Mahabaleshwar
Here’s nature at its best! This picturesque hill station, also known as the Queen of Maharashtra’s hill stations, is located in the Western Ghats, cradled in the Sahyadri ranges, in the Indian state of Maharashtra.
Located at an altitude of 1,372 metres, Mahabaleshwar, is named after Lord Shiva also called Lord Mahabali, enshrined at the Gokarna temple in the form of a self-originated lingam, shaped like a rudraksha. This form of lord Shiva is considered to be the most sacred amongst the other twelve jyothirlingams.
Its popularity is not only as a honeymoon spot and a great weekend getaway, but also because of its historical and religious significance.
Historically, while the region is said to have been discovered by the British, its origins can be traced back to as early as 1215, during the reign of King Singhan of Deogiri. However, what we do know is that the British developed this place as a health resort. Sir Charles Malet was the first to set foot on this magnificent highland in 1791. For local transportation in Mahabaleshwar there are taxis, rickshaws, bicycles and horses that are available.
Places of interest
Wilson‘s Point
Wilson’s Point is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar, thus offering you the best view, at an altitude of 1,435 m. With three observation towers erected here, it is the best place to witness the sunrise, and hence has also been called the Sunrise Point. The breath-taking sceneries are a photographer’s delight. One can visit strawberry farms to enjoy the real flavor of the fruit. The climatic conditions are highly suited for the cultivation of strawberries and mulberries.
Venna Lake
The Venna Lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Mahabaleshwar. The lake is surrounded by trees on all sides. A late winter evening boat ride through the slight fog is well appreciated. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride over the lake or a horse ride next to the lake. A number of small eateries line the banks of the lake. The Mahabaleshwar city market and the S.T. bus stand are about 2 kms from the lake and are a nice place to take a walk during the day. Most tour operators include the Venna Lake in their tours. Most buses, private vehicles will stop at the Venna Lake on their way to Mahabaleshwar on request.
Pratapgad Fort
About 25 km from Mahabaleshwar, this 16th century fort was built under the great Maratha ruler Shivaji’s reign. It houses the tomb of Afzal Khan, the brave general of Bijapur who was slayed by Shivaji in this very fort. There is also a temple which is worth a visit, the presiding deity of which is Bhavani Mata. A thrilling ride gets you up the motorable road to the top where the Fort is perched.
For some religious sightseeing, visit the famous Krishna Temple also called Panchaganga Temple. Panchaganga means five rivers, which according to Hindu mythology are the holy rivers of Krishna, Venna, Koyna, Savitri and Gayatri, which flow nearby. While the shrines situated here date back to the prehistoric period, the temple itself was built in the 13th century by a Yadav King, and was further restored in the 16th century and then in the 19th century.
Other places of interest:
The climate of Mahabaleshwar is dry and pleasant and best in all the seasons. Nestled in the curvaceous mountain ranges of the Western Ghats it is cool, and misty. It shows some of the most striking vistas of the Western Ghats.
Know more about Mahabaleshwar - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchgani
Hotels at Mahabaleshwar – http://www.mahabaleshwar.com/
