Macro Photography Tours in Phansad- IndiGo

Overview

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located between the northern Sahyadri range and the western coast of India. While it is not directly connected to the main Western Ghats range, its biodiversity closely resembles that of the region. Situated in the Murud and Roha talukas of Raigad district, Maharashtra, the sanctuary was established in 1986 to conserve its unique coastal woodland ecosystem. Spanning approximately 6,979 hectares, it features diverse landscapes, including open gras...

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located between the northern Sahyadri range and the western coast of India. While it is not directly connected to the main Western Ghats range, its biodiversity closely resembles that of the region. Situated in the Murud and Roha talukas of Raigad district, Maharashtra, the sanctuary was established in 1986 to conserve its unique coastal woodland ecosystem. Spanning approximately 6,979 hectares, it features diverse landscapes, including open grasslands known asmals, scattered throughout the sanctuary.

Once part of the hunting reserve of the princely state of Murud-Janjira, the area now serves as a haven for a wide range of flora and fauna. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary boasts four main trails—Gunyacha Maal, Chikhalgaan, Dharangaan, and Phansadgaan—offering visitors opportunities for exploration. Observation points near water bodies enhance the chances of spotting wildlife.

The dense forests are home to over 150 species of birds, 720 plant varieties, and 279 fauna species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and butterflies. Covering an area of 52 sq. km, the sanctuary is a popular destination for trekking, photography, and birdwatching. Key wildlife includes the Malabar Giant Squirrel (the state animal of Maharashtra), Sambar, Barking Deer, Porcupine, Palm Civet, Leopard, Wild Boar, and Hyena.

Among the 150 bird species, notable ones include the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Plum-headed Parakeet, and Green-billed Malkoha. Migratory birds also visit the sanctuary between November and January. Additionally, Phansad is home to 31 snake species, including Russell’s Viper, Bamboo Pit Viper, and Indian Rock Python.

How to reach

Mumbai and Thane are well-connected to other cities by train. Our team will assemble at Kharghar, and from there, we will travel together.

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 140 km from Mumbai, along the Alibaug–Murud road. The most convenient way to reach Phansad is by road. Our team will gather at Kharghar and proceed together from there.

Know more

DCP expert: Soumendra Mukhopadhyay

Soumendra Mukhopadhyay, an engineer by profession and a wildlife photographer by passion. Soumendra specializes in macro photography. He is extremely passionate about what he does and experiments continuously to polish his skillsets every time he is out in the field with his camera. He shares his knowledge of photography selflessly with people around him. His images have been appreciated and acknowledged in various online forums, articles and magazines. He is a talented photographer and has great teaching acumen. He is a Panel Expert for Team DCP, Mumbai. He uses the camera as a tool for conservation as his work generates awareness in common man about the hidden beauties of nature and earth's natural history.

Photography experience in Phansad package for 3 days from Kharghar itinerary

Day 1

Arrival

Pick-up point: Kharghar
Distance: 115 km from Kharghar
Duration: 3 hr

We will depart from Kharghar at 7:00 AM. On our way to Phansad, we’ll take a short halt for light snacks before continuing our journey. Considering potential traffic in Mumbai, we expect to reach Phansad by 12:00 noon.
Upon arrival, rooms will be allocated, followed by a quick introduction session. Lunch will then be served. Participants interested in exploring can opt for a trail around the campsite, while those who prefer to rest can take the time to relax.
In the evening, we will go for a night trail through the forest before dinner. After dinner, an additional short night trail will be conducted to observe various life forms.

Day 2

Field session in Phansad

Pick-up point: Hotel
Distance: 5 km from Hotel
Duration: 30 min

Start your day early with breakfast and prepare your gear for an adventurous trek. We will spend the entire day in the forest, exploring its vast biodiversity and searching for an incredible variety of life forms. Key species for photography and documentation include the Green Vine Snake, Bamboo Pit Viper, Saw-scaled Viper, Wolf Snake, Cat Snake, and many other fascinating creatures.
We’ll carry packed lunches to enjoy amidst the serene and tranquil jungle atmosphere, surrounded by like-minded enthusiasts.
Upon returning to the campsite in the evening, enjoy some light refreshments and take a short break. Later, we’ll gather for an engaging session with our biodiversity and photography expert. This informative discussion will cover the species we spotted, nature conservation, and photography techniques. The day will conclude with a hearty dinner.

Day 3

Departure

Pick-up point: Phansad
Distance: 115 km from Phansad
Duration: 3 hrs

Rise early for another trek into the jungle, exploring its rich ecosystem for approximately three hours. After returning to the campsite, enjoy a proper breakfast around 11:00 AM. Then, pack up, freshen up, and prepare for the return journey.

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More details

Travel tips

Ensure you are physically fit to travel and participate in outdoor experiences.
Declare medical ailments if any. Carry your regular medications.
Abide by the rules, regulations and instructions of team leaders.

Things to carry

Macro lenses – Kit lenses will help if you do not have one.
Carry fully charged batteries for your camera/flash.
Carry a battery charger. Carry an extra pack of camera batteries.
Carry backup memory cards/HDD storage drives and laptops.
Torch - (if you have ...