The scenic locations of western ghats are unique places to relax and unwind.  There are several places of historical and cultural importance, natural scenic locations and certain sites unique for their authentic beauty. Mahabaleshwar is one beautiful location in the lap of mother nature that experiences heavy rainfall, chilling winter and moderate summer. It is a home to several varieties of animals, birds, insects, butterflies and flowers. Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, orange carrots, Red Raddishes, Mangoes, Jackfruit, etc fruits grown abundantly.

The old folk tale reveals that there were two demons Mahabal and Atibal who troubled the people. Lord Shiva killed them and the temple was called as Mahabaleshwar.

Lets explore the places to visit in Mahabaleshwar

Panchaganga temple

Carved in solid stone, Panchaganga temple has the source of five rivers emerging out from the rocks within. The rivers are Krishna, Koyna, Venna, Gayatri and Savitri. These rivers in small but continuous flow have the water running throughout the year irrespective of the season or rainfall in that year. Very calm and peaceful, this gives a satisfaction of a calm and undisturbed location. Panchagani This hill station before the Mahabaleshwar is beautiful for its abundant trees and a lovely table land.

One of the most preferred site for films, TV serials and other programs, Panchagani offers a big flat land mass at a high level giving it a table land effect and hence the name.

There are no trees but flat ground with rocks in between. It is said that Pandavas had walked here leaving their footprints here.

Pratapgarh Fort

Historical fort near Mahabaleshwar is around 24 kms, which represents the testifier of the bravery and valour of Maratha ruler Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. At the foot hills of Pratapgarh, Shivaji Maharaj met Adilshahi sardar Afzal Khan and fought him when Afzal Khan tried attacking with treachery. In the temple of goddess Bhavani, the idol is displayed with eight hands.

A beautiful bronze statue of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj riding a horse adds grace to the fort. The cannon here has been made from ‘Panchadhatu’ meaning five metals.

Elphinstone Point

Named after the then governor, Mount Stuart Elphinstone, the Elphinstone point is the first tourist attraction in Mahabaleshwar. It extends two beautiful valleys of River Koyna and the river Savitri along with a clear view of Pratapgarh fort.

Mumbai Sunset Point

Beautiful point near the MTDC resort Mahabaleshwar offers a clear view of the setting sun.  Various kinds of chaupati games, irresistible horse rides, balloons, snack joints and more.

Venna Lake

Venna lake is one place that you should definitely visit while on the Mahabaleshwar tour. It is an artificial lake and an attraction for people belonging to all age groups. This lake was constructed by the government in 1942 for the purpose of water supply to nearby areas, which later converted into a tourist destination at Mahabaleshwar. The boat rides are popular means to refresh in the calm and serene location.

Lodwick Point

The Lodwick Point offers the majestic views of the mountains with a fresh breeze as it is at a raised height of about 4000 feet above sea level. This is also referred to as Sydney Point and was constructed in the commemoration of General Peter Lodwick, the first British officer who ascended the hill back in April 1824 and that is why he bears this name today. To commemorate his achievement in one lifetime, his son erected a column, about 25 feet high. At the bottom, lies a sculptured head of General Peter which is made from marble.

Arthur’s Seat Point

A unique point in Mahabaleshwar tourism, Arthur Seat point offers a set of six different points closely located. The six points include Arthur Seat point, Window point, Tiger Sprint Point, Malcolm Point, Hunter Point and Echo Point. The breathtaking views of the valley with lush green plateau, make it unique and mesmerizing location.

Kates Point

The Krishna Valley, Dhom Dham clear waters, and surroundings at Kate’s Point in Mahabaleshwar are simply spectacular. With a height of 1473 meters above ground, Kate’s Point invites all visitors from around the world to take deep breaths of fresh air while relieved of all worries in peace.

This pristine site is so breathtakingly beautiful that it becomes a cover page for most magazines at times.

Needle Point

Known for some ecstatic views of Deccan trap, Needle Hole Point is a natural rock formation with a hole & resembles an elephant’s trunk near Mahabaleshwar. The Needle hole point is located at just 7kms from Mahabaleshwar. The unique rock formation gives a shape of a needle hole making it beautiful creation of nature. It is a sliver hole between 2 rocks, giving it the structure of a needle hole and that of a standing elephant makes it a natural phenomenon and something beautiful to look for.