Mahabaleshwar derives its name from the presiding deity “Mahabali” whose shrine at the old Mahabaleshwar Temple is a major attraction for worshippers and tourists.
Nestling in the curvaceous mountain ranges of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra are the cool misty resorts of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani. Away from the crowds and noise of the city, these twin resorts are an ideal holiday destination.
Several little known but charming hill resorts nestle shyly in these mountains. They seem to belong to the colonial era when people traveled up to these resorts to escape the heat of the plains. Many of them still retain some of the old world charm and make an ideal holiday destination.
Among the hill resorts of the state, Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani are very popular. Tucked away in the Satara district, they are best approached from Pune. Spared the commercialization that has affected the hill resorts of north and south India, the two resorts offer a clean, calm and thoroughly refreshing alternative.
And, perhaps the only place in the country which offers myriad activities – boating, fishing, horse riding, trekking and playing golf on the gorgeous nine-hole golf course built on the edge of a cliff!
Overlooking the Krishna and Koyna valleys, Mahabaleshwar, at an altitude of 1372 meters opens up a whole world of picturesque delight. With an air of unspoilt beauty, it is a paradise for nature explorers and peace lovers, as also for filmmakers and producers.
The summer capital of the erstwhile Bombay Presidency, Mahabaleshwar retains its quintessential charm, despite the increasing crowds that visit the town. Numerous majestic mansions built during the days of the British, still stand as monuments of the Raj.
Best time to visit: Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar is October to June and best time to visit Panchgani is September to May.
Tourist attractions:
Lingmala Waterfalls present an enthralling sight of cascading water as it scatters from atop a steep cliff into thin silver streaks, often encircled by rainbow colors. The other water falls – Chairman and Dhobi, are popular with picnickers. The former can be reached by the Carviali Road. Dhobi waterfall is on a bridle path connecting Petit Road with Old Mahabaleshwar Road. A boat ride on the tranquil, crystal-clear waters of Lake Vena entices one. The cool whispers of the surroundings add to the serenity of the landscape.
Mahabaleshwar’s 30 exotic viewpoints provide one with a spectacular access to the ultimate in fascinating landscapes. Most of the points derive their names from some former British dignitary and are situated in the 10-kilometer radius of the bazaar in Mahabaleshwar. Some points can be reached by motorable roads, whereas other can be reached on foot
Wilson Point is the nearest and the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. It is a vast bare rock with three observation towers erected at different spots. It is a major attraction for tourists as it offers a beautiful view of sunrise.
Babington Point, two kilometers from the bazaar offers a beautiful view of the Koyna Valley and Chinaman’s Waterfall. Helen’s Point is about a kilometer’s ride from here by the Blue Valley Road. It takes one into the midst of the valley and gives an enchanting view of tiny fields and neat little huts.
Bombay Point is one of the earliest known points in Mahabaleshwar. Every evening visitors rush to the peak to get a spectacular view of the sunset. From the peak, one can also see Pratapgarh and Makrandgarh at their best.
Connaught Peak and Hunter Point are situated off the Old Mahabaleshwar Road. Connaught Peak is the second highest peak of these hills. It offers a panoramic view of the Vena Lake and Krishna Valley. It was first known as Mount Olympia, and was a favorite spot for riders. The Duke of Connaught was so enchanted by its majestic view that he could not resist associating his name with the spot. Hence in 1880, Mount Olympia became Connaught Peak.
From here one can see Old Mahabaleshwar and Elphinston Point to the north; Pandavgad and Krishna Valley to the east. Hunter’s point approached from Old Mahabaleshwar Road gives a picturesque view of the Koyna Valley.
On the way to Arthur’s Seat one comes across Elphinston, Marjorie and Savitri Points and also Castle Rock. The cliffs at these points rise from the Konkan Valley, which are some 500 meters below the level of the Koyna Valley. The ravine between these points is the rise of Savitri River which rushes down 700 meters straight from here.
Favorite picnic spot, Elphinston Point, named after the Governor of Bombay, Sir Elphinston, was discovered by Dr Murray in 1830. Arthur’s Point, named after Arthur Malet, is Mahabaleshwar’s most famous point overlooking the densely forested valley. It is interesting from this point, to watch a straw hat or a handkerchief, tossed down, sailing attractively in the air like a spread-out parachute!
While going to Arthur’s Seat, one comes across a small stream called the Tiger Spring. Till this day people believe that tigers and panthers frequent this place to quench their thirst.
Lodwick Point is named after a General who reached this point in 1824. He was the first European to set foot on the Mahabaleshwar hills. A monument at the top of the promontory has been erected in his memory. Beyond Lodwick Point is the extreme end of the mountain range known as Elephant’s Head. It is only 12 feet to the Koyna Valley below. From Lodwick’s point, the overhanging cliff looks like an elephant’s head and trunk, and hence the name.
Kate’s point on the Mahabaleshwar-Pune Road gives a commanding view of the Krishna Valley. Near Kate’s point is the Echo Point, which, true to its name, echoes the words of the speaker.
Best time to Visit Mahabaleshwar
December to February is the winter season. During this time the minimum temperature reaches up to 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum is 24 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to visit Mahabaleshwar as one can enjoy the best part of the region.
How to reach
Air – Pune is the nearest airport both for Mahabaleshwar (120 km and Panchgani (98 km)
Rail – For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead.
Road – From Mumbai via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290 km and via Mahad it is 247 km.
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