Essel World, the first and foremost amusement park is located on Gorai Island on 64 acres of green lands. It offers thrilling and scintillating rides and games. Essel World offers over 40 exciting rides, games, and attractions. The Water Kingdom is said to be the largest of its kind in Asia. This international-style theme park and amusement centre situated close to Gorai Beach is perfect for a one-day holiday. Special ferries get you across to the park and the entrance fee normally takes care of a fixed number of rides, which include the standard roller coaster and adventure themes, plus a water world section where kids can literally run amok. Summer is usually crowded, but the place also offers low budget monsoon packages and special deals on weekends.
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With pleasant lawns and the famous Ganesh temple built by Madhavrao Peshwa, Saras Baug is a popular evening spot in Pune. An exquisitely landscaped place with excellent well manicured lawns and well lit fountains, a recourse where one can relax especially during the evenings. Evening is the also the best time to visit this garden and have a taste of the cuisine available at the food stalls nearby if one gets hungry.
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The Malabar hill offers superb views of Mumbai. On top of the Malabar hills are the Hanging gardens and Kamala Nehru Park. Named after the wife of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, from here one enjoys a magnificent view of Marine Drive, 'Queen's Necklace'. The park has a decent children's playground and the constant source of enjoyment is the gigantic 'Old Lady's Shoe' meant for children to play in.From the top of the shoe one can survey the entire garden. Another feature here is the lovely pavilion, which is surrounded by beautiful flowers and huge lawns. There is also a map of the city engraved in copper.
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Located at Jogeshwari, a fun park enveloped in 30 acres of lush green landscape Fantasy Land provides many entertainment rides for those with appetite for adventurous rides. It is another amusement park made up of modern mechanism games for children and adults like Essel World. It is also a venue for fun and games for visitors of all ages. Fantasy Land, a fun park within the city limits of Mumbai, The park opened to the public in September 1992 and has since grown from strength to strength adding new innovative entertainment and sporting attractions that have been one of their kind in India.
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Pithalkora caves are about 78 Kms from Aurangabad. The intricate work on the sculptured facades in these caves is definitely worth a visit. Nestling within the Satmala range of the Sahyadris, is a group of 13 cave sanctuaries, both chaityas and viharas on a remote land cluster that date back to the 2nd century BC. The elaborate and beautiful sculptured facade of the great vihara is an impressive sight. There are 13 cave sanctuaries embedded in this region. Rich carvings with elaborate details can be seen in these monuments. They form the largest group of Hinayana Monuments in the Northern Deccan. The cave temples, which are cut into the site of a secluded ravine, are mostly monasteries with cells opening of a central hall or verandah; many cave fronts have collapsed. Cave 3 and Cave 4 are of particular interest. The story of Pitalkhora is shrouded, but the site has yielded many unusual sculptures, including wonderful yaksa figures.
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The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb built a mesmerizing garden named Himayat Bagh during the 17th century. Himayat Bagh covering 400-acre land is located in Rauza Bagh of Aurangabad near Delhi Gate. The lush green lawns, an amazing nursery, and a stunning pool are worth a watch. The nursery is full of beautiful plants and saplings that one can buy. Being a part of Marathwada University, Himayat Bagh is home to Fruit Research Station. Its astonishing beauty attracts nature lovers and photographers. Traveller Tips Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad will soothe your mind. The greenery lawns will take you away from the chaos of the city. You can relax in the lap of nature. Walk along the pathways