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Places to Visit near Mahabaleshwar

Named after the five majestic hills enclosing it, Panchgani makes for a renowned hill station in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Perched at an elevation of around 1,334 meters above sea level, this hill town is packed with towering mountains, serene valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests.

Overlooked by the Sahyadri mountains, this town served as a beautiful summer retreat for the British officials in the bygone times. At the present day, Panchgani is visited by a plethora of tourists seeking peace, romance, nature, and adventure. Enthralling local destinations such as Sydney Point, Table Land, Rajpuri Caves, and Dhom Dam form the major attractions of Panchgani and add to the beauty and charm of the place. Panchgani is not limited just to a few picturesque sights, but also goes beyond to offer its visitors a plethora of mind-boggling activities.

From shopping at Shivaji Circle to admiring nature at Wai and from exploring history at Kamalgad Fort to boating at Venna Lake, this place has everything to let you experience an action-packed holiday. If you are a daredevil and seeking adventure activities, Panchgani can offer you a plethora of adrenaline-fuelled sports including paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, speed boating, and horse riding.

One of the top aspects that adds to the pleasurable vacation at Panchgani is the availability of top-class accommodation facilities in this town. Panchgani is bestowed with a plethora of budget-friendly as well as luxury resorts and hotels that are suitable for families, couples, and friends. These hotels are well-equipped with modern amenities and offer amazing facilities including thrilling outdoor activities. Furthermore, packed with many nature-friendly camping destinations, this place also allows the travelers to enjoy surreal night camping opportunities.

So, no matter the kind of traveler you are, pack your bags to Panchgani and discover an exquisite holiday brimming with history, adventure, nature, and a lot more.

Lonavala is a hill station near Pune district of Maharashtra. At the height of 2,047 feet from sea level and sprawling over 38 kilometer square of land, Lonavala is an escapist city from the fast-paced and extreme conditions that inhabit both Mumbai and Pune. It offers the perfect retreat to the city dwellers through its serenity and peaceful atmosphere.

Several places of interest around Lonavala and Khandala attract tourists throughout the year. They include vivid and picturesque lakes, cliff-tops, eluding caves, and magnificent forts. Dams and waterfalls are a pioneer attraction during and immediately after the monsoon. Some of these places are Rajmachi Point,  Lonavala Lake, and Shivaji Udyan, Valvan Dam, Ryewood Park, Della Adventure Park, Duke’s Nose, Tiger’s Leap and Lohagad and Visapur forts.

If you dive into the history of Lonavala, you will find that it was a part of the Yadava dynasty. Khandala is another hill adjacent to Lonavala, both of which were discovered by the then Governor of Bombay Presidency, Lord Elphinstone. The Maratha and Peshwa empires played a prominent historical role with its Malva warriors. But its history is not the only reason to visit Lonavala.

Lonavala is 96 km away from the city of Mumbai and only 64 km from the modern city of Pune. It falls in between the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, thus making commute all the easier. And if you can’t find a rental car, then you have buses and trains to rely on.

Train journeys are comfortable and filled with lush green passages, especially during the monsoon. If this has aroused you enough to visit the hill-station once, then here is a detailed guide on how and when to go about.

Mumbai, the city of dreams. Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. Mumbai, the old world charm and fast pace of the modern life. There is so much that one can say in the praise of the one city in India that everyone wants to visit at least once in their life. That maybe because of the grandeur of this city or because of the history it has seen. Nonetheless, this city has a lot in store for everyone who visits. The USP of places to visit in Mumbai is that they are all iconic and all you need is a picture to recognize them, that is the charm of this city. Some places here are pieces of history, some are spiritual hotspots, and others are mesmerizing places to relax, chill or munch on the famous streets of Mumbai, like the ever famous Chowpatty Beach.

