Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
Our daily lives are fraught with constant struggles, from concerns about finances to managing family and work obligations. The pace is unrelenting—everyone is moving swiftly and speaking loudly, yet nobody is truly listening. Some find energy in it, while others simply grow weary. Yet, there is one undeniable truth that holds: everyone persists. Because ‘Isi ka naam hai zindagi.’
Yet, amid the hustle and bustle of urban life, there’s often a yearning for a tranquil retreat—a sanctuary from our complex and demanding daily routines. At such moments, the desire to escape with our families to a place closer to nature becomes irresistible.
Mahabaleshwar emerges as the ideal destination. This hill station of all seasons is the top-tier place to visit for a mental retreat, with its sprawling greenery and breathtaking view of mountains. Situated on the mountainous Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, this place will leave you spellbound and with a desire to visit repeatedly.
Table Of Content
Places to Visit
Panchganga Temple
Mahabaleshwar Temple
Mapro Garden
Kate’s Point
Venna Lake
How to Reach
The nearest city to Mahabaleshwar is Pune, as Mahabaleshwar does not have a railway station. For railway access, Pune and Satara are the closest options. Pune also serves as the nearest airport.
If you plan to take a bus, you can catch one at the Swargate Bus Station, Pune. Buses for Mahabaleshwar depart every two hours. The journey to this hill station typically takes around 4 hours. There are two bus options: Government and Private.
Tickets for Government Bus – Rs. 260
Private Buses – Rs. 500 to Rs. 1500.
Notably, Mahabaleshwar does not have autorickshaw services or rental scooters available. Therefore, if you intend to visit, your options include using their taxi services or bringing your private vehicle. Transportation is essential, as the area’s various attractions are 5 to 10 kilometers apart.
Please be aware that there is an entry fee of Rs. 190 for four-wheelers, while two-wheelers are free.
Places to Visit
Panchganga Temple
Panchganga Temple, located in Old Mahabaleshwar (Kshetra Mahabaleshwar), is the confluence of five sacred rivers: Krishna, Venna, Koyna, Savithri, and Gayathri. These rivers emerge from the mouth of Nandi, making it a captivating focal attraction. It is also said that every 12 years and every 60 years, the Bhaigarthi River and the Saraswati River join them, respectively.
Many visitors gather this flowing water in their bottles to take home for religious rituals and purification. Therefore, there’s no more optimistic way to commence your tour than by visiting this holy and divine place, where the whispers of ancient waters meet the echoes of faith.
Timings: 5:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Entry Fees: No Charge
Mahabaleshwar Temple
This temple, with a history spanning 1215 years, is considered to be as sacred as the 12 Jyotirlingas, if not even more revered. It holds the unique distinction of being the only temple in the entire country with a Linga of Rudraksha. The ‘Swayambhu’ (self-originated) Shiva Linga, stretching a remarkable 6 feet in length, has a history dating back thousands of years. The innermost sanctum, which enshrines this Linga, has stood for over five centuries, with the remaining portions of the temple being constructed in later periods.
Situated just beside Panchganga Temple, do not miss this pious place. Give yourself a chance to get lost in its divine and tranquil atmosphere.
Timings: 5:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Entry Fees: No Charge
Mapro Garden
Do not be confused with the name Garden attached to it. Mapro is a brand of Mahabaleshwar, which comprises many things like the Chocolate Factory, a sprawling garden, and retail outlets. The retail outlet sells Mapro products like Syrup, Sauces, Jams, Mocktail mixtures, etc. It also has a nursery and Kids Play Zone called Funtown Adventure Park. This is the most famous tourist spot recommended by all locals.
Indulge in a little snack shopping when you visit this place, and do not forget to try their famous strawberry with whipped cream.
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Entry Fees: No Charge
Kate’s Point
Located about 20 minutes away from Mapro Garden and 15 kilometers from Panchgani, you will see three points, i.e., Kate’s Point, Echo Point, and Needle Holes Point/Elephant Head Point. Kate’s Point is named after the daughter of British Governor Sir John Malcom. During the Ch. During Shivaji Maharaj’s rule, this place was also called Nake Khind.
Visit this place to enjoy the serene view of Krishna Valley along with the waters of Dhom Dham. This is the famous shooting point for movies like Bajirao Mastani, Swadesh, etc.
Echo point, a few minutes from Kate’s point, is placed as the same suggests. It echoes back anything you shout. Elephant Head Point is a place that, if viewed from Needle Holes Point, will look like an elephant head.
Beware of the snatching monkeys and enjoy this picturesque view.
Timings: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entry Fees: Rs. 10.
Venna Lake
Venna Lake is a human-made marvel, a mere 2 kilometers away from the city’s heart. Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, a direct descendant of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, commissioned this masterpiece back in 1842. Its purpose is to ensure a steady water supply for the nearby town. Extending over a sprawling 28 acres, the lake boasts a shoreline spanning 7 to 8 kilometers. Thanks to its pristine natural charm, Venna Lake proudly claims its place among Mahabaleshwar’s top picnic destinations.
You can enjoy horseback riding and boating while you’re here. Horse riding costs Rs. 200; if you’re feeling adventurous and want to add some stunts, it’s an additional Rs. 250. Please note that stunts come with some risk, so decide carefully! If you’re a couple, don’t pass up the chance to experience the boating adventure, which is priced at Rs. 300.
Timings: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entry Fees: Rs. 10.
Sanchita Yadav – The Byke Team