amidst the beautiful trees. If you get tired, sit comfortably and go through your favourite books. Things to Do • Long walk along the crisscrossed pathways and viewing the manicured garden will give you an amazing experience. • You can read books on the lap of the garden. • Don't forget to do photography of the lush green lawns. • Visit the nursery and Fruit Research Station. • Barra Darri, an underground water chamber, was meant for natural air conditioning system. It attracts travellers, who visit Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad. Availability • There is no entry fee. Anybody can travel to this garden at any time. • Local foods are available • This place allows a camera. This garden is a paradise for photographers. History Himayat Bagh was constructed in the 17th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. During this period, dampness and exhalation led to the destruction of the northern wall of Aurangzeb's palace. Being scared of an unhealthy environment, he decided to convert the area in front of his office to fields. Later, one of his officials converted the fields into a garden. He named the garden the Mughal Garden. Now the garden is known as Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad. In the 17th century, the garden was full of fruit-bearing trees for the royal court and its officials. Architecture Himayat Bagh is famous for Barra Darri, an amazing architecture set up by Ivaz Khan. A marvelous achievement of engineering, Barra Darri is an underground water chamber. Its unique feature is that Barra Darri acts as a natural air conditioning system. This noteworthy architecture when operated could lower the temperature of the entire area of the garden. Now the system is inoperative. Barra Darri is now the home of the office of Fruit Research Station. Festival On the eve of International Birds day, nature lovers get the opportunity to watch a variety of colourful birds at Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad. Environmental Research Foundation and Educational Academy organizes the Bird Watching Trail on International Birds Day from 6:30 am to 9:30 am. There is no entry fee. Viewers can learn about different species of birds from experts. Popular Culture • Language: Marathis is the primary spoken language. • Cuisine: The delicious cuisine has a lingering influence of Maratha traditions, Mughal traditions, and Hyderabadi traditions. Kabab, haleem, pulao, biriyani, and taheri are the most common as well as appetizing dishes. • Handicrafts: Himroo shawls and Paithani sari are the examples of elegant handicrafts of Himayat Bagh. This area is also famous for its unique Bidriware, gold, and silverwork on Bidri. • Folk Culture: Lezim and Tamasha are popular folk dances. Best Time to Visit The mesmerizing garden Himayat Bagh is open throughout the year. Anybody can visit the garden at any time. But morning session remains crowded because most of the people prefer to have a morning walk at Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad. If you want a solitary walk, you may visit the garden in the late morning. Though the garden is open throughout the year, the winter season is the best time to visit here owing to cool temperatures. How to Reach Train: Aurangabad Railway station is just 6 km. away from Himayat Bagh. From the station, the time taken to reach the garden is 15-20 minutes by bus. Taxi and autorickshaw are also available to reach the garden. Bus: Delhi Gate, Collector's Office, Amkhas Maidan, and Naubat Darwaza are the nearby bus stops of Himayat Bagh. You can take a bus from Aurangabad to reach Himayat Bagh. Interesting Facts and Trivia About As the Himayat Bagh was set up during the Mughal Period, long walk through its pathways will give you the essence of history. Barra Darri is an interesting architecture of Himayat bagh. Its variety of plants and saplings that one can buy is a unique feature. FAQ 1.What is the time to visit the garden? One can visit the garden anytime. 2.How to reach Himayat Bagh, Daulatabad quickly from Aurangabad Railway Station? One can take the bus, taxi, or autorickshaw to reach the garden within 20 minutes. 3.What is the entry fee of Himayat Bagh? There is no entry fee. 4.Can I visit the garden during this pandemic situation? This pandemic situation is not a suitable time to visit the Himayat Bagh.
