Wednesday 28 January 2015

Activities at Saguna Baug Neral

There is never a dull moment at Saguna Baug, Neral. Other than exploring on your own once you know your way around, you can enjoy some or all of the fun things to do. Note that all the activities mentioned are not to be done independently on your own. Each must be done accompanied by a guide (staff member).

Sunday 18 January 2015

Saguna Baug Neral review 2015

We were a bit apprehensive of the cleanliness & hygienic standards of Saguna Baug, having read quite a few scathing reviews on the Net. Let me assure you here that it is 100% clean and hygienic. All over the premises are large circular dustbins and visitors & staff do use them. A round is made by two staff members who collect the trash from each and every dustbin. We were informed that the trash is not dumped anywhere but is taken to a compost spot.

Saguna Baug Neral Pond House Rooms

Our stay in the Pond House rooms was truly fantastic. It was just heavenly to stay right in the midst of our very own pond and in rooms which were airy, bright and very clean. There are 2 rooms in the Pond House, Nos. 8 and 9. Room 8 has great side and front views, whereas Room 9's side view is the stony path. 

Staying at the Pond House in Saguna Baug Neral

After reading reviews on the Net, we booked the Pond house rooms for the 4 of us. We were glad we did, as we discovered that the 3 independent cottages were near the common dining area so were basically located in a noisy section. The Pond House was far away from this area and relatively secluded & quiet. Note though, that at night it is noisy, with the sound of trains throughout the night.

Why you should stay and not just visit Saguna Baug Neral

We had heard and read that Saguna Baug is a good place for a one day picnic. Let me correct that: it is a great place to not only just spend one day, but I would strongly advise you to stay there for at least 2 nights to truly enjoy the spectacular elements of nature. My aunt summed it up beautifully, saying that you can enjoy all the elements of nature in one place, namely Sky, Earth, Air (Wind), Water and Fire.

Travelling to Saguna Baug Neral

We have just returned from a lovely trip to Nisarg Niketan, better known by its other name, Saguna Baug, located in Neral. Two of us travelled by the Koyna Express and reached Neral within a hour. Make sure (a) to take photo ID proof for the train journey and (b) keep hold of the ticket as the TC at Neral station will ask for it. 

We boarded the train at Dadar station, from where it leaves at 8.52a.m. and reaches Neral Junction station at 10.05a.m. At both stations, the train halts for just 2 minutes so you have to be quick. Hence it is advisable to be ready once the train leaves Badlapur station, after which it passes through Vangani and Shelu before reaching Neral.