The must visited hill resort in Maharashtra , is 120 km northeast of Pune and 250 km southeast of Mumbai. The highest point in the Western Ghats, it is subject to extraordinary weather conditions. The start of June brings heavy mists and a dramatic drop in temperature followed by heavy rain. As a result tourist only come here between November and May and during April and May, at the height of Summer, the place is packed.

For most foreign visitors, Mahabaleshwar prime appeal is its location midway between Mumbai and Goa. It also offers enough hiking trails through the ferine woods to waterfalls overlooking the peaks and plains. One can also take boats out on the central Yenna lake and shop for strawberries, raspberries, locally made jams and honey in the lively market. One commendable short route is the walk to Wilson’s Point, the highest spot on the ridge, which should aim to reach well before dusk.

Sights And Activities

Sunset Point/ Mumbai Point
A worth a visit, the place is often seen with children riding horses. The best view of the sun plays to the gallery every evening. Pratapgad and Makrandgad are etched clearly on the horizon.

Arthur’s Seat
This picturesque point is named after British actor Arthur Malet and destroyed in an earthquake in 1967. The grilled area marks the point where Arthur would sit and evaluate the nature of wind. He was so fascinated by the fact that wind returned everything, apparently he threw himself from the point to see if wind would throw him back as well. Even now visitors flying their handkerchiefs to the wind to experiment the truth of the story.

Mahabaleshwar Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ancient Shivling inside the temple is a natural formation and over 500 years old.

Shopping
Shopping in Mahabaleshwar is nothing but to buy some good walking sticks. Quite a famous souvenir in Mahabaleshwar, also shop some luscious strawberries, honey and jellies.

Berry Delicious

Luscious strawberries, raspberries, mulberries and gooseberries, all are found in Mahabaleshwar. From the late November to June the fruits are harvested and best of juicy fruits coming around February. Mahabaleshwar markets are full of berries or you can visit the farms and buy directly from them.