Kalsubai Trek: Experience the Panoramic Beauty of the Highest Peak of Maharashtra

Do you crave adrenaline rushing in your veins?

Are you a thrill-seeker who lives for the love of conquering new heights?

Yes? Awesome then! It’s time to check out one of the top trekking places in India and be captivated by Maharashtra’s magnificent tower — the Kalsubai Trek.

Overview of Kalsubai Trek

Standing tall at 1646 meters (5400 feet) — and nestled within the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary in the Sahyadri Range — Kalsubai is the highest peak in the state, earning the title of the “Everest of Maharashtra.”

It offers a mix of terrains, including rocky paths, steep ascents, and lush greenery. The trek begins from the base village of Bari, and the journey to the summit usually takes around 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, trekkers encounter various attractions and landmarks, and one among them is the Kalsubai Temple. 

The place boasts unparalleled beauty that feels surreal, almost outwardly. From the top, you can catch glimpses of the sky-high Sahyadri mountain range and the backwaters of Bhandardara Dam. The Kalsubai Trek and the surrounding areas are attractive to the point of leaving visitors spellbound. It’s a landscape both grand and commanding in its beauty. 

The Kalsubai Trek is pretty popular, attracting tourists from all over the world to relish the spiritual value, cultural attributes, and panoramic views. It’s definitely a trek that should be a “must” on your itinerary. 

There’s a beautiful Kalsubai Temple situated at the peak’s summit, which holds great significance for residents. Trekkers visit the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess, who is believed to help people grow spiritually.

Historical Legend Behind the Kalsubai Temple

According to the legend, Kalsubai, a young country girl, used to live in the mountains. She had a generous spirit and frequently assisted with community activities. She catered to residents as well as animals across the region with compassion and benevolence. 

One day, she decided to climb the peak, wanting to free herself from the trappings of daily life and seeking solace. On reaching atop, she sat down and entered the state of meditation. It’s said that she disappeared from the spot soon after, leaving behind only her footsteps and a divine presence.

In honor of her sweet and selfless memory, the Kalsubai Temple was constructed. Pilgrims and trekkers visit the pious location to seek her blessings.

Understanding the Kalsubai Temple and Kalsubai Trek in a Nutshell

Here’s a quick low-down on the key details about the Kalsubai Temple and the Kalsubai Trek. 

Attribute	Details
Location	Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, Sahyadri range, Maharashtra
Type	Mountain Trek
Height	1646 meters (5400 feet)
Trekking Distance	Approximately 5.5 km
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Accessibility	Moderate
Activities to Pursue	Harishchandragad Fort, Ratangad Fort
Nearest City	Igatpuri
Travel Time from Mumbai	Approximately 3 Hours
Travel Time for Pune	Approximately 4 Hours
Entry Fee	None
Trekking Cost	Varies depending on the guide and season
Facilities	Basic accommodation near the base village, food stalls
Ideal For	Adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers

Kalsubai Peak Trek: Attractions and Activities

The Kalsubai Trek packs a punch in terms of its alluring beauty, alluring landscape, and cultural significance — drawing visitors in hordes. Here’s a quick look at all the attractions you must see and the activities you must partake in. 

1. Scenic Views of the Sahyadri Range

Kalsubai’s height is 1,646 meters (5,400 feet), making it the highest peak in Maharashtra. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the well-known Sahaydri peaks, including Alang, Madan, Kulang, Ratangad, and Ajoba. The prolific greenery and the majestic valleys take the beauty quotient several notches above.

2. Kalsubai Temple

At the summit, there is a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kalsubai, which attracts pilgrims and trekkers alike. It adds a spiritual touch to the trekking experience and transforms the whole experience with a dash of divinity. 

3. A Grassland, A Farm, and A Field Walk Worth Every Dime

Bari hamlet, nestled within a farming community, marks the starting point of the hike. The trail passes through expansive fields and quaint agricultural landscapes, offering a serene and enjoyable walk that many consider the most pleasant part of the trek.

4. Four Narrow Iron Steps Situated Above Steep Granite Sides

The most exciting and difficult portion of the hike is the ladder segment, which consists of four short iron ladders. There is two-way traffic between trekkers and villagers because this trek has the same ascent and descent! On these ladders, trekking during the monsoon season might be challenging.

5. Wildlife Spotting

The trek passes through the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, providing opportunities to spot various species of flora and fauna native to the Western Ghats.

6. Night Trekking

Kalsubai night trek is a wild rage among adrenaline enthusiasts. Many trekkers opt for night treks to reach the summit by sunrise, experiencing the cool breeze and starlit sky along the way.

7. Camping

Camping near the base village or on the plateau near the peak is a popular choice among trekkers, allowing them to enjoy a night under the stars after a rewarding climb.

The Kalsubai Peak trek is not just about reaching the summit, but also about embracing the journey, appreciating nature’s beauty, and challenging oneself amidst the serene landscapes of the Sahyadris.

Kalsubai Trek Photos

We know these photos aren’t enough to capture the beauty of Kalsubai Trek. to see more, watch this YouTube guide by Traveller Bidur: 

Rules and Regulations for Kalsubai Trek

Excited about the Kalsubai Trek? 

Hold your horses! It’s time to take into account a few rules and regulations before taking the big plunge. 

1. Pack Essentials: For night hikes, bring enough water, snacks, sunscreen, and a flashlight or headlamp. 

2. Physical Fitness: It is advisable to check your physical fitness prior to the journey, as the trek involves steep inclines and sharp terrain. 

3. Leave No Trace: Carry out all litter and do not pick flowers or interfere with animals. 

4. Weather Awareness: Refer to local weather reports and be ready for unpredictable shifts in the climate, especially during the monsoon period. 

