Overview/Itinerary

Purushwadi Fireflies Festival Information

Pre-monsoon Fireflies Festival begins around Maharashtra; Summer weather begins its transition towards monsoon. There is excitement in the air that farmers are busy preparing their fields for the upcoming farming seasons. Birds are active in building nests for their mating seasons. During this season Fireflies take center stage around Maharashtra. 

We head towards Purushwadi Fireflies Festival to celebrate and witness these beautiful glowing fireflies at Night. During May and June months fireflies emerge in thousands around the countryside in Maharashtra. Firefly emits unusual light patterns at night to attract opposite-sex fireflies for mating. 

Fireflies belong to the beetle family they produce light using a technique called bioluminescence. Both males and females communicate using different patterns of the strobe light. This flashing pattern designs a fantastic spectacle for sightseers at night. Fireflies don't live long once monsoon starts, and they have completed the cycle of mating, and laying eggs they die. 

Purushwadi fireflies festival 2024 dates are available now for booking. For any questions kindly call or WhatsApp us. 

About Fireflies Purushwadi Village

Purushwadi Maharashtra is located near Pachnai village popular starting point for the Harishchandragad Trek. Roads leading to Purushwadi Firefly Festival village are in bad condition from Rajur in Akole Taluka, Ahmednagar District. 

Fireflies Purushwadi is well connected by Rajur village local bus is available, one can also start a journey from Kasara Railway station by hiring a private jeep. We have arranged a private bus from Mumbai for the festival. Few NGOs is developing agro-tourism in the region around Purushwadi village and encouraging development in the region. Fireflies Festival Purushwadi takes place for a few months and helps generate income for locals. 

Purushwadi Fireflies Festival Brief Details

  • Location - Purushwadi Village Maharashtra
  • Event Duration - 1 day / 1 night
  • India toilets available
  • Travel by Private AC bus

Purushwadi Fireflies Camping Cost (Borivali to Borivali by AC Bus) 

  • Child (4 to 9 yrs): Rs. 2999/- (per person)
  • Adult (10 yrs and above): Rs. 3499/- (per person)

Event Itinerary Purushwadi Fireflies Festival 2024

Day One – Saturday

  • 09:45 am - Meet at Borivali National Park main gate.
  • 10:15 am - Leave for the Purushwadi Campsite
  • 10:45 Meet at WEH metro station bus stop, Andheri.
  • 11:00 Pick up at Kalanagar bus stop (on the highway), Bandra.
  • 11:15 Pick up at Sion station circle.
  • 11:55 Pick up at Teen Hath Naka, Thane.

Lunch on the way to Igatpuri. (by your own) 

17:00 Reach Purushwadi Village 

17:15 Evening tea and snacks ( Local tea and Snacks )

19:30 After sunset, we’ll take a walk around the Purushwadi village area to enjoy fireflies.

22:00 Dinner

Day Two – Sunday

07:30 Wake up and freshen up.

08:00 Breakfast.

08:30 Start return journey to Mumbai - 200 km ride 

02:00 Approx. arrival at Mumbai.

1 Night 1 Day 25 May, 01 Jun, 08 Jun, and more
Dates and Rates
date & duration price
Inclusions/Exclusions
What we'll give/What we won't

What is included in the tour

  • 1 evening tea and snacks, 1 veg Dinner and 1 Breakfast
  • Borivali to Borivali travel by private AC vehicle
  • Tent stay / Homestay on sharing basis
  • Trek Leader Expertise Charges

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Mineral water/lime water/ purchased for personal consumption
  • Lunch on day 1 and day 2
  • All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks ordered
  • Any kind of personal expenses
  • All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
  • Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
  • Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the cost including above
Things to Carry
Things to Carry
  • Mask and Sanitizer
  • 2/3 liters of water bottles (please carry reusable bottles)
  • Good Torch must with extra battery
  • Comfortable footwear
  • Sleeping material (Sleeping mat and Sleeping bag or 2 bedsheets)
  • Proper Backpack to carry all the things
  • Some Dry fruits / Dry Snacks / Energy Bars
  • Glucon D / ORS / Tang / Gatorade sachets
  • Sun Cap and Sunscreen
  • Personal First aid and Personal Medicine
  • Identity Proof
  • Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pant this will protect you from Summer Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles

Cancellation Policy

  • 75% refund if notified via phone conversation 8 or more days prior to the event date.
  • 50 % refund if notified via phone conversation 4 to 7 days prior to the event date.
  • No refund if the cancellation requested is less than 3 days prior to the event date 
  • No show No Refund.
  • Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
  • Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another person against cancellation.
  • If Trek gets canceled we will refund "Trek Amount" only.
  • If the event is canceled due to any natural calamity, political unrest or other such reasons beyond our control the same cancellation policy will apply.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions

Mumbai to Purushwadi Village distance by road?

