Known for its notoriously steep climbs, Kalavantin Durg is a treat for adventure lovers!
At a height of 672 M, Kalavantin Durg is one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra. It is located in Raigad district and makes for a thrilling adventure for trekking enthusiasts. It is misconceived as a treacherous trek due to the pinnacle climb that appears scary and almost impossible when you look at it in pictures. However, with caution and care, the climb makes for an adrenaline pumping affair which you will cherish for a lifetime!
The trail starts from Thakurwadi which is around 50 kms away from Mumbai.
(Link Best Treks Near Mumbai)
This article lays down all the information pertaining to the Kalavantin Durg trek and is your go to guide when planning this trail!
The Kalavantin Durg Trail
The trail starts from a parking lot in the village of Thakurwadi. You ask the locals to guide you to the starting point of Kalavantin Durg. A small fee is collected at the entrance for the maintenance of the region. This initial part through the village takes you through muddy paths and small settlements that give you a peek into rural Maharashtra.
A little over 10 minutes on this path, the trail starts to gradually ascend. As you climb up this path, you will see views of the surrounding hills, villages and fields. Enjoy the views as you keep moving forward on this trail. During the post monsoon months, you will see a number of waterfalls cascading down the surrounding hills which makes for a breathtaking sight.
Close to 1.5 hours of this trail, you will arrive at the Prabalmachi plateau. The plateau is massive, covered in grass with no tree cover. From here, there are two routes, one leading to Prabalgad (you can combine this route with Kalavantin Durg if you wish to cover both) and the other leading to Kalavantin Durg. The hill with the pinnacle is Kalavantin and Prabalgad is the one with a flat top. The trail on the left leads to Kalavantin. Take that trail.
The terrain is more muddy and has a lot of rocks from here. You will notice thick vegetation along with multiple waterfalls on the hills around you. The views get more beautiful with each step you take towards the pinnacle. Maintain left on this trail and you will arrive at the Col after an hour of trekking. The trail leading up to the Col is uneven and involves a couple of ascents and descents.
A short ascent from the Col will take you to the beginning of steep and narrow rock-cut steps. Climb these steps with extreme caution as a small mistake could result in serious injuries. Climbing these steps will take you close to 30 minutes after which you will arrive at the final section of the trek.
A challenging climb over a 15 ft rock will take you to the pinnacle of Kalavantin. This part has no support to pull yourself up and can be extremely risky. You will have to carry your own rope and do some rock climbing to reach the pinnacle. If you are not familiar with the use of rope and climbing techniques, we do not recommend climbing up to the pinnacle. The views are similar from the top of the pinnacle and from the bottom of the rock. Enjoy the views of the lush green surroundings from here before you start making your way down.
Remember that this path is narrow and during the pre monsoon and monsoon months it is extremely crowded with a lot of people trying to make their way to the top. Avoid these months and go during the post monsoon months and on weekdays to enjoy this trail.
Highlights: Things to Look Forward to on This Trail
1. Prabalmachi Plateau
This vast expanse of grassland is striking with views of the valley to one side and the hills of Kalavantin and Prabalgad to the other. It makes for a good spot to camp as well if you wish to!
2. The Adventurous Climb to the Top
The stairway leading to the top is almost inclined at a right angle which makes the trek exciting and full of adventure for those of you who love that rush of adrenaline with a side of panoramic views of the Sahyadris.
Challenges: Things to be Prepared For on This Trail
1. Steep Rock-Cut Stairs
The rock-cut stairs to the top are not only steep but also very narrow, making the climb challenging. If you are scared of heights, make sure you do not look back!
2. Climb to the Pinnacle
The final climb over the 15 ft rock to the pinnacle is extremely difficult and cannot be done without rope and knowledge of climbing techniques. It is advisable to not attempt it if you are not experienced in climbing.
3. Crowd on the Trail
Given its proximity to Mumbai, the trail attracts a lot of crowd from Mumbai and Pune. Navigating the rock-cut steps becomes really tricky and dangerous with so many people trying to make their way to the top. Avoid going during the monsoon months and on weekends to skip the crowds.
Difficulty Level and the Bikat Rating Scale
Kalavantin Durg is a level 1 trek on the Bikat Rating Scale.
About the BRS: The Bikat Rating Scale rates the difficulty level of all treks and expeditions in our portfolio after taking into account their geographical and climatic conditions.
According to this scale, if you are a beginner who is unsure of your fitness level and don’t know what to expect on a trek, a trek rated one will be a good place to start.
If you liked your very first trekking experience and are looking to test your limits next, the treks rated 2 or 3 will do the job for you.
A beginner who is sure of their fitness level on the other hand is welcome to skip the first two levels and directly start with one of the treks rated 3.
From 4 onwards, the rules change a little. It is mandatory to have trekking experience of the previous level to participate in the next level.
Best Time to do the Kalavantin Durg Trek
This trek can be done throughout the year with each season offering something different. However, the monsoon and post monsoon months are the best time for the trek as the Sahyadris are lush green in colour and the waterfalls are in abundance. However, the monsoon also sees a lot of crowds on the trail. A smart way to deal with it would be to do the trek on a weekday during the monsoon months.
How to Reach the Base
Thakurwadi is located 50 kms away from Mumbai and can be reached by a private vehicle or by public transport.
If you are reaching Thakurwadi by public transport, take a local train to Panvel. From here, you can take a bus or shared auto to Thakurwadi. Buses ply every two hours and will cost INR 15-20. The bus will take one hour to reach Thakurwadi. Shared autos cost INR 70-80 per person. You can also take an auto and they will charge you INR 150-200.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kalavantin Durg Trek
1. Is there network connectivity on the trek?
There is network connectivity from all major operators throughout the trail.
2. Are there food stalls on the trail?
Food is available in Thakurwadi and also on the trail to Kalavantin. Same with drinking water. However, it is recommended that you carry your own food and water to be on the safe side.
3. Do I need a permit for this trek?
No, you do not need any permits for this trek. You also do not need permission to camp on this trail. You can camp at Prabalmachi and also cover Prabalgad the following day if you wish to. You can carry your own camping equipment or there are a few huts which allow overnight stay for a small charge.
4. How long does the trek take?
The trek will take close to 4 hours to reach the top and another 2-3 hours to come back down to the starting point.
5. Is this trek for beginners?
Yes, this trek can be done by beginners. However, keep in mind to be extremely cautious while you navigate the steep and narrow staircase.
That’s all about the Kalavantin Durg trek! Should you wish to know more or need help planning your weekend adventure to the Sahyadris, please feel free to reach out to our team.