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Bandra Worli Sea Link which is also known as Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link is a world-famous bridge that is lying on cables and is held with eight lanes. It was the primary project developed by the government of Maharashtra which is commenced by the freeway system of West Island. Description: The glorious beauty of the blue watered Mahim Bay is overlooked by the splendid architecture of Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mumbai. There is no doubt that this man-made marvel is an iconic natural beauty. While passing through the bridge, your windows should be wide open. Traveler Tips: When your eyes are stuck to the wonderful creation, the sea breeze should pass through your hair. This manifestation of Mumbai city makes the most special appeal from the elevation of the Bandra Worli Sea Link. So, you should go there to take some candid shots including selfies with the bridge of Mumbai's glory. You need to strictly follow the speed limit and other rules set by the Link authority. Things to Do: Though the glamour and beauty of Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mumbai oversees the beauty of Worli Bridge, you can visit both and the park nearby. You can better visit the bridge at night in the moonlight when the artificial twinkling lights on the bridge adorn it. History: Before the construction of Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mumbai, the only road to connect all the western outskirts of Mumbai to the central district was Mahim Causeway. This was the reason for congestion in the north-south-western strip of Mumbai, especially during office hours. To solve the issue, the conceptualization of the project of Western freeway took place. Bandra Worli Sea Link was its first phase for providing a substitute roadway for the Mahim Causeway. Bal Thackrey laid the foundation stone in 1999. The primary estimation made for the construction of the entire Bandra Worli Sea Link was around 6.6 billion Indian rupees. The estimation for completion of the project was targeted for the next five years. Though, the project stopped in between and faced several litigations due to public interest. All these caused the project another 5-year delay. But this has increased the budget too. From 6.6 billion, it reached the bar of 16 billion. Finally, during the period of 2009-2010, the bridge finished its construction. Architecture: Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mumbai is counted among those couple of bridges that are constructed with cable-stayed architecture. It is developed with pre-stressed viaducts which are made up of concrete and steel, to hold the bridge still in its place for long. It is spanned surrounding the coastline arch of Mumbai city. The architecture is known as a wonderful creation by civil engineers, which is a reflection of the city’s contemporary infrastructure. It got open in 2009 for the public. It uses the heaviest precast sections which have ever been used in India. Keeping the seabed geology in mind, engineers used a complex and unique geometry for the pylon towers in the construction of the bridge. This was aiming to successfully achieve the desired structure of the concrete deck which is the longest in India. It is the sole project in Mumbai that witnessed the use of seismic arresters. This is why Bandra Worli Sea Link can withstand earthquakes up to 7.0 on the Richter scale. Best Time to Visit: I would suggest having a drive through this marvel creation during the sunlight. This way, you can get a better view of the link as well as the below seawater. How to Reach: Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mumbai is easily reachable from both sides. You reach by bus close to it. Get down at the Bandra bus depot, which only 2 km away from the link. Other ways, you can also board a train to get down at Bandra railway station, which is 5 km away from the link. Hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your destination. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: The project was undertaken by Hindustan Construction Company. MSRDC (Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation) took the initiation of the project. In fact, to materialize the entire structure, a joint venture happens between the engineers of Hong Kong, Switzerland, China, India, Singapore, Canada, Britain, Serbia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand. Bandra Worli Sea Link is the open first cable hanged construction on any Indian sea. The bridge is built so toughly that it can provide more than 37000 vehicles every day. The route is the best way to reduce the traveling time between Bandra and Worli, the two places of Mumbai. The architectural beauty of the bridge lies in its engineering technology that complements the background sea on which it is standing proudly. It reduced the travel time to 7 – 10 minutes which was before around 45 – 60 minutes. It links the Nariman Point, which is the business hub of the city, to the western suburbs of Mumbai. FAQ: Where to visit in Mumbai nearby Bandra Worli Sea Link? • Siddhivinayak Temple • Worli Sea Face • Bandra Fort • Dadar Chowpatty Beach • Play The Lounge • Smaaash • Shiro
