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Nestling in the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra at an altitude of approximately 4700 ft., the scenic hill station of Mahabaleshwar attracts nature lovers, film directors, holidaymakers and adventurers alike. Known for its natural charm and wonderful climate, Mahabaleshwar has been a popular tourist destination since the British era.
The dense classical tropical rain forest around Mahabaleshwar abounds with trees of commercial utility and plants and rare herbs of medicinal value. Strawberry farming is a major activity in and around Mahabaleshwar, as is the business of honey production.
Mahabaleshwar is also a place with a glorious past; it’s a hill station with a heritage status. The elegant rock temples like the Mahabaleshwar Temple, the Panchganga Temple, the Krishnamai Temple and Fort Pratapgad are testimony to the architectural accomplishments of the Yadavas, the Bahamani Sultans and the Marathas.
A hill station popular with British officers during colonial rule, Mahabaleshwar was also the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency in British India.
For the avid nature lover, Mahabaleshwar offers visual delight beyond imagination. Arthur's Seat Point, Connaught Peak, Marjori Point and Bombay Point are some of the many sightseeing places where you can enjoy panoramic views of deep valleys, thick forests and meandering rivers.
The Venna Lake, with its excellent boating facilities, is a lovely place to be at in the evenings.
Indulge in some coal pit roasted bhutta (corn) while you stroll leisurely hand-in-hand with your loved one, watching the boats silently glide by. You can also enjoy a horse ride at the chowpatty or visit one of the strawberry farms nearby.
And for the shopping enthusiast, the Market in town is full of shops that sell a variety of goods. You can buy woolen sweaters and shawls, décor items, leather articles, jewellery and souvenirs of many types.
So whether you seek escape from the heat, take delight in history, like adventure or simply wish for a tryst with nature, Mahabaleshwar has a lot to offer.
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Getting there
Mahabaleshwar is located about 120 km southwest of Pune and 285 km from Mumbai, having excellent road connectivity with both these cities. Satara Road is the nearest railway station, which is a 45 minute drive from Mahabaleshwar. |
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Mahabaleshwar – Fact File
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| State |
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Maharashtra |
| Area |
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145.04 sq km |
| Temperature |
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18 C – 29 C (Summer)
5 C – 23.5 C ( Winter) |
| Altitude |
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1372 meters |
| Rainfall |
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663 cm |
| Language |
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Marathi, Hindi, Gujrati, English |
| Best season |
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October - June |
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