You can see the Gateway of India, Marine drive or the film city of Goregaon, or visit the Siddhivinayak temple and Haji Ali Mosque for your fill of the spiritual. You can even get to see the new addition to the roster of mesmerizing and intimidating places in Mumbai, the Bandra Worli Sealink. And be it a group hangout, a solo search of solace or just a couple's getaway, Chowpatty, Juhu, and Aksa Beach are names that almost everyone in the city knows and crowds on various occasions. They are equally coveted by the many who come to Mumbai from outside for the frolicking and snacking experiences that are available at these locations. One more thing that Mumbai is famous for is the shopping district at Colaba, where you can get everything from high brand store clothes to cheap knock-offs to add to your wardrobe as part of your fashion statement.

 Always bustling with energy, a trip to Mumbai should be on your travel list to understand the best way of how India portrays unity in diversity. Visit the hidden temples or pay a visit to famous monuments to explore the most cosmopolitan city in India. Enjoy the perfect blend of festivities, religions, music, food, music and theatres with a trip to Mumbai. Some of the best places to visit in Mumbai are the Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Girgaum Cave, Siddhivinayak Temple, Essel world, Elephanta Island etc. 

While you are in this amazing city you can also visit the Kanheri Caves, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mount Mary Church, Banganga Tank etc. Make a stop at the Marina Beach in the evening and have lip-smacking street food while you witness the best sunset being greeted by splashing waves of the sea. Find out all you need to know about the best places to visit in Mumbai on your vacation here.

And that is not just it. If you are looking for things to do and places outside the city, there is a lot of scope to plan weekend getaways near Mumbai. At just a small drive away from the city is the favourite picnic and night stay spots of Lonavala and Khandala. You can even visit the famous Sai Baba temple in Shirdi. With so much to offer, there is no wonder why Mumbai has been a favourite of everyone in the country for so many decades.

If Mumbai is the most happening place in Maharashtra, then it’s neighbour Pune is the cultural hub and the biggest city in the state. An upcoming IT centre and a fascinating city, Pune has no shortage of things to intrigue the interest of almost anyone who has ever been here or has heard of the city. With being in the proximity of many major cities and acting as a centre seat for when getting to major attractions of the state is concerned, the places to visit in Pune and around will never cease to amaze you with their unique roster of features. 

From treks to Lohagarh and Rajmachi Forts, to the canoeing and white water rafting adventures in Kolad River, from a fascinating Scuba Diving experience to the unique experience of trekking in Andharban, the city is in a proximity of some of the most fascinating things to do in Pune and near.

Adventure never stops in Pune as you can embark on an exhilarating underwater experiences in the Sangam safari and maybe, if you are a daredevil, pay a visit to the Crocodile Island. And even if you are not well acquainted with the adventures around, don’t be disheartened as there are many places near Pune where you can take on things at a beginner level, like the Kundalika river that serves as the perfect place for beginners in rafting or the famous Rajmachi fort which is most suited for people who wish to start on an easy trek

And for places to stay in Pune and around, there are innumerable options to choose from. You can choose to stay in a luxurious resort in Pune or go for a hillside resort in the embrace of Maharashtra’s favourite hill stations like Khandala, Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar for the true weekend getaway from Pune, not so far away from the city. And for the ones who like mix adventure with their stays and take it all to a whole new level, Pune is not going to disappoint you. With options ranging from a camp stay on the banks of Pawna Lake to a village stay experience in Junnar, there is just no stopping the fun that one can have in Pune. Pune is the whole deal, everything around it is just a pleasant add-on, and who doesn’t like freebies, right?

Kamshet is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats of India. The place is famous for paragliding, a beloved adventure sport of India and the numerous flying schools located in the vicinity. The small but picturesque hill station is surrounded by the breathtaking Western Ghats which form a major part of the tourist places in Kamshet and regularly finds itself in many top 10 lists that name destination for the ultimate thrill-seekers. 

Kamshet is a paradise not just for the eyes but also for the adventures junkie in you. But don’t think this place is just for those who seek thrill and excitement. There are numerous other activities to do in Kamshet as well as tourist hotspots that make this an ideal place for a family getaway or even a romantic getaway. Kamshet is ideally located just 45km from the main town of Pune city. The locals refer to it as a paragliding paradise. There is no better place in the region to indulge in this thrilling adventure activity.

