Call of the mountain: End 2025 with a sunrise trek to Kalsubai

A participant gazes at the sweeping valley during a previous trek. Pics courtesy/Mischief Treks

Trekking to the top of a mountain to catch the morning sun is one way to end 2025. If you're looking to skip the city traffic on the last weekend of the year, you might want to join a trek to Kalsubai, the highest mountain peak in Maharashtra at 5400 feet.

"The Kalsubai trek is open to anyone, from beginners to parents with children. Participants get the chance to view the sunrise and cloud formation, which is especially prominent between November and January, from the peak," trek leader Digvijay Rathore of organisers Mischief Treks reveals. Apart from the panoramic view of the Sahyadri range, you can glimpse the Harihar and Harishchandragad forts, amongst several other attractions in the vicinity.

The sunrise from the peak, as captured on an earlier trek; (right) Kalsubai Temple

Rathore outlines the trek, "Most of the trek takes place before sunrise. It begins at the base village, named Bari. Participants (limited to 25) will receive a short introduction, after which we begin the ascent. Notable features of the Kalsubai trail are its rocky patches and iron ladders. Meal breaks will be provided in between, for breakfast and tea." An attraction is the Kalsubai Temple, which holds cultural significance; devotees pay visits year-round. He points out that the trek is completely open to children as well, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Post the descent, the group will be offered lunch at Bari Village at the foothills.

"Ensure that you have shoes with a good grip, and carry an extra pair of floaters, along with an extra pair of clothes, a jacket to shield against cold winds, medications, ready-to-eat food, and a haversack for all your belongings, so that your hands stay free," Rathore emphasises. He signs off, "Though a safety briefing will be given, I'd caution trekkers to keep themselves well-hydrated, instead of delaying their water breaks along the way until it's too late; and also, to avoid playing loud music or creating a ruckus, given the area is of religious and historic importance as well."

On December 27; 9.30 pm to December 28; 5 pm
Meeting point Bari Village, Ahilyanagar district.
Log on to mischieftreks.com (for registration and travel details)
Entry Rs 500 (per person, without transportation)