Bhubaneswar, Aug. 23: This monsoon, many youngsters from the city are packing their bags and going on trekking expeditions to the various hills and hillocks in the forested regions of the state.

With nature displaying its beautiful green landscapes in the rainy season, many youths have started showing interest in adventure tourism in districts such as Mayurbhanj, Koraput, Kalahandi and also in various hillocks on the outskirts of the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

Accompanied by people from the tribal communities, a group of 10 young adventure lovers recently went on a two-day hiking trip to Deomali, which is the highest peak of the state at 1,672 metres. Braving the rain, the youngsters travelled through the uneven terrain to enjoy the picturesque valleys of Koraput district.

During the trekking camp hosted by travel enthusiast Yugabrata Kar's organisation Heritage Adventures, the youngsters also got to stay at the eco-tourism site Desia and enjoy tribal culture.

Before climbing Deomali, they were taken on small treks to acclimatise themselves. "Trekking during the monsoon season is hectic. But, it is also soothing because nature is at its best during this time. Our aim is to popularise the districts that are rich in natural beauty while also giving youngsters the opportunity to spend time in the lap of nature," said Kar.

The Bhubaneswar Trekking Club frequently organises hiking trips to local hills on weekends. The club also hosted several trekking trips in June and July.

Mohit Mishal and some of his friends from the club recently went on a 10-km trekking expedition in the hills of Mayurbhanj along with local villagers. For the members of the group, trekking was a great way to discover the unexplored beauty of the state.

"We were trekking around the Similipal National Park, which is famous for its tigers and elephants. Although we couldn't spot any of the animals, the joy of the trip was unmatched. We came across pugmarks of various animals, beautiful water bodies and many fishing villages," said Mishal.

Many youngsters also chose to go trekking to explore their other hobbies, such as photography and bird watching.

Prajit Swain, an engineering graduate, climbed Mahendra Giri, the second highest peak in Odisha at 1,501 metres, at Paralakhemundi in the last week of July with three of his friends.

"It was a bit risky to trek in the monsoon. But, the experience was memorable. We took the help of the local people to find our way," said Prajit.

Mountaineer Jogabyasa Bhoi climbed the Urladani Hills in the Koraput district along with 70 school students from the district recently. During the expedition, the hikers learnt about various mountaineering equipment and their uses.

Many cycling expeditions to the hillocks are also being hosted by various adventure groups this monsoon.

CHECKLIST

♦ Wear rubber boots to keep your feet safe and comfortable
♦ Carry a waterproof jacket or rain poncho and waterproof sleeping bags
♦ Carry essential items such as torch, nylon ropes, whistle and several sets of clothes
♦ Carry water bottles and readymade snacks

(Trekking tips by mountaineer Jogabyasa Bhoi)