Mahabaleshwar
‘Mahableshwar’ means mighty God. It was once the capital of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj. It takes about eight hours from Mumbai. Mahableshwar has a refreshing climate and is a cozy ‘honeymoon’ spot. Apart from its scenic beauty it is home to a thriving market for forest honey, turmeric, strawberry jams, crushes and handcrafted leather footwear. The town bazaar is known as Malcolm Peth. Walk around and enjoy the breathtaking views of its valleys, peaks, flora and the cool mountain air. One can visit Mahableshwar throughout the year, except during the rainy months for it’s virtually shut down. Mahableshwar is the highest hill station in Western India, nestling in the Sahyadri range in the Western Ghats. It has an evergreen cover of forest around itself. In winter you could feel the chill running down your spine at 5 degrees Celsius. Nature lovers, holiday makers, adventurous and even filmmakers love Mahableshwar. You could go around and see…
1. Pratapgad Fort
Once the pride of the Maratha Empire, it is about 24 km from Mahableshwar. Its trap doors lead to a 100 meter fall. A temple of Goddess Bhavani is situated within the Fort.
2. Lodwick Point
It is a towering point almost 1,240 m above sea level. There you will see a seat named Lodwick Arthur from where you get a non-blink view of the Jor Valley.
3. The Sangam
This place got its name from the confluence of the five rivers that flow over the Deccan Plateau. It is dotted with a number of temples.
4. Lingmala Falls
It is one of the most enthralling falls cascading almost 600 ft from a cliff. To name other worth a visit are Dhobi Falls and Chinaman’s Fall.
5. Venna Lake
Jump on to a four-legged horse and off you go to the lake. Do experience the cool mountain breeze while fishing and waiting for your catch.
6. Tapola
This place is 30 km from Mahableshwar. It is an excellent picnic spot which is also called ‘Mini Kashmir’. It is an enjoyable water sport centre too.
7. Other attractions are Rajapuri Caves, Kartikswami Temple, Mandharodeo Kanga Point, Kachhabavdi Point and Pandav-Ghat.
