Waterfalls: Among some of nature’s delights are the numerous waterfalls that appear at regular intervals. Lingmala Waterfalls atop the Venna Valley is a pretty picture as it cascades down 600 ft. Chinaman and Dhobi Waterfalls are popular picnic spots. The former is accessible by the Carviali Road. Dhobi waterfall is located 3 kms from Mahabaleshwar and is quite a sight as the water falls in a deep valley and then meets the Koyna River.
Points: Among the better known points is the Wilson Point, which offers great views of the sunrise. Three observation towers are erected at different spots from where you can get simply amazing views. Malcolm Point is named after Sir John Malcolm, the founder of this amazing hill resort and today houses his residence. The Kate’s Point is actually Mahabaleshwar’s Echo Point, which offers great views of the Krishna River winding its way through the landscape. Connaught Peak and Hunter Point are situated off the Old Mahableshwar Road. The former is the second highest peak of these hills and offers a panoramic view of the Venna Lake and Krishna Valley. Bombay Point is said to be one of the earliest known and most-visited points in Mahableshwar. Along with the sunset, the peak also allows you a view of Pratapgarh and Makrandgarh. Elphinstone, Marjorie and Savitri Points rise almost from 500 ft in the Koyna valley. Babington Point offers beautiful views of the Koyna Valley and Chinaman Waterfall. Named after an English General, a monument at the top of Lodwick Point has been erected in his memory. Beyond Lodwick Point is the extreme end of the mountain range known as Elephant's Head, so called because of its shape of an elephant’s head and trunk. Helen’s Point lets you into the midst of the valley and provides an enchanting view of tiny fields and neat little huts.
Venna Lake: This is one of the most popular spots in Mahabaleshwar and is almost entirely circled by trees. A boat ride in the evenings is just the perfect way to spend time on the lake. You can also enjoy horse riding on the path along the lake.
Arthur’s Seat: This is the best place to get impressive views of the Jor Valley. Aptly known as the Queen of all Points, it offers the most mesmerizing view of the valleys. As you move about a kilometer from here, you will reach Tiger's Spring, another great site to spend some time in solitude.
Holy Cross Church: A visit to this old Roman Catholic Church is well worth. Although a little out of shape, the Church is a popular place amongst tourist and is worth-visiting for its striking stained-glass windows.
Morarji Castle: Worth a look, this is an old structure where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed, way back in 1945.
Pratapgad Fort: Located almost 24 kms away, the Pratapgad Fort is a must visit. Built in 1656, it was here that the mighty general of Bijapur, Afzal Khan was killed by Shivaji. Capture amazing views from atop the fort.
Temples: Panchaganga Temple is home to five stone conduits that has water flowing from five holy rivers Krishna, Venna, Koyna, Savitri and Gayatri. These five rivers further join into the cow face spout. However the most striking feature of this temple is the River Ganga flowing through one of the stone conduit once every 12 years. Mahabaleshwar Temple is one of the most visited temples here dedicated to Lord Shiva. Watch the shivling within, which is said to have been formed on its own, over 500 years back. It is also believed that a spring flows below the shivling. The Hanuman Temple is said to have been the resting-place of the saint Rama Dassa, who imparted education to his disciples here.
Mapro Farm: Don’t miss out on the famous Mapro Farm, which produces some of the widest range of strawberry shakes, fruit salads and ice creams. You can also purchase squashes, lemonades, fresh fruit juices that are prepared fresh here. |