Beautiful and serene, we’ve all heard about one of Maharashtra’s favourite retreats – Mahabaleshwar. With magnificent lushness, stunning waterfalls and tourist viewpoints – the hill town is among the most visited destinations in the country. Adventure seekers and nature lovers have a special fondness towards Mahabaleshwar for its many hideaways and lesser-known picnic spots as well. Let’s take a look at the 13 most popular picnic spots in and around Mahabaleshwar for an endless fun day.
Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
1. Connaught Peak, Mahabaleshwar
Connaught Peak | #1 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
Connaught Peak stands tall as the second highest peak in Mahabaleshwar. Situated at a height of 1400 m, the peak has been a favourite with travellers for its panoramic views of the hill station. Previously known as Mount Olympia, it owes its name to the Duke of Connaught who visited and fell in love with the surreal surroundings. A great vantage point for the town’s other popular spots including Venna Lake, Krishna Valley and Pratapgad Fort – Connaught Peak makes an excellent spot for late afternoon picnics.
- Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
2. Bombay Point, Mahabaleshwar
Bombay Point | #2 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
The beauty of the setting sun behind rolling mountains is incomparable to any other. And perhaps that’s why Bombay Point is one of the most popular spots in Mahabaleshwar. Also known as Sunset Point, it’s situated on the Old Bombay Road and owes its name to the location. The oldest viewpoint in the hill town, it offers visitors a tryst with nature and a mix of adventure.
Bombay Point is a large open space which serves as Bandstand – reminiscent of Mumbai’s favourite recreational spot and is abuzz with vendors selling corn, bhel and vada pav. With activities such as horse riding, photography and short treks to keep you busy, it’s a great idea for a picnic outing.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:30 pm
3. Elephant’s Head Point, Mahabaleshwar
Elephant’s Head Point | #3 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
As the name suggests Elephant’s Head Point resembles the head and the trunk of an elephant. Certainly a unique feature but what stands out for this charming picnic spot is the awe-inspiring beauty surrounding it. Overlooking the valley, it offers great views of the Sahyadri Mountains making it a great spot for photographers and picnickers. To reach the top, you can either take a pony or choose to trek the short distance from the parking.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Also Read: Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar
4. Lingmala Falls, Mahabaleshwar
Lingmala Falls | #4 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
Lingmala Falls promises a fun picnic amidst the gushing sound of water and the open blue skies. One of the most popular waterfalls in Mahabaleshwar, these are located at an altitude of 1,278 meters and offer picturesque views of the Dhobi Waterfalls and Chinaman’s Falls. Divided between a mini waterfall and a major waterfall, it’s ideal to visit during monsoon when the water is in full flow. The falls are formed at the base by the River Venna and make their way through lush greenery to the Venna Valley. The mini waterfall is also a great option for swimming but it’s advised to be careful of the water flow during monsoon. Falling from a height of 500 feet, the waterfalls against the craggy rocks is truly a sight to behold.
- Location: Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar Road
- Timings: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 20
5. Chinaman’s Falls, Mahabaleshwar
Chinaman’s Falls | #5 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
Named after the Chinese who cultivated and worked on the fields surrounding the falls, Chinaman’s Falls is among the best places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Cascading down from 500 feet, the waterfall flow from two separate points and merge into a single stream. Picturesquely situated amidst lush greenery, the falls can be reached through Tiger Path Road or through Carviali Road. Visitors typically head here during early afternoons to enjoy the serenity and peace of the quiet spot. It’s highly recommended to visit during or after monsoons when the waterfalls are replenished after fresh rainfall.
- Location: Near Babington Point
- Best time to visit: August to October
6. Dhobi Waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar
Dhobi Waterfalls | #6 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
Dhobi Waterfalls is one of the lesser known spots in Mahabaleshwar making it an ideal picnic spot if you want to admire nature in peace. Enveloped by craggy rocks on all sides, the waterfalls flow through the valley and finally meet the Koyna River. Since the waterfall doesn’t fall from a great height, it makes for a far safer experience if you’d like to get into the water or sit on the rocks.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Travel Tip: Make sure to wear sturdy shoes since the terrain here can get a little tricky, especially during monsoon.
7. Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar
Venna Lake | #7 of 13 Picnic Spots in Mahabaleshwar
One of the most popular picnic spots in Mahabaleshwar, Venna Lake is thronged by locals and tourists throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here including boating, horse riding, photography and digging into delicious local street food. The man-made lake was built by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj to provide a constant source of water to neighbouring areas. Today, the lake is a great tourist spot.
- Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Read Also: Lakes in Mahabaleshwar
Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
8. Parsi Point, Panchgani
Parsi Point | #8 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
En route Mahabaleshwar from Panchgani lies Parsi Point – a quaint spot surrounded by breath-taking views of the lush, refreshing greenery of Krishna Valley and the backwaters of Dhom Dam. The name Parsi Point stems from its popularity as a favourite picnic spot for the Parsi community that has today become popular among all. Apart from enjoying delicious snacks that the vendors offer, you can take a moment to explore the area through telescopes or hop on a camel for a topsy turvy ride.
- Location: Ganeshpeth, Panchgani
- Timings: 7:00 am to 6:30 pm
9. Kaas Plateau
Kaas Plateau | #9 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
Kaas Plateau is Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers and a part of Sahyadri Sub Cluster – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most unique spots in Maharashtra, Kaas Plateau is home to over 1500 species of plants spanning over 156 botanical families – some of which are listed on the Red Data Book that contains the IUCN list of threatened species in the world. In an effort to conserve the unusual beauty of Kaas Plateau, the Government allows only 3000 visitors each day to explore the plateau – so make sure your booking is done well in advance.
Covered in flowers that change colours every 15 to 20 days, the experience of exploring Kaas Plateau can’t be described in words. Visitors must also visit the 100-year old Kaas Lake which offers breath-taking views of the surrounding areas and is considered to be the primary water source for the western part of Satara city.
- Distance from Mahabaleshwar: 38 km
- Best time to visit: August to October
- Entry Fee:
INR 100
Free for children below 10 years and senior citizens
10. Tapola
Tapola | #10 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
Tapola, also known as ‘Mini Kashmir’, is a quaint town situated a few kilometres from Mahabaleshwar. Marked with strawberry farms, lush greenery and a stunning lake in the midst, Tapola is a rejuvenating experience for travellers. A picturesque, charming hamlet, it has slowly garnered popularity as one of the best picnic spots in Maharashtra. From trekking to camping and kayaking – adventure enthusiasts can truly enjoy the many experiences Tapola offers while nature lovers can indulge in long, forest walks and also explore the lesser-known forts of Vasota and Jaigad.
- Distance from Mahabaleshwar: 29 km
- Best time to visit: June to October
11. Velocity Entertainmentz, Panchgani
Velocity Entertainmentz | #11 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
An amusement cum gaming arcade, Velocity is better known for its go-karting track. A great picnic spot if you are travelling with children, it has a number of indoor and outdoor games and activities. You must try Gyroscope, Zorbing and go-karting as well as fun indoor games such as dashing cars and air hockey. The theme park also has a couple of restaurants that serve everything from Indian to Italian.
- Location: Village Bhose, Panchgani Mahabaleshwar Road
- Timings: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm (Go-karting track closes at 9:00 pm)
- Games Tariff: ₹50 to ₹600 (varies from ride to ride)
Also read our blog on the Top 3 Amusement Parks and Water Parks in Mahabaleshwar.
12. On Wheelz
On Wheelz | #12 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
On Wheelz is certainly on top of the list if you are travelling with children! It is complete with outdoor rides including Ferris wheel, freefall, striking car and tsunami, and a multi-functional indoor section with games like air hockey and the old-favourite – haunted house! On Wheelz also has a multi-cuisine restaurant where you can take a break from the rides and sit in for a delicious meal.
- Location: Panchgani – Kudal Road, Panchgani
- Timings:
10:00 am to 7:00 pm (weekdays)
10:00 am to 9:00 pm (weekends, peak season) - Entry Fee:
INR 50
Package for adults – INR 450
Package for kids – INR 350
13. Babington Point, Birwadi
Babington Point | #13 of 13 Picnic Spots near Mahabaleshwar
What strikes one about Babington Point is the fairy tale path leading up to it! Lined with trees, local flora and home to some rare species of birds – the path is picture perfect. If you don’t want to walk till the top, you can choose to admire the views on a pony. Situated at a height of 1294 meters, Babington Point has great views of Chinaman’s Waterfalls, Solshi and Koyna Valley. There is ample space for picnickers to settle down and admire the setting sun while enjoying a scrumptious meal.
- Location: Tapola Road, Birwadi
- Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
