4 Places to Halt and Enjoy While Travelling From Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar
They say, ‘Distance makes the heart grow fonder.’ There couldn’t be a more apt quote for this year. It applies to all aspects of everyone’s lives, especially right now, including travel. Travel has become that one thing that we desperately want to do, but just can’t. Forbidden things have a certain inexplicable allure. The lack of excitement has been vehemently filled with an unending monotony. While an immediate escape might not be on the cards, that doesn’t mean that there is no wriggle room. What if I told you, there is a way after all, to get out of the house, and maybe enjoy a little. There just might be a solution, in fact, there is a solution – road trips!
In the recent months, road trips have become just the escape needed. Already, immensely popular before, road trips have become an even more common occurrence. Not only are they convenient but also make up for the lack of travelling options. With limited flights, out of state travel being restricted, road trips have just become a comparatively inexpensive, convenient and fun alternative. Be it families going out for a two-night trip at a nearby hill-station or friends going for a day trip to let off some steam, getting together and just taking out the car is undoubtedly convenient.
Well if you are looking for a beautiful road trip from Mumbai, head over to Mahabaleshwar. Located amidst stunning mountains, Mahabaleshwar is situated at a high altitude of 4439 ft. Featuring several stunning viewpoints overlooking the western ghats, Mahabaleshwar is an approximately 5-7 hours ride away from Mumbai, depending on the number of stops you make and the route you take.
With beautiful, chilly winters, and even comparatively pleasant summers, Mahabaleshwar makes for a perfect weekend getaway with friends and family alike. While this hill station is famous for its strawberry picking, beautiful Mapro gardens, the Table Land and horse riding, and stunning and spacious holiday homes, there are many things you can do while on the way there too! Pit stops are part of all road trips, but when it is a 7 hour journey, you will definitely come across places that are worth being stopped for more than just a few minutes.
The journey from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar is long, hence making pit stops would just make an otherwise dreary trip memorable. Ideally, it is recommended to start your trip at the crack of dawn, so you can actually enjoy all the stops, instead of rushing from one place to the other. After all, what is the point of a relaxed road trip if you have to hop from one destination to the other without actually fully experiencing it? Here are a few places to make your road trip a little more lasting, a little more scenic and just a tad bit long but worth.
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Dadanji Tanduri Misal
Start in the morning, and about 2 hours in, you will reach your first stop, Lonavala, or more specifically Dadanji Tanuduri Misal. A famous spot serving mouth watering authentic Maharashtrian delicacies, Dadanji Tanduri Misal makes for a perfect place for a quick breakfast or snack stop. Enjoy the beautiful misty mornings of Lonavala with a side of hot piping cup of chai and a plate of spicy, hot misal pav. If you are craving some dessert, you can always look for the delicious and famous Lonavala Choco-Walnut Fudge, maybe even take some back for your loved ones!
Lohagarh Fort
If you are a fan of treks and trails, this more-than-just-a-pit-stop will definitely interest you. About a half hour away from Lonavala, and about 3 hours away from Mumbai, Lohagad fort is a fort located at an altitude of 3389 ft. Literally meaning ‘Iron Fort,’ it is an effortless blend of ancient architecture and beautiful surroundings, and makes for an amazing scenic and picturesque stop, especially during monsoons. A comparatively easy hike, this fort has approximately 300 steps, hence if you intend to go all the way to the top, your halt here will have to be for a few hours. For beginners and experts alike, Lohagad Fort will not only be a cakewalk for regular trekkers but also for beginners. The views atop are stunning and indescribable. Prolonging your road trip by a few hours is definitely worth it when visiting the Lohagad fort.
Pashan Lake
Pashan Lake is a man-made lake located on the outskirts of Pune. With a rich history, this beautiful lake was built during the British era in the Pashan Village. Just a little bit off the route, Pashan Lake has recently gained popularity owing to its beautiful surroundings. Home to some of the most beautiful birds like Cotton Teal, White-Breasted Kingfisher, House Crow, Purple Moorhen and more, this man-made lake is a gorgeous spot for a refreshing halt after hours of being cooped up in a car. Stop, soak in the views, capture beautiful pictures and even go for a boat ride, Pashan Lake will not disappoint you.
Sydney Point
One last stop before you enter Mahabaleshwar, Sydeney point is a scenic spot located just a few minutes away from Mahabaleshwar. Known for offering beautiful views of the Krishna Valley and Kamalgad Fort, Sydney Point is a viewpoint on the top of the high land. Offering stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, this is the perfect point to end your road trip to Mahabaleshwar, amidst the nature, the sun and your loved ones.
Mahabaleshwar Guide
Now when you actually reach the hill station, there are a few places in Mahabaleshwar that you simply cannot miss. Like always, we have got your back – here’s everything you need to know about the things to do in Mahabaleshwar, accommodations and its tourist attractions!
Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar
Visit Arthur’s Seat
One of the places that must be in your Mahabaleshwar Itinerary, regardless of the number days or weeks you are going for – Arthur’s Seat. One of the highest points in Mahabaleshwar, Arthur’s Seat offers some of the most astounding views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The sunsets here are simply to die for, making it one of the most popular Mahabaleshwar tourist attractions – on and off-season.
Explore Mapro Garden
The ever-famous Mapro Garden is an all-time favourite! Boasting a rich legacy and witnessing tourists all year round, its safe to say that Mapro Garden is definitely worth the hype. Mapro Garden is a famous strawberry farm and a popular tourist destination. Take a stroll through the strawberry fields, indulge in fresh strawberry-based products, and enjoy delicious milkshakes, ice creams, and snacks. Don’t forget to try their mouthwatering strawberry with cream!
Take a Boat Ride in Venna Lake
Spend some time relaxing by the picturesque Venna Lake. Rent a paddleboat or rowboat and enjoy a serene ride on the lake. You can also find various food stalls and snack counters near the lake, offering tasty treats like corn, roasted peanuts, and hot tea.
Visit Pratapgad Fort
Explore the historic Pratapgad Fort, located around 23 kilometers from Mahabaleshwar. This magnificent fort has significant historical importance and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. Learn about the history of the Maratha Empire and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
Trek to Lingmala Waterfall
Embark on a trekking adventure to Lingmala Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mahabaleshwar. The trail to the waterfall takes you through lush green forests and offers breathtaking views along the way. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Things to eat in Mahabaleshwar
Obviously, Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberries. Indulge in strawberry-based treats like strawberry with cream, strawberry milkshakes, strawberry ice cream, and fresh strawberries. You’ll find numerous stalls and shops offering these delectable delights throughout the town. Strawberry cream is a speciality dessert in Mahabaleshwar. It consists of layers of fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sometimes ice cream – and you definitely don’t want to miss it!
Look out for stalls selling mouthwatering corn patties, a popular street food in Mahabaleshwar. These patties are made from corn kernels mixed with spices and fried to perfection. They make for a delicious snack while exploring the town.
Don’t miss out on trying the local speciality, Mahabaleshwar Chikki. It is a sweet snack made from jaggery (a type of sugar) and nuts like peanuts, cashews, or almonds. Chikki comes in various flavours and is a popular souvenir to take back home. Remember to explore the local cuisine as well and try the traditional Maharashtrian dishes available in the restaurants and eateries around Mahabaleshwar.