200 km distance by road google maps location will be provided to participants to reach Purushwadi Fireflies Village.

Pune to Purushwadi Fireflies distance by road? 

170 km distance by road google maps location will be provided to participants to reach Purushwadi Fireflies Village. We offer group travel plans with a minibus to and from Pune. You can register directly on our website. It is open to all, from single travelers to groups. 

purushwadi fireflies festival

Can we drive to Purushwadi Village for Fireflies Maharashtra Festival?

Yes, we will provide the Google maps location and arrange the stay. Please note this region has zero mobile phone reception travelers are advised to leave early during the day and avoid the route at night. Roads have many potholes and are under construction. Kindly start early. 

Firefly Festival during which months in Maharashtra?

Firefly Festival is held before the monsoon starts, around May 3rd week and up to June 3rd. Once the monsoon starts, fireflies die after the mating period. Purushwadi Maharashtra fireflies are ideal for groups, families, and travelers looking for a relaxed weekend with beautiful rustic village surroundings. The best time to visit Purushwadi will be May last week and June month before the monsoon begins. This gives you the best opportunity to spot fireflies. Purushwadi fireflies festival 2020 was canceled due to the Covid19 lockdown. 

Firefly in Hindi or Fireflies in Marathi?

Fireflies are called जुगनू or Jjugnu in Hindi, and काजवा or Kajwa is the Marathi word for fireflies. 

Who are these beautiful Fireflies? 

Fireflies or lightning bugs make light within their bodies. This process is called bioluminescence and is shared by many other organisms, mostly sea-living or marine organisms. Fireflies light up to attract a mate. To do this, the fireflies contain specialized cells in their abdomen that help to create light. Spectacular Purushwadi fireflies are a quick refreshing getaway from the city.

Purushwadi Hotels during the fireflies festival?

There are no hotels at Purushwadi's nearest resorts, and hotels are available at Shendi village in Bhandardara.

Purushwadi Tourism during the fireflies festival? 

Ecotourism and villagers' income are supplemented by Purushwadi tourism during the fireflies seasons as travelers from Maharashtra visit the village in search of the fantastic firefly. Purushwadi homestay is currently not available. We will provide tents for your stay. Experience a unique weekend getaway and the quaint village lifestyle. 

Is Purushwadi stay an option during the firefly festival?

We will provide tents for camping. Stay options are basic, with clean Indian-style toilets. Purushwadi fireflies season starts from May end till Monsoon begins, usually depending on the weather. Purushwadi camping is perfect for travelers looking to introduce their family and friends to the outdoors and village life. 

Where is Purushwadi village located?

Purushwadi is located near Akole village Maharashtra. Rajur village is 16 km from Purushwadi; you can find a petrol pump and restaurants. Igatpuri to Purushwadi village, Maharashtra, is 70 km it will take three hours to cover this distance. How to get to Purushwadi we will provide you with google maps coordination to reach till campsite after you complete your booking. Participants traveling with us by bus, our group tour leader will manage the tour for you. Purushwadi current weather is pleasant at Night. During the day, it will be 35 degrees. Purushwadi forest has a lower temperature than the surrounding villages. Fireflies festival 2020 was canceled due to covid19 lockdown. 

Places to visit near Purushwadi? Places near the Purushwadi firefly Festival?

Nearby Purushwadi tourist places are listed below. Most destinations are one hour to two hours away from the Village.  

Randha Waterfall during monsoon 

Harishchandragad Fort via Pachnai village 

Bhandardara Lake 

Sandhan Valley

Ghatghar Dam

Bhavali Dam

Wilson Dam 

Ratanwadi Village Fireflies

Ratangad Fort

Bhairavgad Shirpunje 

Ghanchakkar 

Hotels in Purushwadi for stay?

