Carboy, here you go...
Route:
From Parihar Chowk, go to Chandani Chowk, Join NH4 towards Katraj, via new Katraj tunnel to the first toll plaza (pay around 50 bucks). Next toll plaza is just before Khambatki Ghat (pay around 15 bucks). Khambatki ghat is one way ghat. After ghat around 10-15 kms you need to take right turn off NH4. This turn is called as "surur Phata". It goes towards Wai. Keep on the main road and as you pass Wai, you will start climbing "Pasarni" ghat - around 11 kms to Panchgani. Pass Panchgani and drive 20 kms to Mahabaleshwar. You will have to pay entry taxes at Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar entry points.
The entire route is scenic. It will be definitely very green now.
What to see:
1. Various points, most famous and should not be missed are - Aurther's seat point, Cannaught Peak, Lodwick and Elephant head point, Bombay (sunset) point, Kate's point. Enroute to these points you will pass through many small vistas (points). You need to be careful as monsoon has set it, and some points do become slippery. Watch out of moist/wet red soil especially at Kate's point.
2. Pratapgarh - You must go there (atleast for the drive)
3. If you enjoy boating, you should spend some time at Venna lake. You get boats on hire on hour basis. However, check if they are renting them out during the rainy season.
4. If you like shopping, there's a market place (one main street). Ladies love this place.
5. Since you are going only for a day, not sure if you would have time to go to Tapola ( Koyna Dam backwaters). Its around 20 Kms (all Ghats) from mahabaleshwar.
Eateries:
1. Lots of eateries on way from Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar. Also, in the marketplace. However, these places tend to get closed in Monsoon. But, you will still find few definitely open.
2. On your way back (before reaching panchgani) or on your way from Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar in the morning (after panchgani) you must stop at Mapro Gardens and have food (Pizzas, Shakes, Sandwiches,Soups, Icecreams). This is a must stop. Excellent food.
Keep in mind:
1. Roads in Mahabaleshwar are narrow. So drive slowly.
2. During Monsoon, Mahabaleshwar is covered with dense fog. Again drive slowly and carefully.
3. Prepare to get wet!!!
4. It takes 2-2:30 hours from Pune to reach Mahabaleshwar and its around 120Kms from Aundh.
5. Carry water and snacks just in case you want to take breaks in various ghats and enjoy the scenary.
6. Do not venture in to any waterfalls (especially when you are on your way to Pratapgarh). During rainy season, they are extremely dangerous as water levels and force increases rapidly depending on the amount of rain in Mahabaleshwar. This comes based on my own personal experience.
Most of the road is good and you should be able to enjoy excellent drive.
Havefun, takecare, drive safely
rajesh kavthekar
Indica DLS, 87K, 17kmpl, Pune |