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This is the best and ideal place for soulful and mental relaxation. The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur got its names due to the layout and design of the area. Another reason why it is called as Japanese Rose Garden is that the place grows roses and other flowers with the same technique and style as the Japanese do generally. You will be amazed by the scenic beauty of and will get amazing pictures too apart from admiring the beauty and purity of nature far away from noise, pollution or dirt of the city. Several hotels and sites are located around the area which will make you astonished and it is easy for you to find accommodation easily. In recent years the Japanese rose garden has become one of the popular tourist spots of Nagpur. This place is good for people who love to have a morning walk or evening walk just to calm down your mind, find some refreshment and relax your entire body. This place is man-made and it is designed just to provide the human mind with some pleasure. The arrangement and placement are quite beautiful and you will get to see beautiful plants and flowers here. The paths and the flowers are arranged and designed in a way so that people find beauty in everything when they visit the park. Things To Do The tourists who come to visit The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur are also advised to visit places like the Markanda temple which was built in ancient time and now stands as a popular tourist place. You can also go see the Civil lines of Nagpur. In the District of Chandrapur is a tiger reserve known as the Tadoba National park. The excavated municipal council of the state Maharashtra, Bhadravati, Sevagram Ashram and Panvar are also some famous places to visit. Timings And Entry Fees There is no specific entry fee mentioned for the travellers or the citizens. The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur is open throughout the year for people to visit. Best Time To Visit Winter season is the best time to visit The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur. The time between October and March is when the heatwave is lowest and you can travel without any trouble. Summer Season The summers in Nagpur and Maharashtra is from March to May. During these months the temperature is the hottest and can reach up to 39-degree celsius. The minimum temperature during this time is 22 degree Celsius. You can experience a lot of thunderstorm in almost the entire state. Monsoon Season The beginning of the monsoon is in June and the retreating month is September. August receives sustainable rainfall whereas the wettest month is August. This is not a good time to travel as heavy rainfall can stand as an obstruction to the outdoor activities. Winter Season From November to February is winter in Maharashtra. This season is the best for spending your vacation in Nagpur. The temperature ranges between 12 to 34-degree Celsius and you will get to experience lovely weather. Therefore visit The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur in winter. How To Reach? Maharashtra is blessed with an amazing network for travel purposes. You can choose any mode of transportation to reach the place. Be it rail, road or air, the place is easily accessible and can be reached without much trouble. This is an amazing place for travel as it has lovely beaches, amazing architecture, culture, people, food and best for nature lovers. Choose any mode of traveller and enjoy the lovely scenic beauty. Air Transport If you are comfortable travelling via air, chose airways. Maharashtra has several international and national airports that operate several flights to and fro. You can take any flight and reach Maharashtra quite easily. Some airports namely are Chatrapati Shivaji International airport, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Aiport, Babasaheb Ambedkar International airport and many more connected the place to the other parts of the world well enough. Railways The state has a wide connection of the railway system. Several fast-running trains that operate from the city of Mumbai. It is the most important and busiest station Maharashtra. Therefore take a train and reach your destination without any problem. Roadways National highways make the place easily accessible. You can take any state bus or can drive using private vehicles and reach Maharashtra in no time. The road trips are lovely and you should try for at least once in your lifetime. It will be a great experience for you. The Japanese Rose Garden, Nagpur, you can any public vehicle or take buses and reach the place. The state has several buses running to and fro connecting the cities. Therefore plan your holidays and visit Maharashtra. The place has popular tourist spots for you to visit and enjoy the beauty of nature.
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Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Van Udyan
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Van Udyan, also known as Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, is a sprawling 93-acre forest garden situated at the foothills of the Pandav Leni caves in Nashik, Maharashtra. Inaugurated on December 27, 2016, by renowned actor Nana Patekar and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, the garden was developed collaboratively by the Forest Development Corporation, the Nashik Municipal Corporation, and the Tata Trust. ​ It Is Known For:- 1) The light and sound show at night with electronically lighted trees and sound of birds is something that pulls visitors towards this garden. 2) The butterfly gate, located on the main road connecting Mumbai and Nashik, which gives the message of Nashik’s entrance attracts people towards itself. 