Currently, there are no hotels available at Purushwadi for a stay. All hotels are located near Bhandardara MTDC. We provide camping at Purushwadi with food and toilets. Purushwadi camping is raw, focusing on exploring fireflies and experiencing village life. Purushwadi is the best location for watching fireflies in India.

How to book Purushwadi Fireflies events?

You can register directly by clicking on the book now button. In case you have any queries, please WhatsApp us at 8828004949. You can also click on inquire now button and share your questions. We reply quickly. You can pay via GPay | UPI | Imps to confirm your registration. 100 percent advance payment is required to confirm your registration. Fireflies season in Maharashtra will begin from May last week. 

 

Top Five Destinations for watching fireflies in Maharashtra? 

Are there fireflies in India? Before monsoon is the only time you can see fireflies in the mountains around Maharashtra. Here are the top five locations to spot fireflies in Maharashtra. 

1. Rajmachi Trek and Camping

2. Bhandardara Lake 

3. Prabalmachi Camping 

4. Kothaligad 

5. Purushwadi Camping

Best places to see fireflies in India? Where can I find fireflies?

Are fireflies extinct in India? Before the monsoon around Maharashtra, India, there are amazing destinations to see fireflies in India. We are listing the top five visited locations to see fireflies in Maharashtra, India.

1. Ratanwadi Village near Bhandardara Lake

2. Ghatghar Dam near Ghatghar village

3. Samrad Village near Ghatghar

4. Mulshi, Pimpri, near Andharban 

5. Rajmachi fireflies near Lonavala

fireflies camping

Purushwadi fireflies festival details

Mermaids, Witches, Fairies, Yetis, and Fireflies are some of our childhood buddies who frequented our storybooks and cartoons. Even though the existence of these magical creatures is still debatable, what if we revealed to you that fireflies are very much real and you could witness them? Have you ever wished for an experience where you camp overnight in a forest encircled by millions of fireflies and watch them light up the velvety night sky? Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? The breeding spell of these glowing critters has been celebrated as the ‘Firefly Festival’. Fireflies perform their best show during this festival and gather in big bunches amidst dense forests and trees to reveal their surreal visage.

Spend a dreamy evening with your loved ones, watch your little one’s face brighten up with awe and captivation, and get ecstatic by beholding the sight of a million fireflies sparkling around the forest and fashioning an astounding parade of dance. Embark on this mystical adventure before the onset of the monsoon, before experiencing incessant downpours along with potholes and puddles. The firefly festival is the best way to switch from the concrete jungle to an organic green one in the presence of twinkling fireflies. Get ready to marvel at a never-seen-before spectacle just a stone's throw away from the city. 

 

What are fireflies, and what makes them glow?

Among the various species of beetles, there exist these marvelous fireflies. Fireflies are usual-looking insects, worms, or bugs only with a magical ability to glow or emit light. Well, it’s not entirely magical; a firefly synthetically generates light from its lower abdomen, which is green or yellow contingent on its species. This natural phenomenon of light radiation is known as bioluminescence. Fireflies are usually found in places with a plentitude of rain or moisture, especially marshy expanses with nearby water bodies. The advancing rainy season creates a good space for the larvae to flourish, as the soil has sufficient moisture and nutrition. It’s the nourishment from this soil that facilitates the fireflies to illuminate.

Fireflies glow to defend against their prey or as a pattern to allure the opposite sex. These fireflies congregate in masses and exhibit distinctive flickering patterns to excite the opposite sex. It is believed that they have many unique designs up to 2000 moves. These moves range from being excessively easy to tremendously confounded. They set themselves up for a glorious show where they dance and glow the night away! When amazed by a light pattern, female fireflies answer with a lighting design show to accept the match.

 

Where can we find fireflies? Where can I find fireflies near me?

Attributable to its climate and the Western Ghats, Maharashtra is a biodiversity hotspot that includes these glowing critters. Cocooned between the rivers of Kurkundi and Mula in the Akole district of Maharashtra is the ethnic hamlet of Purushwadi. Purushwadi has become a hotspot for watching fireflies as it hosts the firefly festival and is among the best places in Maharashtra to view the fireflies. Along with the arrival of the monsoons, millions of fireflies tessellate the valleys of Purushwadi. Purushwadi is a quaint, old-world rustic hamlet quickly acquiring prominence as an eco-tourism village. It is the dwelling of numerous native clans, including Paradhis, Kokanas, Warlis, Kathodis, and Katkaris.

