Monsoon Hikes are a passion among those living near the Western Ghats of India. The Sahyadri as this hill range is called, is a lush paradise for the three months that the rains happen in this part of the world. Entire landscapes are covered with a green that is vivid and refreshing. The sky has clouds, the land is swept with mysterious mist and the world is clean, fresh and invigorating.

Getting wet in this rain is not a hassle to be avoided, but a treat to rejoice in, as is evident from the hordes of people heading out into the countryside at every opportunity in the monsoons.

Most hill-forts in this region have caves carved into them, many of them in good condition, with ancient water tanks maintained by locals. So accommodation is ready.

Its time to pack quick and painless rations, dry clothing and as few other necessities as possible in plastic bags and make it as water-proof as possible. Then, it is a simple matter of wearing the oldest clothes you have and becoming a kid again, as you head out to get wet, splash in puddles, bathe in waterfalls that start everywhere water can fall...... and get in touch with that part of yourself that is carefree and adventurous.

You can almost hear history echoing around the ancient forts as the air becomes crisp and clean from its washing, clearing away all remnants of the familiar pollution of these times and adding belief to the ancient world that the carvings, caves and fortifications whisper about. 

Don't believe me. Experience it for yourself.