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?

As like a Himalayan Mountain in the North, Maharashtra has got a certain amount of beauty in the form of Sahyadri Mountain which is spread across the Western Ghats. The Western Ghats runs north to south across the western coast of India. The name of that beauty is Mahabaleshwar. It is located on the mountainous Sahyadri range of Western Ghats and is situated in the district of Satara, Maharashtra, India. Mahabaleshwar is majorly known for its scenic mountains, numerous rivers, and historical forts and yes, guess what? It is also known for strawberries. Mahabaleshwar is also a place of devotees. It is the birthplace of River Krishna as it originates from here. No other place can beat the gems of hidden waterfalls at Mahabaleshwar. It is a place to spend quality time with friends, families, and loved ones. Many people choose Mahabaleshwar as their honeymoon destination to spend time with the honey.

How to Reach Mahabaleshwar

By Air

As such, there is no airport which is close to the Mahabaleshwar. The nearest airport is at Pune on the 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 travels or taxis to reach directly to the Mahabaleshwar 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 further 60 km drive to reach the Mahabaleshwar from Satara. 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 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

A magnificent lake situated in the Mahabaleshwar attracts most of the tourists. It is located at a distance of 2 km from Mahabaleshwar market. The lake offers different activities like rowboats, and paddle boat ride. This also offers horse riding to most of the riders. Monsoon at Venna Lake is dipped in the dense fog and chilled weather. You can only spot the fog at all places. This lake was built by the Appasaheb Maharaj who was the ruler of Satara. This is one of the favorite spots for couples. Boating in monsoon time is restricted due to safety purposes.

VENNA LAKE IS MAINLY KNOWN FOR THE BOATING

Lodwick Point

Situated at the distance of 4 km from Mahabaleshwar bus stand, Lodwick point was also known as Sydney Point. As the name was given in the honor of General Lodwick, he was the first British officer to climb the distance of 4087 feet Tall Mountain; therefore his son erected a memorial pole of about 25 feet. One can also view Elephant’s Head Point from here. Yes; you heard me 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 the breathe taking view of the surrounding mountains. One needs to walk 1.5 km from the parking area to reach here. In 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 visit place in the time of monsoon. The road going towards the Lingmala waterfall will wander the travelers.

WATERFALL VIEW

Tapola

A place with serenity is Tapola Lake. It is also known as the mini Kashmir of Maharashtra. Tapola is surrounded by the Mountain, River, and backwater. It is situated on the distance of 27 km from Mahabaleshwar on 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 activity 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 on the distance of 5 km from Mahabaleshwar. A landscape of colorful flowers and strawberry plants along with some popular cafes are 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 Mapro garden and also enjoy the manufacturing process of delicious offering. It is one of the most visited places by tourists and locals.

ONE SHOULD NEVER MISS TO EAT FRESH STRAWBERRY WITH CREAM DISH

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 to give a visit to the Mahabaleshwar. It attracts countless visitors in this weather. The climate is pleasant in winter. Sometimes the temperature drops to below 10 degree. It is an ideal time for honeymooners. One can get to explore all the viewpoints in this season.

July to October is the month with heavy rain at 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 in monsoon time.

MAHABALESHWAR TO TAPOLA ROAD DRIVE IS VERY SCENIC IN MONSOON

March to June in the summertime in India. Unlike a typical summer in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar has a pleasant climate, making it a perfect retreat for people who wants 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 resorts and hotels for stay. The pricing varies as per economic to deluxe rooms. It is advised to do booking in advance in seasons like winter from November to February. Do search at booking.com for a reasonable stay with valley-facing rooms. Yes, OYO also serves some budget stay at this place. If you have your own vehicle then its better to book your stay a few km far from the Mahabaleshwar market to get the budget stay of your choice. It can also save your pocket. Vallywood resort at Pachgani-Mahabaleshwar route is one of the suggestion for budget stay with 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 of share auto or rented bikes. The only thing is local ST with less frequency to travel from one place to another. It is always convenient to travel on own vehicle for own comfort and time-consuming. One has to visit here with their own vehicle to explore the places. Those who doesn't have own vehicle, they should book their stay close to Mahabaleshwar market.

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