Away from huge city lights, these minuscule blazing green-yellow spheres light up the dark backwoods of Purushwadi. Walk around the many shades scattered by the shining fireflies at Purushwadi, where you will encounter the excellent and lively shades of nature amid gleaming fireflies. Silver of a spot, Purushwadi is an ideal end-of-the-week escape from Pune and Mumbai, offering a tranquil and calm retreat, for it has multitudes of fireflies coming in. Get ready to trot around the village lanes, camp in the woods by the lakeside, or stay at a tribal home in the village.

 

What are the best months to visit Purushwadi to witness the firefly festival?

As summer paves the way for rain, male fireflies awaken from their winter slumber and holler at their female partners during the pre-storm time frame. The fireflies sleep during the winter and mate and procreate during the summer. The firefly festival is the best-experienced pre-monsoon, from the last week of May to early June, even though it proceeds until the end of June. Fireflies are best found in the weeks during the looming monsoon when they accumulate to track down an ideal mate on schedule for the mating season. It is the ultimate firefly breeding spell, particularly during the initial fourteen days of June. The phenomenon continues for a month and a half a year and is subjected to capricious downpours.

May to June is the best time to visit Purushwadi because, during these months, the village may receive an occasional shower or two; that’s when the fireflies increase in numbers. Heavy rainfall will kill the fireflies no sooner than the monsoon season starts, and you might miss the extravaganza. Therefore, it is recommended to go before the actual Maharashtra monsoons hit, that is, before July. The best time to see a firefly glow is just before the rain or after the first few rain showers. These months are also perfect for trekking in these regions since the weather will be pleasant, with the temperature transitioning from the summer heat to a cool, rainy monsoon. Purushwadi trekking is not required, as fireflies can be seen on the nearby trail around the village. 

 

How to reach Purushwadi?

Purushwadi from Pune Distance 190 Kilometers, and Purushwadi from Mumbai Distance 165 Kilometers.

By Road: One can reach Purushwadi only by road as it is situated in the interiors. Purushwadi is located in the middle of Mumbai, Pune, and Nasik (closer to Nasik); you can reach any major city by air, rail, or road and then travel by road to Purushwadi.

You can hire a cab or rent a bike/car in these cities and drive to Purushwadi. One can also direct to Purushwadi via NH160 when traveling from Mumbai and via NH60 when driving from Pune. If you’re driving From NH3, you can head to Igatpuri and then onto Ghoti; from there, head to Rajur and turn towards the Harishchandragad, Pachnai village base. Purushwadi is 20 kilometers before Pachnai.

By Rail: Igatpuri, 70 kilometers from Purushwadi, is the closest railway station. You can reach Igatpuri by rail and then wait for a bus or shared jeep to reach Purushwadi. Kolkata Mail, Howrah Mail, or Mahanagri Express are some trains you can board from Mumbai to reach Igatpuri. From Pune, you can take the Manmad Express, which stops at Igatpuri station. On the other hand, you can also board the Deccan Queen and alight at Kalyan station, board a Kasara local and take a jeep towards Bhandardara.

By Air: The nearest airports to Purushwadi are Shirdi (100 kilometers), Nashik (100 kilometers), and Pune (171 kilometers). One can fly to these airports and then set out for Purushwadi by road in a private car or jeep. 

 

Where will we stay at Purushwadi Fireflies Festival 2024?

We will be staying in the village of Purushwadi; therefore, the lodging options are pastoral and minimal but worth experiencing and comfortable. The village of Purushwadi has a permanently constructed campsite of canvas tents. These tents have canvas enclosing and elevated concrete podiums on which beds are arranged. The canvas tents are all-weather and are more comfortable accommodations for families with children and aged individuals.

Another stay option is the camping tents. These camping tents are pitched on the ground, easily accommodate four individuals, and are comfortable enough for a six feet person to stand straight; the mattresses are spread out inside the tents.

However, a homestay is a best and most loved alternative for staying. Homestays are for those who want a closer experience of village life and want to live in an authentic village home. The village houses are rudimentary and countryside tribal homes where mattresses are laid out on the floor. A homestay gives an authentic feel to this entire excursion. Treks and Trails India supports eco-tourism and helps the development of villagers at the Grassroots India level. Village tourism in Maharashtra is popular among the youth and masses, helping villagers with seasonal income during difficult times. We will stay in camping tents in case it rains. We will shift to Local homes upon availability. 

