Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in India‘s forested Western Ghats range, south of Mumbai. It features several elevated viewing points, such as Arthur’s Seat. West of here is centuries-old Pratapgad Fort, perched atop a mountain spur. East, Lingmala Waterfall tumbles off a sheer cliff. Colorful boats dot Venna Lake, while 5 rivers meet at Panch Ganga Temple to the north.
PLACES TO VISIT
There are many places to visit in Mahabaleshwar, which add to the laidback vibe of this gorgeous hill town. From the serene Venna Lake (where you can go boating too), and the cliff-tops which are the best vantage points here, to the Pratapgarh Fort soaked in history, and the lush Mapro gardens—there’s lots to do here. Ideal for family vacationers, backpackers and couples, Mahabaleshwar is an ideal getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in nature’s splendour and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Mapro Garden
One of the most popular tourist places in Mahabaleshwar is the Mapro Garden. It is located at Gureghar on Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani road which is approximately 11 km from Mahabaleshwar. This isn’t an ordinary garden; it encompasses attractions that would entice both children and adults like a Chocolate factory, a small nursery and a children play area. There is a restaurant serving mouth watering refreshments like sandwiches, fruit salads, strawberry shakes and ice creams. Visitors can also purchase the Mapro products like jams, preserves, marmalade, toppings, syrups and squashes, from the retail outlet here. Around March/April, the Mapro conducts a fascinating four days, Strawberry Festival. Where they present variety of strawberry based delicacies like strawberry pizza, strawberry bhel, chocolate dipped strawberries and strawberry sandwiches. This would make an amazing time to visit the Mapro Garden.
Wilson Point (Sunrise Point)
Stand tall at 4,710 ft above the sea level and mesmerise yourself as you watch the sun rise from the Wilson Point. The rising sun brightens up your life and rejuvenates you for the journey ahead. There are three stone platforms built for tourists to sit and conveniently admire the pristine nature. The Wilson point, which is also known as the Sunrise point is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. It is named after Sir Leslie Wilson, who was the Governor of Bombay when the British ruled. This Sunrise point has three watch towers, from where tourists can see the breath taking scenic beauty of Mahabaleshwar.
Mumbai Point
The Sunset Point at Mahabaleshwar is known as the Mumbai Point, as it is situated on the old road to Mumbai. Several tourists consider this as one of the must places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Each time the sun sets it paints the sky with varied colours luring its spectators. Standing atop the hill you see the sun submerge in the valley and vanish. The soothing atmosphere and a pleasant weather, makes this place a perfect spot for rejuvenation. One can plan a picnic with friends and family at this the Mumbai Point, an age old tourist attraction. The Mumbai Point is open for visitors on all days.
Arthur’s Seat
Amongst the several places to visit in Mahabaleshwar, one of the most popular is the Arthur’s Seat. It is also known as the Queen of the Points or the Madhi Mahaal. The Arthur’s seat is at a height of 1470m and is located approximately 13 KM from the market in Mahabaleshwar. The speciality of this point is that, in case you throw light weighed thing in the valley, it comes up again due to air pressure. The Arthur’s seat is situated amidst fascinating panorama, one can admire the Konkan and the Deccan on another. The best time to visit the Arthur’s Seat is from the month of October to the month of June. The temperature throughout is moderate, the winters are cool and the summers are moderate.
Mahabaleshwar Temple
The Mahabaleshwar Temple that is located 6 km to the north of the main city is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the significant pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. It was built in the 16th century and it portrays a typical South Indian architectural style. The temple is very beautifully built, it has stone walls and is divided into two parts, one being the sanctum sanctorum and the other is the central hall.