Kalsubai is a mountain in the Western Ghats, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Its summit situated at an elevation of 1646 meters (5400 feet) is the highest point in Maharashtra. Whosoever likes trekking this place is a must on their bucket list and hence i can say - this place was so long in my never ending bucket list for long, which i finally managed to tick off on January 11, 2019 .
I started from Pune and since my friends were in Mumbai from where the trip was to start, i left in the evening and by 11.00 pm reached Mumbai central. I met my trekking group at the station and had a chat about what we were to encounter. We boarded local train and got off at Kasara Railway station by 1.30 AM January 12,2019.
Once at Kasara railway stations, one can take the state run buses , or a taxi to reach Bari village which is so likely to be the base camp for the trek.We reached there by 3.30 a.m and after briefing the group and energizing them with the upcoming trek wonders, commenced towards Kalsubai by 4.00 a.m.
Kalsubai is a 6.6 km long trek with an elevation gain of around 2700 ft. This is a one day trek having a moderately hard difficulty level with lush green landscapes and multiple waterfalls. The peak attracts many trekkers and devotees determined to scale the mountain. We had a lot of fun while trekking where in we cracked lame jokes, PJ's some singing and obviously horror stories. By 6. 00 am it was already getting light up so we ensured to pick up the pace and reach the top before the sunrise actually completes. Meanwhile , during the trip we also encountered sun and moon at the same time. I don't know if this fascinates you or not but it was such a surreal scene. So while having chit chat and shouting "How's the Josh .. High sire !! " , we reached Kalsubai top by 7.00 am and enjoyed the magnificent sunrise from there.
*Pro tip :- whenever we go to some offbeat places it is always good to meet and greet with the locals out there, no surprise it gives you a different insight and perspective of life but one gets to learn about the simplicity of life. Being living in metro cities, life is harsh at us with all overthinking and complexions . it is when we meet out such people we understand there's and altogether different perspective of life out there.
Expenses : -
1. Pune > Mumbai > Pune travel by train ( Rs 350)
2. Mumbai to Kasara and back by local train (Rs 30 * 2 = 60 )
3. Kasara to Bari village (Rs 600 - 900 *2 for 6 i.e. 300)
4. Snacks + Munchies = Rs 200 ,Breakfast + lunch = Rs 200
5. TOTAL = 1150 /-
Important things to carry:-
1. Adequate amount of water (2/3 Liters)
2. Snacks to munch on while trekking (Dry fruits/ Snacks/Energy Bars/Tang )
3. A good torch and Trekking Shoes is a must
4. Sun Cap and Sunscreen, Personal First aid and Personal Medicine
5. Full sleeves and Full Track Pant to protect from Sun/ Thorns/insects etc.
As soon as you complete the trek , you are welcomed with a modest area of flat land which holds a sacred temple of a local deity. It is said that every Tuesday and Thursday a traditional prayer service is held by a priest. We halted at the temple , worshiped the local deity and asked for her blessing.
It was 7.30 a.m and the sun was shining in the sky blessing us with the golden rays which touched our souls. The entire valley was lit by then and we started clicking good pictures (golden hour you know , can't miss) . After this we had our breakfast and then started descending towards the base village.
By 12.00 pm , we reached base village and some of our group mates had a chance to meet and greet with the locals out there, like what life conditions are there in villages where in the village is famous due to the Kalsubai trek.
Time passed by so quick while chatting with the locals that we didn't realize that it was way time for us take a taxi back to Kasara railway station. Around 1 pm ,we boarded Jeep from Bari village to Kasara railway station and then likewise to Mumbai Central. It was time for me to bid adieu to my friends but it was taking a hell lot of memories with me for the next time , next trip to come.