ಕಾಡು ಕಾಡು ಅಲೆಯುವ ಅಪರೂಪದ ಜೋಡಿ..!| @IAMNOTFREE Kailash - Ashwini
If there’s one thing Kailash and Ashwini have proved, it’s that passion, patience, and preparation can turn an ordinary couple into extraordinary adventurers.
Kailash, a full-time IT professional, and his wife Ashwini, a homemaker, have spent the last five years doing something most of us only dream about—exploring over 150 forests across Karnataka and South India. From tiger reserves like Bandipur and Nagarahole to the eco-rich stretches of Kerala’s Periyar, they’ve walked paths that few have dared to, documenting every meaningful step along the way.
What’s striking is that despite all their safaris, they’ve barely seen any big cats. That might sound disappointing to some, but for them, it’s a lesson in patience. Wildlife isn’t meant to perform for visitors. The beauty of the forest lies in its unpredictability. Their story reminds us that real jungle experiences don’t come with guarantees—they come with awareness and respect.
The Magic of Vythiri Island
One of their most cherished moments was on Vythiri Island in Kerala’s Periyar Tiger Reserve. What made this trip different wasn’t just the lush green terrain—it was how they chose to explore it. No diesel boats, no noise, no rush. Just slow, manual teppa boats gliding through the waters, letting nature take the lead. It’s eco-tourism at its finest—low impact, high connection.
They also love sunrise treks around Bangalore. There’s something pure about greeting the day from a hilltop, surrounded by silence, mist, and endless views. It’s not just about nature; it’s about mental clarity, physical health, and starting the day with purpose. Their treks are like meditations in motion.
It’s Not Just About Fitness—It’s About Readiness
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be an athlete to trek through India’s forests. But you do need to be ready. Kailash stresses the importance of basic fitness and regular walking. The Western Ghats might not be the Himalayas, but they demand respect. Preparation makes all the difference.
They encourage fellow trekkers to use official government ecotourism websites, especially Karnataka’s. These platforms offer verified information—routes, booking systems, safety protocols—which make exploring easier and safer. Organized trekking also supports local communities and forest conservation efforts.
Remote forest zones often lack reliable food and facilities. Especially near the Karnataka-Kerala border, vegetarian options can be limited. That’s why Kailash and Ashwini always carry essentials—snacks, raincoats, water, first-aid kits. It’s not about roughing it; it’s about being responsible.
A YouTube Channel That Says It All
Their channel, I Am Not Free, isn’t just a catchy name. It reflects the reality of most of us—caught up in jobs, routines, and responsibilities. But through their videos, they show how freedom can be found in the forests. They use their platform not to flaunt, but to invite others into a world where simplicity, sustainability, and serenity reign.
Breaking Stereotypes, One Trek at a Time
Ashwini’s presence on the trail is powerful. It counters the stereotype that trekking is a “man’s activity.” More and more women are hitting the trails—solo, in groups, with families—and her story helps normalize that. Nature belongs to everyone.
Post-Pandemic Healing Through Nature
Like many of us, the couple took a pause during the pandemic. But their return to trekking was more intense than ever. Forests became their therapy, their escape from confinement, and their connection to something bigger than the self.
Conclusion: Nature is Waiting
What makes Kailash and Ashwini’s journey so relatable is how grounded it is. They’re not full-time influencers or nomads. They’re regular people with jobs, bills, and schedules—but they’ve carved out a space for nature in their lives. And they’ve done it with care, caution, and commitment.
Their story isn’t about ticking places off a list. It’s about building a relationship with the wild. And it’s an open invitation for the rest of us to try it too.
So if you’ve been longing to break free, consider this your sign. The forest is calling. And you don’t need to go far—you just need to start.
