From Fields to Feasts: Your Guide to the Strawberry Season in Mahabaleshwar
Wanting to go for a berry-picking experience? If you are in and around Mumbai and your taste buds are tickling over the best strawberries, then look no further. Mahabaleshwar, a beautiful hill station in Maharashtra, with its luscious red strawberries is the place to be. Imagine yourself in strawberry fields, where you pick fresh berries and eat them on the spot – quite wonderful, isn’t it? Oh, and this hill station in near Maharashtra doesn’t just stop at merely having fresh mulberries or strawberries, it offers their fascinating variants such as strawberry jelly, fudge or even pizza with strawberries (I know, it sounds pretty intriguing). Let’s not waste any time and let’s dive in to know all there is to know about strawberry season in Mahabaleshwar and the best time to visit this hill station. So, before you head there, let’s virtually go on this sweet trip and find out what juicy wonders await us here.
In this Blog
Best Time to Visit Strawberry Farms in Mahabaleshwar
If you’re wanting to know the best time to visit strawberry farms in Mahabaleshwar, there is no better time than between December and February. Yes, the strawberry season in Mahabaleshwar is during the winter months. By that time ripe strawberries are bursting from every field waiting to be picked. For those who want to join the lively Strawberry Festival in Mahabaleshwar, March and April are the ideal time to visit. Not only will you enjoy different delights made of strawberries but also perhaps they might just catch the end of mulberry time in Mahabaleshwar. So, if ever asking yourself when is the best time to visit Mahabaleshwar for these berrylicious treats – now you know! While the strawberry picking season is from December to February, Mahabaleshwar in July and August is a great time to enjoy rain showers in their full bloom.
Fun Fact: Did you know that 85% of India’s total production of strawberries comes from the beautiful rolling slopes of Mahabaleshwar alone? Yes! Alongside these mouthwatering red berries, gooseberries, mulberries and raspberries thrive here too. It’s therefore no wonder that this lovely destination has been named as India’s Strawberry Capital!
Strawberry Festival in Mahabaleshwar
Who does not love a festival especially if it is full of strawberries? Strawberry festival in Mahabaleshwar is a real treat and it began when this strawberry-making company called Mapro’s strawberry production surpassed demand. Then, local farmers have joined them through years making this festival into a four-day vibrant event showcasing the peak of Mahabaleshwar strawberry season.
The period entails indulging in all sorts of strawberry-based products such as chocolate-coated strawberries, berry pizza, berry sandwiches and even strawberry bhel. The interesting thing about this celebration is not just the tasting, you will also be given the chance to pick strawberries directly from the farm. The strawberry picking season runs from December to February, making it one of the best things to do in Mahabaleshwar.
Besides that, cultural activities are part of the festival including lezim and dhol dance performances, live orchestras and several stalls offering Mehendi or watercolour tattoos among other things. One can go around Mapro Food Park for free farm visits hence creating an extensive yet enjoyable experience for everyone.
This festival is one of the must-visit spots in Mahabaleshwar if you are planning your trip. Besides, it serves as a good addition to mulberry time at Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani strawberry season giving you a complete taste of the berry bounty that this region has to offer.
Read: 4 Places to Halt and Enjoy While Travelling From Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar: From Fields to Feasts: Your Guide to the Strawberry Season in MahabaleshwarTop Strawberry Picking Farms & The Delights
As you walk through the pretty strawberry farms in Mahabaleshwar, there are so many strawberries that it is difficult to choose which one to eat from. A stroll in the fragrant orchards with soft fruits will make an unforgettable image in your life. In addition to the famous Mapro Garden, here is a list of the best farms, nurseries and strawberry villages for a delightful weekend getaway of adventure, exploration and of course sweet stuff.
- Lakshmi Strawberry Farm
Started in 1975 as a favourite place for strawberry lovers, Lakshmi Strawberry Farm offers advice on how to pick strawberries off plants. They prefer growing their own crops without any chemical input which makes visitors feel good about what they eat. Throughout the year this farm also hosts picking festivals for other berries like carrots and radish.
Location: House No.45, Patil Near Jila Parishad Prathmik School, Avakali, Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
- Bhilare Farms
Quality berry picking at Bhilare Farms attracts a lot of people who love strawberries very much. The farm’s owner Sunil Bhilare came up with an idea of opening his grounds for tourists where he provided them with some cardboard boxes and guided them through choosing fresh strawberries from his crops. Thereafter guests can go to a designated area so that they experience the hands-on picking process.
Location: Panchgani – Mahabaleshwar Rd, Ganeshpeth, Panchgani, Maharashtra
- Green Valley Farm
Satara-Medha-Mahabaleshwar road is where Green Valley Farm lies whereby it gives fantastic views over its fields full of strawberries both adults and children love visiting. Beside strawberries; the garden has many types of other berries plus exotic vegetables all sold affordably.
Location: Near Club Mahindra Sherwood Resort, Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
- Shivsagar Farm House
Situated along Bhilar Road is Shivsagar Farm House that has spectacular views of strawberry beds. This is a place where you can have your unique stay at a farm, pick strawberries and stay in the fully serviced farmhouse. It’s an appropriate spot for refreshing weekend vacation.
