If you are planning to spend this October in some kind of magical kingdom, then you should definitely consider Mahabaleshwar. This hill station in Maharashtra is famous for its green valleys, misty hills, and beautiful vantage points and offers tourists a mix of thrill, leisure, and scenic beauty. October is also a good time to visit Mahabaleshwar since the monsoons are over and the cool wind blows in, making the climate perfect for sightseeing.
Whether you want to spend a quiet vacation or an active one, Mahabaleshwar has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do when in this beautiful hill station in October – from temple run to tasting strawberries.
List of the 10 Must-Do Activities in Mahabaleshwar This October:
1. Wake Up to a Sunrise at Wilson Point
The first activity for the day in Mahabaleshwar is to watch the sunrise from Wilson Point, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. This place is situated at an altitude of 1,439 meters above sea level and the top gives a view of the surrounding hills and valleys in the four cardinal directions. The cool breeze of October and the foggy clouds make the sunrise even more special.
Tip: Arrive early, around 5:30 AM, to secure a good spot. Take a jacket because it gets cold during the night before sunrise.
How to Get There: Wilson Point is just 2.5 km from Mahabaleshwar town and can be reached by taxi or a pleasant early morning walk.
2. Go Boating at Venna Lake
Venna Lake is one of the attractions that most tourists visit when in Mahabaleshwar, especially during October when the weather is so perfect for a boat ride. The lake is located in a green environment with cool winds blowing over the area and it has boats for rent including rowing boats and paddle boats.
Tip: It is better to visit in the morning or in the evening when there are not so many tourists in the park. You can also negotiate with the boat operators for better prices as well.
Know Also:
Boating charges are ₹ 250 to ₹ 400 based on the type of boat the clients are willing to hire.
Open from 7 AM to 7 PM.
Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages:
3. Take a Scenic Trek to Pratapgad Fort
History lovers or adventure enthusiasts must consider visiting Pratapgad Fort during their trip. This fort was constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1656 and is located on the Konkan coast and the surrounding hills. The October weather makes the 1-2 hour trek a delight, and the misty clouds do not hurt either.
Tip: As with any trekking adventure, it is advised to begin your trek early enough to avoid the scorching sun. As a local guide, they can tell many stories related to the Maratha empire and make your trip more interesting.
Know Also:
It is situated at 25 km from Mahabaleshwar and one can easily go there by hiring a taxi or a bus.
Visiting the fort is free and it is open from 6 AM to 6 PM.
4. Visit the Famous Mapro Garden
Mapro Garden is a place that is a must-visit for anyone who loves to take a bite on sweet items. This garden is famous for fresh strawberries, jams and other fruit products; it is an ideal place to relax and taste something sweet. The strawberry is in season in October so you will be getting the freshest strawberries possible.
Tip: Take the Strawberry Cream at the café and go there during the weekdays as it is usually crowded during the weekends.
How to Get There: Mapro Garden is located at about 12 km away from Mahabaleshwar and one can easily get a taxi to reach the place.
5. Witness the Beauty of Lingmala Waterfall
Lingmala Waterfall is best visited in October because the water flow is constant after the monsoon season. This waterfall has an estimated drop of about 600 feet and has one of the most beautiful views of the green surrounding it. The short hike to the viewpoint even gives an adventurous feel.
Tip: Take along some sturdy shoes as the trail is slippery due to the monsoon that is sometimes late into October.
Also:
This waterfall is at a distance of 6 km from Mahabaleshwar and the charges for entry are ₹ 20 for adults.
The waterfall is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
6. Experience the Spiritual Vibes at Mahabaleshwar Temple
Located in the city of the same name, the Mahabaleshwar Temple is a very old temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located in Old Mahabaleshwar and is famous for its quiet and beautiful appearance.
Tip: Do not go there during October festivals to enjoy the serenity of the temple and not the crowd.
How to Get There: The temple is located at a distance of 6 km from Mahabaleshwar town and is closed between 8 PM to 6 AM.
7. Stroll Through Strawberry Farms
The strawberry season begins in Mahabaleshwar from the month of October. There is a possibility to taste fresh strawberries picked on the spot or even take part in the “pick your own” process by visiting one of the strawberry farms.
Tip: Go early in the morning to get the best fresh strawberries and also because it is very hot there.
How to Get There: Most of the farms are situated close to Panchgani and Mapro Garden which is in very close proximity to Mahabaleshwar.
8. Enjoy the Panoramic View from Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is one of the most visited vantage points in Mahabaleshwar where you can get a bird’s eye view of the valleys and the Savitri River. The scenery is even more beautiful because of the foggy mornings in October.
Tip: It is best visited around midday as the mist clears to give a good view of the surroundings. Take some food and water with you because there is not much food available at the top of the viewpoint.
How to Get There: Arthur’s Seat is 8 miles from Mahabaleshwar and a taxi can be hired for the short distance.
Maharashtra Travel Packages:
- 6 Days Maharashtra Itinerary
- 2 Nights 3 Days Panchgani Tour
- 3 Days Lonavala Khandala Trip
- Matheran Package for 3 Days
- 2 Nights 3 Days Mumbai Tour
9. Witness the Unique Formation at Elephant’s Head Point
Elephant’s Head Point is famous for the rock outcrop that has the shape of an elephant’s head and a trunk. This is a perfect place for taking pictures and it has a wonderful view of the hills in the area.
Tip: It is recommended to visit it in the late evening when the sun sets and there are not many tourists.
How to Get There: This is one of the most visited viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar, situated 7 km away from the town and is open for the whole day and there are no entry fees charged.
10. Shop at Mahabaleshwar Market
Indeed, there is a lot more to Mahabaleshwar than just the scenic beauty; the local market is a must-visit. Here you can buy fresh honey and homemade jams, leather products and handmade souvenirs. That is why it is an ideal location to purchase mementoes as well as gifts for family and friends.
Tip: Negotiate with the shopkeepers for the best offers especially when buying local leather products or when buying jams in bulk.
How to Get There: This market is situated in Mahabaleshwar town and is operational all day although the evening rush is the highest.
Conclusion
October is a perfect time to visit Mahabaleshwar for its good climate, colourful scenery, and experience. Suppose it is the picturesque view that attracts you the adventurous spirit that entices you or just the purpose of relaxation. In that case, Mahabaleshwar has something to offer to every type of traveller. Contact Tusk Travel to plan your October trip of a lifetime, including recommendations and unique experiences.
Recommended Reads:
- Tourist Places to See in Mahabaleshwar
- Maharashtra Places to Visit in Winter
- Top 15 Destinations to Visit in Ratnagiri
- Places to See in Maharashtra in September
- Most Popular Caves of Maharashtra
- Maharashtra Famous Trekking Places
- Most Popular Forts in Maharashtra
- Maharashtra Beautiful Beaches
- Top 10 Hill Stations in Maharashtra
