Kalavantindurg & Prabalgad fortKalavantin Durg Trek

‘World’s most dangerous fort trek’, ‘A trek not for the faint hearted’ are such labels Kalavantin fort is referred to as. This is cause of the angle of photos or videos taken from a bird’s eye view. But honestly, it can be considered as an easy-moderate trek. This can be on your list of must-do treks but with adequate precautions taken. Lying in the western ghats of Maharashtra and standing tall at a hefty height of 2300 feet above sea level, Kalavantin Durg is a fort that was constructed in honor of Queen Kalavantin. Unlike the name says a fort, there’s nothing as such built but was just used as a watchtower to keep a watch on the surroundings. Kalavantin trek offers stunning views via an intense climb through rugged terrain with narrow rock-cut steps and steep slopes with no support - the trek to and from the fort is a bit risky yet fascinating. This fort gives you a panoramic view of the mountains around like Prabalgad, Chanderi, Peb Matheran, Irshalgad, and Ulhas river. The hike is vertiginous, as the rock-cut steps are very steep and there are no railings to support your climb. So be careful if you're scared of heights. Hiking down is challenging as well, so if you have acrophobia, it is best to avoid the trek altogether. The base point of kalavantin is situated in Thakurwadi village, which leads the path to both kalavantin and prabhalgad. The trail initially takes you to Prabhamachi which is the diversion point for the two treks. The trek can be divided into three sections; The first is from Thakurwadi to Prabhalmachi plateau. The second section is from Prabhalmachi to Col. this section includes ascend through rocky patches. The trail gets notably steeper as you make the move upwards to the top, and there is a sense of vertigo-inducing on the way up through this doesn’t deter those in pursuit of heart-pounding adventure. The third section is from Col to the pinnacle of kalavantin. This includes a huge set of rock-cut steps with nearly 80° angle. This is followed by a short climb over a rock about 15 ft high to reach the pinnacle. One has to be very cautious while climbing this rock patch since the footholds have been destroyed due to heavy rains. Preferably carry a rope along for this patch or if you’re a beginner, it’s better to avoid this third section and keep your hands empty. Skipping the third section isn’t a big deal since the view from Col and the pinnacle are almost the same. The stunning view of abundant greenery, virgin nature, and the alluring valley below can clench your heart with the thirst for purity and divinity. Best time to visit: Usually, the best time to visit any sahayadri trek is in monsoon but for Kalavantin post-monsoon months and winter is the best time as the level of risk faced automatically surges during monsoon as the way becomes slippery. Above all, it’s sure to be jammed with huge crowds during monsoon season.