Mahableshwar
is one of the most popular hill-stations around Mumbai. Situated at
an altitude of 1372 metres, it is the ideal vacation spot for a relaxed
(and maybe an extended) weekend. The hill-station has an interesting
connection with history, the Pratapgad Fort - where Shivaji used his
"tiger claw" on Afzal Khan - being 24 kms away. The development of
Mahableshwar as a hill-station began since the days of the British.
The place is the origin of the five rivers - Krishna, Koyna, Venna,
Savitri, and Gayatri, and derives its name from the Mahableshwar Temple.
Spend your time pulling oars of your boat at the Venna Lake, visiting
the nearby forts, driving down to Panchgini (19 kms) or simply sampling
honey, chikki or strawberries in the market.
Best Time To Visit:"Anytime!"- Probably this Weekend.
Getting there:
You can drive down to Mahableshwar either via Pune (290 kms)
or via Mahad (250 kms) which is a shorter journey and takes
8 hours from Mumbai. Drive along the Vashi creek bridge to Panvel
and then via. the Karnala Bird Sanctuary to Pen. From Pen, the highway
no. 17 (Mumbai-Goa) takes you to Mahad. You can get refreshments all
along the way. The ghat section is long and offers some panoramic
view of the mountains. If you stop for the view, make sure you park
safely, without obstructing other traffic.
Air: The nearest airport is at
Pune about 120km away.
Rail: The nearest railhead is
Satara, 47km from Mahabaleshwar. Pune however is the most convenient
rail connection. It is linked to all the major cities in Maharashtra
and the neighbouring states.
Sightseeing:
Mount Malcolm
Mount Malcolm is Mahabaleshwar's most well-known landmark from the
days of the Raj. It was the residence of Sir John Malcolm, who founded
the hill station in 1828. This countryhouse was built in 1839 but
now lies forgotten.
Sir BD Petit Library
This library near the bus stand is pretty well preserved. It offers
a good collection of books and an excellent billiards table that you
can use for a moderate charge.
Morarji Castle
Another British edifice worth checking out, Morarji Castle served
as a temporary home for Mahatma Gandhi in 1945.
Venna Lake
The 2.4km Venna Lake is the favourite hangout of most tourists. It
offers both boating and fishing facilities with the added attraction
of wayside stalls and horse riding. It is also known for its luscious
strawberries - do check 'em out!
Lingmala & Chinaman's Waterfalls
Lingmala and Chinaman's waterfalls are 6km and 4km respectively from
the town. They are at their best during and just after the monsoon
when the water level rises and they cascade down in full pride.
Wilson Point
This is Mahabaleshwar's highest point - a bare rock with three strategically
positioned observation towers.
Kate's Point
This is Mahabaleshwar's 'echo point' which also offers great views
of the surrounding countryside. You can see the ribbon-like Krishna
river as it winds its way through green fields.
Quick Getaways
Pratapgarh & Raigad Forts
These two impressive hill forts built by the Maratha warrior-king
Shivaji lie 24km and 80km respectively from Mahabaleshwar.
Satara
Nearly 47km from Mahabaleshwar, Satara still bears marks of the great
Maratha leader, Shivaji. Also check out the Shivaji Maharaj Museum
and the Wasota Fort which was the venue of a bloody battle between
the Marathas and the Mughals.
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| Accomodation |
Valley View Resort
Valley View Road,
Near Market
Mahabaleshwar 412806
Tel: 60066; Fax: 60070
Regal Hotel
Mahabaleshwar 412806
Tel: 60001-3; Fax: 60162
Dreamland Hotel
Behind ST Stand
Tel: 60228, 60060;
Fax: 60063
Lake View
Satara Road
Mahabaleshwar 412806
Tel: 60160
Hotel Surya
48, Main Road
Mahabaleshwar 412806
Tel: 60966
Brightland Holiday
Kate's Point Road,
Mahabaleshwar
Mumbai Contact:
Tel.No: 2872590
Fountain Hotel
Opp. Koyna Valley,
Mahabaleshwar
Mumbai Contact:
Tel.No: 3677182 / 282
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| Other Places of Interest: |
 Panchgani Famous
for the silver oak trees and the boarding schools, Panchgani is an
hours drive from Mahabaleshwar. The Table Mount offers panoramic view
of lakes and valleys. You could also visit the factories that manufacture
and bottle fruit crush and jams. |
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