Are you thinking of trying out some treks in India, other than the Himalayan treks? If yes, then you are undoubtedly at the right place.
Trekking on high peaks has always been on the checklist of adventure lovers. Exploring different treks in India at different locations is so much fun. Not many trek lovers realize that there are some great trekking locations in other parts of India too than the Himalayan ones. One among them is the Kalsubai Trek on the Deccan plateau in the state of Maharashtra.
Now, you must be wondering why Kalsubai Trek? Following are my top five reasons;
1. Mount Everest of Maharashtra
Perched at 5400 ft Kalsubai peak is the highest peak in the Sahyadris of Western ghats. This grand peak is a part of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary.
For someone passionate about trekking to high peaks this trek is a good option to start with. Being at the highest point on the Deccan Plateau, Kalsubai is often referred to as ‘Mount Everest of Maharashtra’.
The peak got its name from a girl lost within the hills. It is said that the girl was employed by a local family to do household chores but when she was abused, she ran and got lost in the hills and, then the peak was named after her and a temple was built in her memory as they considered her very sacred. Due to this Kalsubai attracts both trek enthusiasts and devotees.
2. Suitable for everyone
The Kalsubai Trek is a moderate trek on the difficulty level that covers the total trek distance of 5.5 km one way, in about 4 hours. The Kalsubai peak is quite famous in the region, as a result, various arrangements have been made to make this trek easy. However, the easiness of this trek still depends on the route you choose to climb.
The trail is 6.6 km long which takes you through the Rocky patches, steep slopes, astonishing view of the paddy fields and there are also some places where trekkers get difficulty in moving further. At those points steel railings, ladder and chains are available.
There are two routes to reach the peak of Kalsubai one being the most famous and the easier one, starts from Bari village and another is the Indore route which is relatively challenging and tougher. For beginners, devotees, and, for someone who is with family, the Bari village route is recommended while the experienced trekkers can opt for the Indore route.
3. Rich flora and fauna
If you are fond of nature and its beautiful by-products this trek is a must-try for you.
The rangers of Sahyadri at which Kalsubai peak is located blooms with lush greenery and flora, forests, bright paddy fields, mesmerizing natural landscapes and concrete jungles; this trek gives you an exotic experience.
When it comes to fauna Being a part of the Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary, the trail of Kalsubai trek is gifted with various species of birds, herbivorous, carnivorous and reptiles which are especially found in the Western ghats. A small stream from the Pravara river will be waiting for you in between the Bari Village route which can be easily crossed.
At the base village Bari, some homestays offering traditional Marathi meals are also there.
4. Time saver
This trek is such a time saver as it offers too much to explore and experience in just one day. Being a one day Trek, it can be done on the weekends or as an excursion to get refreshed from the daily life hassles. If you are a devotee you can do this track on Tuesday and Thursday as evening rituals are being organized at the Kalsubai temple. Camping options are also available, you can stay for the night or even choose to trek at night to reach the top early in the morning.
5. Other attractions near Kalsubai peak
There are some attention-worthy things to explore around the Kalsubai peak like the grand Wilson Dam also known as Bhandardara Dam, Arthur lake where you can do lakeside camping and boating, beautiful Umbrella and, Randha falls and Amriteshwar temple.