Kalavantin Durg, a towering mountain at 672 metres is an extremely desired trekking location located in Maharashtra. The trek is situated within the Raigad district, the trek provides an exhilarating and thrilling adventure for people who enjoy walking. While many might view this as an intimidating climb due to the steep summit, overcoming it with care and caution will result in a thrilling and memorable trip which will provide the trail with lasting memories.
Kalavantin Durg trek route
The trail begins from Thakurwadi about 50 kilometers away from Mumbai.The Kal region is located in the charming town of Thakurwadi. For directions to the trailhead, just ask people living in the area, and they will gladly guide you to the trailhead. The area is maintained. While you walk through the town through the dirt roads, you'll travel and drive through tiny hamlets. They offer an insight into the traditional lifestyles of the rural people in Maharashtra.
In about 10 minutes of walking the route, the trail gradually begins to climb upwards. While you walk upwards, you'll be exposed with views of the surrounding mountains, villages and fields. Enjoy the views as you walk along the trail. The months that follow the monsoon season, there will be many waterfalls that flow through the mountains around the area, creating a spectacular sight.
Around 1.5 hour into your trek, you'll arrive at the sprawling Prabalmachi plateau. This is characterized by its lush grasslands as well as no trees. The path splits in two distinct trails that lead towards Prabalgad and is able to combine with a trip to Kalavantin Durg to provide an even more complete experience as well as the second one that leads to Kalavantin Durg. In order to distinguish the two hills, take note the difference in Kalav has a steeper summit, whereas Prabalgad has a flat-topped summit. If you want to continue the trek up Kalavantin follow the path towards the left.
The terrain becomes muddier and more rockier to the point at which you are. The lush vegetation as well as many cascading waterfalls decorate the hills around you. The views become more stunning when you get closer to the top. Take the left-hand path on this path to get to the Col after about an time of about an hour. The route up to the Col is rough and includes steep slopes and inclines.
From the Col it's a short but difficult climb to the top of a set of shaky, hand-hewn staircases is waiting for you. Be careful when climbing these steps, since even an unintentional slip can result in serious consequences. It will take 30 minutes after when you'll have reached the final part of your trek.
To reach the peak of Kalavantin is a difficult climb up a fifteen-foot elevation of the rock. The rock formation is not equipped with any aid in the form of leverage, making it an extremely risky climb. It is essential to bring a rope and be able to navigate rocks to reach the summit. If you're not familiar when it comes to rope-handling and techniques for climbing you should avoid climbing the mountain. The view from both the summit and the bottom of the cliff is stunning. Admire the beautiful panorama of the lush surroundings from this viewpoint prior to starting the climb down.
Be aware that the trail is crowded during the times before and after the monsoon season as numerous people attempt to summit. You should avoid this time of year and go during the time between the monsoon seasons as well as on weekdays for an enjoyable trip trekking.
Highlights Exciting Attractions Along This Route
1. Prabalmachi Plateau
The vast grassy area provides a breathtaking view with breathtaking views of the valley surrounding it on one hand and the beautiful hilltops in Kalavantin and Prabalgad to the opposite, creating a great location to set up camp.
2. The Exciting Journey to the Summit
The incline that leads to the summit is horizontal, a thrilling adventure to those seeking adrenaline rush and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Sahyadri mountains.
Challenges: Be Ready for the Steep Stone Steps on This Trail.
The steps carved into rock that lead to the top are narrow and steep that add to the challenge of climbing. Anyone who is afraid of heights must be careful not to look down when ascending.
To reach the top, you must make climbing up a 15-foot rock wall that requires specialized knowledge and gear. If you don't have a large rocks, you should not attempt the climb.
3. Group of People Trekking
Given its location close near Mumbai and Pune, this route is a favorite among tourists who come from Mumbai as well as Pune. It isn't easy and risky to walk up the steps cut into rock due to the sheer number of people seeking to summit. It is advised to stay clear of traveling during monsoon seasons and on weekends, to keep out the masses.
Best time for the Kalavantin Durg Trek
Although the trek can be enjoyed all year round, every season offers an experience that is unique. Monsoons and post-monsoons are the best, since it is when Sahyadri range is its most vibrant and lush, with green scenery and a multitude of waterfalls. But, it can also mean that the trails will be crowded during this time of year. For a better experience you should consider completing the trail on a weekday during monsoon season.
Getting to the Base
Thakurwadi is located 50 km away from Mumbai and is easily accessible with either private vehicles or by public transport.
In the event that you use public transport in order to get to Thakurwadi taking an local train that will take you to Panvel. When you arrive you arrive at Panvel there is the choice of taking either a bus, or share with an auto for the journey to Thakurwadi. The buses run on a regular basis for a cost of INR 15 to 20. The trip to Thakurwadi will take about 1 hour. Shared vehicles are offered at INR 70-80 per individual, and hiring a private vehicle is priced at INR 150 to 200.