Kalsubai Trek Guide: Highest Peak in Maharashtra

Table of Contents

Introduction

Are you up for a thrilling adventure pushing you to your limits? The Kalsubai Trek is an excellent choice for anyone looking to challenge themselves while taking in breathtaking views of Maharashtra’s rugged landscape.

The Kalsubai Trek is a popular destination for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts. Located in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, it stands tall at 1646 meters (5400 feet) above sea level and is the highest peak in Maharashtra.

The Kalsubai Peak gets its name from the Kalsubai temple on top of the mountain.

It is known for its challenging terrain, steep inclines, and rocky pathways, making it an exhilarating trek that requires stamina, endurance, and a love for adventure.

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the top of Maharashtra’s highest peak? Here’s everything you need to know about the Kalsubai Trek.

Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: Winter (November – February)
Base Village: Bari, Maharashtra
Altitude: 1646 meters (5400 feet)
Ideal For: All Trekking Enthusiasts

How To Reach?

The Kalsubai Trek is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and is easily accessible by road or rail. The base village is called Bari.

Via Public Transport:

The nearest railway station is Kasara, which is approximately 55 kilometres away from the base village of Bari. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the starting point of the trek.

Option 1: You can take a local from Dadar/CST to Kasara, which takes around 2.5 – 3 hours to reach. From Kasara, many local rickshaws take you to the base village of Bari, which is a 90-mins drive.
Option 2: Take an overnight inter-state that halts at Igatpuri, and from there, you can take a bus to Bari village. The bus charge is around INR 40 – INR 60.

Via Private Vehicle:

If you’re travelling by car, you can reach the base village of Bari via the Mumbai-Nashik highway or the Pune-Nashik highway. The trek begins from Bari village, and the route is well-marked, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way.

Bari village is 155 kms from Mumbai and will take around 4.5 hours to reach via NH160. (Get Directions)

From Pune, the distance is around 170 kms & takes about 5 hours to reach. (Get Directions)

Kalsubai Trek Route & Difficulty

The Kalsubai Trek has two routes; however, in this guide, we will cover the most common one, the ladder route from Bari. The trek is a 6 km (approx) long trek that takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach the summit. The hike is divided into three sections: the initial climb, the plateau walk, and the final ascent.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each section of the trek:

Initial Climb: The trek starts through farmlands and rice fields and then has a steep climb up a series of rocky steps, which can be challenging for some. This hike section is difficult, so take your time and pace yourself.
Plateau Walk: Once you’ve done the initial climb, the trek levels out, and you’ll walk along a scenic plateau with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Final Ascent: The final stretch of the trek is the most challenging, with steep inclines on the ladder and rocky terrain. However, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you reach the summit is worth the effort.

The difficulty level of the trek is moderate. A beginner with zero hiking experience but a good fitness level can attempt this trek because the terrain is comparatively easy compared to other hikes in Maharashtra. However, one must be careful in the monsoons because the trail gets slippery.

Best Time to do the Kalsubai Trek

The best time to visit the Kalsubai Trek is from September to February when the weather is pleasant, mild, and ideal for beginners.
During the monsoon season, the trek can be dangerous due to slippery pathways and heavy rainfall. It is advisable to avoid the hike during this time.
The trek can also be done from the last week of May to 2nd week of June to enjoy the beautiful phenomenon of the pre-monsoon clouds. You can also attempt the night trek during this season, enjoy the sunrise from the top of the peak, and get amazing views of the surrounding region.

Things to Keep in Mind for the Kalsubai Trek

Before embarking on the Kalsubai Trek, here are a few things you should keep in mind:

Fitness Level: The trek is challenging and requires a good fitness level. Preparing for some cardio and strength training before attempting the hike is a good idea.
Gear: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes with good grip. Carry a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Safety: Always trek in groups, and never attempt the trek alone.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before embarking on the trek. Avoid the hike during the monsoon season and extreme weather conditions.
Permission: Obtaining permission from the forest department before starting the trek is mandatory. Make sure you carry a valid ID proof for the same. However, if you are a trekking group, this is arranged by the trekking group.
Trekking Route GPX File: Download Here

FAQs

How difficult is the Kalsubai Trek?

The Kalsubai Trek is a challenging trek that requires good fitness and endurance. The initial climb is steep, and the final stretch is rocky and steep. However, the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make it worthwhile.

What is the best time to visit the Kalsubai Trek?

The best time to visit the Kalsubai Trek is from September to February, when the weather is pleasant and mild. The monsoon season can be dangerous due to slippery pathways and heavy rainfall.

Is it safe to trek the Kalsubai Trek alone?

1. It is safe to trek the Kalsubai Trek alone, if you have a prior trekking experience. It is advisable to hike in groups for safety reasons.

What gear do I need for the Kalsubai Trek?

Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes with good grip. Carry a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.

How much does the Kalsubai trek cost?

Trekking groups charge around INR 1100 – INR 1500 on an average for the Kalsubai trek. It includes, travel from Kasara to Bari village & back, guidance, breakfast & lunch.

Conclusion

The Kalsubai Trek is a thrilling adventure that offers stunning views of Maharashtra’s rugged landscape.
While it may be challenging, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after reaching the summit is well worth the effort. With the right preparation and mindset, anyone can conquer this magnificent peak.
So, gather your friends, lace up your shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to the top of Maharashtra’s highest peak.

Video of the Kalsubai Trek

Video Credits: Ankit Bhatia Films

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