A Complete Guide to Mahabaleshwar

Perched amid the beautiful Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful and one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra. Known as the ‘land of strawberries,’ Mahabaleshwar is also home to the holy river Krishna. Decorated with majestic peaks, historic temples, gleaming rivers, serene lakes and cascading waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar is every tourist’s delight.

Mahabaleshwar is a popular weekend getaway location for Mumbaikars and Punekars who come here to escape the city chaos, relax and unwind. Dotted with many tourist attractions, you can see nature's splendour at every turn. If you are planning a visit to this beautiful town, the following Mahabaleshwar travel guide will immensely help you make the most out of your trip. It covers places to see in and around Mahabaleshwar, things to do, best time to visit and the best place to stay. So, without any further ado, let’s get started. 

Places to see in around Mahabaleshwar

Wilson Point

The highest point in Mahabaleshwar, it is located at about 1439 metres above sea level, and it is also popularly known as the ‘sunrise point.’ There are three watch towers here that give you an unprecedented and stunning panoramic view of the valley and the sunrise. If you are an early riser, head to this point and catch one of the most beautiful sunrises you have ever seen. 

Lingmala waterfalls

The waterfall is formed by the Venna River and is situated on the Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani road. The only way to reach the falls is to trek down through a narrow path surrounded by lush greenery with towering trees. From the gate, you must walk about 2.5 kms to reach the main waterfalls.

You may have to climb down the stairs to reach the lower deck of the falls, but once you make it down, the spectacular view will be totally worth it. You can also visit Chinaman’s Waterfall and Dhobi Waterfalls, which are located nearby. 

Elephant’s Head Point

All the Mahabaleshwar guide books or brochures for travellers will definitely have the mention of this point. The point gets its name because of the overhanging cliff that resembles the head of an elephant. You get the most spectacular view of the Sahyadri ranges and is a great place to just relax and watch the view of the sunrise or sunset. No matter what time of the year it is, the greenery around the area will calm your senses. 

Venna Lake

A man made wonder, the lake was built by the Maharaja of Satara, Shri Appasaheb in 1942. The lake is surrounded by a thick foliage of greenery and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Mahabaleshwar. 

There is a small garden on the banks of the lake, which is an ideal spot for clicking pictures with the lake and surrounding beauty in the backdrop.

Interesting things to do in Mahabaleshwar

Explore Panchgani

It is a popular and beautiful location near Mahabaleshwar that attracts many tourist. There are several viewpoints here and you can also indulge in adventure activities like paragliding and trekking. One of the most important attractions of the place is the Land Cave Restaurant, which is located inside the caves. It serves lip-smacking food, and is a great place to have your lunch or evening snack while you explore Panchgani. 

Visit Wax Museum

This museum features life-sized wax statues of more than 30 renowned personalities. You can click a few pictures besides your favourite celebrity or you can buy some candles that are handmade by impaired kids as a token of your appreciation for their hard work. 

Go trekking in the Tapola Jungles

Tapola is a small hamlet that is located about 28 kms from Mahabaleshwar. Known for its pristine beauty, it is an excellent spot for indulging in some adventure activities like hiking and jungle trekking. You can also set up a camp here and spend a night under the stars with bonfire and barbecues.

Gorge of fresh strawberries from the farms

Mahabaleshwar is home to several strawberry farms and gardens, and the most famous among them is the Mapro Garden. It is one of the best places in the town to gorge on some delicious strawberry-based foods. There are other farms where you can munch on some fresh berries. Your trip to Mahabaleshwar would be incomplete without a visit to these farms. 

Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar

Since Mahabaleshwar is a hill station, the weather here remains pleasant all through the year, however, if you want to experience the best of what the place has to offer, you must visit in the winters between November and February. The temperature can drop pretty low here and would give you the chills you need. During Monsoon, there is fresh greenery all around and is the best time to see the waterfalls.

Where to stay in Mahabaleshwar

What is a Mahabaleshwar trip guide without recommendations on the best places to stay? While you are visiting the town, you can book your holiday at Club Mahindra Sherwood or Club Mahindra Saj resorts in Mahabaleshwar. Both the resorts promise to offer you premium facilities and warm hospitality that would make your stay a memorable one. Not to mention, there are innumerable amazing experiences you can enjoy at the resort.