Kalsubai is a mountain in the Western Ghats, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra and is located in Ahilyanagar district in Akole Taluka. Its summit, situated at an elevation of , is the highest point in Maharashtra and is known as the "Everest of Maharashtra".

The mountain range lies within the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is visited throughout the year by avid trekkers, Kalsubai temple devotees and wildlife enthusiasts. It is named after one of the three tribal sisters Kalsubai, Ratnabai and Katrabai. The other peak, Ratangad, is named after Ratnabai.

Geology

The mountain range was formed by the same geological events that gave birth to the Western Ghats. Resting on the Deccan Plateau, a large igneous province, it consists of solidified flood basalt dating back to the Cenozoic era.

Geography and topography

<!-- Deleted image removed: thumbnail|left|Relief map of Kalsubai -->thumb|Kalsubai seen from 20,000 feet|left|235x235px

The peak along with the adjoining hills spans alona downward-slanting east to the west axis eventually merging with the formidable escarpment of the Western Ghats at almost right angles. Along its length, they form a natural boundary demarcating the Igatpuri Taluka, Nashik district at its north from the Akole taluka, Ahmednagar district at its south. The mountain itself lies on the Deccan Plateau, with its base at an elevation of above mean sea level.

The mountain along with adjoining hills forms an enormous catchment area for the Arthur Lake which it overlooks.

Trekking

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Kalsubai is a round-trip trek from Bari, with an elevation gain of around . This is a one-day trek having a moderately hard difficulty level, with lush green landscapes and multiple waterfalls.

Dam

Bhandardara Dam, located 6&nbsp;km away, impounds the Pravara river to form the Arthur Lake.

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File:Kalasubai.jpg| Kalsubai

File:Peak of Kalsubai in late evening.jpg| Peak of Kalsubai photographed in late evening

File:Kalasubai steps.jpg| Kalasubai steps to reach on top

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See also

  • List of mountain peaks of Maharashtra
  • List of Indian states and union territories by highest point
  • Salher
  • Western Ghats (Sahyadris)

References

  • Travelogue of Kalsubai trek
  • Kalasubai