One of the best places to visit in the Western part of the country, Mahabaleshwar is also one of the most visited hill destinations in the region. Nestling in the Western Ghats, the town has a stunning locale and affords the most mesmerizing views of the lovely valleys below. Often referred to as the Queen of Hill Stations it is a favorite summer escape from Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar is home to five rivers that add magic to the beauty of the town. These rivers form the most attractive cascades and falls and make for great picnic spots.
The charm of this hill resort was discovered by the British who were in constant search for cooler places. It was them who changed this obscure hilly area into a great hill resort. They even made it the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency. Mahabaleshwar soon became a favorite with the rich and the elite. The glorious past is still visible in the colonial mansions and palatial bungalows that dot the entire town.
The most important attraction around Mahabaleshwar is the Rajpuri Caves in Panchgani. Huge numbers of devotees flock to the kunds here as they are believed to have curative powers. Even Ganges is believed to be flowing here. The caves have a temple dedicated to Lord Karthikeyan. The temple is constructed out of the sands from the caves and hence holds archaeological importance. The Mahabaleshwar temple here is a major attraction too. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it enshrines a Lingam and is visited by a huge number of devotees and tourists.
A noted historical monument in Mahabaleshwar is the Pratapgarh Fort. It was here that Shivaji killed Afzal Khan and changed the course of history. The fort is interesting with lovely pools and some mysterious and deadly traps.
Mahabaleshwar is blessed with innumerable natural charms and attractions. One of the wonders of nature here is the Arthur's seat. Named after the first person to settle here, the place is noted for its unusual rock arrangement which is similar to the world famous Grand Canyon. The Elephant's Head Point is another famous place in Mahabaleshwar deriving its name from its shape, which resembles an elephant's head. It offers bewitching views of the majestic Sahyadris.
The Connaught Peak here is the second highest peak in Mahabaleshwar and is one of the best loved places here. Earlier it was called Mount Olympia, but was changed later as the Duke of Connaught loved the place so much that he wanted it to be renamed after him. The Elphinstone's Point and Kate's Point are also nice places to visit for the lovely views they have to offer.
The Lingamala Falls here should never be missed. The sight of waters cascading from a steep cliff is mesmerizing. The Tiger Springs too are a place of natural splendor and are believed to have divine powers. The most awe inspiring natural wonder here is the Venna Lake. Sprawling over 28 acres, the lake is springs fed and affords lush greens around. A major tourist attraction it has come up with some entertainment facilities too.
Mahabaleshwar offers a charm that refreshes and revitalizes all. Nature is ever in full bloom here and one can always enjoy the bounty of it.
Mahabaleshwar City Guide: A Holiday in the Hills is a post from: Traveling China
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