 

What will we eat?

Each state in India has its cuisine and traditional delicacies. In the same way, Maharashtra has its flavors, and every region here has a variety of food that can be relished. While in Purushwadi, we will be the local Maharashtrian cuisine with authentic spices. All meals will be vegetarian and provided by the locals, prepared in their kitchen, which makes it an excellent opportunity to explore the native cuisine and culture.

 

Long itinerary Purushwadi Fireflies 

Soon, you are allotted a tent and invited for an organic vegetarian lunch at a villager’s house. Post that is nap time, when you can rest your travel-weary muscles for a couple of hours. Then, tea and biscuits are served early in the evening, and you are nudged to play games – just like in our childhood – or can take a stroll around the village. After an active evening, you are served a traditional dinner comprising Puran polis and Aamti.

The excursion commences with a rural welcome once you arrive at Purushwadi. Before long, you are allocated a tent and greeted for an authentic vegetarian lunch at a villager's home. Post the hearty meal; your eyes might be closed; it is time for an afternoon siesta when you can rest your travel-exhausted muscles for two or three hours. As soon as you wake up, evening snacks and tea will be presented, after which you can go out in the village and mingle with the kids and play traditional games like kabaddi and cricket. If you like so, you can stroll around the village by yourself and engage in some photography. We will also go for a short sunset hike. Aware of the hunger pangs after physical activity, you will be served a traditional Maharashtrian dinner.

At this point, your ragged city nerves have started to unwind. When dusk turns to night, these creatures toss away their meek facades to expose their true colors. Unexpectedly, you begin seeing shining spots behind the trees and shrubs, some even from under your table! This officially denotes the inauguration of the Firefly Festival for you! For the next several hours, we will be sauntering to every spot in the village to witness the excellent, enchanted marvel that nature offers. After chasing these gorgeous fireflies and watching them to your satisfaction, it is time for a good night’s sleep.

You might think, this is time to head home the next morning. But the Purushwadi excursion is far from over. We have a sunrise hike to the nearby dam early next morning planned for you.  You can either accompany us for a short trek or sip your tea and enjoy the balmy atmosphere of the village. Post the hike, a hearty breakfast will be served to you, which will give you energy for the activities we have planned. Now, we will shake hands with our hosts and the villagers, and they will teach us to plow their fields, sow grains, and winnow them. After hard work in the field, it's time for some fun and mischief. There are numerous trees of Mangoes, Jamuns, and Karvandas in the village; you can climb the trees pluck the fruits, and eat them. Take a refreshing dip in the nearby stream and wash all your worries away.  By the time you are done with these, it’s lunchtime! Again, a homely lunch awaits, and you can return rejuvenated to your city life. Do share your travel experience and Purushwadi fireflies festival reviews with us and your friends and family. 

 

Are there fireflies in India 

You can indeed find fireflies in many different regions of India. Over 200 different species of fireflies can be found in India. India is famous for having a large variety of fireflies. During the monsoon season, you can frequently find fireflies in areas with dense vegetation, such as forests and fields. Fireflies are also known as lightning bugs. The Western Ghats, the Himalayan region, and the forests of Assam and Meghalaya are among the most frequented areas in India for visitors interested in seeing fireflies. In India, fireflies are frequently called "Jugnu" in Hindi and "Kajwa" in Marathi. Both of these names mean "firefly."

purushwadi fireflies festival

Where can fireflies be found in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra is a state in western India known to have several places where fireflies can be spotted during their mating season. Some popular places to see fireflies in Maharashtra include:

  1. Bhandardara: A popular hill station near Igatpuri or Nashik, Bhandardara is known for its scenic beauty. It is a great place to see fireflies during the summer and pre-monsoon season.
  2. Rajmachi: A small village in the Lonavala Khandala region, Rajmachi is a popular trekking destination known for its forts, camping, and firefly sightings during May and June.
  3. Panshet: A small village near Pune city, Panshet Lake is a popular destination for firefly sightings during May and June.
  4. Prabalmachi: A famous hill hamlet for camping in the Panvel region of Maharashtra, Panchgani is known for its camping and trekking to Kalavantin durg, Prabalgad fort and is a great place to spot fireflies during the summer season.
  5. Igatpuri Camping: A hill station near Mumbai, Igatpuri is known for its lush greenery and fog city and is a popular destination for firefly sightings during May and June.

