Mahabaleshwar is situated in the Western Ghats, in Satara District of Maharashtra, India. It is the most popular hill station in Maharashtra, and once the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj.
Mahabaleshwar means ‘God of Great Power’ in Sanskrit. Indeed, the place is great and bountiful, rewarding the visitor with a mix of old-world charm, natural beauty and modernity.
How to reach here:
By Road:State Transport buses ply regularly between Pune-Mahabaleshwar and Mumbai-Mahabaleshwar.
By Train:Nearest railhead is Wathar, but Pune is considered to be more convenient.
By Air:The nearest airport is Pune, 120 km.
Places to see:
A tour of Mahabaleshwar town and the surrounding countryside would take at least a couple of days as there is much to see and experience.
Mahabaleshwar is known for its numerous sightseeing points, each providing a unique perspective of the majestic hill range. Old Mahabaleshwar and the famous Panchganga Mandir, which is said to contain the springs of five rivers: Koyna, Venna, Savitri, Gayatri and the sacred Krishna River. There’s also the Mahabaleshwar Mandir, revered for its Swayambhu Lingam.
There are many points offering great views of flat-topped ghats, dense forests and lush green valleys. Lodwick Point is one of the most visited Points and holds a great view of the Jor Valley. About a kilometer away lies Tiger’s Spring, and if you venture further down you’ll come to a ledge named The window – a point that’s famous for its mesmerizing view.
Other tourist attractions are Mount Malcolm was one of the famous buildings of its time built in 1829. Mahabaleshwar Club, built in 1881, offers a peaceful retreat and many recreational facilities, including a badminton court and a mini golf course.
Pratapgad Fort is about 24 km away from Mahabaleshwar, is the pride of the Maratha Empire built in 1656; it is a maze of ponds, chambers and long dark walkways, some of which lead to trap doors that open to a 100 meter fall. A visit to this historic monument is recommended.
Mahabaleshwar known for soaring peaks, breathtaking valleys, Lush flora, Cool, crisp mountain air. It is also famous for its fruit products, Strawberries, honey, Jams, crushes and chikki (a sweet made from jaggery and an assortment of nuts) are a favorite buy-and so is handcrafted leather footwear.
Wild Life Parks