Cool mountains, winding roads and picturesque beauty. Mahabaleshwar is all that and much more. Located 120 kilometers from the city, Mahabaleshwar is rightfully known as the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra. It is best to arrive by road, as the journey is worth experiencing. As you get closer, the temperature drops and the scent of wet earth fills the air. Are you already planning to visit the city? Here is our guide to help you do it.
Some acts…
Mahabaleshwar was originally called Malcolmpeth. It was even known as Nahar before that. It has been a favorite hill station of the British and hence the old colonial structures and churches here. It is also very popular for religious purposes as the Krishna and Koyna rivers originate here.
Places to visit…
Forts – There are several forts around Mahabaleshwar built by Chattrapati Shivaji. Pratapgad, Rajgad, Torna, Purandar and Kamalgad are excellent trekking spots.
Venna Lake: Venna Lake is the welcoming point of Mahabaleshwar. Built on 28 acres, this lake is picturesque and excellent for boating activities. If you want to go riding, there are also horses. Mahabaleshwar specialties such as strawberries, American corn and homemade pot ice cream are sold by individual vendors in cycles. These are must haves.
Wilson Point – This point has special platforms from where you can see a range of mountains. You can even get a stunning view of the Metugutad villages.
Bombay Point: This point is located on the old road that goes to Mumbai and hence the name. Honeymoon couples often come here. At the time of sunset you can see the coast of the Harne-Murud sea. Different shades decorate the sky during this time. Along the way also check out Echo Point, Karnayak Point, Sasoon Point, Karnach Point and Faucland Point.
Arthur’s Seat – Named after a British officer who used to sit here for hours and forget his sorrows.
Kate’s Point – From Venna Lake, when you drive towards Panchgani, you will see Kate’s Point after Nakinda village. This is named after the daughter of former Mumbai Governor John Malcolm.
Panchgani – Just 14 kilometers before Mahabaleshwar is Panchgani, a paradise for boarding schools. Named for the junction of five rivers, this deep valley is a great place for horseback riding or just long walks. There is also a nature trail park called Sherbaug Resort (02168-270070) which is great for children.
Wai – On the way to Mahabaleshwar is Wai, which is of historical importance. Nana Phadnavis, one of the foremost Sardars of Maharashtra, had his abode here. Movies like Swades and Omkara are known to have been shot here. They also have a beautiful Ganpati and Shiva temple called Kashi Vishweshwar which is considered very auspicious. The huge bell here is worth seeing.
Where to stay…
Mahabaleshwar is quite expensive for accommodation and food. Very close to the market are the Frederick Hotel (02168-260240), the Dave Hotel and the Dina Hotel (02168-260246) which are beautiful heritage hotels with Victorian architectural elegance. Rajesh Hotel (02168 – 270070), Grand Hotel (02168 – 412806), Panorama Hotel (02168-260404, 260604) and Hotel Dreamland (02168-260228) are contemporary with modern amenities. Prices can go as high as 6,000 rupees here for a day. Cheaper options like Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) rooms (022-24042501) are also available.
what to eat…
Gujarati talis From Dreamland, Gokul and Jain food at Panorama are very tasty and healthy. There is also Mapros Garden on the road from Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar which serves sandwiches, soups and pizzas and is frequented mainly by youngsters. Feasting on American corn and strawberries is a must in Mahabaleshwar.
What to buy…
Mahabaleshwar market is the place where you can go for souvenir shopping. Don’t forget to take away wonderful treats like Mapro Jelly Sweets, Madhusagar Honey, Jams, Strawberries, Blackberries, Chikki, Chana, Syrups, Gooseberries, Raspberries etc. which are available at reasonable prices. There are also beautiful crochet shawls here. This place is also famous for leather goods like shoes and sandals. Imperial and Pallod stores are popular malls here.
Some tips to follow…
- This place tends to get foggy so make sure your vehicle has special fog lights.
- Do not drink and drive or even drive fast as this area is accident prone due to blind turns.
- Make hotel reservations in advance.
- Take a guide to show you around.
- Do not venture alone in the dark as this place has wild animals like foxes, jackals, tigers etc.
