Wondering where to holiday this summer season? A trip to the picturesque hill station of Mahabaleshwar is what we recommend. This hilly town in Satara district, located amid the scenic locales of the Western Ghats, has always been a go-to summer destination for Mumbaikars and Punekars. Once the summer retreat of the British, this quaint hill station is known for its several vantage points, offering natural vistas which will simply mesmerize you. It is also home to some splendid historical wonders, and we believe you and your family will certainly love exploring these attractions and gaining an insight into their rich and intriguing history.
Here is the list of 8 must-visit historical places in and around Mahabaleshwar.
Historical Places in Mahabaleshwar
1. Pratapgad Fort, Mahabaleshwar
The famous Pratapgad Fort, located on the outskirts of Mahabaleshwar, was commissioned by the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was his minister, More Tirmal Pingale, who oversaw the construction of this majestic fort till its completion in 1656. A strategic reason behind its construction was to keep the rebellious groups of the surrounding Javali Basin under control. Furthermore, this is the place where Shivaji received a shining sword, specifically in the temple of Bhavani – an important attraction to explore here.
There are two forts at Pratapgad – one is the upper fort built on top of the hill, from where scintillating views of the Konkan Valley can be enjoyed and the other one is the lower fort, constructed below towards the east and south side of the hill. Pratapgad is also famous for the battle between Shivaji and Afzal Khan, who was Bijapur Sultanate’s commander. The tomb of Afzal Khan is another attraction to visit at this site.
- Location: Poladpur Mahabaleshwar Rd
- Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, is a 16th-century shrine built during the reign of Chanda Rao More dynasty. It has been constructed in Hemadant style, which is celebrated in the architectural heritage of South India. The temple building is divided into the central hall and the sanctum sanctorum, which houses a 1.8 m long Swayambhu linga, which is believed to be around 500 years old and is shaped like a Rudraksha.
Inside the shrine, there is a square platform made of gold that is believed to have been donated by the great Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji. It is said that the platform has the weight equal to that of his mother, Jijabai. Panchganga Temple and Atibaleshwar Temple are other attractions that you can visit at this place.
- Location: Old Mahabaleshwar
- Timings: 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm and 9 pm
3. Morarji Castle, Mahabaleshwar
Morarji Castle is reminiscent of the colonial influence in Mahabaleshwar and lends an air of old-world charm with its impressive British-style architecture. The lush courtyard and elegant statues all around the building give it an even more royal look. In 1945 during India’s freedom struggle against the British, Mahatma Gandhi had come to this hill station and spent some time at Morarji Castle.
It would take you almost an hour to explore this castle, and once you are done with that, we suggest you to go for trekking in the hills surrounding the area.
- Timings: 10 am to 6:30 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
4. Lodwick Point, Mahabaleshwar
Lodwick Point, situated at an elevation of about 1245 m above sea level, is one of the popular vantage points in Mahabaleshwar. The point was originally called Domeshwar but later it came to be known as Sydney Point up until 1924, when a British officer, General Lodwick, climbed the hill to reach here. He was the first British officer to do so and to honor him, the place was renamed as Lodwick Point. A memorial pole of around 7 m height was later commissioned by his son at this place; there is also a marble sculpture of him at the base of the structure. You can enjoy some fantastic views of Elphinstone Point and Pratapgad Fort from this point.
- Location: Lodwick Trail, Haroshi
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Mount Malcolm, Mahabaleshwar
A historical landmark, Mount Malcolm is resplendent with incredible natural beauty and picturesque views. Named after the British office John Malcolm, this absolute architectural gem was built to honor him. Though the mansion has lost its original charm due to the passage of time, it is still able to woo many visitors with its typical British architectural style. The monument’s unique construction and adornment of the walls are what make it a prized possession in the Satara district.
Besides spending time in its scenic environs, visitors love to click pictures of the mansion and other colonial structures found in the vicinity of Mount Malcolm.
- Location: Prospect Point, Mahabaleshwar
- Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
6. Mahabaleshwar Club, Mahabaleshwar
A heritage building of this hill town, Mahabaleshwar Club has a regal charm to it. This red-stone construction is more than 130 years old and one of the best-preserved heritage places in the entire region. Verdant trees, colorful flowerbeds, and the quaint atmosphere are what draws tourists to this club across the year.
This club, dating back to 1881, was an initiative by six British army officers, who proposed to convert the old Army Sanitarium Blocks into club chambers and similarly convert the Frere Hall into the Club House. Today, the club offers a blend of old-world hospitality and modern comforts. When you come here to spend some quality time, do visit the library on the premises.
- Location: Satara Road, Mahabaleshwar
- Timings: Open all hours
- Entry Fee: Free
7. Krishnabai Temple, Mahabaleshwar
Krishnabai Temple is one of the oldest shrines in the region, located close to Panchganga Temple. This age-old temple is believed to be the origin of the Krishna River. Another belief is that this shrine belongs to the age of Pandavas. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this place of worship also has a Shiva lingam on its premises.
Today, this temple may be in a ruined state but history lovers come here to witness the beautiful carvings on its walls and also the green moss that has almost covered the structure. After exploring the temple, you can also enjoy trekking on the trail leading into the forest, located close to the temple.
- Location: Old Mahabaleshwar
- Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
8. Kamalgad Fort, Mahabaleshwar
Located near the town of Mahabaleshwar, Kamalgad Fort lies at an approximate elevation of 1219 m above sea level and counts among the highest hill forts in the district of Satara. It is believed that this majestic fort was constructed during the medieval period under the control of the Marathas. During the rule of the British Empire, it came under their control.
Interestingly, this fort can be accessed only by hiking and trekking as the path to it is blocked by a steep rock. This makes it a popular destination among trekkers and adventure seekers.
- Distance from Mahabaleshwar: 59 km
- Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
Plan a trip to Mahabaleshwar during your summer vacations, and visit these 8 amazing historical attractions. You will simply love the experience!
