Kalsubai Peak — Attraction in Maharashtra

Kalsubai (Marathi: कळसूबाई शिखर) is a mountain in the Western Ghats, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra and is located in Ahmednagar district in Akole Taluka. Its summit, situated at an elevation of 1,646 metres (5,400 ft)is the highest point in Maharashtra and hence it is known as the "Everest of Maharashtra".

The mountain range lies within the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is visited throughout the year by avid trekkers, Kalsubai temple devotees and wildlife enthusiasts. It is named after one of the three tribal sisters Kalsubai, Ratnabai and Katrabai. The other peak Ratangad is named after Ratnabai.

The mountain can be viewed in its entirety from Bari village located on its eastern side, about six km from Bhandardara. It can be reached by road, via Igatpuri on the Mumbai-Nasik route. Trains leaving from Mumbai provide an alternate mode of transport to Kasara railway station, with connecting State Transport buses, plying on the Akole-Kasara route, leading up to the base village. Private vehicles from Kasara provide yet another alternative to public transport.

Kalsubai is a 13.2 km-long round-trip trek from Bari, with an elevation gain of around 2,700 feet. This is a one-day trek having a moderately hard difficulty level, with lush green landscapes and multiple waterfalls. The peak attracts many trekkers and devotees determined to scale the mountain. To reach the summit there are well-designated trekking routes. The most popular route is through the eastern mountain face taking off from the base village Bari. The krushnavanti river, a tributary of Pravara, takes origin on its eastern slope and flows like a stream through the outer fringes of Bari. A short distance away from the stream a Hanuman temple has been built. This provides an important landmark to commence the trek as well as a resting post for those nearing the final lap of their trek. The route from behind this temple takes the hiker straight to the summit. The trek along this route is a mix of easy to ascend slopes as well as treacherous rocky outcrops overlooking the valley below. Considering the increasing footfall in recent years, the government has built iron ladders along the vertical hill slopes. These assist trekkers to allow for a convenient and safe ascent.

Regular route via Bari of the base village is easy for all trekkers, which has fixed ladders, cemented steps and several people flocking during the monsoon, the route via Indore is raw with stone steps and a huge iron chain for support at the dangerous patches.

Safety During Trek: Wear full track pants as mosquito and other insects pose great problem. Be careful of honey bees. Having wooden stick is helpful.

The truncated summit provides a modest area of flat land which holds a sacred temple of a local deity.

A traditional prayer service is held every Tuesday and Thursday by a priest. During the festival of Navratri a fair comes to be organized each year with many stalls being set up near the summit to provide pooja materials to the devotees. On these special occasions, local villagers participate in this fair which helps to supplement their livelihood and as well as provides them an opportunity to revere...

I recently visited Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, with my friend, and it was an incredible experience! Nestled in the Western Ghats, this place is a true paradise for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Trekking Experience: The trek to Kalsubai is both challenging and rewarding. The peak stands tall at 1,646 meters (5,400 feet), offering a thrilling yet manageable climb for adventurers of all levels. There are proper iron ladders installed at steeper points, making the ascent safer and more accessible. However, you still need to be cautious and wear comfortable trekking shoes for a better grip.

We started early in the morning, and the fresh mountain air and breathtaking sunrise made the journey even more special. The path is surrounded by lush greenery, and the views of the Bhandardara Dam and surrounding hills are simply mesmerizing.

Scenic Beauty The panoramic views from the summit are worth every step of the climb. Once you reach the top, you feel like you’re on top of the world. The sight of the sun rising or setting against the backdrop of the Western Ghats is absolutely magical. On a clear day, you can see neighboring peaks like Ratangad, Harishchandragad, and Alang-Madan-Kulang.

The Sacred Kalsubai Temple At the summit, you’ll find the Kalsubai Temple, dedicated to the local deity Kalsubai Devi. It’s a small yet serene temple that adds a spiritual touch to the trek. Many locals believe that visiting the temple brings good luck and blessings.

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Kalsubai is during the monsoon or winter seasons. During the monsoons, the trail is surrounded by waterfalls and vibrant greenery, but it can also be slippery, so extra caution is needed. In winter, the weather is pleasant, and the views are crystal clear.

Tips for Travelers Start Early: Begin the trek before sunrise to avoid the midday heat and catch the morning views. Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water and light snacks for energy. Dress Comfortably: Wear trekking-friendly clothing and sturdy shoes. Respect Nature: Keep the area clean and avoid littering. Local Guides: If you’re unsure of the route, you can hire local guides available at the base village.

How to Reach The base village for the trek is Bari Village, which is well-connected by road. You can drive to Bari or take public transport from Mumbai, Pune, or Nashik. Bari also has parking facilities for those traveling by car.

Final Thoughts Kalsubai is more than just a trek; it’s an adventure that leaves you with lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, or a spiritual retreat, this place has something for everyone. It’s a must-visit for anyone in Maharashtra or nearby states.

Highly recommend adding Kalsubai to your travel bucket list. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve...

Nestled amidst the picturesque Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, Kalsubai Peak stands tall as the highest peak in the state, offering breathtaking views and a spiritual journey for visitors. Paired with the Kalsubai Temple, this landmark holds a significant place in the hearts of locals and travelers alike. The mountain range lies within the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. Reaching an impressive height of 1,646 meters (5,400 feet) above sea level, Kalsubai Peak beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating trekking experience. The trek to the summit is not just about conquering heights but also about immersing oneself in the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. The trail boasts lush greenery, cascading waterfalls during the monsoon season, and panoramic vistas that captivate the soul.Trekkers often start their journey from the base village of Bari, which serves as the gateway to this majestic peak. The trek is moderate in difficulty, offering a mix of steep ascents and gentle slopes, ensuring a thrilling yet manageable adventure for all skill levels. As climbers ascend, they are greeted with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding valleys and villages, making every step a memorable experience.Upon reaching the summit, trekkers are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a breathtaking 360-degree view that stretches as far as the eye can see. The sight of the Sahyadri mountain range unfolding before them, adorned with blankets of mist and clouds, is a spectacle to behold and cherish. At the summit of Kalsubai Peak lies the revered Kalsubai Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kalsubai, also known as Kalsu. It is named after one of the three sisters Kalsubai, Ratnabai and Katrabai. The other two peaks Ratangad and Katrabai are named after Ratnabai and Katrabai respectively. Devotees from far and wide undertake the arduous trek to seek blessings and pay homage to the deity, believed to be the embodiment of strength and resilience.The temple, though modest in structure, holds immense spiritual significance for the local community. It serves as a sanctuary for devotees seeking solace, guidance, and fulfillment of their wishes. The serene ambiance, coupled with the panoramic vistas, creates a tranquil setting conducive to introspection and spiritual rejuvenation. Kalsubai Peak and Temple stand as iconic symbols of Maharashtra's natural beauty and spiritual heritage. Whether it's the thrill of conquering the highest peak in the state or the serenity of seeking divine blessings atop a majestic summit, Kalsubai offers an experience that lingers in the hearts and minds of all who venture there. Truly, it is a place where nature's grandeur and spiritual reverence converge, leaving an indelible mark on every soul that embarks on this...