Introduction

Mahabaleshwar hills being surrounded by valleys on all sides have numerous points offering panoramic view of sloping lush vistas, gushing waterfalls and dense forests. Most of these points are named after eminent British officers who served in the East India Company and were associated with the early development of this evergreen hill station.

Prominent among these is Lodwick Point, situated 1240 meters above sea level. Very popular with tourists, this point is important in local history for the Lodwick Monument - a 25-feet high obelisk commemorating the memory of this English general. One can view the majestic Pratapgarh Fort from here.

Another point that is a favorite with the tourists is the Arthur’s Seat named after Arthur Malet. This point is at a distance of 12 km from the main market. Situated at 1470 meters above sea level, it is also referred to as the Queen of all Points. It is popular for the uninterrupted view of the Jor Valley it provides. This point is remarkable for being the one spot from where you can clearly see the geographical differentiation between the Konkan and Deccan plateaus. The rocky terrain on the Southern side of the point is often likened to the undulating terrain of the Grand Canyon, Colorado USA. A common tourist thing to do here is to see your handkerchief fly down. It is interesting to see visitors toss down their handkerchief from this point and watch it sail gently in the air all spread out like an open parachute.

Enroute to Arthur's Point one crosses Tiger's Spring which is supposed to be the source of the river Savitri. It is so named because it is believed that to be a popular watering hole for tigers and panthers that populate the adjoining forests.

Wilson Point or the Sunrise Point situated at the highest point of Mahabaleshwar at 4735 feet is 1 km away from the main market. It is known for the mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset it offers. It is a vast plateau with three observation platforms erected at different spots. It is advisable to view sunrise from platform no. 2. You can also view Kshetra Mahabaleshwar, Elphinstone Point and Connaught Pick Point from here.

Bombay Point or the Sunset Point is at an altitude of 1294 meters above sea level. It is located on the old road to Bombay hence the name. It has a large open space with a bandstand. A lot of tourists prefer to picnic here in late afternoons and enjoy the ethereal view of sun setting over the majestic valley. One can also see the massive Pratapgarh Fort from here.

A few other points that you must explore are: Babington Point just 2 kilometers away from the bazaar has a spectacular view of the Koyna river and the Chinaman Waterfalls; and Helen’s Point just a kilometer from the Babington Point via the Blue Valley Road. It is 4 kms away from the main market. Situated at 1280 meters above sea level, from here, you can see the fields and the tiny huts far into the distance.

Connaught Peak, formerly known as Mount Olympia, is the second highest point of Mahableshwar situated at an altitude of 1385 meters. It offers a scenic view of the Venna Lake and the Krishna Valley. It is said that the Duke of Connaught was so enraptured by the beauty of this spot that in 1880 he renamed it after himself. You can view sunset as well as sunrise from this point. From here one can see Old Mahabaleshwar, Elphinstone Point and Krishna Valley.

Kate’s Point is Mahabaleshwar’s Echo Point. Situated at an altitude of 1289 meters it is a huge rock standing 50 meters high. This point is named after Sir John Malcolm’s daughter Kate. Located 6 kms away from the Venna Lake it offers spectacular view of the Dhom Dam and Krishna Valley.

Other popular points are Carnac Point, Falkland Point, Hunter Point and Marjorie Point. If you are the adventurous types then you can look at trekking it up to the various points. It will add to the thrill of visiting the hill station as you will experience it up close and personal and the fresh mountain air will evaporate all the fatigue.

Special Attributes

The table land has 30 exotic viewpoints.

Nuisance

Chaotic parking, takes a long time to extricate your vehicle

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You will have to trek/walk to most of the points.

Enjoyed by

Families, Singles, Children

Exposure

Substantial. Wear sunglasses and cap. Carry drinking water and light snacks.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Carry binoculars to see the various points the guides point out at. Also wear comfortable shoes.

Type of site

Scenic Points