The Indian state of Maharashtra’s Western Ghats is home to the mountain fort known as Kalavantin Fort, often spelled Kalavantin Durg. In the Raigad district, it is located halfway between Matheran and Panvel.
The fort was constructed by the Yadava dynasty and was later taken over and reinforced in the 15th century by the Sultanate of Gujarat. During the British colonial era, it was utilized as a watchtower to keep an eye on the neighborhood and as a prison.
The fort is renowned for its escalating stairway, which has been cut into the rock face and has about 2,000 steps. It can be difficult to reach the summit of the fort, and getting there demands good physical condition and careful navigation. However, the breathtaking panoramas from the summit make the effort worthwhile.
Adventurers and those who love the outdoors frequently trek to Kalavantin Fort. It offers a singular opportunity to see the Western Ghats’ rich history and natural beauty and is surrounded by verdant woods.
How to reach Kalavantin fort
Several forms of transportation are available to get to Kalavantin Fort, which is situated in the Maharashtra region of India’s Western Ghats. Here are a few typical methods for getting to Kalavantin Fort:
By Air: Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is about 60 kilometers from the fort, is the closest airport. To get to the fort’s base from there, you can either call a taxi or use public transportation.
By Train: Panvel, the closest railway station, has good connections to Mumbai and other significant Indian cities. To get to the fort’s base from Panvel, you can use a cab or other local transit.
By Road: Thakurwadi, a village on the Mumbai-Pune expressway, serves as the Kalavantin Fort’s base settlement. From Mumbai or Pune, you can drive or take a bus to Thakurwadi. You can start your journey to the fort from there.
Trekking: From Thakurwadi, the base settlement, one can trek to Kalavantin Fort. A hard ascent of about 2,000 steps chiseled into the rock face is required to reach the fort. Depending on your level of fitness, the hike could take two to three hours.
Before making travel arrangements to Kalavantin Fort, it is a good idea to check the weather and secure all required permits and permissions.
Best time to visit Kalavantin fort
Winter in Maharashtra lasts from October to March, making those months the ideal time to explore Kalavantin Fort. The temperature is temperate and pleasant around this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. During this time, the temperature ranges from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius.
The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is not the best time to visit Kalavantin Fort because of the treacherous conditions the trekking track takes on from the constant downpours. Additionally, for safety reasons, the fort is closed during the monsoon season.
The summer months of April and May can reach temperatures of up to 35°C, making hiking in the sweltering heat challenging. To avoid the heat, it is suggested that you begin the walk early in the morning if you intend to travel during these months.
Neared place kalavantin fort
In the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, Kalavantin Fort is flanked by a number of other well-known tourist attractions. When you are near Kalavantin Fort, consider visiting some of the following nearby locations:
Another well-liked trekking location is Prabalgad Fort, which is close to Kalavantin Fort and is renowned for its historical significance and panoramic vistas.
Matheran: A well-liked hill resort close to Kalavantin Fort, Matheran is renowned for its scenic beauty and colonial-era architecture. From Neral, you can either trek or take the toy train to Matheran.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts and is situated around 20 kilometers from Kalavantin Fort. Over 150 different bird species as well as other animals call it home.
Patalganga River: The Patalganga River, which is about 10 km from Kalavantin Fort, is a well-liked location for river rafting and other water sports.
Known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures, Mumbai’s Elephanta Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These are only a few of the numerous locations you can explore close to Kalavantin Fort.
Stay option
Since the fort itself is unsafe for overnight stays, there aren’t many places to stay in the area of Kalavantin Fort. For a day hike to the fort, there are a number of possibilities. The following are some of your alternatives to think about:
Camping: The surrounding villages of Thakurwadi and Prabalmachi provide a variety of camping opportunities. You can choose to go on guided camping tours or rent tents and other camping supplies from nearby merchants.
Homestays: Thakurwadi and the surrounding villages provide a wide variety of homestays and guesthouses. With these choices, you can enjoy local cuisine and friendliness in addition to cozy and cheap lodging.
Resorts: There are a number of resorts offering opulent amenities and cozy lodging close to Kalavantin Fort. Depending on your preferences, you can pick a resort from the low to the high end.
It is important to reserve your accommodations in advance, especially during the busiest times of the year when there may be fewer choices and they fill up rapidly. Additionally, it is advised to bring enough food and water since the trekking trail offers few options.
FAQ
What is Kalavantin Fort?
Kalavantin Fort is a hill fort located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its steep climb of around 2,000 steps carved into the rock face and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
How can I reach Kalavantin Fort?
Kalavantin Fort can be reached by various modes of transportation, including air, train, and road. The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, the nearest railway station is Panvel, and the base village of the fort is Thakurwadi, located on the Mumbai-Pune expressway.
When is the best time to visit Kalavantin Fort?
The best time to visit Kalavantin Fort is from October to March, which is the winter season in Maharashtra. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
Is there any accommodation available at Kalavantin Fort?
There are limited stay options available near Kalavantin Fort, including camping, homestays, and resorts. However, overnight stay at the fort itself is not allowed due to safety concerns.
Is it safe to trek to Kalavantin Fort?
The trek to Kalavantin Fort is challenging and involves a steep climb of around 2,000 steps carved into the rock face. It is recommended to be physically fit and carry enough water and food supplies. It is also advisable to check the weather conditions and obtain the necessary permits and permissions before planning a trip to the fort.
What are some nearby tourist attractions to Kalavantin Fort?
Some popular nearby tourist attractions to Kalavantin Fort include Prabalgad Fort, Matheran, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Patalganga River, and Elephanta Caves.