But if you are not much of a thrill-seeker then you can spend your time enjoying the natural scenery, fresh air a luxury these days and stroll through the small villages laced around this quaint hill station. If you want to experience the quintessential Indian village lifestyle then a visit to one of the villages is a must. There you can interact with locals, have a feel of what it’s like to live in muddy huts and even have a small shopping spree at the local village markets.

The hills station is surrounded by gorgeous sunflowers fields and you can enjoy some amazing views while paragliding over them. Other tourist places in Kamshet include Bhairi Caves, Bedse Caves,  Pavana Lake, Kondeshwar Temple, and Shinde Wadi Hills. If you have more time at hand you can perhaps extend your trip to other hill stations such as Khandala and Lonavala, which are located at short distances from Kamshet.

Igatpuri is one of the most frequented tourist destination in the state of Maharashtra in Western India. Located in the naturally bountiful and grand Sahyadri mountain ranges. This place offers something for each type of traveler. From adventurous trek routes to water sports like rafting and kayaking, from holy temples to serene natural trail routes, Igatpuri allows enjoyment and satisfaction for each and every type of tourist. You can visit this place with your kids, partners and friends and the best season to visit is either in monsoon or winter, to get the best of this naturally charming and serene place.

The best part of this serene and calm place is the beautiful cascading waterfalls, which make their way through the dense green forests of the Sahyadri Mountains. As soon as you see these waterfalls, you will be stunned by its beauty and the rivers which flow through the valley will make you feel hypnotized completely. So if you are looking for a weekend getaway with your loved ones or even as a solo traveler, Igatpuri is a place which will fit your budget and also offer you some of the best natural beauty, serenity and solitude to experience and unwind yourself.

If you’ve ever dreamt about backpacking off to green pastures and cascading waterfalls among the lush mountains, you don’t have to travel all the way up north to experience setting like that anymore. Kolad – a humble village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra – is home to some of the most imposing valleys and natural beauty that were hidden away from the rest of the world until recent times. Nature enthusiasts and hikers already know of this gem in the Sahyadris that has been gaining impetus by day as a popular destination for adventure sports, but there’s more to this quaint settlement than just that. The primary tourist places in Kolad shout out loud white water rafting and trekking into the wild.

Fondly referred to as the Rishikesh of Maharashtra, Kolad has been lately getting attention as one of the best white water rafting spots in Maharashtra. In fact, the stunning landscaping valleys of Kolad have a charm of their own during the monsoons in Maharashtra. The village is located alongside the banks of the magnificent River Kundalika, the fastest flowing river of the South. This provides varying degrees of difficulty levels for those fascinated by water sports. Apart from that, the rugged topography of this village makes it a great hiking destination among those eager to explore the thriving faunal side of Kolad.

Kolad’s scenic locale makes it a popular hotspot during the monsoons. Apart from the daunting sports, you can experience the true spectacle of nature. In fact, courtesy the varied climatic conditions in Kolad, every season gives you a chance to unwind in several ways. There are numerous hotels, resorts, farmhouses and peaceful home-stays tucked away into this tranquil village for those who wish for a peaceful time away from the city.

So, round up a group of friends, or simply hang out with your loved ones, Kolad is perfect for those looking forward to a delightful picnic in a land not so far away. Don’t forget to visit tourist places in Kolad which include Tahmini Ghat Waterfalls, Bhira Dam, Ghosala Fort and Tala Fort amongst others.

Known as the” cutest little hill station of India”, the Matheran hill station is the best place to enjoy the sunset and sunrise view along with some mind blowing sceneries to keep you fresh and up front. This extraordinary hill station offers the best tourist places in Matheran which are untouched and undisturbed by the rustling city life that surrounds the town. The place is actually located on the Western Ghats that ranges in an elevation of around 800 meter above the sea level. The place always has a pleasant weather to enjoy during any time of the year, but its beauty gets added up during the season of rain and thunderstorm.

