Nature tourism in Mahabaleshwar is known for its mesmerizing natural beauty. The exotic scenery of the place has drawn the admiration of tourists and nature lovers greatly. In other words Mahabaleshwar is a perfect instance of blending heritage with scenic beauty of nature. To catch a glance of these stunning locales thousands of enthusiastic tourists and visitors visit the hill station. Mahabaleshwar is famous for several points, offering picturesque view of the locale. All the viewpoints have derived their names from distinguished British rulers.
Lodwick Point
Lodwick Point is situated at an altitude of 1,240 metres. The place has derived its name from General Lodwick, who is believed to be the first person to reach the place in the year 1824. A monument was erected at Lodwick Point in his fond memory by his son.
Elphinstone Point
Elphinstone Point has been named after the then Governor of Mumbai, Sir Elphinstone. He was the first person to discover the place in the beginning of eighteenth century. The shape of this point is unique. If any one observes this point it resembles the head and trunk of an elephant. It has proved to be an ideal picnic spot. In between Lodwick Point and Elphinstone Point, people also get captivated by the beauty of the cascading Dhobi waterfalls.
Arthur`s Seat
It is another spectacular point of Mahabaleshwar. Experts opine that it is one of the best spots of the region. It rises to a height of nearly 1,348 metres and offers a magnificent view of the Jor valley. On the way to Arthur`s Seat other points like Marjorie Point, Savitri Point and Castle Rock Point are situated which also deserves special mention. All of them rise from Konkan valleys. The point has been named after Sir Arthur Mallet, who used to sit there overlooking the Savitri River where he lost his family, including wife and children, in a tragic ferry accident.
Tiger`s Spring
Tiger`s spring is the origin of Savitri River. The place ultimately leads to a tiny ridge right underneath the Arthur`s Point. It offers a picturesque locale. At nights tigers visit this spring to drink water.
Kate`s Point
Another significant place of Mahabaleshwar is Kate`s Point, which rises to a height of nearly 1,290 metres and drops down to the Krishna valley. The place offers a panoramic view of two reservoirs namely Dhom and Balakwadi. Echo Point is also located in the vicinity. The place derived its name from the daughter of Sir James Malcom, Kate who was very fond of this place.
Needle Hole Point
Situated near Kate`s Point the place houses a natural rock with a hole in the centre. The place is also popular for the view of Deccan traps which resembles an elephant`s truck.
Lingmala Waterfall
Another attractive site in Mahabaleshwar is the Lingmala waterfall which runs beautifully through the Venna valley.
Wilson`s Point
The place got its name from the Governor of Bombay (1923-26), Sir Leslie Wilson. Rising to a height of approximately 1,435 metres, Wilson`s Point is the highest point in the whole of Mahabaleshwar. It treats the tourists with beautiful scenery. To catch the aura of rising sun, 3 observation towers have been built. It is the only site in Mahabaleshwar which offers enchanting views of both sunrise and sunset.
Connaught Peak
It is another tourist attraction of Mahabaleshwar. In fact it is the second highest point and offers a splendid view of the town.
Venna Lake
It is another place where a large number of tourists visit in great jubilance. It encompasses a large area covering twenty-five acres of land. Facilities like boating and fishing are done here.
Tapola
Tapola appeals to the tourists due to its scenic beauty. It also offers the panoramic view of the meeting point of rivers like Koyna and Solshi and also the large Koyna Dam.
3 Monkey Point
3 Monkey Point has been named so for its natural stone sculpture resembling three monkeys sitting next to each other which looks exactly like the three monkeys of Gandhiji.
Panchgani
Panchgani is a picturesque hill resort situated at a little distance from Mahabaleshwar. Various points like Sidney Point, Parsi Point and Graves Point can be accessed from this place, which are famous for their exquisite natural beauty. Panchgani hosts a number of strawberry farms. Visiting the farms and buying fresh fruit and jams add to the tourist attraction of the place.
Other Points of Mahabaleshwar
Other points of less significance are Gaolani Point, Helen`s Point and Babington Point. To the southern side of Babington Point one finds Chinaman waterfall. Falkland, Carnac and Bombay Points also are attractive.
