Kalsubai Trek

The route to Kalsubai Peak traverses open fields, undulated terrain, rocky paths, and a steep iron ladder section. 

The trail can be categorized into two sections – From Bari Village to Ladder Section, and Ladder to the Peak. 

1. Bari Village to Ladder Section – It takes roughly 2 hrs to cover the distance of 3 km between the starting point and the beginning of the ladder section. 
2. Ladder Section to Kalsubai Temple and Peak – The distance to the temple is approximately 1.5 km. Traversing the steep iron ladders is challenging and takes 1.5 to 2 hrs to reach the Kalsubai Peak. 

Along the trail, you will be mesmerized by lush green forests and fields, water streams, and breathtaking landscapes. 

Kalsubai Trek is located in Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra.  

The total distance of Kalsubai Trek is 6.6 km. You can complete the trek in one day. Begin your day early in the morning. It takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the peak, and roughly 2 to 3 hrs to descend. You need to be back at the base by 6 pm.  Trekking is restricted beyond 6 pm by the forest department. 

Yes, if you are a beginner with good physical fitness, you can consider the trek. Kalsubai is a beginner-friendly trek in the Western Ghats. 

The trek is of moderate difficulty level. Come prepared to navigate some rocky patches and steep climbs on the trek. 

Kalsubai experiences pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 17°C to 25°C during the day.  Carry a warm layer if trekking to Kalsubai in the winter months. 

Kalsubai Peak trek draws hundreds of trekking enthusiasts during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The trail embraces soothing colours, and waterfalls spring to life as monsoon rain adds volume to waterfalls. June to September is the best time to discover the lush greenery and enjoy pleasant weather. Although monsoon has its charm, the trail remains crowded with hundreds of trekkers attempting the summit climb. The trail becomes muddy and slippery due to heavy rain in the region. 

October to February is the best time to visit Kalsubai for clear skies and the soothing autumn hues along the trail.  The season is known for a variety of blooming flowers in vibrant shades. Walking on the grasslands abloom with wildflowers is a soul-calming experience. Autumn season offers a clear view of the surrounding peaks of the Western Ghats. 

The trek starts from a village called Bari, around 4 hrs drive from Mumbai. 

You can complete the trek in a day. Some trekkers opt to camp for a night near the summit. Plan the trek to Kalsubai over a weekend to explore the best of the region. 

Kalsubai Trek’s altitude is 5400ft ft. 

Yes, if you are well-equipped with all the required information about the trail, you can do the trek on your own. 

The trail is easy and well marked but updating yourself with weather forecasts and essentials required will help you to trek comfortably. 

You can pitch a tent near the summit. However, there are no water sources near the summit. During the night it gets very windy and chilly. We recommend taking a guide for a night stay. There are a few homestay options at the base with basic facilities. You can check for Hotel Krushnvanti in Bari village. 

Kalsubai Trek offers limited mobile network coverage. You will have access to a scanty network in the village. The temple at the summit receives network. 

You can carry a first aid kit. If you have your prescribed medications, bring them on the trek.

There are a few stalls run by villagers selling water and snacks. During the monsoon, trekkers fill water from river streams along the way.  

Pack some filling trail snacks as there are no options to purchase food along the trail. You can bring protein bars, dry fruits, and homemade snacks like Shakkarpara, cake etc. 

Here is a list of things you need to carry for your trek

1. Comfortable trekking shoes 
2. Extra Pair of Clothes – One trek pant and dry fit t-shirt (if camping for a night)
3. Raincoat/Poncho -01 (During monsoon)

• Sun hat -01

• Trekking poles (Optional)
• Headtorch
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Water bottles (2 litres each)
• First aid kit or personal medication
• Small biodegradable bags to take the waste/ used clothes 
• Toilet paper/tissues
• Toiletries – 
• Torch
• Power Bank
• Mosquito and insect repellent 

The base village has few homes offering stay and food at minimal cost. Do not expect anything fancy or luxurious stay options.