Kalavantin Durg near Mumbai: Dangerous yet Fascinating Trek

State: Maharashtra

Location: Closer to Panvel

Famous for: Hill Fortress

Serves as: Trekker's paradise

Height: 2000 ft approx.

Base village: Thakurwadi

Best Time to visit: October to May

About Kalavantin Durg

Located closer to Panvel, Kalavantin Durg offers dangerous yet thrilling trekking experience. This fortress was named after a queen named Kalavantin as per legendary folk tales, but thats all one could say about this massive fort as very little is known about its history.

The most impressive feature about Kalavantin Durg is its amazing steps that are been cut out within the huge rock. But mind you the steps aren't bordered with safe railing which makes them quite difficult to climb. 

Technically difficult yet Kalavantin Durg gets its share of visitors from local tourists, as well as enthusiast trekkers. The trek gets slippery during monsoon and hence is unfit for travel during this period.

How to Reach Kalavantin Durg

Kalavantin Durg is closer to Panvel and hence its best to reach this destination by taking Panvel bound train. Once you get down at Panvel, you have an option of taking a state transport bus or even the local tum tums which take you to the base village Thakurwadi. Once you reach Thakurvadi, your trek begins.

What to carry while visiting Kalavantin Durg

Carry enough drinking water as there is no arrangement of water once you start your trek.

Also carry some ready to eat munchies, good trekking shoes and of course a camera to capture the amazing view from the top.

Activities at Kalavantin Durg

Trekking

Where to stay at Kalavantin Durg

There is no accommodation facility such as guest house or hotel in the base village of Kalavantin Durg. Yet the locals are known to make arrangement to stay and thus is arranged by groups who conduct trekking at this fortress. As for individuals it is advisable to plan a one day trip with no stay. As for those who prefer camping on the fortress itself, shouldn't be complaining much about it. :)