Mahabaleshwar Travel Vacations
Location : Situated in the
heart of Sahyadri hills in Satara district, Maharashtra.
Area : 150 sq. kms
Attractions : Waterfalls, Bombay point, Connaught Peak and
Wilson Waterfalls
Ideal Time To Visit : October To May
¤ Mahabaleshwar, A Panoramic
Hill Resort.
The beautiful hills station of Mahabaleshwar is snuggled in the
sloppy mountain ranges of the western ghats of Maharashtra. This hill
station is a respite from the hustle and bustle of the crowded cities
offering a clean, calm and refreshing environment,ideal for vacations.
 Mahabaleshwar
was discovered by the Britishers, who were always in search of places
that provided them relief from the heat of the plains. Thus, the city
still retains some of the old world charm, making it an perfect
holiday destination.
¤ History
Mahabaleshwar was the summer capital of the erstwhile Bombay
Presidency. It has its own charm that enchants every visitor who comes
here. The majestic mansions built during the days of the British,
remind of the great British heritage.
¤ Attractions In Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar has 30 outstanding viewpoints offering lovely views of
the landscapes and makes excellent travel vacations. Most of the
points are named after some former British dignitary and are situated
in the 10-km radius of the bazaar in Mahabaleshwar. Many of the points
can be reached by motorable roads, whereas others can be reached on
foot.
Waterfalls
Mahabaleshwar has many beautiful waterfalls, having their own charm.
Some of the popular waterfalls are the Lingmala, Chairman and Dhobi.
The Lingmala Lake is an enthralling lake presenting sights of flowing
water as it scatters from the top of a steep cliff into thin silver
streaks, often encircled by rainbow colors. Other waterfalls, Chairman
and Dhobi are favorite picnic spots. The Chairman waterfall can be
reached by the Carviali Road whereas the Dhobi waterfall is on a
bridle path connecting Petit Road with Old Mahabaleshwar Road. The
calm surroundings and the exotic waterfalls offer a perfect holiday
spot.
Wilson Point
The Wilson point is also known as the Sunrise point. This point is
the nearest and the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. The Wilson point
is nothing but a vast bare rock with three observation towers erected
at different spots. This point pulls innumerable tourists, offering a
beautiful view of the sunrise.
Bombay Point
The Bombay point is one of the earliest known points in
Mahabaleshwar. This point is known for the spectacular view of the
sunset. Every evening innumerable tourists visit it, which also offers
outstanding views of Pratapgarh and Makrandgarh.
Connaught Peak and Hunter Point
Connaught Peak and Hunter Point are situated off the Old
Mahabaleshwar Road. Connaught Peak is the second highest peak of these
hills. It offers outstanding views of the Venna Lake and Krishna
Valley. Earlier this peak was known as Mount Olympia and was a
favorite spot for riders. The Duke of Connaught was so mesmerized by
the exotic views of this peak that he renamed it after his name.
Therefore, in 1880, Mount Olympia became Connaught Peak.
Venna Lake
The Venna lake is sprawled over a huge area of 25 acres. It is a
major attraction for tourists coming to Mahabaleshwar. The lake
provides boating and fishing facilities, especially the boating
experience on the Venna Lake is an unforgettable experience.
Babington Point and Helen's Point
This Babington point offers an enchanting view of the Koyna valley
and Chinaman's waterfall. There is another point here called the
Helen's point, situated 4 kms from the main market. Also known as the
blue Valley, this point provides an enchanting view of tiny fields and
neat little huts.
Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat is renowned as the Queen of all points. There is the
barren deep valley of Savitri to its left and shallow green valley to
its right.The Arthur's seat is the only geographical feature that
divides Kokan & Desh, two territories of Mahabaleshwar, clearly.
There is also a spring nearby called the Tiger's Spring, which
supposed to be the source of the river. Walk down the seat through the
steps to reach the Window Point, ahich is another famous point.
 Krishna
Temple
Old Mahabaleshwar is situated around the origin of the Holy Krishna
River. There is a temple here dedicated to Lord Krishna. This place is
locally known as "Panchgana" meaning "Five Rivers"
i.e. Krishna, Konya, Yenna, Gayatri and Savitri. There are many pre
historic shrines found here. The Krishna temple in its present form is
related to Singhan, a Yadav King ruling from Devagiri in the 13th
century. This temple then went into the hands of Chandra Rao in the
late 16th century and later it was restored by Great Maratha Shivaji
himself in 1635. Then it was taken over by Sahu (1670-1709) and lastly
by the 19th century banker Parashuram Angal.
Hanuman Mandir
The "Hanuman Mandir" is another famous temple here and is
not far from the "Krishna Temple". It is believed that the
famous saint and mystic Rama Dassa rested here in 1635.
Other temples in this region are the Sri Rama Temple" and "Mahabal
Temple". At Mahabal temple Lord Shiva is not worshiped in the
form of a carved Lingam but as a natural rock.
¤ Excursions
Panchgani
Panchgani is situated at a distance of 19 kms from Mahabaleshwar. It
is also a hill station and is like sister town to Mahabaleshwar.
Panchgani is regarded as a health resort surrounded by five hills
after which it is named. It is a beautiful and enriching place to
spend your vacations. You will come across many scenic views in
Panchgani. Definitely, a worth visit destination.
Tapola
Tapola is situated 25 kms away from Mahabaleshwar and is a great
picnic spot. It is also regarded as mini Kashmir, where time stands
still, offering some wonderful views of the backwaters of the Koyna
dam.
Pratapgad Fort
The impressive Pratapgad fort is situated at adistance of 24 kms
from mahabaleshwar. It is this fort where Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
defeated Afzal Khan and established the Maratha empire. This fort
provides some exquisite views of the Konkan valley below and the
Raigad fort in the west. Visitors can also visit the tomb of Afzal
Khan.
Satara
Satara is city famous for its fascinating history. It is a
must-visit destination having magnificent Shivaji Maharaj Museum
located just opposite the main bus stand. The Wasota Fort, in the
south of the town, is renowned for its history and is linked to the
Marathas and Aurangzeb.
¤ Shopping
Mahabaleshwar is not a shopping destination, but still one can look
forward to buy a few things from the local markets. The bazaars of
this lovely hill station are bustling and alive offering everything
from clothes to slippers and gift items.
Mahabaleshwar is known for the different kinds of berries it
produces, such as strawberries, gooseberries and raspberries. So,
don't miss buying these fresh fruits and also their jams, preserves
and marmalades. Apart from these, the leather goods and tribal
trinkets of this place are very popular. These exotic pieces can be
bought for friends as souvenirs or gifts.
¤ Reach Mahabaleshwar
By Air : Nearest airport
from Mahabaleshwar is at Pune around 120-km away. The Pune airport is
a domestic airport.
By Rail : Nearest railway station is Wathar at 62-km, but the
Pune railway station is the most convenient railway station situated
at a distance of 120 kms.
By Road : From Bombay via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290-km and
via Mahad it is 247-km. The State Transport buses ply from Bombay and
Pune to Mahabaleshwar. MTDC also operates daily bus services except
during the monsoon, between Bombay-Mahabaleshwar-Bombay. There are
sightseeing tours also for Mahabaleshwar and Mahabaleshwar to
Pratapgad Fort.
Major Circuits
Major Tour Packages To Maharashtra
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