A Trip to Mahabaleshwar

Conde Nast Traveller’s April May 2014 issue on Indian hill stations, reminded me of my last year’s trip to the lovely hill station of Mahabaleshwar. This scenic hill station near Pune is a popular weekend hangout. Famous for its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is good to visit in all seasons. If December January comes with good cool weather and strawberries, monsoon is exciting with numerous waterfalls.

Just half an hour away from its twin sister, Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar is a typical hill station famous for it's strawberries.

On way to from Mumbai at Mahabaleshwar Panchgani road the first viewpoint that you see is Parsi point. 

It gives amazing views of Dhom Lake and the Kamalgad in the backdrop. There are few eateries and local artisans sell their goods. You can have local ice gola (slush) or buy locally made footwear.

If you have appetite for shakes and ice creams drop into the Mapro Garden near by. 

Within few kilometers you will reach Lingmala waterfall. Dont miss a sharp left turn after Hotel Surya leading to the falls. On the way through narrow lanes you will come across strawberry plantations. Park your vehicle in the parking space and walk towards the newly constructed pathways. Walking through a jungle surrounded by trees you will be greeted by the sound of waterfall first. Suddenly, you will find yourself in front of this waterfall with crystal clear waters.

Coming back on the Mahabaleshwar - Panchgani road take a quick sharp right turn which will take you uphill. If you have a sunroof in your car come out and enjoy this beautiful drive. One of the best in Mahabaleshwar. Take right turn on the dead end pass through Brightlands hotel reach to Kate's point.  Watch Out for amazing views of Balakwadi Dam built over Krishna River. 

Coming back from the Kate's Point go straight on Duchess road and take left just before old Mahabaleshwar. Elphinstone point gives you wonderful views of Sahyadri range. Moving ahead pass through Marjorie Point, Three Monkey Point, Hunter's Point, Echo Point, Malcom Point and Tiger Spring.

The most popular one is Arthur's Seat.

and there is three monkey point.

Coming back to Mahabaleshwar Panchgani road visit Venna lake before Mahabaleshwar town. This place is full of eateries and entertainment shops.

Enjoy a boat trip on the lake. Moving towards town there are more points to see. Be it Ludwick Point, Needle Point or Elephant Head you are assured of amazing valley views.

Happy traveling!!!