Mahabaleshwar panchgani

Mahabaleshwar

The literal meaning of Mahabaleshwar is “God of Great Power”. This hill station has lush flora, breathtaking views and soaring peaks.

Mahableshwar welcomes the tourists with an old-world charm plus modernity and natural beauty. Once the summer capital of Bombay Presidency during British Empire, Mahableshwar is one of the most popular hill stations of Maharashtra.

The town is surrounded by the beautiful countryside and there is much to see around and experience. Mahabaleshwar is basically known for its numerous sightseeing points, each providing a unique view of the majestic hill range.

Mahableshwar is a great holiday as well as summer destination throughout the year, except for the monsoon months.

When to Visit: – Throughout the year, except Monsoons

Pratapgad Fort – Pratapgad fort is located 24kms away from the city and is slightly off the road. It is a must visit historic monument mentioned in all the travel itineraries. The fort was built in 1656 and has beautiful maze of ponds, long dark walkways and chambers.

Mahabaleshwar Club – The club was built in 1881 and it offers a peaceful and calm retreat especially for exercise lovers. The club also offers a great panoramic view of Venna Lake. Christmas is the most celebrated festival with proper pomp and show.

Roman Catholic Church – This Roman Church is famous for its alluring beauty and is one of the oft visited attractions in Mahabaleshwar. The church’s own interesting history lends an archaic value to Mahabaleshwar.

Other major tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar are Venna Lake, Krishna Temple and Lingamala Falls.

How to Reach

By Air – Nearest Airport is Pune (about 120 kms away). It is a well connected airport handling flights from all other metro cities.

By Rail – Nearest railway station is Pune (120km away), other two alternatives are Miraj (170kms) and Sangli (165kms). Private and public transport is available in these locations to Mahabaleshwar.

By Road – The highway connects Mumbai-Mahabaleshwar via Mahad, 247 kms away. Also State Transport buses ply regularly between Mahableshwar-Pune and Mahabaleshwar–Mumbai. Private cabs are another option from major cities to this destination.

Panchgani

Panchgani, a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is a beautiful hill station. Located just 20 km from Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani got its name from the five hills that surround it. Panchgani meaning the ‘Land of Five Hills’ is an ideal summer resort with lots of greenery, scenic beauty and serene environment.

Rajpuri Caves
Trip to Panchgani is incomplete without visiting Rajpuri Caves. These ancient caves hold immense importance religiously and are visited by many devotees. It is believed that taking a dip in its holy kunds is freed of diseases and sins.

Table Land
Known as one of the most popular spots in Panchgani, Table Land is a volcanic plateau that is situated at a height of 60 meters. It is considered as the second longest mountain plateau in Asia.

Parsi Point
It is a famous picnic spot that lies on the Mahabaleshwar road in Panchgani. Go there to enjoy the breathtaking views of lush green Krishna valley and picturesque landscape. It is a beautiful place to hang out for nature lovers.

Sydney point
Sydney point is another lovely place that lies near Parsi Point. It offers panoramic views of  Kamalgad Fort, Dhom Dam and Krishna Valley.

Wai
Wai is a beautiful city located on the banks of the Krishna River. It is blessed with picturesque scenery and seven Ghats known as Dharmapuri, Madhi Aali, Bhimkund, Gangapuri, Aali,  Brahmanshahi, Ramdoh and Ganpati. These ghats are dotted with temples, ponds and waterfalls.

How to Reach:
Nearest realway station to Panchagani is the Pune Railway station which is about 95 km away. From Pune to Panchagani you can take pre-paid taxi.

Pics courtesy: Nitin Gupta and Neha Vyas