Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghata. Located at an altitude of 1372 meters it is also known as the Queen of Maharashtra’s hill stations. A visit to this place can give you a lot more than your money’s worth. Apart from being a serene scenic weekend getaway, the place also has its historical and religious significance.

Mahabaleshwar, gets its name from Lord Shiva also called Lord Mahabali. This famous Hindu diety is enshrined at the Gokarna temple in the form of a naturally formed lingam. This lingam is considered to be the most sacred amongst the other twelve jyothirlingams.

This beautiful hill station offers many points from where you can have panoramic views of the surroundings. Named after notable Britishers most of the 30 viewpoints, can be accessed by foot or vehicles.

Wilson’s Point, is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. From an altitude of 1,435 m you can expect to see the best. This place has three observation towers from where you can catch the sunrise. So it is also called the Sunrise Point.

The second highest point is the Connaught Peak. Minor points between Connaught Point and Wilson’s Point are Helen’s Point, Gaolani Point, and Babington Point. To the south of Babington Point is the Chinaman waterfall. Other points here are the Falkland, Carnac and Bombay Points.

Lodwick Point – Named after General Lodwick, this point is located at an altitude of 1240 meters. A monument has been erected here in his memory.

From here, when you move on to the next point, you cross the famous Dhobi Waterfalls.

Elphinstone Point: This point bears a resemblance to the head and trunk of an elephant. If seen from the Lodwick Point it is a great spot for picnicking. The point is named after Governor Sir Elphinstone.

Arthur’s Seat, is another famous point in Mahabaleahwar. Located at an altitude of 1,348 m it provides a sweeping view of the Jor Valley.  From here one can spot the two territories of Mahabaleshwar, Kokan and Desh, very distinctly set apart.

Other interesting points are the points of Marjorie, Savitri and the Castle Rock Point, all rising from the Valleys of Konkan. Close by lies the Tiger’s Spring. It is the source of the River Savitri. The Window, a small ledge beneath the Arthur’s Point is another place to get a fascinating all round view.

For some religious sightseeing, visit the famous Krishna Temple built during the 13th century. It is also called Panchaganga Temple. Other famous temples in this place are Hanuman Mandir and Sri Rama Temple and Mahabal Temple in Old Mahabaleshwar.

You can also do a lot of trekking and bird watching in this hill station.

Visit Mahabaleshwar and enjoy watching landscape from elevated points strewn across the hill station.