Mahabaleshwar MAHARASHTRA
The misty little town of Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra boasts pleasant weather through the year and is a great detour from Mumbai if you’re looking for some quiet time after the chaos of the metropolis. However, arrive here right before the end of monsoon to enjoy the best views. The ancient Pratapgarh Fort perched atop a spur, drenched in rain and glory alike; a pregnant Venna Lake, which gives way to the Lingmala Waterfalls; strawberry fields carpeting the landscape in bright candy red; and the mighty Sahyadri mountain range awash with different shades of green—there’s no better place to experience monsoons in the Western Ghats. While the Venna Lake calls for a romantic boat ride in its vibrant shikaras, lush strawberry farms invite guests for an immersive berrypicking experience.
Spend some time breathing in the tranquillity at Lingmala Falls, or choose from Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head Point to catch a rainbow peeping from behind the Sahyadri hills.
GETTING THERE
The nearest airport is in Pune (120 km). You can also opt for a five-hour drive from Mumbai (264 km) via the MumbaiPune Expressway.
STAY
Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa (starts from `12,000/US$172, marriott.com) and Citrus Chambers Mahabaleshwar (starts from `10,700/US$153, citrushotels.com) are good options.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
June to September
MUST SEE
Visit Mapro Garden (mapro.com) in Gureghar to feast on fresh strawberries. The fourth-century Mahabaleshwar
Temple is also worth visiting for its architecture.