Complete guide on how to reach Malang Gad near Kalyan. Trek routes, train details, best time, difficulty level, safety tips & SEO travel info.
Malang Gad, also known as Malanggad Fort, is one of the most thrilling and mysterious trekking destinations near Mumbai and Kalyan. Perched high above the Ulhas River valley, this ancient hill fort is famous for its steep rock-cut steps, exposed climbs, monsoon beauty, and panoramic Sahyadri views. If you are searching for an offbeat trek near Mumbai, Malang Gad should be high on your list.
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| Malang Gad Fort near Kalyan – a perfect blend of adventure trekking and the new funicular cable trail. |
This detailed guide explains how to reach Malang Gad from Kalyan, Mumbai, Thane, and Pune, trekking routes, best time to visit, difficulty level, safety tips, and complete SEO-optimized travel information.
Quick Facts About Malang Gad
Height: Approx. 790 meters (2,600 feet)
Region: Matheran–Panvel hill range, Sahyadri
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best Season: June to February
Famous For: Rock-cut steps, exposed climbs, monsoon trek, history
Where is Malang Gad Located?
Malang Gad is located near Malangwadi village, close to Chowk Railway Station, around 10 km from Kalyan. The fort is divided into Lower Malang Gad (Pir Machindra Nath Temple) and Upper Malang Gad (Balekilla), which requires technical climbing skills.
📍 Nearest Town: Kalyan
📍 Nearest Railway Station: Chowk (Central Railway)
How to Reach Malang Gad from Kalyan
By Local Train (Most Popular Option)
- Take a Central Railway local train from Mumbai CST / Dadar / Thane towards Karjat.
- Get down at Chowk Railway Station.
- From Chowk station, walk towards Malangwadi village (approx. 45–60 minutes).
- The trekking trail starts from Malangwadi village.
- Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
- Route: Kalyan → Bapsai → Chowk → Malangwadi
- You can take auto-rickshaw, bike, or private vehicle till Malangwadi.
How to Reach Malang Gad from Mumbai
- Board a Karjat local train from CST / Dadar / Thane.
- Get down at Chowk station.
- Walk or take a shared auto till Malangwadi.
- Mumbai → Panvel → Chowk → Malangwadi
- Ideal for group travel or bikers
Malang Gad Trek Route Details
Base Village: Malangwadi
Trek Distance & Duration
- Base to Lower Malang Gad: 1.5–2 hours
- Lower to Upper Malang Gad: 45 minutes (technical climb)
Step-by-Step Trek Experience
- Start early from Malangwadi.
- Initial trail passes through forest patches and rocky terrain.
- Gradually reach steep rock-cut steps carved into the mountain.
- Reach Pir Machindra Nath Temple at Lower Malang Gad.
- Enjoy valley views of Ulhas River and Matheran plateau.
New Cable / Funicular Trail at Malang Gad (2026 Update)
In a major development for travel and tourism to Malang Gad, a brand-new funicular railway (cable-driven trail) has been opened, dramatically changing how visitors reach the hilltop shrine and fort near Kalyan.
What Is the New Cable Trail?
This “cable trail” is actually a funicular railway system — a cable-pulled train running up the steep hill of Malang Gad. It connects the base of the hill directly to the top (near the shrine and fort), replacing most of the traditional trek.
Key Features
- 🇮🇳 Longest funicular railway in India specially built for Malang Gad visitors.
- 1.2 km long cable track covering the steep slope of the hill.
- Travel time reduced from ~2 hours to just ~7–10 minutes.
- Two carriages operate simultaneously — one going up while the other descends — thanks to counter-balanced cables.
- Capacity to ferry around 1,200 visitors per hour with spacious coaches.
Why This Matters
Before this trail was built, pilgrims, tourists and trekkers had to climb 2,500+ rock-cut steps — a journey that could take up to 2–3 hours depending on fitness and weather. The new funicular makes the hilltop accessible to:
- Elderly visitors
- Children and families
- People with mobility issues
- Sightseers who want scenic views without a tough trek
How It Works
Unlike a ropeway or cable car suspended in the air, a funicular runs on tracks like a hill railway. Two carriages are connected by a steel cable over a pulley system. As one carriage goes up, the other comes down — balancing energy and making the ride efficient and safe.
What to Carry for Malang Gad Trek
- Trekking shoes with strong grip
- 2–3 liters of water per person
- Light snacks / energy food
- Rain jacket (monsoon)
- First-aid kit
- Cap & sunscreen (winter/summer)
Best Time to Visit Malang Gad
Monsoon (June to September) – Best Season
- Lush greenery, waterfalls, clouds
- Slippery rocks – caution required
Winter (October to February)
- Pleasant weather
- Clear views
- Ideal for beginners till lower fort
Summer (March to May)
- Hot and exhausting
- Avoid afternoon trekking
Entry Fees & Permissions
- Entry Fee: Free
- Guide Charges: Optional but recommended for first-timers
- No official forest permission required as of now
Cable Car Fees and Details – Malang Gad
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 1.2 Kilometers (India’s Longest Funicular Cable Trail) |
| Travel Time | 10 Minutes (Earlier: 120 Minutes Trek) |
| Passenger Capacity | 120 People Per Trip |
| Opening Date | 18 January 2026 |
| Ticket Price | Approximately ₹100 -₹150 (Round Trip) |
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🧳 Free Travel Checklist Downloads
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| Domestic Travel Checklist (India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
| NRI Travel Checklist (Visiting India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
| Weekend Trekking Checklist (India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
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