These are just a few examples of the many places in Maharashtra where fireflies can be spotted. It's essential to check with local guides or travel agencies for the best times and locations to see fireflies in a particular area.

 

Why should you go for fireflies camping with kids?

Camping with the fireflies can be a wonderful experience for children and adults for many different reasons:

  • It's a unique experience: It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many children, as they may not have had the chance to see fireflies in their natural environment before. It is a beautiful opportunity to expose them to the wondrous things that can be found in nature and to pique their interest in going on adventures outside.
  • It's useful for teaching: Children can learn much about the natural world and the natural world around them from fascinating creatures called fireflies. They can learn about the life cycle, behavior, and function of fireflies within the ecosystem.
  • It encourages activities that can be done outside: Camping under the stars can be an excellent way to get children moving and encourage them to spend time outdoors in a world where many children spend a significant amount of time inside. They can hike to the camping spot, set up camp there, and then explore the area around it.
  • It can be a bonding experience: Camping under the fireflies can be an excellent opportunity for families to get closer to one another and enjoy quality time together. It presents an opportunity to disconnect from modern technology and reconnect with the natural world.
  • It's an exciting adventure: Camping with kids is always an adventure, but the presence of fireflies can make the experience even more exciting and enjoyable. Children are welcome to assist with setting up the tent, preparing meals, and searching for fireflies after dark.

Overall, firefly camping can be a memorable and rewarding experience for children and adults, as it offers a unique chance to connect with nature and one another and the surrounding environment.

 

Information for Fireflies festival Pune 2024 

Pune is a bustling metropolis that offers an excellent getaway from frantic city life. During the summer and monsoon seasons, you can see fireflies in Pune in various nearby destinations. Popular destinations for Fireflies Festival in Maharashtra, these places are known for their natural magnificence. Fireflies places in Pune have favored haunts for glimpsing the enchanting splendor of fireflies during the summer and monsoon seasons.

  1. Panshet Lake Camping: Panshet is a small village near Pune known for its panoramic dam and sensational views of the surrounding hills. During summer and monsoon, the hills light up with thousands of fireflies, creating a surreal atmosphere—the nearest place to observe Fireflies in Pune.   
  2. Rajmachi Fireflies Camping: The twin forts of Rajmachi is a popular trekking destination in the Sahyadri mountain range. During the pre-monsoon season, the forest around Rajmachi is filled with fireflies, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers—the most popular destination for fireflies places in Pune.   
  3. Bhor Camping: Bhor is a small town near Pune known for its lush green forests and scenic waterfalls. During the monsoon season, fireflies can be seen dancing around the trees in the forest, creating a magical ambiance.
  4. Bhimashankar Trek: Bhimashankar is a famous pilgrimage site in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. During the monsoon season, the dense forest around Bhimashankar comes alive with thousands of fireflies, creating a spectacular sight. The best Fireflies trek Pune for trekkers.   
  5. Bhandardara Camping: The Harishchandragad Kalsubai Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment. During the summer, fireflies can be seen lighting up the entire village, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful getaway.
  6. Tamhini Ghat Camping: Tamhini Ghat is a scenic mountain pass in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. The entire area is filled with fireflies during the summer, assembling a magical ambiance.
  7. Malshej Ghat Camping: Malshej Ghat is a popular hill station in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. During the summer, the hills are covered with lush green forests and thousands of fireflies, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Pimpaljoga Dam and Khireshwar are the best locations to observe fireflies near Pune. 

 

Fireflies fort near Pune   

Several forts near Pune offer beautiful views of fireflies glowing in unison during the pre-monsoon season. Some of the popular ones are:

  1. Sinhagad Fort: Sinhagad Killa is a widespread trekking destination located near Pune. During the pre-monsoon season, the stronghold and surrounding cliffs light up with thousands of fireflies glowing in unison, creating a mesmerizing scenery.
  2. Rajgad Fort: Rajgad Killa is a historical fort near Pune known for its architectural wonders and picturesque magnificence. The entire location is loaded with fireflies during the pre-monsoon season, creating a magical fireflies aura.
  3. Purandar Fort: Purandar Killa is a historical fort near Pune known for its scenic beauty and rich history. During the pre-monsoon season, the fort is covered with lush greenery and thousands of fireflies, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  4. Rajmachi Fort: The twin forts of Rajmachi are a prominent trekking and camping destination in Pune and are known for their scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and ghats. During the pre-monsoon season, the fort and encompassing zones are filled with fireflies, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful getaway and firefly show.
  5. Gorakhgad Fort: Gorakhgad Killa is a historical fort located near Pune and is known for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding elevations. During the summer season, the fortress and its surrounding environs torch up with thousands of fireflies, forming a surreal fireflies show.

