**Mahabaleshwar**
Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station known for its perfect weather all year round. The jungles of Mahabaleshwar are known for their density and a stunning arrray of birds and wildlife. It is 220 km from Mumbai. The first Governor of Mahabaleshwar, Sir John Malcolm established the hill station as a recreational gateway in 1829.
(1) How to reach there : Mahabaleshwar is located 32 kms from ‘Wai’. The nearest city is ‘Satara’, located 55 km away from Mahabaleshwar. This hill station is connected by NH-4 and various bus services (MSRTC) and private taxis can be used to shuttle between Pune, Mumbai, Satara and Mahabaleshwar. The nearest railway station is situated in the city of Satara. Once in the city, private cars and/or cabs as well as state run buses are available for a direct trip to Mahabaleshwar.
(2) Accommodation facilities : There are holiday homes and hotels to suit every budget and satisfy every palate.
(3) What to see : Pratap Gadh which houses the tomb of Afzal Khan. Temples – Shri Shankar Mandir, Panchganga Mandir, Connaught Peak, Castle Rock, Wilson Point and Elphinstone Point. For adventure, activities like hiking, trekking and climbing are the major attractions.
(4) Shopping attractions : Main street is famous for fruit of choice like strawberries, raspberries, mulberries and even jams. Local shoes made of wood are also very popular, leather goods, tribal pieces of art etc.
(5) Specialities : The town is well-endowed with modern amenities such as ATM’*, restaurants, hotels as well as various places of worship. While at Mahabaleshwar one can also see a grand view of Krishna valley which is home to many significant temples.
