Kalsubai Temple: At the top of Kalsubai, the highest point of the Sahyadri mountain range in the Indian state of Maharashtra, there is a well-known Hindu temple called Kalsubai Temple. The deity Kalsubai, who is regarded as a divinity and a manifestation of the goddess Devi, is the subject of the temple.
The Kalsubai temple is a well-liked location for trekkers and adventure seekers and is located at a height of 5400 feet above sea level. The base village of Bari, which is about 6 kilometres from the temple, is where the trek up the Kalsubai peak begins.
The temple is thought to have been built by a Maratha monarch, and it is reported that the locals from the area used stones and lime to make it. The idol of Kalsubai is kept in the temple’s modest sanctum sanctorum. In addition, the temple contains a bell that pilgrims ring after ascending the mountain.
Every year, especially during the Navratri holiday, the Kalsubai temple draws a sizable number of visitors and worshippers. The journey to the temple is rated as moderately challenging, and it takes 3–4 hours to get there from the base settlement.
The temple is a well-liked site for nature lovers and photographers because it provides a stunning panoramic view of the nearby mountains and valleys.
History of Kalsubai Temple
The Kalsubai temple’s history is not completely known, however, it is thought to have been constructed during the Maratha era. The temple is named after Kalsubai, a local deity who is thought to be a manifestation of the goddess Devi.
Kalsubai was a housemaid who resided in a neighbouring village, according to local lore. She was forced to run into the mountains to avoid punishment after being wrongly accused of stealing from her employer. She then appealed to the goddess Devi for assistance and was ultimately successful in having her name cleared. She consequently earned respect as a local divinity, and a shrine dedicated to her was erected at the mountain’s peak.
According to legend, the inhabitants in the area used stones and lime to build the temple. The temple is thought to have been constructed in the late 18th or early 19th century.
The Kalsubai temple has undergone numerous modifications and repairs over the years. The Maharashtra government has improved the surrounding infrastructure recently to make the temple easier to access for visitors and worshippers.
The Kalsubai temple is now a well-liked place of worship and a representation of the area’s cultural and spiritual legacy. Every year, it draws hundreds of tourists and devotees who come to offer prayers and ask the goddess Kalsubai’s blessings.
How to reach Kalsubai temple
On the top of Kalsubai Peak in Maharashtra, India, stands the Kalsubai Temple. From the base hamlet of Bari, which is about 165 kilometres from Mumbai and 180 km from Pune, one can trek to the temple.
How to get to the Kalsubai Temple is as follows:
By air: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai is the closest airport, located around 185 kilometres (km) from Bari. You can travel to Bari from the airport by bus or by hiring a cab.
By train: Igatpuri, which is 45 kilometres from Bari, is the closest railway station. Igatpuri is a halt for trains from Mumbai and Pune. You can travel to Bari from Igatpuri by bus or cab.
by road: Bari has good road connections to Pune and Mumbai. From Mumbai or Pune, you can go to Bari via bus or by cab. It takes about 4-5 hours to travel there.
You can begin your walk to the Kalsubai Temple after you arrive in Bari. The walk is approximately 6 kilometres long and takes 3–4 hours to complete. There are numerous rest stops along the route, and the track is clearly marked. To beat the heat and make it to the peak before it gets dark, it is best to set out on the trek early in the morning.
Best time to visit kalsubai temple
Wintertime, between October and February, is the ideal time to visit Kalsubai Temple. The skies are clear, the weather is comfortable, and there are stunning vistas of the nearby mountains and valleys during this time.
If you like hiking through rainforests and verdant meadows, the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is also an excellent time to travel. Due to the treacherous and muddy trails, the trek can be difficult, and inclement weather or periods of heavy rain may result in the temple being closed.
March through May are the summer months, which can be hot and muggy. Because of the heat, hiking might be difficult during this period. In order to prevent dehydration and heat stroke, it is advisable to carry enough water and dress appropriately.