3) The animatronics that shows the life-size models of animals is a very popular among the kids as it is an interesting and interactive way to teach kids about these animals. Location The garden is located on Pandav Lene Road, Buddha Vihar, Pathardi Phata, along the Mumbai-Agra highway in Nashik, Maharashtra - 422306. Its strategic position on the main road connecting Mumbai and Nashik makes it easily accessible to travelers commuting between these cities. ​ Unique Features and Attractions One of the garden's most distinctive features is its 40-foot tall entrance gate, designed in the shape of a butterfly and adorned with a trail of electric lights, serving as a landmark that captures the attention of passersby. Inside, the seating arrangements also mirror the butterfly motif, enhancing the thematic design. The garden houses giant animatronic replicas of elephants and other animals, providing life-size interactive models that captivate children and promote an immersive educational experience. For cycling enthusiasts, a three-kilometer cycle track is available, with bicycles provided for visitors to explore the expansive grounds. ​ Botanical Diversity The forest nursery within the garden boasts a rich collection of herbal plants and a variety of trees, including agave, palms, asoka, mango, banana, guava, and tamarind. Floral enthusiasts can admire an array of flowers such as roses, lilies, periwinkles, hibiscus, and silver ferns, contributing to the garden's vibrant and colorful landscape. ​ Educational and Recreational Activities Emphasizing environmental education, the garden features Asia's largest live 'sound & light' laser show titled "Katha," presented in Marathi. This show aims to instill the importance of forest conservation among children and visitors. Held in the amphitheater against a backdrop of dense forest with electronically lit trees and ambient bird sounds, the performance delivers its conservation message in an engaging and entertaining manner. Visitor Information Operating Hours: The garden is open daily from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm, except on Wednesdays when it remains closed. The "Katha" light and sound show is scheduled at 7:00 pm and 7:45 pm. ​ Entry Fees: Admission to the garden is priced at Rs. 30 per person, while the light and sound show requires a separate ticket costing Rs. 50. ​ Facilities: The garden offers various amenities, including seating areas, cycling tracks, and interactive exhibits, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience for all visitors.​ Current Status and Maintenance As of October 2024, reports indicate that the garden has faced maintenance challenges. Despite its innovative design and initial popularity, there have been concerns regarding the upkeep of facilities, including the sound and light show. Visitors are advised to check the current status of attractions and facilities before planning their visit. ​ Best Time To Visit The best time to visit the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Van Udyan is during the cool months or spring time. But kids also love visiting this garden during their summer vacations to make the best of their holidays. Accessibilty Options Located on the Pandav Lene Road in Nashik, Maharashtra, reaching this botanical garden is very easy and convenient. It is easily accessible via road. Nearest Airport:- Ozar Airport Nearest Railway Station:- Nashik Road Railway Station Conclusion Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Van Udyan stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of nature, education, and recreation. Its diverse botanical collection, unique design elements, and commitment to environmental awareness make it a noteworthy destination for both locals and tourists in Nashik. Prospective visitors are encouraged to verify the operational status of various attractions to ensure a fulfilling experience.
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We all must have heard how the Japanese maintain their garden. They are so amazing and beautiful to look at. Japanese Garden in the city of Pune is an amazing garden which is inspired by the gardens of Japan. The Pu La Deshpande Garden, Pune is also known as Pune Okayama Friendship garden. This garden is the largest Japanese garden which is not located in Japan. This garden was named after the humourist and writer, Pu La Deshpande. He also received Padma Bhushan in the year 1930. This garden is based on the inspiration of the Okayama Korakuen Garden in Japan, which is three thousand years old. The Deshpande garden stands as a bond of Sino-Japanese relationship. This garden shows the perfect blend of concrete and nature and has a beautiful natural canal which passes through the garden. The park also has some ponds and beautiful waterfalls which are all man-made. The place is located in Dattawadi on Sinhagad Road. The garden is filled with sites that will take your breathe away. It has beautiful and lushes green gardens, artificial hills, beautiful flowers, lawns to sit and much more. The tourists and the visitors come to this beautiful garden in Pune just to relax and feel refreshed from the hectic and busy life. You can plan your tour and visit this garden if you want to see the amazing variety of flora. The place represents Japanese authenticity. Biodiversity The Pu La Deshpande Garden, Pune has a great variety of fauna and flora. This garden is inspired by the parks and gardens that you will find in Japan. There are various types of plants such as pine, plum and even willows. You will be able to see how the garden is green and there are so many beautiful shrubs and trees all over symbolising eternity. Ducks, colourful fish and birds can also be seen in the garden. Significance This garden stands as a symbol of the beautiful and friendly relation that the two cities namely Pune and Okayama has. The main reason to have a Japanese garden was going set up an idealised landscape which depicts all the abstract concepts in a better way. In ancient times gardens were made in the castles to increase aesthetics and for the entertainment of the ruler. Later it was built for Buddhist who meditates