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Mahabaleshwar
Brief
The summer capital of Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is one of the most spectacular and the largest of hill-stations of Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar, which means God of Great Power is a popular town with an air of unspoilt beauty. Pass your time boating or fishing in the placid Venna Lake or explore the points that offer panoramic views of the valley and sea; or take a dip in the crystal waters of the numerous waterfalls around this picturesque locale can be an enthralling experience that may want one to come over and again.
History
The first to set foot here was Sir Charles Malet in 1791 and later under the Governor of Bombay, a sanatorium was built in 1828. Mahabaleshwar was then considered a British territory and was named Malcolm Peth under whom roads, resorts, bungalows, churches and the Mahabaleshwar Club were built. A polo ground and race course were also opened lending it a charming sophistication. In the 19th century, an open jail reformatory centre was established and convicts from China and Malaysia were stationed here.
CultureClimate & Geogaphical Location
It has a pleasant climate throughout the year. In summers, temperatures range between 16 ad 20 degrees Celsius and in winters it falls even further. Mahabaleshwar is situated at 1,372 meters above sea level around Lake Venna.
How to Reach
Rail, Road & Air connect Mahabaleshwar. By Air, the nearest airport is at Pune, 120kms. By rail, the nearest railhead is Wathar in Satara, 47 kms, but the convenient rail head is at Pune, 120 kms. By road, Mahabaleshwar is connected to major towns and cities in the region. From Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar via Pune is 290kms, Panchgani -Mahabaleshwar is 19 kms and Pune - Mahabaleshwar is 120kms. MTDC operates luxury buses from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar and from Pune to Mahabaleshwar.
Tourist Places
Mahabaleshwar Temple
For those looking for a spiritual experience, there are the Krishna and Mahabaleshwar Temples. As well as the point of the five rivers which flow over the Deccan Plateau, namely the Krishna, Koyna , Savitri, Veena & Gayatri. Mahabaleshwar was considered a holy place with a strong historical backgorund for centuries. The name Mahabaleshwar means great (Maha) power (Bali). The place is still frequented by local devotees. Another interesting temple is black stone one, a little ahead, from the others, with a lovely view.
Pratapgad Fort
24 kms away from Mahabaleshwar, this fort was built in 1656 by Moropant Trimbak Pingle under the command of the Maratha ruler Shivaji. It was here that the mighty General of Bijapur, Afzal Khan, was killed by Shivaji. The fort has a great view.
Panchgani
Tucked away in Satara district, just 19kms east of Mahabaleshwar, Panchagani is the quintessential residential hill-station, with the Raj stamped indelibly all over. It offers heart-stopping views of the River Krishna, snaking through tiny hamlets, farms and ravines on one side and the coastal plains on the other. Amble along the walkways, thickly canopied by lush trees and vegetation for glimpses of a vanished era. Panchgani is one of those rare places that doesnt crowd anyone, yet in its own unhurried way deeply touches every visitor.
The Various Points
There are around 30 points looking out over the flat- topped ghats, dense forests and lush green valleys below. Almost 1,240 meters above sea level, Lodwick Point has a great view. On the path to Elphinstone Point lies the Dhobi waterfall, a small scenic spot overlooking the Koyna river valley. About a kilometre from this is Tigers Spring leading to a small ledge known as The Window. The view from here is simply mesmerizing. The Lingmala waterfall, at the top of the Venna Valley, six kms from the post office, is the most impressive spot of Mahabaleshwar. The other important points are the Kates Point, Wilson Point, Helens Point and Babington Point, overlooking the Panchgani and the Carnac Point.
Others
CATHOLIC CHURCH - A visit to the old Roman Catholic Holy Cross church, is worth a detour. Although the church is practically falling apart, its stained- glass windows are still a sight to behold. This deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.
MAHABALESHWAR CLUB - The club was built in 1881 and is still flourishing and well - maintained. Only members of the club can stay here. It is very popular for its well-tended roses and lovely jogging track. Christmas is grandly celebrated by loyal members every year.
MOUNT MALCOLM - It used to be the most famous building in the olden days. It was built in 1829 with magnificent architectural skills. Unfortunately, it has lost a lot of its old charm now.