10 Best Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar, India

Mahabaleshwar is a hidden gem that lies in the lap of Sahyadri mountain ranges in Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai. Lush hills, greenery, and mystical landscapes surround Mahabaleshwar making for an enthralling view. Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberries, and you should buy tons of it, as they are the best. There are numerous places to visit here and many activities to do like trekking and water sports or go on a bike ride to Mahabaleshwar.

It is a perfect getaway with family, friends and it even makes for a great spot for solo traveling. Also one of the hill stations near Pune, Mahabaleshwar in Satara is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Maharashtra. Situated at an altitude of 1400 plus meters above sea level, Mahabaleshwar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills, woods, and plains.

Also home to remarkable ancient temples, spectacular waterfalls, lush green hills and a myriad of exotic flora and fauna, Mahabaleshwar is truly a nature lover's paradise. In this Mahabaleshwar travel guide, I will tell you about the famous tourist spots, restaurants and what type of adventurous activities you can do while staying in Mahabaleshwar.

Displaying the Western Ghats in its full glory, Mahabaleshwar is one of the most loved hill stations in Maharashtra. Covered in lush green foliage and thick forest cover, Mahabaleshwar is a peaceful respite from the chaos of the city life. People from not just Mumbai, but across the world also make it a point to visit this place at least once.

Not even a single day spent in Mahabaleshwar is wasted. One can visit places like - elevated viewpoints, boating expeditions, Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgarh Fort, Lingmala Waterfall etc.

Here are a few famous tourist places in Mahabaleshwar.

1. Mahabaleshwar Temple

It is an important site for pilgrims, but everyone who visits Mahabaleshwar comes to seek blessing from Shiva here. The temple has a pure, tranquil and serene ambiance that calms and rejuvenates the minds of everyone who comes here. It dates back to the 16th century and is also known as the Mahabali temple. You can visit this temple between 5 AM to 12 PM or from 4 PM to 9 PM.

2. Pratapgad

It is situated 25 km from Mahabaleshwar and is easily accessible via roads. It has amazing ponds, caves, chambers, and walkaways which makes it enthralling. Also, it has a historical significance, as Maratha’s swaraj struggle under Chhatrapati Shivaji’s command started here, and the timings are from 10 AM to 6 PM.

3. Lingmala Waterfall

If you love waterfalls, a visit to the Lingmala fall is a must for you. Enjoy a dip in the cool water and hike up to the waterfall to enjoy the best of nature. You have to pay an entry fee of 20 rupees, and the timings are from 8 AM to 5:30 PM.

4. Wilson Point

Wilson point is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. From here you have the best view of hills and greenery. Also, it one of those rare places where you can enjoy both sunsets and sunrise. The best time to come here is in December and the timings are 6 AM to 7:30 PM.

5. Connaught Peak

It is a favorite picnic spot in Mahabaleshwar where you can enjoy the splendid view of Venna Lake and Krishna valley.

6. Elephant Point

It is famous for its beautiful and peaceful environment. The rock formation here represents the head and trunk of an elephant, hence the name. You can enjoy the enthralling view of hills from here.

Other must visit places in Mahabaleshwar are: Elphinstone Point, Arthur Seat, Dhobi waterfall and Chinaman Waterfall.

7. Shikara riding over the mesmerizing Venna Lake

One of the most beautiful lakes of India, Venna Lake in Mahabaleshwar is surrounded by lush hills and nature. The lake offers you ride over it using boats or shikaras that is a must to witness the amazing beauty of the whole river and the surrounding scenery.

You can take a private boat to enjoy the hills that are on the boarders from 7 am to 7 pm. Also, there are many street foods available near the river to take something on the journey. You can also do Horse Riding near Venna lake.

• Price for rowing the boat- For ₹ 250, 30 minute and for ₹ 500, 1 hour for 7 people.
• Price for peddling the boat- 400 ₹ for 6 people up to 1 hour.

8. Go jungle trekking in Tapola Road

Tapola is a beautiful, picturesque town located just about a couple of hours from Pune. The town is a perfect place for nature lovers, as it has big mountains, lovely rivers, and a ton of adventure. To begin with, there are a number of adventure park in the town, that offer regular adventure sports like go-karts, buggies, and other stuff. But the real fun lies in the outdoors, by the lake.