 Another thing about the beautiful hill station is that it is eco friendly and has no rush of cars and buses honking on the street. The major was taken by the government of Maharashtra in order to protect Matheran. The best thing about this place is that it is like a quiet and relaxing place with no buzzing of horns and pollution and along with that it contains some mesmerizing places and views of the extraordinary nature that will leave you bewitched of its beauty and make you feel relax and stress free.

 Just not only trekker, Matheran is a treat for the photographers also to explore and capture the best of the beauty of the beautiful hill station. The beauty of Western Ghats, Matheran is the smallest hill station of India. Travellers and tourists who visit the place love exploring the place by walking on foot. By which it becomes more exciting to get lost in the scenic beauty of the town while finding your way. Plan your trip to Matheran and indulge yourself in various activities that Matheran provides like camping, trekking, rappelling etc.

Matheran town is the best option for a person who loves getting lost in the nature and also for those who wants to take a break from their busy city life. The tourist places in Matheran are absolutely breathtaking.

Situated in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, Raigad district is majorly known for its historical significance and awe-inspiring beauty. Earlier, the place was named as Coolaba but with the growing popularity of its Raigad fort, it was renamed to Raigad. Cradled amidst the mesmerizing Sahyadri ranges, this district welcomes you with a unique combination of beaches, religious temples, and historic forts.

On your visit to this beautiful Konkani district, be ready to fall in love with its natural splendour that is second to none. As you will usher into the Raigad city, you will be welcomed by the striking landscapes of the Western Ghats and picturesque verdant beaches where one can unwind and bid farewell to their hectic lives. The city also boasts its diverse flora and fauna that forms the bedrock of its popularity.

From verdant beaches like Alibag, Kihim, and Karnala to the historic forts like Kolaba, Raigad, and Sudhagad- Raigad has everything that makes it the tourist magnet of Maharashtra. With touristy spots like Elephanta Caves and Ashtavinayak Temple in reserve, it also provides you with a sneak peek into the glorious culture of Konkan region. Whether you want to embark on a scenic trip or delve deep into the history of Maharashtra, Raigad has got it all covered for you.

There is a wide range of enthralling activities that one might indulge in here. Whether you are a loner who finds peace in looking out for exotic bird species at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary or the historic landmarks of the district is what that appeals to you the most- there is no dearth of things to do in Raigad.

If you are willing to indulge in some exhilarating sports, set out on a ropeway ride near the Raigad fort and vouch for a fun-filled day. You can also embark on a gastronomic journey by exploring numerous restaurants across the city streets and relishing the taste of delicious Maharashtrian cuisines.

Though the surreal landscapes and historical forts form the major highlights of Raigad, its pleasant weather adds to its existing charm. The city witnesses a pleasant climate during the colder months which makes it a superb winter destination. Hence, if you want to make the most out of your Raigad trip, it is best to visit here between November and March. Raigad experiences reduced tourist activities between March and June, owing to its hot weather during these months.

If you are planning to visit Mumbai or Pune, you must come down to this adventurous and fun filled escapade of Lavasa. Lavasa offers you an array of options in adventure and entertainment. On the other hand, if you prefer a calm and lazy weekend with good food and captivating scenic beauty, Lavasa has that too.

Lavasa is a planned hill station near Pune, particularly designed to attract tourists. Round the year, the weather there remains moderate and pleasant, making it really soothing for the tourists. Situated in the Western Ghats, Lavasa is truly outstanding with its beautiful hills and greenery all around. Visit the place to witness this heavenly destination.

If you love adventure, you will simply love Lavasa. You will get an array of options in water sports, trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and what not. This planned town has ayurvedic massage centres as well. Therefore, Lavasa is both for adventure enthusiasts and peace-seekers.

One of the many tempting things in Lavasa is the luxurious stay. The hotels and resorts there are truly comfortable. From budget accommodations to the lavish premium quality resorts, you will get everything there. Here are a few suggestions for you- Mercure, The Waterfront Shaw, Picnic House, Fortune Select Dasve, Ekaant the Retreat, etc.

