My trip to Mahabaleshwar

In the last summer vacation, I went to Pune and Mahabaleshwar. Pune is one of the most important cities in Maharashtra. It has a very rich culture and history. We spent twodays in Pune and saw some famous places there, like Shaniwarwada, Sinhgad, Raja Kelkar Museum, Saras Bag and Parvati. I got very important information about the Peshwas and Maratha Dynasty that ruled India for more than 300 years.

Then we went to Mahabaleshwar. It is one of the most popular hill stations in India. It was the summer capital of the old Bombay Presidency during the colonial period. The specialty of Mahabaleshwar is its captivating beauty. The place has lush green forest, old historical places, gardens, and a breathtaking view of valleys and waterfalls.

Mahabaleshwar is located towards the south of Mumbai in the Western Ghats Range. It is a vast plateau that measures around 150 square kilometers, surrounded by valleys on all sides.  The average height is around 1400 meters above sea level.

We reached Mahabaleshwar in the evening. Since it was already dark, we has a delicious dinner in the hotel and went to sleep. Our tour program was scheduled from the next morning. The first point was Wilson Point.

Wilson Point

Wilson Point is known by another name, which is known as the Sunrise Point. It is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar and it is very popular among tourists.

It is a vast plateau, where three watchtowers are located at different spots. We had a captivating panoramic view of Mahabaleshwar.

                                                    

Elephant’s Head Point

This was the first place that we visited on the first day. Elephant’s Head Point is a mountain rock that looks like the head of an elephant. The gigantic Sahyadri range of mountains is visible from this place. The famous Pratapgad fort can also be seen. On one side we saw Koyna valley and on the other side, we saw Savitri valley.

After lunch, we went to one beautiful place called Venna Lake.

 

                                                              

Venna Lake

Since it was summers, we went to Venna Lake in the evening. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Spread across 28 acres, the lake was built to cater to local water needs. On the banks of Venna Lake, there is a garden called ‘Chhatrapati Pratapsinh Garden’.

We enjoyed a boat ride and horse ride at the lake. There are several eating joints around the lake to satisfy your hunger and tickle the taste buds.

By the time we had boat ride, it was the time to watch a stunning sunset.

We were tired after having a full day of excitement and fun. So, we went to the hotel and had our dinner. We went to bed with an expectation of another eventful day.

                                             

Arthur’s Seat point

The first point we visited next day morning was Arthur Seat Point. It is located at the height of 1340 meters, and it is surrounded by a deep valley and lush green plateau. This point is called as Queen of Points.

This is the point that shows the contrast between two geological areas-Konkan and the Deccan territories.

Our next destination was Lingmala Waterfalls.

                                                

Lingmala Waterfalls

Another interesting point is Lingmala waterfall. We had to trek through the green forest to reach Lingmala falls. It was a very good experience.

The waterfalls from an awe-inspiring height of 600 feet. The water flows to the Venna Lake that we visited yesterday.  The next stop was Mapro Gardens.

                                                                 

Mapro Gardens

Mapro Garden is a favorite destination. It is a beautiful garden restaurant managed by Mapro Limited.

There is a juice bar that serves shakes and smoothies and juices. We enjoyed readymade crush and jam.  Also, we had garden-fresh fruits, including strawberries.

Our next day’s program was to trek Pratapgad Fort.

                                                                   

Pratapgarh fort

Pratapgad is one of the important forts during the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It witnessed the famous battle between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan. This fort is the best place for a one-day escape from Mahabaleshwar.

                                                                       

When we trek the fort, we get glimpses of the lost glory. Though the fort is in ruins, it still looks magnificent. Those who love photography can click stunning pictures of the great valley. My brother and me both are fond of photography. So we had some wonderful snaps there.

Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful place where people visit in big numbers from India and abroad. We had some  good-quality food of all varieties. There are several street food vendors, where we had tasty food at reasonable prices.

We also had shopping in the local markets. We bought some craft items, Chikki and fudge.

There is an advice if you are planning a trip there. The place is crowded in the summers. Therefore, it is always better to plan the trip in advance. You have to spare at least three to four days to enjoy the place. There are so many things to do. You should carry light clothes if going there in summers. If you are going in winters, then carry light woolen clothes.

It was really a memorable trip that we enjoyed like anything.