Standing at a dizzying height of 5400 feet above sea level, it provides breathtaking views of the Sahyadri ranges and the rich green cover that surrounds the mountain.
Kalsubai is one of Maharashtra’s most famous hiking sites. The journey is steep in places, but it is greatly aided by the solid infrastructure in place, making it accessible to beginner trekkers. The mountain itself dates from the Cenozoic Era and largely comprises solidified flood basalt. Kalsubai is an excellent location for both stargazing and camping.
The Kalsubai walk, nestled in the magnificent Sahyadri highlands, is a mix of rocky sections and nearly vertical hill slopes. The hill provides a good perspective of different forts, including the Kulang, Madan, and Alang forts.
We recommend this as a one-day walk, but if an overnight trip is planned, one can stay at Bhandardara, around 16-17 kilometres from Bari Village. If you’re feeling a little more daring, pitch your tent on top of the hill in a suitable camping spot. Numerous travel agencies organize trek events in this area. However, because the route is very basic and well-marked, going without a guide or group.
WHAT TO SEE?
The mountain is named after a local goddess known as Kalsu. Many pilgrims visit the temple built in her honour at the mountain’s summit.
The enjoyable trek route, which includes meadows, flowers, and streams and the sense of accomplishment, gained after summiting this peak, making it one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra.
BEST TIME FOR KALSUBAI TREK?
DURING THE MONSOON, GO FOR THE VIEW OF LUSH GREEN HILLS AND GORGING WATERFALLS.
As the monsoon rains begin, a beautiful landscape of cascades and vegetation spreads around the mountain. In chilly, foggy weather, expect drifting clouds to join you, making trekking a lovely experience. The months of July to September are ideal for experiencing the highlights of the monsoon season.
WINTER: FLOWER TREKS AND NIGHT TREKS ARE IDEAL.
After the monsoons, the landscape of Kalsubai undergoes a dramatic shift as many sorts of flowers bloom, attracting diverse species of dragonflies, bees, and butterflies attracted to their sweet nectar. During the winter, snakes and lizards can frequently sunbathe near the ladders.
The meadows bursting with flowers in bloom make for a beautiful day trek route in the winter. Activities like stargazing and moonlight treks draw many visitors to Kalsubai. The months of October to February are ideal for taking in the breathtaking view of the night skies and magnificent sunrises from atop the hill.
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The night trekking experience while ascending to Kalsubai mountain is recommended some experienced trekkers.
“Because there is little forest cover on the Kalsubai Trek, the Moonlit Sky and night hiking give a wonderful experience because you can avoid the heat,” Shannon Fernandes says. “In comparison to previous treks, there is a marked out road and stairway to climb, so trekking at night isn’t as dangerous.”
HOW TO REACH BARI:
BY CAR:
FROM MUMBAI TO BARI
Located approximately 150 kilometres from Mumbai, the village of Bari, which serves as the trek’s starting point, takes about 2-3 hours to reach. It is strongly advised to take the road rather than the rail for convenience reasons.
The best way to get from Mumbai to Kalsubai is to use the following route: Mumbai > Kalyan > Ghatgar > Bhandardara > Bari.
FROM PUNE TO BARI
Bari village is 180 kilometres from Pune and takes 4-5 hours to get to.
The best way to get from Pune to Kalsubai is to take the following route: Pune >Sangamner >Rajur >Bhandardara > Bari.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION:
- The nearest stations to Bari village are Kasara and Igatpuri. While Kasara is around 50 kilometres from Bari, Igatpuri is approximately 30 kilometres from Bari.
- From CST, one can take trains such as the Mahanagri Express, Nandigram Express, Kolkata Mail, and Howrah Mail to Igatpuri, or a local train to Kasara.
- Private vehicles and buses run regularly from Igatpuri and Kasara Station to Bhandardara, Pune, and Akole, stopping in Bari. The buses leave Igatpuri Station as early as 5 a.m.
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TREKKING AT KALSUBAI :
Although it is a long hike, some stairs lead to the pinnacle. The in good condition metal ladder has been installed in uneven sections that may be difficult to climb. As a result, it is very accessible to first-time hikers.
The area is protected because it is part of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. Open high-altitude woods surround the mountain.
The trek route starts in Bari, the base settlement. A modest temple is located 15 minutes from the start of the walking path. People who cannot ascend to the peak seek the deity’s blessings at this Kalsubai shrine. There are pockets of shelter at regular intervals where you can rest and enjoy the breeze that gushes through the mountain road. However, as the blazing heat tends to dehydrate and fatigue, hikers on a long walk path to the top choose a night trek (particularly in Summer) or begin the journey as early as possible in the morning. Fortunately, there are small kiosks that sell buttermilk and lemonade.
Camping at the summit is possible and a memorable experience. If you want to stay overnight, you can bring your tents and pitch them in a good spot on the top. You will typically see clusters of tents at and near the peak during peak seasons.
However, it should be noted that there are no restrooms or toilets at the summit of the mountain. There is only one washroom located at the base village to refresh up.
Nights at the top of the mountain can be rather cool, so bringing a jacket or blanket to wrap yourself in warmth is highly recommended. While the temperature ranges from 35°C to 28°C during the day, it can drop as low as 12°C to 15°C at night.
