Preparation

Anticipation buzzed as we packed our bags with essentials — comfy clothes, sturdy shoes, and of course, my camera to capture the luminescent stars of the night, the fireflies of Bhandardara. For years, I’d waxed poetic about these glowing bugs to friends, yet never found the time to witness their twinkling spectacle firsthand — until now.

Fireflies in Bhandardara

Imagine tiny insects lighting up the night with their derrières—it’s a real-life fairy tale, folks! These fireflies aren’t just lighting up for fun; it’s mating season, and their glows are like Tinder bios in the insect world—“Swipe right, I’m fit and ready to mingle!” Bioluminescence aside, their short lives are a whirlwind of birth, romance, and well, lights out right after the deed.

The Journey

Our odyssey began with a bus ride from bustling Mumbai to the serene hills of Bhandardara, a haven nestled in the Western Ghats. The group, a motley crew of adventurers of all stripes, bonded over games and shared tales as we wound through the countryside. Special shout-out to Meeta, who remembered everyone’s names faster than I can say “firefly”; also the five cousins who were really awesome!

Well, I am not great at taking selfies! In the photograph: Arjyak and his friends, Ankan and Kaushal.

Arrival at Bhandardara

Stepping into Bhandardara was like entering a nature-themed amusement park for adults—minus the roller coasters. Adventure Geek had us set up lakeside camps, where the air was crisp, the sunsets painted the sky in hues that even Pantone would envy, and the atmosphere practically begged for adventure.

fireflies in bhandardara, fireflies in purushwadi

Firefly Spectacle

As dusk fell, the main event commenced — cue the twinkling fireflies in Bhandardara! It was like witnessing nature’s rave party, with bugs flashing their neon credentials amidst the trees. We strolled through the woods, hypnotized by their dance, snapping photos that, let’s be honest, did no justice to the real-life magic.

Wanna watch a video?

Evenings were for bonfires, ghost stories that were more funny than spooky, and a raucous game of “Antakshari” that carried us into the wee hours.

Unexpected Storm

Just when we thought the night couldn’t get more dramatic, nature pulled out all the stops. Thunder roared, rain poured, and a storm brewed overhead, sending us scurrying for shelter. Yet, even in the deluge, Bhandardara remained breathtaking, draped in rain-kissed beauty that turned every view into a postcard.

Quick Tips for Future Adventurers

For those itching to experience Fireflies in Bhandardara:

Visit between May and June for the best chance to catch these glowing bugs in action.
Pack light but pack smart: insect repellent, a flashlight, and waterproof gear are your best friends.
Don’t expect a photoshoot; capturing fireflies is more art than science.
Trust Adventure Geek for a hassle-free escape into nature’s own disco.

fireflies in bhandardara, selfie by priya

Tagore's poem translated! Click to read.

ও জোনাকী, কী সুখে ওই ডানা দুটি মেলেছ।
আঁধার সাঁঝে বনের মাঝে উল্লাসে প্রাণ ঢেলেছ॥

Translated: O firefly, with what joy have you spread those wings,
In the dark dusk, amidst the forest, you have poured life into celebration.

তুমি নও তো সূর্য, নও তো চন্দ্র, তোমার তাই ব’লে কি কম আনন্দ।
তুমি আপন জীবন পূর্ণ ক’রে আপন আলো জ্বেলেছ॥

Translated: You are neither the sun nor the moon, but does that make your joy any less?
You have filled your own life and lit your own light.

তোমার যা আছে তা তোমার আছে, তুমি নও গো ঋণী কারো কাছে,
তোমার অন্তরে যে শক্তি আছে তারি আদেশ পেলেছ।

Translated: What you have is yours, you owe nothing to anyone,
You have received the command from the strength within your heart.

তুমি আঁধার-বাঁধন ছাড়িয়ে ওঠ, তুমি ছোটো হয়ে নও গো ছোটো,
জগতে যেথায় যত আলো সবায় আপন ক’রে ফেলেছ॥

Translated: You rise beyond the bonds of darkness, you are not small despite your size,
In the world, wherever there is light, you have made it your own.

Adventure Geek's phone number:

Vinay: +91 90046 75388
Kartik: +91 80827 83035

Conclusion

My escapade to Bhandardara was a splendid blend of wonder, laughter, and unexpected thunderstorms. The fireflies in Bhandardara left an indelible mark, reminding me of nature’s uncanny ability to awe and inspire. If you’re seeking a getaway that’s equal parts magic and adventure, Bhandardara awaits—fireflies and all.

Let me know if this captures the essence you’re looking for!

Disclaimer: This post is generated by ChatGPT after a lot of prompt engineering. I could have written this faster! I had also asked it to be wittier, so in case you feel I do not speak like this, you know now.

Anirban Saha

NLP | Birding | Traveling