Kalsubai Peak
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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 the mountain.
Rahul Deo
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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 1. Start Early: Begin the trek before sunrise to avoid the midday heat and catch the morning views. 2. Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water and light snacks for energy. 3. Dress Comfortably: Wear trekking-friendly clothing and sturdy shoes. 4. Respect Nature: Keep the area clean and avoid littering. 5. 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 returned home. 🌄
Anita Gavate
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Kalsubai Peak Mt. Kalsubai is the highest peak of the Sahyadri Ranges. The view of this majestic mountain is an amazing sight in Bhandardara. It is also known as the Everest of Maharashtra, as it is the highest peak in the state. The trek is a very tricky one and usually the experienced trekkers find their way to the top with some difficulty. There are now man-made stairs to reach the peak if you don't wish to trek. However, the hills near the Kalsubai peak are relatively easier to scale. Water availability You must carry your own water supply with you, as there are no sources of fresh water after you leave the base village. Tips and Tricks 1) The Bhandardara dam and lake can be visited after a trek to the fort. The lake and the dam lie at a mere 6 kilometres drive from the base village. 2) Food availability Food is available in the base village. There is a shop put up by a villager at the plateau at the end of the second ladder, which serves homemade snacks and tea to the trekkers. Accommodation The accommodation can be arranged in the base village, as the temple of Kalsubai atop the fort can house only three persons at a time. Camping near the Bhandardara dam can be a good idea as well. Trek Routes After reaching the base village, we need to move in the direction of the peak till we come across a stream of water. After crossing the stream, we come across a small temple. The route which goes up from behind this temple terminates at the top of the fort. The local villagers have put up three large ladders to make the entire trek easier. After climbing through two ladders, we reach a small plateau and a well adjoining it. The climb through the third ladder from this point is a simple affair from this point. This last ladder takes us to the peak of the fort. About Kalsubai Peak Approx trek time : 3-4 hours Availability of Night Trek : Available. Base Camp : Bari village Days required for the trek : 1 day Difficulty level : Easy to Medium Height above sea level : 5400 feet Nearest Airport : Mumbai Nearest Railhead : Igatpuri Junction Starting point of trek : As soon as a water stream is spotted while moving away from the base village of Bari Type : Hill How to Reach Kalsubai Peak Rail: Igatpuri falls on the Mumbai-Nasik route and is a 3 hours journey from Mumbai. Trains are easily available from Mumbai to Igatpuri at all hours of the day. From Igatpuri, the base village of Bari is just 45 minutes away. Road: Igatpuri is connected to Mumbai through the NH 3 which goes up from Mumbai to Agra. After reaching Igatpuri, it is just an hour's drive to the base village.
Kalyan Navale
00
A Mesmerizing Night Trek to Kalsubai – Maharashtra’s Highest Peak! I did a night trek to Kalsubai starting at 2:00 AM in November, and it was one of the most surreal and unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. If you're a nature lover or trek enthusiast, this should definitely be on your bucket list. 🌌 Trek Start: We began our ascent from the base village Bari under a canopy of stars and chilling winds. The weather was cool but pleasant — perfect for trekking. The trail is well-marked, and we used headlamps and mobile flashlights to navigate. The initial climb is moderately steep, with a mix of rocky paths and iron ladders installed at steeper patches. 🔦 Night Trek Experience: Trekking in the dark was magical. The silence of the forest, the sound of footsteps, and occasional calls of night creatures gave it an adventurous vibe. The sky was crystal clear, and the Milky Way was visible in its full glory. We stopped a few times just to gaze up and soak in the peace. 🌄 Reaching the Top & Sunrise: We reached the Kalsubai summit (1646 meters) just before sunrise. As the first rays of sunlight lit up the Sahyadris, it felt like time stood still. The sky changed colors from deep blue to golden orange, and the 360-degree panoramic view was absolutely breathtaking. The cool breeze and warmth of the rising sun made the tough climb worth every step. 🙏 Kalsubai Temple: There’s a small temple at the top dedicated to Kalsubai Devi. Locals believe she was a brave woman who lived here, and the temple commemorates her spirit. You can feel the spiritual energy at the summit — it's serene and humbling. ⛰️ Trail & Safety: The trail is safe but steep in parts. Metal ladders and railings make the climb manageable. Recommended to go in a group or with a local guide if it’s your first night trek. Wear good trekking shoes and carry a flashlight/headlamp and water. The weather in November is perfect — not too cold but crisp enough to enjoy the hike. 🛖 Facilities: Basic food and tea stalls are available at the base village and along the trail (though not all operate at night). Restrooms are available near the base but limited at the top. 💬 Final Thoughts: Kalsubai is not just a trek — it’s an emotion. The November night sky, the thrill of night hiking, and the breathtaking sunrise from the highest point in Maharashtra made this an unforgettable experience. Perfect for those seeking solitude, adventure, and nature's grandeur all rolled into one. Highly recommended!
