Kalavantin Durg - Adventure Trek in Maharashtra

 

Kalavantin Durg is a 2,250 ft high summit a popular trekking destination located in the Western Ghats, near the Prabalgad fort in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It is also known as Kelve Teen, Kalavantinicha Sulka, or Kalavantin Pinnacle. Kalavantin Durg trek is a perfect one for beginners or adventure seekers as you get to enjoy the beauty of rocky terrains, lush greenery with your squad.

 

There is a series of steps leading to the top of the pinnacle, but little is known about the history of structure. According to local guides, it was built for a queen called Kalavantin in the 15th century, around the same time as the neighbouring Prabalgad. In Marathi language the word "Durg" means fort. Although it is called as "Kalavantin Durg", there is no fort. Kalavantin is a pinnacle which was used by the ruler to have watch on surrounding area.

 

The trek to the top of the Kalavantin Durg is considered one of the most challenging ones in the Western Ghats. The summit is accessible via a 3 km hike from the Thakurwadi village in Karjat taluka. After Prabalmachi village 2 km from Thakurvadi, the hike route diverges into two paths, the shorter one towards Kalavantin Durg and the longer one towards Prabalgad fort. The route to the Kalavantin top is a roughly 60-degree incline, and involves climbing rock-cut steps that are as high as 2 feet. The Kalavantin Durg trek is inclusive of comfortable transportation from Panvel to base village and back. 

 

 

The Kalavantin trekking start at 7:30 in the morning and will end at 5:00 in the evening. Trek start by heading towards the Prabalgad fort. The fort is built on a height of 2300 ft, so feel on top of the world and witness the majestic peaks of the mountains. Savor the delicious buffet breakfast before you start your journey and lunch during the trekking session. Rejuvenate yourself and have a fun-filled monsoon as you pass through the lush green forests as well as exploring various waterfalls on the way. You will get an assistance of a guide during the Kalavantin trekking session to ease the obstacles so you enjoy every part of the Kalavantin Durg trek.

 

In December 2016, 27-year old Hyderabad-based trekker Rachita Gupta Kanodia died during a trek to Kalavantin Durg and Prabalgad. Her body was found around 10 days after her death. She had earlier climbed the Kalavantin Durg in September. In February 2018, 27-year old Pune-based trekker Chetan Dhande fell to death while 15 feet away from the top of the Kalavantin Durg. Several other climbers witnessed his fall, and his body was discovered nearly four hours later.

 

After Dhande's death, the local administration instituted new rules to ensure safety of the trekkers. According to the new rulers, each trekker had to register with the administration by paying an entry fee of ₹ 20, and providing their personal details. No entry was allowed in the area during dark hours of 5pm-6am. During other hours, the entry was allowed only when accompanied by a local guide, which would cost ₹ 50. The administration trained 50 local villagers as guides. The trekkers were also banned from using plastic bags or plastic bottles. Pregnant women and children below 6 years are not advised to join the tour.