MAHABALESHWAR
Mahabaleshwar was the summer capital of the erstwhile Bombay presidency. A popular town, with an air of unspoilt beauty, it meanders leisurely for 5 kms at an altitude of 1372 m. You can while away the hours boating or fishing at the placid Venna Lake or explore the walks or the thirty points that offer panoramic views of the valley and the sea.

The crystal waters of the numerous waterfalls are delight to bathe in. The adventurous could trek down to Pratapgarh Fort, 24 kms away where Shivaji dramatically bested General Afsal Khan. You could just roam through the tiny lanes of the bazaar, shopping for everything from shoes to luscious strawberries,blackberries,jams and jellies.
Getting around: Taxis and rickshaws are easily available though a bicycle, which you can hire by the hour or for the day, is the best way to move around.
Weather: Temperatures vary from 13 C in winter to 29 C in summer, with a yearly rainfall of 663 cms. The best time to visit is October-June.
Getting there: Pune is the nearest airport, 120 kms away. Pune is also the most convenient railhead, though Wathar at 62 kms is the nearest station. Mumbai is 290 kms away by road via Pune and 247 kms via Mahad. MTDC organises regular tours from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar. State Transport buses run from Pune and Mumbai.
Hotels: Mahabaleshwar has low level and upper-end accommodation available. The MTDC has a comfortable and economical resort as well.