Fireflies Festival Travel Planner – Maharashtra (May–June 2025)
Best Time to Visit:
- Late May to early June
- Ideal around new moon nights for maximum firefly visibility
- Firefly activity peaks just before the monsoon
Top Firefly Destinations in Maharashtra
Here’s a list of popular and lesser-known spots to witness the firefly phenomenon:
- Purushwadi – Near Pachnai, Nashik
- Famous for its community-run Firefly Festival
- Homestays and nature-centric activities available
- Bhandardara – Ahmednagar district
- Lakeside camping, waterfalls, and firefly trails
- Great for weekend getaways
- Rajmachi Fort – Near Lonavala
- Popular night trek destination
- Historic site illuminated by fireflies in May–June
- Kothaligad Fort (Peth Fort) – Karjat region
- Known for night trekking during firefly season
- Suitable for beginners
- Samrad Village – Near Ratangad and Sandhan Valley
- Ideal for adventure lovers and campers
- Nearby treks: Ajoba Hills, Kalsubai Peak
- Harishchandragad – Ahmednagar
- Challenging trek route with firefly sightings en route
- Excellent views and camping options
- Kalsubai Peak – Maharashtra’s highest peak
- Pre-monsoon treks offer firefly views in base villages
- Pairs well with Samrad or Bari village stays
- Naneghat – Junnar region
- Ancient trade route with rich biodiversity
- Fireflies visible near the forest base camps
- Ghatghar Dam – Near Bhandardara
- Quiet, offbeat location ideal for eco-camping
- Great for observing undisturbed firefly behavior
- Sandhan Valley – The Valley of Shadows
- Known for deep canyons and camping
- Fireflies visible in valley-side trails and base camps
- Torna Fort – Pune district
- Historic site with firefly activity around base villages
- Ideal for experienced trekkers
Suggested Itinerary (Weekend Plan)
Day 1 (Friday Evening):
- Depart from Mumbai or Pune by car/train
- Arrive at your chosen campsite by night
Day 2 (Saturday):
- Morning rest and local exploration
- Evening: firefly watching walk or night trek
Day 3 (Sunday):
- Early morning nature walk or trek
- Return by afternoon/evening
Packing List for Firefly Festival Treks & Camping
Clothing & Footwear:
- Full-sleeve cotton clothes (insect protection)
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Raincoat or light poncho
- Extra pair of socks and clothes
Camping & Trek Essentials:
- Torch or headlamp with red light mode
- Sleeping bag or mat
- Camping tent (if not arranged by organizers)
- Compact backpack
Personal Items:
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent (non-toxic preferred)
- First aid kit
- Personal toiletries (biodegradable if possible)
- Energy snacks or dry fruits
- Power bank or portable charger
Avoid Carrying:
- Plastic bottles and disposables
- Loudspeakers or bright lights
- Alcohol or intoxicants
- Anything that may disturb local wildlife
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips
- Follow “Leave No Trace” principles
- Do not use flashlights or camera flashes near fireflies
- Book with eco-tour operators or stay in local homestays
- Avoid touching or capturing fireflies
- Support local economies and guides
