Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Satara District in the Western Ghats range of Maharashtra, India. Mahabaleshwar is Sanskrit for God of Great Power. With one of the few evergreen forests of the world, it served as the summer capital of Bombay province during the British Raj. The Britishers built various mansions, Cottages and bunglows around the town, lending it a charming, sophistication.

Under General Peter Lodwick and Sir John Malcolm, the governor of Bombay, a sanitarium was built in 1828. Mahabaleshwar was then considered a British territory and was named 'Malcolm Peth' for some years. The bazaar is still named so.

The place is popular with tourists, especially from Mumbai and Pune, wanting to take a break from the rush of the rat race and is very crowded during vacations like Christmas and Diwali and in summers. Located about 120 km southwest of Pune and 285 km from Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is a vast plateau measuring 150 km, bound by valleys on all sides. It reaches a height of 1438 m (4710 ft) at its highest peak above sea level, known as Wilson/Sunrise Point.

It is the site of Mahabaleshwar Temple. Many tourists visit nearby Panchgani. After the construction of a new highway, it is only a five-hour drive from Mumbai.

Mahabaleshwar comprises three villages: Malcolm Peth, Old "Kshetra" Mahabaleshwar and part of the Shindola village.

PLACES TO SEE

Mahabaleshwar has long motorable roads to its sights and points. You could even hire a pony for the bridle paths, instead of a vehicle.

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.

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 window 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. Fortunately, one facility is open to visitors; who can use the golf-course whenever they feel like.

Morarji Castle: Also worth a look is this old structure. Mahatma Gandhi once lived here in 1945.

Pratapgad Fort: This is 24 Kms. away from Mahabaleshwar. The fort was built in 1656 by Moropant Trimak 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.

Various points in Mahabaleshwar

There are various points around the edge looking out over the flat-topped ghats, dense forests and lush green valleys below. Almost 1,240 meters above the sea level, Lodwick Point has a great view. There is a monument in memory of the general, erected by his son. Between Lodwick Point and Elphinstone Point lies the Dhobi waterfall. Also on the path to Elphinstone Point is a small scenic spot overlooking the Koyna river valley. Elphinstone Point is named after a former Governor of Mumbai. Lying at 1,348 mts above sea-level is Arthur's Seat, overlooking the beautiful Jor Valley. About a kilometer from this is Tiger's Spring and, following the same path, you will reach a small ledge known as 'The Window' The view from here is simply mesmerizing.

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 and Gayatri. Mahabaleshwar was considered a holy place with a strong historical background for centuries. The name Mahabaleshwar means great ("Maha") Power ("Bali"). The place is still frequented by local devotees. Another interesting temple is a black stone one, a little ahead from the others, with a lovely view.

Kate's Point, along Duchess Road, at 1,290 metres is yet another great point to look over. The Lingmala waterfall, at the top of Venna Valley , six kilometers. from the post office, is the most impressive spot of Mahabaleshwar. The uninterrupted fall descends down, five six hundred feet from the cliff.

A little ahead of the falls, Wilson Point stands at 1,435 meters, the highest point in the hill. South east from this point lies Helen's Point at the Blue Valley, Overlooking the Panchgani and Gaolani Points. Badington Point overlooks the Koyna Valley. Heading south from this point is Chinaman's Waterfall. Falkland Point follows next in the line. Nearby is Carnac Point, named after Sir James Rivett Carnac. Yet another spectacular view is seen ahead at Bombay Point. If you enjoy boating you will find boats for hire on the central Yanna Lake next to the golf Course.

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air: Nearest airport is Pune, 120 kms.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Wather, but Pune, 120 kms is the convenient rail head.

By Road:
Mumbai - Mahabaleshwar via Pune is 290 kms.
Panchgani - Mahabaleshwar is 19 kms.
Pune - Mahabaleshwar is 120 kms.