Location: Bhilar Village, Opposite Elysium Resort, Near Windsor Park, Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar Road, Maharashtra
These farms not only offer the joy of strawberry picking but also provide a taste of the strawberry picking season in Mahabaleshwar. Therefore, if you are planning to visit during the Mahabaleshwar strawberry season, these are places to go for an experience that will never be forgotten!
Read: How to Reach Mahabaleshwar: From Fields to Feasts: Your Guide to the Strawberry Season in MahabaleshwarExploring Must-See Places in Mahabaleshwar
Other than strawberries, this hill station in Maharashtra has more hidden in its sleeves! There are so many places to visit and things to do in Mahabaleshwar.
- To begin with, go see Venna Lake, a top tourist attraction in Mahabaleshwar, where you can take a peaceful boat ride or walk leisurely along the banks of the lake.
- Do not fail to visit Wilson Point for the ultimate sunrise experience at the highest point in Mahabaleshwar.
- Nature lovers can get a taste of history at Pratapgad Fort set amidst lush green surroundings.
- The Mahabaleshwar Temple is a top spot in Mahabaleshwar if you appreciate architecture.
- Explore the charming markets and taste the local delicacies as it’s one of the delightful activities in Mahabaleshwar.
Places to Stay in Mahabaleshwar
Want some berries picking and soaking up the scenic fascination of Mahabaleshwar? Then why not stay in style? Here are a few fabulous villas in Mahabaleshwar that will make your weekend getaway with friends and family absolutely unforgettable. From luxurious amenities to breathtaking views, these spots have it all!
Dawn Ecstasy
Positioned in the heart of this mesmerising hill station in Maharashtra, Dawn Ecstasy offers an amalgamation of mediaeval allure and contemporary sophistication. This villa’s balcony provides awe-inspiring views of the river gorge where one can sip coffee during morning hours or walk alongside the river. A great location for those looking for homestays in Mahabaleshwar for rejuvenating yourself during weekends.
Bela Mansion
Amongst beautiful Mahabaleshwar villas with pools, Bela Mansion stands out. With traditional interiors inspired by Rajasthan and modern facilities, this rustic eight-room hideaway is full of privacy and charm. The red roofs made of tiles, brick pathways and large balconies will make you feel like you are in another time, making it one of the finest pool villas in Mahabaleshwar.
Beyond the Blue Door
For absolute peace, head to Beyond the Blue Door, one of the perfect bungalows in Mahabaleshwar. This villa is perfect for visiting Strawberry Farms, Vintage Car Museum or Lingmala Waterfalls as it is only a few hours away from town. The big windows, beautiful exteriors and well decorated interiors that this villa features make it one of the best villas in Mahabaleshwar
Amoda Villa
Great views, unbelievable hospitality and amidst nature experiences are some of what Amoda Villa promises. One of the best pool villas in Mahabaleshwar has been designed on a stunning piece of land surrounded by hills rolling down towards a nearby river. The sound of running water and gentle breezes make this place extremely peaceful for creating fond memories that last long. By staying at this Mahabaleshwar on rest you can experience a home away from home.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to indulge in strawberries at their best while in Mahabaleshwar, the period from December to February is recommended. This time happens to be right during the peak berry season when farms are brimming with these delicious red fruits. And if you want to have the ultimate strawberry experience, come here around March and enjoy a vibrant Strawberry Festival.
Apart from strawberries, there are several other attractions in Mahabaleshwar that make it worth your while. If you find boat riding peaceful, you must take a trip to Venna Lake and catch an awe-inspiring sunrise at Wilson Point, which is the highest spot in Mahabaleshwar. For historical enthusiasts, Pratapgad Fort will do whereas those seeking spiritual comfort can go down to Mahabaleshwar Temple. Besides exploring local markets that offer specific cultural experiences and foods of Mahabaleshwar.
Of course! There are many strawberry picking farms in Mahabaleshwar where you can pick your own strawberries directly from the plant. Picking activity is provided by farming enterprises like Lakshmi Strawberry Farm or Bhilare Farms among others. It’s definitely a fun-filled way for families to pick berries together and spend a day out in acres of fruit bearing fields.
Read: Restaurants in Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar as well as Panchgani both produce tasteful strawberries but with some minor variations. The sweetness level on those berries from Mahableshwer is high due to its unique climate and rich soil of this region making them taste sweeter as well as juicy enough unlike any other due to the climatic conditions. In contrast, the Panchgani strawberries appear to have a tarty taste and are also firm. However, both are absolutely delightful and worth a try.
Well, there are many kinds of accommodations in Mahabaleshwar, ranging from villas to hostels. If you’re travelling with a large group then it’s best to stay at one of the villas in Mahabaleshwar. Additionally, not just large groups but couples too are now able to book a room and enjoy the same privacy. StayVista offers a plethora of luxury villas in Mahabaleshwar that you can choose from. To fully enjoy the strawberry season, you could also book a villa in Panchgani, which is just 19 km away, and experience it all.
