Kalsubai Trek

Kalsubai Trek – The Everest of Maharashtra

The Kalsubai Trek, often referred to as the Everest of Maharashtra, is one of the most popular trekking experiences in the Sahyadri range. Standing at an height of 5,400 feet (1,646 meters) above sea level, Kalsubai Peak is the highest point in Maharashtra. Located inside the Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary in Ahmednagar district, this trek perfectly blends adventure, scenic beauty, and spirituality.

The trek begins from Bari Village, the official base village for Kalsubai. From here, trekkers traverse through a mix of open agricultural land, forested trails, rocky sections, and steep climbs equipped with iron ladders and railings, ensuring safety while adding excitement. Though the trail includes a few demanding sections, it remains approachable for first-time trekkers with basic fitness.

To make the climb easier to understand and manage, the Surmount Adventures team has divided the 13 km round trek into three distinct sections. Most participants reach the summit within 2.5 to 3 hoursat a steady pace.

• Section One offers a relaxed walk through farmlands and shaded forest paths.
• Section Two introduces rocky terrain with iron ladders and chains, which can be slippery during monsoon and crowded during peak trekking months like November to January.
• Section Three is a gradual ascent towards the summit, ending with the final vertical ladder — the most challenging yet rewarding part of the trek.

Reaching the summit rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the Sahyadri ranges, making every step worthwhile.

Kalsubai Night Trek & Sunrise Experience

The Kalsubai Night Trek is one of the most sought-after trekking experiences in Maharashtra. Trekking under a clear night sky offers incredible stargazing, and during new moon nights, trekkers may even spot the Milky Way.

The biggest reward is the sunrise from Kalsubai Peak, considered one of the best sunrise viewpoints in Maharashtra. At the summit, trekkers can visit the Kalsubai Temple and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sahyadri ranges, Bhandardara Lake, Sandhan Valley, and forts like Alang, Madan, Kulang, and Ratangad on clear days.

Kalsubai Trek from Pune

• Distance: ~180 km
• Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road

The Kalsubai trek from Pune is ideal for a night trek or a one-day adventure. An early departure ensures timely summit access and a relaxed return.

Kalsubai Trek from Mumbai

• Distance: ~160 km
• Popular Route: CSMT → Kasara Local Train → Bari Village

Many trekkers prefer traveling by train to Kasara Railway Station, followed by a road journey to Bari Village. The Kalsubai trek from Mumbai is among the most popular weekend treks in Maharashtra.

Why Choose the Kalsubai Trek?

1. Maharashtra’s Highest Summit

Stand atop the highest point in the state at 5,400 ft and experience the pride of conquering Kalsubai.

2. Well-Marked & Safe Trail

The route from Bari Village is clearly defined, featuring farmlands, forests, rocky paths, and safety ladders at steep sections.

3. Thrilling Iron Ladder Sections

Multiple ladder climbs add an element of adventure, especially near the summit.

4. Sunrise, Night Trek & Spiritual Connect

Enjoy stargazing, one of Maharashtra’s finest sunrises, and blessings at the sacred Kalsubai Temple.

Best Time to Trek Kalsubai

Post-Monsoon (September – October)

• Pleasant temperatures (20°C–28°C)
• Lush greenery and wildflowers
• Clear visibility of surrounding peaks

Winter (November – February)

• Ideal for night treks
• Crisp mornings and stunning sunrise views
• Temperatures range from 10°C–20°C

Pre-Monsoon (March – June)

• Warmer weather (24°C–35°C)
• Fireflies and dramatic cloud formations