The monsoon transforms familiar landscapes into vibrant new worlds, and this year, Jungle Buddies embarked on a memorable journey to the historic Vasai Fort. On July 13, 2025, our annual monsoon nature walk unfolded amidst ancient ruins and flourishing greenery, guided by the esteemed naturalist, Adesh Shivkar Sir.

Traditionally, our monsoon walks have explored the depths of Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. However, for this special occasion, we chose the iconic Vasai Fort in Vasai West, and it proved to be an inspiring choice. Over 30 enthusiastic travellers from Jungle Buddies community joined us, creating a lively and engaging group that embraced a rich blend of birdwatching, botanical discovery, and a deep dive into the fort’s storied past. It was truly a huge success, weaving new and unforgettable memories for everyone.

Where History Meets Thriving Nature:

Our adventure began with a breathtaking sight: a bustling colony of Baya Weavers. Adesh Sir’s insights were enriching as he explained their intricate nesting cycle, from the precise nest-building process to how the female carefully chooses her ideal partner. It was a remarkable demonstration of natural engineering and courtship in the wild.

As we explored the fort’s grounds, we paused to marvel at the immense Baobab trees. These magnificent giants, native to Africa, stand as living testaments to the fort’s Portuguese heritage, having been introduced centuries ago along India’s western coast. A truly special botanical moment came with the discovery of Wight’s Acampe (Acampe praemorsa), the sole orchid species known to grace Vasai Fort – a delicate beauty thriving amidst stone and history. Birding enthusiasts among us were delighted to hear and, in many cases, spot the Vigors’ Sunbird, an endemic jewel of the North Western Ghats. The fort’s ancient walls also offered unexpected wildlife encounters, revealing various spider species like the striking Giant Wood Spider, the unique Signature Spider, and agile Jumping Spiders, showcasing the hidden biodiversity within this historical landmark.

Perhaps one of the most exciting and historically resonant moments was the sighting of a juvenile Bengal Monitor Lizard basking on the sun-drenched fort walls. This led Adesh Sir into an engaging discussion about the local Marathi term “Ghorpad” and its legendary connection to tales of warriors like Tanaji Malusare. It was a powerful reminder of how nature has always been intertwined with human history.

A Journey of Discovery and Connection:

Every step at Vasai Fort was filled with discovery and moments of connection – from the subtle calls of birds to the profound echoes of history. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Adesh Shivkar Sir for generously sharing his vast knowledge and captivating stories, making every observation come alive. And a warm thank you to each member of our Jungle Buddies community for joining us and making this a truly memorable experience.

Are you ready to join our next unique monsoon adventure?

Explore more wildlife tours near Mumbai and birdwatching walks in monsoon with Jungle Buddies – where every trip is more than just a getaway; it’s a story waiting to be lived and a memory waiting to be made.