🏔️ How to Reach Kalsubai Fort Trek – Complete Travel Guide
Kalsubai Peak, standing tall at 1,646 meters (5,400 ft), is the highest point in Maharashtra and a must-do trek for every nature and adventure lover. It offers mesmerizing views of the Sahyadri mountain range, especially during monsoon and winter.
Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, this blog provides all the info you need to plan your Kalsubai trek.
📍 Location & Overview
- Location: Bari Village, Akole Taluka, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra
- Region: Western Ghats (Sahyadri Range)
- Altitude: 1,646 m (5,400 ft)
- Trek Length: ~6 km one way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Required: 3–4 hours ascent, 2–3 hours descent
🗺️ How to Reach Kalsubai Peak
🚉 From Mumbai:
Option 1: By Train + Shared Jeep
- Take a local train to Kasara (from CST, Dadar, or Thane)
- From Kasara station, hire a shared jeep or private taxi to Bari Village (~70 km / 2–2.5 hours)
- Early morning jeeps available on weekends
- Total cost: ₹300–₹500 (approx)
Option 2: By Car/Bike
- Route: Mumbai → Igatpuri → Ghoti → Bhandardara → Bari
- Distance: ~155 km
- Duration: ~4–5 hours
🚉 From Pune:
- Route: Pune → Sangamner → Rajur → Bari Village
- Distance: ~180 km
- Duration: ~5–6 hours
- Best to drive or take early morning bus to Akole or Rajur, then local transport to Bari
🧭 Trek Route Details
- Start Point: Bari Village
- Trail: Village trail → Forest path → Iron ladder sections → Summit
- Ladders: 3–4 steel ladders installed on steep rock patches for safety
- Midpoints: Mid-temple rest spot and small waterfall during monsoon
- Summit: Small temple of Kalsubai Devi + 360° panoramic views
🗺️ Map & Route
💰 Trek Budget (Approximate)
Expense | Cost (₹) |
---|---|
Train (Mumbai to Kasara) | ₹60–100 |
Shared Jeep / Cab (Kasara–Bari) | ₹300–400 |
Meals (Breakfast + Lunch) | ₹100–200 |
Local Guide (optional) | ₹200–300 |
Entry Fees / Parking (if any) | ₹30–50 |
Total DIY Budget | ₹700–1,200 |
💡Group treks from Mumbai/Pune with travel, food, guide, and safety gear usually cost ₹1,299–1,699 per person.
🏕️ Stay Options
- Homestays in Bari village (~₹400–700 per person)
- Tented camping on request via local guides or trek organizers
- Stay at Bhandardara (~15–20 km away) for added sightseeing
🕒 Best Time to Visit
Season | Experience | Notes |
---|---|---|
Monsoon (June–Sept) | Lush greenery, mist, waterfalls | Slippery trail, carry poncho |
Winter (Oct–Feb) | Clear skies, perfect climate | Ideal for stargazing & camping |
Summer (March–May) | Hot and dry | Not recommended due to heat |
✅ Best months: September to February
🎒 What to Carry
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Water bottles (at least 2L)
- Poncho or rain jacket (monsoon)
- Energy bars / dry snacks
- Personal ID and first aid
- Flashlight (if starting early/dark descent)
⚠️ Safety & Tips
- Start trek early morning to avoid harsh sun or fog
- Mobile network is patchy at summit and trail
- Avoid solo trekking at night
- Respect the temple and local customs
- Always descend before sunset unless camping
📌 Nearby Attractions
- Bhandardara Dam & Arthur Lake
- Randha Waterfall (best in monsoon)
- Ratnagad Fort Trek
- Umbrella Falls (seasonal)
- Amruteshwar Temple – 1,200-year-old Shiva temple
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