About Mahabaleshwar
Nestled
in the hills of the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill
station with the mystifying lake Venna around it. It had once the privilege
of being the summer capital of the Governer of the old Bombay Presidency.
The place is no less historical and has its connections with the great
Maratha leader Shivaji. Innumerable mansions, cottages and bungalows built
by the Britishers add infinite charm to this idyllic hill resort. Locals
from Mumbai and Pune often arrive here to escape the worries of their
fast-paced life in the cities. The place also offers sports activities like
horse-riding, boating, go-karting etc. Christmas and Diwali witness a huge
number of tourists, holiday-makers and honeymooners.
Climate
The climate of Mahabaleshwar is neither too hot nor too cold. It is because
of its high altitude and its nearness to the Arabian Sea. During the summers
temperature rises to a maximum of only 30 degrees and during the winters it
goes down to 16 degrees. October to June is the best time to visit
Mahabaleshwar.
Major Attractions
» Catholic Church - The Raman Catholic Holy Cross
Church is today in a state of dilapidation yet its stained-glass windows are
a sight not to be missed. A Hindu family looks after the church today.
» Mount Malcolm - Built in 1829, Mount Malcolm is
a fine example of ancient architectural brilliance. Thousands of visitors
arrive here to have a glimpse of the building.
» Mahabaleshwar Club - The Mahabaleshwar Club was built in 1881.
It houses a beautiful jogging park and is popular for its exquisite blooms
of roses. Christmas is celebrated on a massive scale by the members of the
club. There is even a golf course for the visitors.
» Pratapgadh Fort - At a distance of 24 km from
Mahabaleshwar stands the Pratapgadh Fort. The fort was built by Moropant
Trimback Pingle under the command of the Maratha ruler, Shivaji. It is the
very site where General of Bijapur, Afzal Khan, was killed.
Shopping
Mahabaleshwar is paved with shops and stalls selling everything from shoes
to strawberries, jam and jellies. There are even leather goods and tribal
trinkets on sale. Jams and jellies can prove to be one's tasty buys.
Accommodation
Brightland Holidays is located at an elevation of 4,400 feet and gives
splendid views of the Shayadri ranges. Amenities provided include
restaurant, Italian cuisine, bar, swimming pool, jacuzzi/sauna/ steam,
laundry, conference hall etc. Valley View Resort on the Valley View Road is
another beautiful accommodation option. The hotel caters all the basic
amenities.
How To Reach
» Air - Pune, located at a distance of 120 km from
Mahabaleshwar, is the nearest airport.
» Railway - Wathar (62 km) is the nearest railhead
but Pune (120 km) is more convenient.
» Road - The State Transport buses connect
Mahabaleshwar to Mumbai and Pune.
North
India States
