What are The Top 5 Mahabaleshwar Points to Explore in 3 Days?

MAHABALESHWAR HILL STATION

What are the Top 5 Mahabaleshwar Points to Explore in 3 Days?

Maharashtra, like a Himalayan mountain in the north, boasts its own natural beauty in the form of the Sahyadri Mountains, which are part of the Western Ghats. This mountain range runs north to south along the western coast of India. One of its gems is Mahabaleshwar, located in the Sahyadri range within the Satara district of Maharashtra, India.

 

Mahabaleshwar is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, numerous rivers, historical forts, and, interestingly, its strawberries. It is also a significant religious site, as it is the birthplace of the Krishna River, which originates here. The area is filled with hidden waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

 

Mahabaleshwar is an ideal place to spend quality time with friends, family, and loved ones. Many couples choose it as their honeymoon destination to enjoy a romantic getaway..

How to Reach Mahabaleshwar

By Air

As such, there is no airport that is close to Mahabaleshwar. The nearest airport is at Pune, at a distance of 120 km from Mahabaleshwar. Another is at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at a distance of 250 km. One can choose local transportation, like travel or taxis, to reach directly to Mahabaleshwar directly from the respective airport.

By Road

Mahabaleshwar is 260 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune. The nearest district to reach here is Satara. It is a further 60 km drive to reach Mahabaleshwar from Satara. The NH4 highway passing from Mumbai, Thane will leave you close to your destination. There are regular bus services, including government and private buses, that run to and from Mahabaleshwar.

By Rail

It is one of the cheapest ways to reach your destination. Satara is the nearest railhead to reach Mahabaleshwar. Regular express trains are running from Mumbai, Pune to Satara. There is regular state transportation available from Satara to Mahabaleshwar.

 

History of Mahabaleshwar

Legend says that a Yadava ruler from the 13^th century built a small temple and water tank at the source of the River Krishna. The area around Mahabaleshwar called the Vale of Jawali was ruled by the More clan who were vassals of the Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur in 1656, the founder of Maratha Empire, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, later on, killed the More and seized that area, Around that time Shivaji Maharaj also built a fort called Pratapgad. The fort remains in the hands of Shivaji Maharaj’s descendants to this day (ref).

 

Top 5 Mahabaleshwar Points to Explore

Venna Lake

Venna Lake, a stunning destination in Mahabaleshwar, attracts many tourists. It is located just 2 km from the Mahabaleshwar market. The lake offers a variety of activities, including rowboat and paddleboat rides, as well as horse riding for enthusiasts. During the monsoon season, Venna Lake is surrounded by dense fog and chilly weather, creating a mystical atmosphere. The lake was constructed by Appasaheb Maharaj, the ruler of Satara, and is a favorite spot for couples. Please note that boating is restricted during the monsoon for safety reasons.

VENNA LAKE IS MAINLY KNOWN FOR THE BOATING

Lodwick Point

Lodwick Point, located 4 km from the Mahabaleshwar bus stand, was formerly known as Sydney Point. The name honors General Lodwick, the first British officer to reach the summit of the 4,087-foot-tall mountain. To commemorate this achievement, his son erected a memorial pole that stands about 25 feet tall. From Lodwick Point, visitors can also enjoy a view of Elephant’s Head Point. Yes, you heard that right!

Elephant’s Head Point is the extreme end of the mountain range and lies beyond Lodwick Point. The extended front part of this mountain looks like Elephant Head, hence the point is known as Elephant Head Point. This point offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. One needs to walk 1.5 km from the parking area to reach here. In the monsoon, the walk becomes more adventurous through the dense forest.

LODWICK POINT DEEPED IN THE DENSE FOG, THE ROUTE GOING TOWARDS THIS POINT GOES THROUGH THE FOREST

Lingmala Waterfall

A serene waterfall pouring its massive amount of water on the rocky surface and its soothing sound while pouring looks exquisite. It is situated at a distance of 6 km from the Mahabaleshwar bus stand. Lingmala waterfall from Mahabaleshwar has attracted most of the visitors. This waterfall also provides a view of Dhobi Waterfall and Chinaman's waterfall. This is must must-visit place during the time of monsoon. The road going towards the Lingmala waterfall will wander the travelers.

WATERFALL VIEW

Tapola

A place of serenity is Tapola Lake. It is also known as the mini Kashmir of Maharashtra. Tapola is surrounded by the Mountain, the River, and the backwater. It is situated at a distance of 27 km from Mahabaleshwar on the Mahabaleshwar-Poladpur road. You can also term it as a hub of camping, yes, you heard me right; Tapola is the place that offers some adventurous activities along with an exquisite experience of lake camping.

TAPOLA IS ALSO CALLED AS MINI KASHMIR OF MAHARASHTRA

Shopping at Mapro Garden

Mapro Garden is located at a distance of 5 km from Mahabaleshwar. A landscape of colorful flowers and strawberry plants, along with some popular cafes, is the main attraction here. This is one of the popular tourist destinations in Mahabaleshwar. This destination offers some chocolate eateries, Italian food, and some of the Mapro products, which are sold by local retail outlets. You can spend some time appreciating the natural beauty of the Mapro garden and also enjoy the manufacturing process of the delicious offering. It is one of the most visited places by tourists and locals.

ONE SHOULD NEVER MISS EATING A FRESH STRAWBERRY WITH CREAM

Ideal Time to Visit Mahabaleshwar

Being one of the most popular hillside destinations of Maharashtra, any season is good to plan a holiday here.

Winter, from November to February, is the ideal season for a visit to Mahabaleshwar. It attracts countless visitors in this weather. The climate is pleasant in winter. Sometimes the temperature drops to below 10 degrees. It is an ideal time for honeymooners. One can explore all the viewpoints in this season.

July to October is the month with heavy rain in the Mahabaleshwar area. If you love to stay wet throughout the day, then do visit here in the monsoon. One can get to know the magic of nature. One can get to see the Mahabaleshwar dipped in the dense fog. Sometimes this can be a drawback; you won’t be able to see the valley view from the top due to the heavy fog. If you want to spend some quality time with your people, you must visit here during the monsoon season.

MAHABALESHWAR TO TAPOLA ROAD DRIVE IS VERY SCENIC IN MONSOON

March to June is the summertime in India. Unlike a typical summer in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar has a pleasant climate, making it a perfect retreat for people who want to run from the summer heat. One should not miss the chance to feel the beauty of Maharashtra.

What are the Stay Options at Mahabaleshwar?

Being one of the splendid hill stations of Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar has ample amounts of resorts and hotels for stay. The pricing varies from economic to deluxe rooms. It is advised to book in advance in seasons like winter, from November to February. Do a search at booking.com for a reasonable stay with valley-facing rooms. Yes, OYO also serves some budget stays at this place. If you have your own vehicle, then it's better to book your stay a few km away from the Mahabaleshwar market to get the budget stay of your choice. It can also save your pocket. Vallywood resort at the Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar route is one of the suggestions for a budget stay with a valley view.

Roaming Around the Mahabaleshwar

Yes, this is the main thing to plan if you are traveling to any place without your own vehicle. Mahabaleshwar is a place with no options for shared autos or rented bikes. The only thing is the local ST with less frequency to travel from one place to another. It is always convenient to travel in your own vehicle for your own comfort, and time-consuming. One has to visit here with their own vehicle to explore the places. Those who don't have their own vehicle should book their stay close to the Mahabaleshwar market.

Do explore the Mahabaleshwar and do not litter the area around it.