^^from a veteran^^. Review on Mahabaleshwar

I have been to Mahabaleshwar 20 times and know the place inside out. Infact, I just returned yesterday from another trip to Mahabaleshwar. I land up going there so often because I have access to a great bungalow there. Therefore, once or maybe twice a year, we have a family reunion there.

WHERE IS MAHABALESHWAR?

Mahabaleshwar is not as close to Mumbai city as Lonavla or Pune. It is a five hour journey by car and six and a half hour journey by bus. it is around 250km from Mumbai via Mahad.

By rail, the most convenient station is the one located in Pune. Although it is not the closest, it is the most well-known and convenient place.

OUTSKIRTS OF MAHABALESHWAR

On the outskirts of Mahabaleshwar, another little tourist destination is nestled within the hills. This is Panchgani, home to many boarding schools and of course the Tableland. It is a 30-minute drive from the Venna Lake. Numerous berry farms are also located here.

SIGHTSEEING

1. Pratapgad Fort

This is located 24 km away from Mahabaleshwar and was built in the early 1600s by Pingle under orders of Maratha leader Shivaji.

1. Farms

Located near Venna lake, the farms are a nature lover's paradise. Strawberries and mulberries are found in abundance. Besides, you can also have delicious little deserts like Strawberry With Cream and Rose IceCream on these farms along with fast food like corn frankies and corn bhajjis. Delight your tastebuds and indulge in the sin of eating.

ACTIVITIES

1. Hindu Gymkhana

The ideal place for a sports freak. It is reasonably priced and is open to all. Games include: table Tennis, Lawn Tennis and badminton amongst others. Sorry, no cricket or football though!

1. Boating

Go for a calming ride in a row-boat at the boatclub at Venna Lake. Also, horse riding and slot machines are other activities to indulge in. Streetside games like 7up or 7down can also be played by one and all.

1. Tapola

This is a water park located 45minutes from the lake. Motor scootering is the main attraction here. Worth a visit, especially if you love water sports.

1. Go-karting

There are three karting centres in this hill station but the best one is Red Buttons, again located near the lake. Upto 14 single seater karts are there. Although an expensive activity, motorsport fans like me adore the indulgence and visit the facilty frequently.

OTHER THINGS TO DO

You can also visit the market, where all things of daily use are available. Mahabaleshwar was once famous for its original leather footwear, but it is not anymore. However, reasonably priced footwear is availble. You can buy a decent pair of shoes for Rs600 or thereabouts.

There was a hot air balloon facility earlier, but it has now closed down. All in all, Mahabaleshwar is for those who love to move about and do not resent the physical strain of sports. The climate is pretty good, with the temperatures lesser than baking Bombay.

Although you can visit Mahabaleshwar at any time of the year, avoid going from June to September, as constant and unending rain will hamper your holiday.

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