Here’s a table that shows the best time to visit Kalsubai Temple based on different factors:
| Factor | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
| Weather | October to February |
| Monsoon | June to September |
| Trekking | November to February |
| Crowds | Weekdays |
| Festivals | Navratri and Mahashivratri |
| Night Trek | November to February (for experienced trekkers) |
Please note that weather conditions, trekking routes, and crowd levels can vary, and it’s always best to check the latest information and plan your visit accordingly. It’s also important to adhere to local guidelines and regulations for trekking and visiting the temple.
Neared place
The Kalsubai Temple is surrounded by a number of picturesque and cultural landmarks and is situated in the Maharashtra province’s Western Ghats. Some of the nearby attractions in and around Kalsubai Temple are listed below:
Bhandardara: About 25 kilometres away from Kalsubai is the charming hill town of Bhandardara. It is renowned for its picturesque waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and stunning vistas. Some of the well-known sights of Bhandardara are Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and Umbrella Falls.
Ratangad Fort: About 30 km away from Kalsubai, Ratangad Fort is a historic hill fort. It is renowned for its beautiful trekking routes, historic temples, and spectacular vistas of the valleys and mountains surrounding it.
Sandhan Valley: About 40 km from Kalsubai, Sandhan Valley is a well-known place for trekking. It is renowned for its challenging hiking trails, waterfalls, and tight canyons.
Trimbakeshwar: A holy town called Trimbakeshwar is about 80 kilometres away from Kalsubai. One of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, the historic Trimbakeshwar Temple is famous for being dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Nashik: Nashik, a thriving metropolis, is about 120 kilometres from Kalsubai. It is renowned for its majestic vineyards, vibrant marketplaces, and historic temples. Some of the well-known sights in Nashik include the Panchavati, Trimbakeshwar Temple, and Sula Vineyards.
These are only a few sites you might see while visiting Kalsubai Temple.
Stay option
There are numerous lodging choices close to Kalsubai Temple, ranging from affordable guesthouses to opulent resorts. Here are a few of the well-liked lodging choices close to Kalsubai Temple:
MTDC Resort: About 25 kilometres from Kalsubai is the well-known government-run resort, MTDC Resort Bhandardara. It is renowned for its beautiful setting and top-notch hospitality and offers cosy rooms, cottages, and dormitory-style lodging.
Anandvan Resort: This five-star resort is about 25 kilometres away from Kalsubai. It is renowned for its picturesque setting, first-rate service, and amenities including a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. It provides cosy rooms, villas, and suites.
Yash Resort is a reasonably priced resort that is located about 30 kilometres from Kalsubai. It is renowned for its picturesque setting, first-rate service, and amenities including a swimming pool, restaurant, and indoor activities in addition to its pleasant rooms and cottages.
Igatpuri Villas: This opulent home is about 40 kilometres from Kalsubai. It provides roomy, fully furnished villas with private swimming pools, gardens, and breathtaking mountain views.
Homestays: There are a number of homestays close to Kalsubai that provide cosy lodging and an opportunity to get a taste of the community’s hospitality.
To minimise any trouble, it is advised to make your hotel reservations in advance, especially during the busiest times of the year.
FAQ
Here’s a table that presents frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Kalsubai Temple in a concise format:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where is Kalsubai Temple located? | In the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India. |
| What is the significance of the Kalsubai Temple? | It is the highest peak in Maharashtra and a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. |
| How to reach Kalsubai Temple? | By trekking from the base village of Bari, which is approximately 12 km from the temple. |
| Is Kalsubai Temple accessible throughout the year? | Yes, except during heavy monsoons when the trekking route may be risky. |
| What is the best time to visit Kalsubai Temple? | October to February for pleasant weather, and June to September for monsoon trekking. |
| How difficult is the Kalsubai trek? | Moderate to complex, with steep sections and rocky terrain. |
| Are there any accommodations near Kalsubai Temple? | Limited basic accommodation options are available at the base village of Bari. |
| Is there any entry fee for Kalsubai Temple? | No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple. |
| Are there any festivals celebrated at Kalsubai Temple? | Navratri and Mahashivratri are celebrated with devotion and fervour. |
| Are there any guidelines or rules for visiting Kalsubai Temple? | Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly, follow the temple customs, and not disturb the natural surroundings. |
Please note that the information in the table may change over time, and it’s always best to verify the latest details before planning your visit to Kalsubai Temple.
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