Vikas Pathe
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Kalsubai Night Trek + Camping - An Amazing Experience with Decathlon Nashik Hikers As the organizer of the Kalsubai Night Trek + Camping with Decathlon Nashik Hikers, I couldn’t be more proud of how the event turned out! It was an incredible journey that brought together trekking enthusiasts of all levels, and the feedback from everyone has been overwhelmingly positive. Kalsubai, being the highest peak in Maharashtra, is a challenging yet rewarding trek, and organizing a night trek added a whole new level of excitement and adventure. From the moment the group gathered at the base, we could feel the energy and enthusiasm. Our team made sure that everyone had the necessary gear, and we provided briefings about safety, the trek route, and the importance of teamwork throughout the night. The trek itself was a blend of adventure and serenity. Trekking under the stars, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sahyadri range, was magical. As organizers, we ensured that we had experienced guides leading the way, making sure everyone stayed safe and was well-supported during the climb. When we reached the top of Kalsubai, the sense of accomplishment was evident on everyone’s faces. After taking in the breathtaking views, we set up camp for the night. The camping setup was smooth, with tents, sleeping bags, and mats provided by Decathlon, ensuring comfort even in the cool mountain air. Waking up early to witness the sunrise from the peak was the perfect way to end this beautiful experience. What made this event truly special was the camaraderie that developed among the trekkers. Everyone supported each other, and the Decathlon Nashik Hikers team ensured there was plenty of hydration, snacks, and encouragement along the way. We’re proud to say that we’ve built a strong community of trekkers, and this event was a perfect example of the spirit we aim to foster. As an organizer, it was rewarding to see everyone enjoying the trek, making new memories, and pushing themselves to reach new heights. We’re grateful for the opportunity to guide these incredible adventures, and we look forward to hosting more exciting treks and outdoor events. If you’re looking for a well-organized, memorable trekking experience, Kalsubai Night Trek + Camping with Decathlon Nashik Hikers is a must-do!
Rohit Dhurjad
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Kalsubai Peak, standing at an impressive 1,646 meters (5,400 feet) above sea level, is the highest point in Maharashtra. Known as the "Everest of Maharashtra," it offers a thrilling trekking experience combined with breathtaking views, especially during the monsoon and at sunrise. The Journey The journey to Kalsubai Peak begins from the base village of Bari, located approximately 150 kilometers from Mumbai and 180 kilometers from Pune. The trek is of moderate difficulty, making it accessible for both novice and experienced trekkers. The path is well-marked, featuring a mix of rocky trails, iron ladders, and scenic plateaus. 1. Starting Point: Bari Village - Trekkers typically begin early in the morning or late at night to reach the summit by sunrise. - The trail from Bari village offers picturesque views of lush green fields, quaint village scenes, and the occasional stream. 2. Midway: Ascending the Rocky Terrain - As you ascend, the terrain becomes more challenging with steeper sections. - Iron ladders are placed at steep points to assist trekkers, providing a unique aspect to the hike. 3. Final Ascent: Reaching the Summit - The last leg involves a steeper climb but is well worth the effort. - Upon reaching the summit, trekkers are greeted by the Kalsubai Temple, dedicated to a local deity. New Year's First Sunrise Experiencing the first sunrise of the new year from the summit of Kalsubai is a surreal experience. Trekkers often camp at the summit or start their trek very early to witness this spectacular event. The view of the sun rising over the Sahyadri mountain range, casting golden hues over the valleys and peaks, is truly unforgettable. Monsoon Beauty Kalsubai Peak during the monsoon season transforms into a lush green paradise. The trek becomes more challenging but also more rewarding as the landscape is dotted with numerous waterfalls, streams, and vibrant greenery. Misty mornings and the smell of wet earth add to the enchanting experience. Attached are pictures showcasing the peak in different monsoon seasons, highlighting the ever-changing beauty of this majestic mountain.
Dubey Chandan
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Kalsubai Trek

Kalsubai Trek
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Kalsubai 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, is the highest point in Maharashtra.
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