 

What is the lifespan of a firefly?

In the wild, the life expectancy of a firefly is approximately one year on average. Adult fireflies typically only live for about two months, but their entire life cycle can span anywhere from a few months to a year. Since there are more than 2,000 different kinds of fireflies, their life spans are bound to be different in some ways.

 

What causes fireflies to blink?

Fireflies use blinking to communicate with each other. The lights that flash are part of a way for male fireflies to attract females when they are trying to mate.

Each species of firefly has its own distinctive flash pattern, and the males and females belonging to the same species are able to recognise one another's patterns. Males use flashing to seek possible mates, and females use flashing to reply and signal their interest.

 

Why do fireflies glow in unison?

Fireflies produce a synchronised glow to attract potential mates. When the population reaches a certain density, all of the fireflies begin to blink at the same time. The firefly can find a mate more quickly through synchrony than any other method. The males will fly around and flash, and the females will mimic their behaviour by flashing. After that, the males will fly towards the females, and the process will start again.

 

What do fireflies eat?

They feed on other insects and prefer to live in damp areas, but fireflies are nocturnal. Carnivorous when they are in their larval stage, fireflies feed on soft-bodied insects that live on or in the ground, such as snails, slugs, worms, or even other larvae of other insects. There are species of adult fireflies that do consume the nectar and pollen that they find on plants. They will go to various plants to obtain sufficient amounts of nectar and pollen. Some adult fireflies continue to feed on the larval invertebrates and soft-bodied insects they consumed when they were younger.

 

Best months to see fireflies?

May and June, right before the monsoon season, are the best times to see these fireflies in their natural habitat. 

 

How to see fireflies without using a torch?

To see fireflies without disturbing them, avoid using a flashlight or other artificial light. Here are some ways to watch fireflies without trying to hurt them:

  • Pick a dark location: Fireflies are most active at night, so avoid artificial lights and light pollution.
  • Let your eyes 15-20 minutes to acclimate to the darkness. This improves firefly visibility.
  • Be patient : Because fireflies are unpredictable, seeing them may take some time. Wait quietly for them.
  • Watch for firefly patterns : Fireflies blink in patterns.
  • A red light is preferable over a white light if you need to use a light source. Red light doesn't affect fireflies compared to white light.
  • Respect their environment. Because fireflies are sensitive to their surroundings, don't bother them when they're busy.
  • Don't touch fireflies or use insect repellant or other pesticides.

fireflies camping

Are fireflies endangered?

There are different species of firefly, and some of them are on the endangered species list while others are not. Some places have seen a drop in the number of fireflies because of things like habitat degradation, pollution, and the use of chemicals such as pesticides.

In India, the Western Ghats are home to fireflies that are now considered "vulnerable" because their habitat is being lost and broken up by things like deforestation and development. Fireflies in other parts of India are not on the list of endangered species right now, but their populations may need to be protected in the future through conservation efforts.

 

How to conserve them

Conservation activities for fireflies can help safeguard their populations and preserve their survival in the wild. Here are some things you can do to help save fireflies:

  • Protect their habitat. Fireflies can only live in certain places, like damp, humid places with little light pollution. People can help save fireflies by keeping these habitats safe from deforestation, urbanisation, and other human activities.
  • Reduce the use of pesticides and other chemicals. Chemicals and pesticides can hurt fireflies and their homes. Lessening how much they are used can help to lessen these bad effects.
  • Educate the public: letting people know how important fireflies are and what dangers they face can help get more people involved in conservation. Programmes that teach schools, communities, and tourists about fireflies can help with conservation and provide support for them.
  • Support organisations that work to protect fireflies and their habitats. There are many groups that do this kind of work. You can help these groups' efforts by giving them money or your time, or by volunteering.
  • Responsible tourism means that when you go to places where fireflies live, you should respect their homes and try not to bother them. Don't use bright lights, don't catch or touch the fire
  • flies, and follow any rules or guidelines set by the local government.
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