Lakeside camping is one of the most thrilling experience you can have, especially when you can stay awake a little late and explore the surroundings at night. Then there’s the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, the home to predators like bears, leopards, hyenas, etc. Going on a jungle safari, witnessing the wild beasts in their natural habitat is always exhilarating.

Tapola is a small trekking ground near Shivsagar Lake. It is a beautiful place for trekking in Mahabaleshwar or taking nature walks. While trekking here, you will have a great view of flora and fauna. Another adventure activity that you can do here is water sports. The quiet water of the lake lets people indulge in kayaking, swimming, boat rides, and water scooter rides.

9. Bird watching at Babington Point

If you are a nature/wildlife enthusiast or bird watcher, you must visit the Babington point. It is situated at the height of 1,294 m above sea level and is home to some of the most amazing birds.The climate here is excellent with a lush spread of greenery, and other numerous animals, and the timings are from 8 AM to 7 PM.

10. Kates Point

You must visit Kates Point where Rab Ne Bana di Jodi and Chennai Express were shot.

Restaurants in Mahabaleshwar

The Mapro garden

Visit the mapro garden, and enjoy the delicious food and drinks made using the best strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and mulberries. Mapro has become a famous brand that sells drinks, jams and so on internationally.

Bagicha Corner

If you love street food, you should go to this food joint, near Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar road. It has Indian and fast food and is famous for its strawberry cream. Also, it is vegetarian and budget-friendly.

Farmhouse Bistro

For a sophisticated dining experience with moderate pricing, try the Farmhouse Bistro. It is situated inside hotel dreamland and offers the Mediterranean, Italian and European cuisine to its consumers.

Olive Garden

If you love fine dining, visit Olive garden at Kates Point Road Brightland Resort and Spa. It has vegan and vegetarian food options.

Places to stay in Mahabaleshwar

The Countryside Forest Cottage: The Resort though being in Mahabaleshwar is very secluded and away from the touristy chaos. It is nestled on a mountain ridge top, the view is beautiful, they have little farms between cottages. You can also go for strawberry plucking here, a very refreshing experience. There are different type of accommodations.

Hillside Boutique Stay: Situated on a ridge of a mountain surrounded by greenery. From any point of here, you can soak in the view. Architecture is earthy and minimal, you can choose from Cottages or tent. If you are a person crazy for panoramic views just like this is the best place.

Redstone Eco Centre and Organic Farm: For a true experience of Village and farm life, you must visit this place. Famous among Marathi celebs, this place is simple, homely and soulful. The food is from the farms fresh and organic. Cottages are spacious, minimal and equipped with all modern amenities. Great for families.

Luxury Hill Getaway: One of the best resorts for view in the entire Panchgani. This one is great for couples and families with kids. Swimming pool, tennis courts, restaurant, the resort has all the amenities that you might be looking for. Rooms are luxurious with beautiful shiny chandeliers and the balcony is huge with a gorgeous view of the Valley.

Regenta MPG club: It is a premium and refined hotel that is 1km from the market and 5 Km from Venna Lake. The cost of this hotel is rupees 10,000 per night. The rooms have warm decors and have coffee makers, minibars, well-furnished bathroom, and many other amenities. Here you can enjoy multiple cuisines in the complimentary breakfast. Also, room service is available 24*7 and other there is a pool, hot tub, spa and so on.

Trend JB Point: This hotel is near Lingmala Falls, and the price starts from 4000 rupees. You may find better deals on many travel making websites. It is a neat and clean hotel with many amenities that include free breakfast. It has suite rooms with free WIFI and A/C and laundry service.

Pratap Heritage: If you want good amenities and clean rooms in a budget, choose this hotel. The price for a room per night is 2000 rupees. The rooms have free WIFI and AC. They also provide laundry services, and there is an outdoor and indoor pool.

(The prices here are a deal by TripAdvisor. Feel free to check other sites.)

How to Reach Mahabaleshwar

You can reach Mahabaleshwar by flying to Pune or Mumbai. From Pune, it is 120 Km away and you can take a cab. From Mumbai, you can reach Mahabaleshwar in 4-5 hours by road. Wathar is the nearest railway station located 60 km from Mahabaleshwar. After that hire a cab or bus.

Best Time To Visit Mahabaleshwar

It is the perfect vacation spot to get away from the hot summers as it has cool and pleasant weather year around.

I hope this Mahabaleshwar travel blog will help you figure out what to do on your vacation in Mahabaleshwar. Hit the comments button and tell me if I missed something or about your experience here.