Kalsubai Trek Blog – Trekking in Western Ghats, Maharashtra

Kalsubai trek is one of the most popular activities to do in Maharashtra. It is a well-known trek in the south and makes for a perfect weekend getaway for people residing in or around Mumbai and Pune. The summit of the trek perches up to an elevation of around 5,400 ft and is located within the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. A part of the Western Ghats, it is also the highest point located in the state of Maharashtra. It can be done by beginners as well because it is a comparatively easier trek that only requires a basic fitness level. Kalsubai trek attracts a lot of visitors especially during monsoon and winters because the climate becomes soothing and the wildlife also takes a colourful turn during these months.

Trek facts

• Trek distance – 6 km approx.
• Duration of the trek – 2 days
• Difficulty level – Easy
• Maximum altitude – 5,400 ft approx.
• Region – Western Ghats, Maharashtra
• Best time – All round the year (except for summers)
• Base Camp – Bari

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Reach Bari village

The first day of the Kalsubai trek is reserved for reaching to the base camp i.e. Bari Village. It is a serene village and you will find many trekkers while on your way to Bari. As you reach the village, you will be introduced to your trek lead as well as the people you will be trekking with. Afterward, you can rest at the campsite and enjoy a lazy evening under the starlit sky and befriend some fellow trekkers.

Day 2: Trek to Kalsubai top

As the day begins, you will be starting early. So, try to make it to the top before the sunrise because it is amazing to witness the beautiful sunrise from the summit and spend some time there. Later, enjoy a hearty breakfast and head back to Bari village from where you can return back to your places after having spent some amazing time amidst nature.

• What to expect on this trek?

Being a popular trek in Maharashtra as well as a perfect weekend getaway for people from or around Mumbai and Pune, be sure to find there many humans who share the same interest as you i.e. trekking. Apart from the trekking enthusiasts, the trail is also famous amongst wildlife enthusiasts. There is also a Hanuman temple and the famous Kalsubai temple, both of which attract a significant number of devotees. The stunning views from the highest point in Maharashtra add to the charms of the trek. Due to the surge in trekkers that Kalsubai trek experiences, the trail has been well maintained and proper iron-ladders are installed at various places to help the trekkers during their climb. You will also find small settlements and stalls that provide basic eating items and necessities during the trek and near the Kalsubai temple, devotees can also buy the pooja material.

If you plan on doing this trek during the rainy season, be prepared to be amazed by the colourful wilderness of flowers that bloom during the season and make the trek a spectacular one with a huge number of butterflies adorning the place. During winters, reptiles can be found as you tread on the path.

Read Also: 6 Heath Benefits of Trekking or Hiking

• Location and How to reach Bari

You must first reach Kasara Railway Station and then board a local transport facility to reach the base camp i.e. Bari village. You can also opt for a private vehicle to reach Bari. It is a 3-hour drive from Mumbai and a 4-hour drive from Pune to reach Bari.

• Difficulty level

It is a fairly easy trek and can be done by anyone with moderate fitness level. It is not necessary for the trekkers to have any prior experience in trekking to go for Kalsubai trek. However, it would definitely be an add-on and help the trekker enjoy it to the fullest.

• Best time /season to do this trek

Kalsubai trek is popular amongst the trekkers in the south because it can be done all round the year as during winters, the weather around the place is quite pleasant and helps trekkers to calm down and unwind from their routines. During the months of monsoon, rain does its charm and cool winds blow and make the trek refreshing and fun. Trekkers can also opt for this trek during summers but the summer heat makes the overall experience a bit tiring and less fun. Due to lesser tree cover, it becomes almost unbearable to walk under the sun. However, night trek (under the guidance of local guides) can be done during summers as walking under the stars would surely make the experience count.

Read Also: Trekking Tips for Solo Women Travellers

• How to prepare for this trek

This is an easy trek and moderate level of fitness would be sufficient for a person to enjoy it. A few days prior to the trek, jogging and walking would help increase the stamina of the trekkers.

• Mobile network connectivity and ATMs

The mobile network connectivity during the trek is very limited for almost all the major networks and you would probably not be able to enjoy 3G or 4G services. However, you will be able to send text messages and receive and make calls.

You might not find an ATM during the trek so it is advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before embarking on the trek.