Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful town nestled in the bosom of majestic Western Ghats mountain ranges with an intriguing atmosphere. Throughout the British Raj, it served as the summer capital of the Bombay region, and it is today one of the country's most attractive hill stations. Beautiful vistas of hills and valleys, blossoming orchards, flowing waterfalls, thick green forest areas, and exotic species abound in the city. Since the climate is perfect for cultivating a broad variety of berries, the city is also known as the "Basket of Strawberries."
Every year, a large number of tourists flock to Mahabaleshwar. Arthur's Seat, Connaught Peak, Lodwick Point, Kate's Point, Krishnabai Temple, Pratapgad Peak, Lingmala Waterfalls, and many others are major tourist attractions. There's so much to explore about Mahabaleshwar, if it 's to escape the summer heat, wonder at Mother Nature's grandeur, or enjoy the sweets created from fresh food.

Mahabaleshwar's Past

Mahabaleshwar is one of the state of Maharashtra's oldest cities. It was governed by a number of Hindu and Muslim monarchs. Mahabaleshwar was first mentioned in 1215, when King Singhan of Deogiri made a tour to Old Mahabaleshwar. He then constructed a small shrine and a water reservoir near the Krishna River's mouth. The territory was dominated by a Brahmin dynasty until the Maratha family of Chandrarao More overcame them in the 16th century.
To safeguard the city from the British, Shivaji Maharaj acquired control of the territory in the 17th century and built the Pratapgad fort. Mahabaleshwar fell under the Peshwas' authority when he died. Later, the city was taken over by the British, who established it as their summer capital. The names of the British generals who identified the summits can be found on many of the peaks. Mahabaleshwar, also referred as "New Mahabaleshwar," was established in 1829-30 and was previously known as "Malcolm Peth" (Malcolm Ville).

Culture— Activate your sense of beauty

Mahabaleshwar's culture represents the people's way of life. This is especially visible during the Strawberry Festival in March, when residents get together to enjoy their cherished fruit, the strawberry, in an unique manner. Ganesh Chaturthi, like the rest of the state, is commemorated in September with a variety of celebrations and religious rites. Other festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and others, are also observed. They keep themselves occupied by playing local pastimes such as the coin game and going for hikes to the city's many peaks and points. Stacks of vibrant mulberries, raspberries, strawberries, and gooseberries adorn the markets.

Cuisine of Mahabaleshwar— The Strawberry Land

The natural gems of Mahabaleshwar's cuisine are mulberries, strawberries, carrots, corn, and cherry size tomatoes. Strawberry toffees, syrups, ice creams, whipped creams, fudge, jellies, and the Corn Pattice are all local specialties.
Traveling to Mahabaleshwar for a short weekend trip isn't complete without stopping by Bagicha Corner, a popular restaurant known for its mulberry cream, strawberry cream, ice creams and syrups, maize patties, zunka bhakari, and corn Frankies. For a scrumptious lunch, Mapro Garden Restaurant delivers mouth watering Italian pleasure pizzas and chocolate brownies, which can be accompanied by a number of colourful ice-cold chuskis and garden carrots from local suppliers.

