Tourist Attractions
Tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar
An evergreen plateau located amidst the Western Ghats of the Sahyadri mountain range, Mahabaleshwar is one of the largest hill stations in the state of Maharashtra. With its resplendent valleys, cascading waterfalls, placid lakes, ancient temples, cobbled streets and large vistas of greenery, Mahabaleshwar is a home to various spots of instantaneous tourist attractions. Be it the spectacular lookout points or the spiritual ardor in its air, Mahabaleshwar remains one of the most popular hill resorts of India. Here are some of the hot-spots that can be included in the sightseeing tours of the place.
Mahabaleshwar Temple
The hill station derives its name from the presiding deity “Mahabali”, of this famous Hindu temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is girdled by a five feet tall stone wall on its sides and is divided into a God-chamber and a central hall. The main site of worship is a ‘lingam’ (black stone), considered to be the manifestation of the Divinity. A landmark of Mahabaleshwar, this temple is frequented by locals and religious tourists throughout the year.
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Arthur’s Point
Arthur’s Point, named after Arthur Malet.It is 12 kms. away from main market. Said to be the Best of all points. There was a man named Arthur Malet who was the first to come here and build a house for himself hence the point is named after his name. It is the only place which shows the geographical distinction between the Konkan and the Deccan territories of Mahabaleshwar. Arthur’s Seat is Queen of all points. Some compare the stratification of rocks on southern side to the world famous stratification of rocks of the Grand Canyon of Colorado. USA. It is fascinating to see the barren deep valley Savitri on the left & shallow green valley on the right. It is more fascinating to know that Arthur’s seat is the only place showing geographical distinction of kokan & Desh (Deccan), two territories of Mahabaleshwar, so clear & so near. If you go by the steps you come across a spring known as Tiger’s spring which is supposed to be the source of the river Savtri. Immediately below the seat is window point. You have to go deep by steps to reach the window point. Kates Point: Offers breathtaking view of krishna valley & deep waters of the dhom dam. From southern side it looks like an elephants head. There is also an echo point.
Babbington Point
2.5 kms. from main market. Makarandgadh ,Solshi and Koyna valley can be easily seen from this point. On the way to Babington point is the Bishop tank- live streams, which are worth visiting. This point also presents a view of saddle back.
Kate’s Point
Here you find the famous Echo point. It is a huge rock which stands 50 mts high. It is about 6 km away from Venna Lake. Founder of Mahabaleshwar was sir John Malcom he had a daughter named Kate and this point is named after her name. Offers breathtaking view of krishna valley & deep waters of the dhom dam. From southern side it looks like an elephants head.
Lodwick’s Point / Elephant’s Head Point
Elephant’s Head Point as it is commonly called. If viewed from a specific point one can see Pratapgad from here. General Lodwick after whose name this point is named was the first European to visit Mahabaleshwar. Long back it was also called as the Sydney Point. The surrounding scenery is beautiful.
Wilson Point
Mahabaleshwar has about 30 major lookout points that offer breathtaking view of the entire landscape, with Wilson being the most popular among them. It is the highest point of the place and is located at a height of 1438 m (4710 ft). It has three observation towers that offer spectacular views of the entire place and the valleys below. Also known as the Sunrise Point, the place is well-known amongst the locals and the tourists for offering splendid views of the sunrise and sunset.
Bombay Point
It is commonly known as Sunset Point. It was on the old road to Bombay hence the name. Pratapgadh is seen at the north of this point. It is one of the most popular and oldest point in Mahabaleshwar. Crowd gathers to see the beautiful Sunset over here.
Connaught Peak
7 kms from Mahabaleshwar market Connaught Peak is the second highest point in Mahabaleshwar. Presents panoramic view of a green carpet. You can see sunrise as well as sunset from this point. At its north you can see Torana, Kamalgadh and Rajgadh. To its east are Pasarani Ghat and Panchgani. Ajinkyatara is at the south. To the west is Pratapgadh. Elphinston Point and Kshetra Mahabaleshwar are at north-west. It was formerly known as Mount Olympia.
Veena Lake
Venna Lake is a popular lake of Mahabaleshwar, because of its verdure surroundings and sparkling water. With a length of 2.5 m and the availability of boating and fishing facilities, the lake allows people to enjoy the placidness of its water, while feasting on nature’s bounty. There are also strawberry stalls that surround the place, with ponies trotting nearby. This makes it very popular among tourists, especially children.
Waterfalls
The various waterfalls flowing through the heart of the place form a crucial part of its sightseeing tour. These gurgling waterfalls heighten the beauty of the place and are a source of instant attractions among the tourists. Lingmala waterfall flows down a steep hill and provides an enthralling effect with its illuminating silver water. Dhobi and the Chinaman’s waterfalls are two other major waterfalls and picnic spots, and are at their best during the monsoons.
Other Attractions
Some major lookout points that offer views of the landscape from different perspectives are the Marjorie Point, Gaolani Point, Panchgani Point, etc.