Mahabaleshwar Guide
One of the most populer hill station in the country, Mahableshwar is an ideal weekend getaway for a city break
Why Go ?
Built in 1828 by former governer of Bombay Sir John Boy Malcolm, Mahabaleshwar quickly became the summer capital of the Bombay presidency thanks to its scenic views and rolling hillsides. Although commercialisation and the astounding number of weekend holiday maker have eroded its colonial charm to some extent, it still offers astounding views and a splash of greenery, a welcome change from the urban jungle that most of us are otherwise used to.
What is there to do ?
As with any hill station, there are multiple points from where you can enjoy stunning views of the hillside, such as Elphinstone point, wilson's point and Bombay admiring the stunning landscape, cool off under the gushing water at chinaman,s.
GettingThere When To Go
The nearest airport is Pune, 120 km from Mahabaleshwar Being immensely populer with city weary Mumbaikars
The nearest railhead is Watha, 62 Km away but Pune is over the weekend, Mahabaleshwar is packed to the
more convenient from there public and private buses and gills during the summer vacation and Christmas break
taxi operate daily to Mahabaleshwar. Avoid these times if you want peace and quiet. |
See
Best for the views : get an early start on the viewpoint to beat the other tourist. Arthur's seat provides a breathtaking view of the Savitri valley. Kate's and lodwick points are worth visiting too. The sunset is best seen from Bombay point.
Best for the beauty : Mahableshwar has some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Maharashtra, namely the Chinaman's Lingmala and Dhobi falls. They are best visited during or just after the rains.
Best for worship : Many devotees come to visit the 13th century Panchganga temple where waters of five holy rivers come together.
Best for adventure : Venna lake is popular with tourist and locals alike not only for the clam waters, but also for all activity ( boat house on temple road, 8 am - 8 pm )
Best for Strolling : Visit one of Mahableshwar's strawberry spots, like Archies Farm, Shilpa Farm and Mapro Garden. |
Sleep
MTDC Resort : If all you want a nice, clean room with soft bed, head to MTDC resort. Although it screams of government aesthetics, you are ensured some peace and quiet and lots of greenery.
Hotel Rajesh : is a value for money option which is heavy on amenities and quite light on the wallet. Rooms are well furnished and there's a veg eatery famous for it's Gujarati thaili's .
Hotel Panorama : is one the better hotels in the region, though it stays closed for the rains. Choose from clean rooms or cosy cottages .
Hotel Saket Plaza : is another great option, there is a lovely swimming pool which light up in different colours at night, a small waterfall and a lovely tree house.
Brightland Holiday Village :There are plenty of well decorated rooms to choose from, most of which overlook valley.
To book any of above hotel you may click here |
Eat and Drinks
Hikani Gardens : in addition to hosting lovely strawberry fields, is the place to visit for some authentic local vegetarian Maharashtrian food. The amazing bhakar ( bread ) and zunka ( chickpea and gram flour stew ) are worth sinking your teeth into.
Aman Restaurant : more a roadside eatery than a restaurant, is a good eating option. The kababs and tandoori are succulent (0091 - 9422404724 ).
Hotel Temple view : you are unable to decide exactly what you want to eat,visit this restaurant , choose from Indian, Chinese or order Gujarati or rajasthani dishes and set thail's. ( 0091 - 2168 - 260025 ).
Grapevine : be sure to grab a meal at this restaurant, take a seat at one of the charming wroughtiron tables and sink your teeth into some amazing Parsi staples . ( 0091 - 2168 - 260101 ).
Olive Garden : A nice change from the mainly indian and Indianised Chinese food can be had at this restaurant. at Brightland holiday village. it does fairly authentic Italian, and the pizza baked in the wooden oven are brilliant . It's also one of the only place to get pepperoni and wine . (0091 - 2168 - 260700 )
| |