Things to do at Mahableshwar

• Venna Lake— Take a Shikara ride: Mahabaleshwar's Venna Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder. This glittering lake is adorned with colourful boats or 'Shikaras' and offers tourists an unique time. It is encircled on all sides by verdant hills and trees. Taking a private boat cruise on this smooth water and seeing the stunning views of the adjacent hills from a unique perspective is one of the best things to do in Mahabaleshwar.
• Tapola— Get a Taste Of Jungle Trekking: It is a bucolic hamlet with the lovely Shivsagar Lake as its centrepiece. Tapola is renowned for its pastoral charm, but it's also an excellent place for jungle trekking and nature hikes, which is why it's primarily visited by adventurers and environment lovers. Trekking and trekking in the forest allows visitors to get up and personal with a diverse array of flora, animals, and avifauna. Apart from jungle trekking, there are a variety of watersports available in the calm waters of the lake, including boating, water scooter rides, kayaking, and swimming, which are among the greatest things to do in Mahabaleshwar.
• Horse Riding— Tour The Hill Station on a Horseback: Another popular sport in Mahabaleshwar is horseback riding. The main sites where this activity can be done are around Venna Lakes and Table Tops. The activity at the lake begins at 9:00 a.m. and continues until 6:00 p.m. The months of October to June are ideal for this pastime.
• Rock Climbing— Indulge in a Wide Range of Exciting Activities: If you're seeking exciting things to do in Mahabaleshwar, you wo n't be dissatisfied because there are a variety of activities to choose from, like rock climbing and ziplining. Whether you're travelling with friends or family, Velocity Entertainmentz is the only location to go in Mahabaleshwar for all of these adventures.
• Lingmala Falls— Take a Splash: The Lingmala Falls, which are only 6 kilometres from Mahabaleshwar, are among the most beautiful things to do in Mahabaleshwar in June. Trekkers, hikers, couples, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool flowing waters. Climb up to this waterfall for absolute enjoyment in the midst of gorgeous greenery.
• Pratapgarh Fort— Discover the treasures of this enigmatic location: The Pratapgarh Fort, about 24 kilometres from Mahabaleshwar, is a significant historical relic near this hill town that commemorates the Maratha Empire's fight for Swaraj under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji. Pratapgarh Fort, a maze of exquisite ponds, chambers, and dark, extended passages, is a great spot for adrenaline seekers in Mahabaleshwar.

Places to visit 

• Elephant's Head Point: Elephant's Head Point, as the name implies, is a rocky outcropping that eerily mimics an elephant's head. It's also known as the needle point, and it's one of Mahabaleshwar's most romantic destinations for couples. It's a famous tourist destination in Mahabaleshwar, and it's a great area for a picnic in the fresh air, with plenty of sun and picturesque splendour encircling the hilltop.
• Connaught Peak: Connaught Peak was changed after the Duke of Connaught after it was originally named as Mount Olympia. From its peak elevation of 1,400 metres above sea level, it offers spectacular views of Venna Lake and Krishna Valley. The top also offers spectacular views of Panchgani, Pasarani, and Pratapgad. You must visit this location, as it is one of Mahabaleshwar's most fascinating tourist attractions.
• Rajapuri Caves: The four Rajapuri Caves are around 10 kilometres from town and are encircled by enormous kunds. There is a Lord Karthikeya temple in one cave and a Goddess Ghatjal Devi shrine in another. The remaining three caves are connected by underground passageways, which are thought to have acted as Pandavas' refuge during their banishment. It is one of Mahabaleshwar's most beautiful sights.
• Arthur's Seat: Arthur's Seat, at a height of 1470 metres, is one of Mahabaleshwar's most popular tourist attractions. This region, also known as Madhi Mahaal, has a distinct and uncommon feature. Due to the air pressure, if you throw something light down the valley from here, it will return back up. Arthur's Seat is appropriately known as the 'Queen of the Points,' as it offers unbroken vistas over the Deccan and Konkan on all sides.
• Chinaman's Fall: A trip to Mahabaleshwar isn't complete unless you see the tantalising descent of the Chinaman's Fall, one of the state's most significant falls. The location takes its name from a nearby Chinese prison. It is an ideal vacation destination that offers a captivating experience.
• Panchgani: Panchgani, also known as Paachgani, is situated at a height of 1,334 metres. The five hills that make up the Sahyadri mountain ranges give Panchgani its name. The magnificent backdrop of hills on one side and coastal lowlands on the other adds to the breathtaking view. The area was designated as a summer resort during the British era, and as a result, several colonial period institutions can be found here.

How to reach?

• Via Air: The town of Mahabaleshwar does not have an airport. Pune, around 120 kilometres distant, has the closest airport. From here, you can hire a cab or a bus to Mahabaleshwar.
• Via Bus: There are a number of buses that run between Mumbai and Mahabaleshwar, a distance of around 247 kilometres. From Mumbai and Pune, there are both public and private buses available. You can take the bus from Sion, Dadar East, or Vashi if you're coming from Mumbai. It will take you about six hours to complete the journey.
• Via Train: The closest railway to Mahabaleshwar is Wathar (60 km), although Pune is the most approachable and convenient. There are many trains that go from Mumbai and other major Indian towns to Pune, and you can also catch a bus or taxi from Pune to Mahabaleshwar.