5. Respect Local Communities: Treat the people with kindness and politeness if you need any help, and do not interfere with their customs and beliefs. 

6. Photography: Take photos and videos with consideration and regard to the rights of others and the environment. 

7. Emergency Contact: Always have emergency contact details and tell someone about your trekking intention and expected arrival time. 

8. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Drink water often to prevent dehydration, and rest occasionally when the weather is hot.

Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget to Pack While Leaving for Kalsubai Trek

• Cap, scarf, bandana, identity card, and sunglasses
• Water: Two liters minimum or electrolyte powder or drink (Electral, Gatorade, Glucon D, etc.) with lemon and salt
• High-calorie snacks (dry fruits and nuts, homemade cake, etc.)
• Emergency use: multi-tool/Swiss army knife, safety pins, rubber bands, and whistle
• It is better to wear quick dry T-shirts than cotton ones
• One pair of tracksuit/trail pants
• Sunscreen with at least 50 SPF
• Camera: optional
• For a nighttime hike, pack a torch with extra batteries
• Lightweight hiking jacket for the night

The First-Aid Kit

• Regular & Waterproof Scissor Band-Aids
• Analgesic spray (Volini, Respray, etc.)
• Liquid Antiseptic (Dettol, Savlon, etc.)
• Antiseptic powder (powders based on povidone and iodine, such as Cipladine, Savlon, etc.)
• Bandage cotton roll and crepe bandage
• 1-inch medical tape (paper or cloth) in width
• Micropore tape
• Acidity (Gelusil, Digene, etc.) and motion sickness (Avomine) tablets.
• Medicinal pill for mild discomfort (Crocin)

What’s the Best Time to Visit Kalsubai Peak Trek?

The walk is accessible all year round, with varying scenery according to the season. So, based on what you want to experience, choose the ideal moment.

Monsoon Season

The monsoon season runs from July to September. You get to hike in a lot of rain and see gorgeous, green scenery. Approximately 2000–3000 people use the path during the monsoon season, which is also the busiest. The slushy trail makes it extremely dangerous and slippery. It is better to avoid this season because it is also quite difficult to gain clear views.

Flowering Season

The flowering seasons are September and October. The surrounding peaks and forts are clearly visible during these fall months. You get to stroll through meadows that are adorned with an enormous assortment of flowers. This area is home to the same variety of flowers as the Kaas plateau. On the iron ladders, aficionados of snakes can spot several uncommon species.

Spring Season

November through April are the finest months for night treks because of the ideal conditions for seeing the breathtaking sunrise from the summit. Bring a lightweight jacket because it can get chilly.

How to Reach Kalsubai Trek?

Bari town is mostly a farming town and serves as the starting point for the Kalsubai hike. It is located at a height of 2400 feet (0.73 km) and is conveniently positioned between Pune and Mumbai. 

To get to the base village, you have two options: driving your own car or using public transportation. You can park at Bari Village if you are bringing your car.

1. Getting to Kalsubai Trek from Mumbai Using Your Car

• To get to Igatpuri, take the NH 160 from Dadar via the Mumbai–Nashik route. Proceed to Ghoti before arriving in Bari Village.
• The 160 km trip takes roughly 4 hours.

2. Getting to Kalsubai Trek from Pune Using Your Car

• To go to Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Rd/Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai – Pandharpur Rd, take the NH 60 from Agarwal Rd, Kamala Nehru Hospital Rd, and Jawaharlal Nehru Rd. Proceed to your destination by taking NH 60, MH SH 21, and MH SH 44.
• It takes five hours to cover the 180-kilometer route.

3. Getting to Kalsubai Trek from Nashik Using Your Car

• The following routes can be used to get to the base village at Bari: Ghoti – Shirdi Road. / Ghoti – Sinnar Road. / Nagpur – Aurangabad – Mumbai Highway / Padgha – Shirdi Rd.
• It takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to cover the 60-kilometer journey.

Nearby Places to Visit

Below,  we have mentioned some nearby famous places you should visit after Kalsubai Trek: 

• Bhandardara Dam (14.4 km)
• Arthur Lake (15.8 km)
• Ratangad Fort (26.5 km) 
• Sandhan Valley (29.6 km)
• Igatpuri (31.9 km)
• Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary (41.5 km)
• Harishchandragad Fort Trek (51 km)
• Anjaneri Fort (68.6 km)

If you’re planning to stay in Maharashtra and want to go through another trek, we would suggest you to check out Nanemachi Waterfall. 

How Hard Is the Kalsubai Peak Trek?

The Kalsubai Trek has certain portions that fall into the moderate-to-difficult category. A hiker needs to be alert at all times and ready for anything.

There are a few challenging areas on the Kalsubai walk that you should be aware of:

• The Ladder Section: One of the hardest parts of the walk to navigate is the third and fourth ladders. The ladders are a little outdated, and some of the grips are damaged. They cross sheer, vertical rock faces. 
• Monsoon Congestion: The trail is congested during the monsoon season when hikers are climbing and descending the ladders at the same time. You must use the ladders with utmost caution because they are not in good shape.

Additionally, use extra caution when trekking in the rain in the area that comes after the little temple and before the ladders get quite slick and muddy.

Final Takeaways

Blooming green meadows, rugged terrain, and high-altitude forests along the path to the Kalsubai summit. One priceless experience that will last a lifetime is the magnificent dawn from Kalsubai mountain, the holy Kalsubai temple at the top of the hill, and the captivating views from the pinnacle. 

You will be treated to delicious food at a local’s home once the entire walk is finished. There’s nothing like the sensation of reaching Maharashtra’s highest peak. Adrenaline is at its highest during the ascent and at the summit.

Photography of the landscape is greatly enhanced by the picturesque route. If you go hiking in the fall, you can take photos of the Western Ghats and the flowers you come across.