Mahabaleshwar Hill Resort,
Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar was the summer capital of the erstwhile Bombay Presidency. A popular
town, with an air of unspoilt beauty, it meanders leisurely for 5 kms. at an
altitude of 1372m.
While away the hours boating or fishing at the placid Venna Lake. Explore the
walks or the thirty points that offer panoramic views of the valley and the
sea. Bathe in the crystal waters of the numerous waterfalls.
Discover Pratapgad Fort 24 kms. away, where Shivaji dramatically bested General
Afzal Khan. And the gorgeous ninehole golf course built on the edge of a cliff!
Or simply idle through the tiny lanes of the bazaar, shopping for everything
from shoes to luscious strawberries, blackberries, jams and jellies.
Taxis and rickshaws are easily available though a bicycle, which you can hire
by the hour or for the day, is the best way to get around.
Temperature vary from 13oC in winter to 29 oC in summer with a yearly rainfall
of 663 cms.
The best time to visit is October to June.
Getting there: Pune is the nearest airport, 120 kms. away. Pune is also
the most convenient railhead, though Wathar at 62 kms. is the nearest.
Mumbai is 290 kms. away by road via Pune and 247 kms. via Mahad.