If you are a complete foodie and you check the local delicacies of a place first before visiting it, Lavasa is definitely not going to disappoint you. There are innumerable restaurants, bakeries and food stalls in Lavasa. Here are the names of a few of them- Café Coffee Day; Chor Bizarre; Earthen Oven; Krazy Koala; Granma’s Pastries, Sandwiches and Ice creams; Pizzalava, etc. From typical North Indian spicy dishes to not so spicy Italian cuisine- Lavasa has to offer everything to you.

If you are a party animal and like enjoying after the sun goes off to sleep, Lavasa is definitely your place. The hotels you will be staying in will have a bar along with a disco, which will offer you a happening nightlife. Enjoy a drink while you tap your feet with the beats.

Shopping is Lavasa is a bit disappointing for the shopaholics as you will not find market places and shopping malls there. Lavasa is solely created for adventure sports and a lazy weekends away from the cacophony of the big cities. The only magnificent stuffs you will get to buy there are the crafts with bamboo.

The other beautiful nearby destinations that you can visit from Lavasa are Panshet Dam, Velhe and Mulshi.

Made popular around the world all thanks to Bollywood, the city of Khandala is tucked amidst the Western Ghats. Located near Mumbai, Pune as well as Lonavala, this hilly city serves as a perfect weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the busy city limits. Situated at the top end of Bhor Ghat, Khandala is also amongst the famous hill stations in the country.

Khandala is also home to several picturesque peaks, age-old caves as well as pristine and crystal-clear lakes. It has many different viewpoints, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, in addition to a few peaks which resemble a pointed nose and a leaping tiger. The Buddhist Caves at Karla and Bhaja in Khandala are also very famous. They are the preludes and interludes to the Ajanta and Ellora caves and tend to attract a lot of tourists. Khandala is also home to the Bedse Caves, which date back to 60 B.C. and are amongst the oldest caves in the country.

Along with this, Khandala boasts of many other beautiful attractions, such as the Kune Waterfalls, which is the 14th highest waterfall in India. It is a three-tiered waterfall with an overall height of 200 metres. Other such places include the Lion’s Point, a cliff between Aamby Valley and the Bhushi Dam which gives scintillating views of the Tungarli Lake.

One of the best things about this city is that it caters to all kinds of tourists, from adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers or even those who simply wish to have a relaxing holiday. One of the most common activities one can enjoy in Khandala is hiking and tourists from all over India come here to partake in this activity. One can also arrange for picnics at the several vantage points or swim in the many waterfalls here.

The tourist places in Alibag makes for the perfect weekend getaway with friends or family. It shares its boundaries with the majestic Arabian Sea and is popular for its magnificent sea forts, its virgin beaches and local seafood cuisine. It’s an ideal weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of busy Mumbai. It is located only 9 Km from Mumbai and can be easily accessed via NH 66. The driving distance to this paradise is just under 2 hours.

 Alibag literally means the ‘Garden of Ali”, it is in Raigad and is ideal for those who are looking for some peace, serenity and sun soaked beaches. Alibag is commonly referred to by the locals as the Goa of Maharashtra and rightly so as it's surrounded by the beautiful Arabian Sea on all sides. A lot of people don’t know this, but, Alibag shares its borders with a famous Israeli-Jewish region, which is home to numerous Jewish families. So, if you are a cultural buff then you might want to head that way and try and scoop up some of that rich Jewish culture and heritage. Alibag is also home to a popular Jewish Synagogue referred to as Israeli Ali.

 Alibag provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of fun and relaxation as it's surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Arabian Sea on all sides and is lined with virgin sun kissed beaches. Although the drive to Alibag is a must do as it's laced with picturesque views, it can also be accessed by ferry from Mumbai. It is the perfect tourist spot enjoyed both by the young and old. There is no dearth of things to do and explore tourist places in Alibag as there are huge no. of forts, beaches, and even some celebrity bungalows.You may even sight a few celebrities while you are there.