Mahabaleshwar - Nature Destinations

There is no better way to relax than escape the daily drudgery and head for a hill station. These places need not be very cool and at great heights. Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra is one such place. It is one of those places which has something for every one. An added advantage is its accessibility even by air.

by REPORTER@DAYAFTERINDIA.COM

Away from the crowds and noise of the city, the resort is an ideal holiday destination. Mahabaleshwar lies on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. It is at an altitude of 1372 meters and overlooks the Krishna and Koyna valley. Mahabaleshwar is one of the most spectacular and the largest of Maharashtra’s hill-stations. It is a most popular destination in the Maharashtra as a valley of the hills. The heat and the dust of the plains give way to the cool breezes and the gorgeous greens of Mahabaleshwar. The hill resort of Mahabaleshwar derives its name from the God “Mahabali”. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Mahabali namely the old Mahabaleshwar Temple.

It is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its various temples, spectacular viewpoints and historically significant places. It is a great place for holidaying as it provides ample opportunities for leisure activities such as fishing, boating and trekking. Mahabaleshwar still retains some of its old world charm and makes for an ideal holiday destination.

PLACES OF INTEREST: Catholic Church: A visit to the old Roman Catholic Holy Cross church is worth a detour. Although the church is practically falling apart, its stained-glass windows are still a sight to behold. This deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.

Pratapgad Fort: The fort has a great view. This is 24 kms. away from Mahabaleshwar. The fort was built in 1656 by Moropant Trimbak Pingle under the command of the Maratha ruler Shivaji. It was here that the mighty General of Bijapur, Afzal Khan, was killed by Shivaji.

Mount Malcolm : It used to be the most famous building in the olden days. It was built in 1829 with magnificent architectural skills. Unfortunately, it has lost a lot of its old charm now.

Mahabaleshwar Club : The club was built in 1881 and is still flourishing and well-maintained. Only members of the club can stay here. It is very popular for its well-tended roses and lovely jogging track. Christmas is grandly celebrated by loyal members every year. Fortunately, one facility is open to visitors; who can use the golf-course whenever they feel like it.

Morarji Castle : Also worth a look is this old structure. Mahatma Gandhi once lived here in 1945.

For those looking for a spiritual experience, there are the Krishna and Mahabaleshwar Temples. As well as the point of the five rivers which flow over the Deccan Plateau, namely the Krishna, Koyna, Savitri, Veena & Gayatri.

HOW TO REACH:

By Air - Pune is the nearest airport both for Mahabaleshwar (120 km and Panchgani (98 km)

By Rail - For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead.

By Road - From Bombay via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290 km and via Mahad it is 247 km. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.

MORE DETAILS:- Climate: It has a pleasant climate throughout the year. In summers, temperatures range between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius and in winters it falls even further.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the hill resort of Mahabaleshwar is from October to June. The cool breezes in the summer months of the hill resort work magic on the stressed and sun scorched souls of the plains.

Clothing : Since the climate is pleasant throughout the year, loose cotton attire is preferable. Although during winters light woollen clothes are advisable.

What to buy : In Mahableshwar honey and strawberry crushes & jams are very famous. The place also has a wide variety of chikki (a famous local sweet).