Location : In the
state of Maharashtra in the western coast of India.
Major Tourist Attractions : Mount Malcolm, Catholic
Church, Mahabaleshwar Club, Morarji Castle, Pratapgad Fort, Panchgani
Best Hangout : Panchgani
Best Activity : Roam around
Nearby Tourist Destinations : Mumbai, Aurangabad,
Nagpur, Pune, Satara, Matheran, Lonavla, Khandala.
When To Visit : October to June
About Mahabaleshwar
The highest hill station in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar
is situated at 1372 m around Lake Venna. Mahabaleshwar was the summer
capital of Governor of the old Bombay Presidency. Spread in 10 sq km. of
land, Mahabaleshwar is the most ideal respite from the humdrum life of the
city. There are 30
valley viewpoints with panoramic views spread through out the hill station
and the way to these places most enchanting with shady, pleasant walks and
treks. The area has strong historical connections with Shivaji, the heroic
Maratha warrior king.
The Britishers built several mansions, cottages and bungalows all around
the town, lending it a charming, sophistication. The place is popular with
both Indian and foreign tourists, for its luring and refreshing
surroundings.
Tourist Attractions in Mahabaleshwar
Mount Malcolm
Mount Malcolm used to be the most famous building in the olden days. It was
built in 1829 with superb architectural skills. Unfortunately, today it has
lost a lot of its old charm.
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.
Mahabaleshwar Club
Built in 1881, the club is still flourishing and well-preserved. Only
members of the club are allowed to stay here. It is very popular for its
well-tended roses and lovely jogging track.
Pratapgad Fort
The historic Pratapgad Fort (24 km) was built by the Maratha chieftain
Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1656, to control the rebellious rulers of the nearby
Javali Basin. It is said that, Shivaji was blessed with a shining sword at
the temple of Goddess Bhawani located here. It is also the site of the
famous battle between Shivaji and Afzal Khan, ruler of the Bijapur
Sultanate.
Panchgani
Tucked away in Satara district, just 19 kms east of Mahabaleshwar,
Panchgani is also amongst the most frequented hill resorts in India. The
name is derived from the fact that it is located at the centre of five hills
("Panch" means five, "Gani" means hills). The place is
well known for trekking and other adventure activities.
Getting There
Air : Pune is the nearest airport both for Mahabaleshwar (120 km and
Panchgani (98 km)
Rail : The nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is
the convenient railhead. For Panchgani, the nearest railhead is Wathar (45
km). Mumbai-Wathar via Pune (312 km). Pune-Wathar (120 km)
Road : The State Transport buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to
Mahabaleshwar. MTDC operates daily bus services except during the monsoon,
between Mumbai-Mahabaleshwar-Mumbai.
Accommodation
Both Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani have reasonable priced bungalows. MTDC run
holiday resorts and hotels. The accommodation available offer good line of
facilities and services, as per the expectation of the tourists.