and practised spiritualism. To create harmony and peace and to show Indians the tradition and culture if Japan, this garden was built. Several movies have also been shot in this garden, like in the movie of Salman Khan named 'Bodyguard'. Traveller Tips Pu La Deshpande Garden, Pune is a well-maintained garden which provides the tourists and visitors with a beautiful experience of the Japanese culture. Here are some rules and regulations which travellers should follow. • The visitors are not allowed to walk inside the lawns and touch the plants that are there even if it looks tempting. • You should also keep the washrooms clean and tidy. • You are not allowed with cameras or footwear. You need to have permission for photography. • You can not carry any edible item as food stalls are present inside the garden. Architecture Spread across around ten acres of land the garden includes changing of landscapes in the path. According to the Buddhist, Shinto and Taoist ways of creation, gardens were meant to be the space for spirituality, for meditation purpose and reflect. The garden is made based on that belief. Bringing attention to the Yin-Yang theory, the garden has both man-made and natural things. The three principals on which the garden is based see Nature, Emptiness and Balance. There is a balance between the formal and the informal of 1700s Japanese Style. The basic things you will see in a Japanese garden are stone lanterns, waterfalls, ponds, fish, water basins, fences, walls, bridges and statues. These are all important for the Japanese people as they represent the basic design rules. Therefore you will love the set-up and architecture of this garden. This makes it a must-visit place for you. Timings The garden is open every day at 6:00 am to 10:30 am. In the evening is open from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The entry fees for adults is Rs. 10 and for children it is Rs. 5. Best Time To Visit The best time to visit Pu La Deshpande Garden, Pune is in the morning and the evening. You get an ample amount of time to explore the garden in a better way and you also get time to the sky and relax. How To Reach The garden is located in the city of Pune as we got to know from the above information. The nearest airport is 16 km away known as the Pune international airport. The nearest railway station to this place is Shivaji Nagar railway station. It is around 5.5 km away from Pune. You as a tourist can take a bus to reach. • The bus fare from the airport to the garden is around the range of 19-50 rupees. The fare depends on the bus that you are taking. • The buses that you take from the railway station also has different fares which depend on the route you choose. • There are taxi and can facilities as well which you can avail from the airport itself. It ranges between 300-400 rupees. This depends and can change according to the peak hours. From the station, it might change you Rs. 150 to Rs. 330 and from Pune junction it can be around 100-200 rupees. • You can also choose car rentals to go visit the lovely garden in Pune and then to other tourist attractions as well. This will save your time from hunting for cabs and also will save you money. Therefore, choose any mode of transport of your choice and reach the destination in no time. The place is easy to reach and accessible. Choose to visit Pu La Deshpande Garden, Pune and enjoy the Japanese culture and tradition in India. You will fall in love with the place and ambience.
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Pune is a city where you would love the natural beauty and pleasant weather. Even though it is a small city, it has many places that are worth visiting. Among these places, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune is one of them. It is over 130 acres and is divided into three parts – the zoo, snake park, and an animal orphanage. It also has a lake. This place is also known to house a variety of animals, birds, and snakes that can awe people of any age. History of Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune In the year 1953, the Pune Municipal Corporation took 7 acres of land where they created Peshwe Park. This park was the place where the Peshwas had their Menagerie. During this time, the zoo had very limited animals and was kept behind bars or cages for the visitors to see. The park was located at the foot of the Parvati Hill which was an ideal location for people to visit. However, in the year 1986, the Pune Municipal Corporation and Mr. Neelam Kumar Khaire, who became the first director of the park, created a snake park called the Katraj Snake Park which then became the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park. In 1997, the Pune Municipal Corporation, in accordance with the Central Zoo Authority of India’s guidelines, created a new zoo within the Katraj Snake Park. This zoo was opened to the public in 1999 which came to be known as the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park & Wildlife Research Centre. During this time the zoo just housed reptile park, spotted deer, sambars, and monkeys. In 2005, the animals were moved to a different and bigger location and the Peshwe Park was closed. The park also has a place for orphaned animals. These animals that were rescued were either injured or were orphaned. The park also has been running an adoption scheme for these animals since 2010. Animals in the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune When you visit the zoo, you will find around 66 species of wildlife that include birds, mammals, and reptiles. The zoo represents the Western Ghat and Deccan Plateau. The animals live in natural surroundings which makes the zoo closer to their home. The snake park in the zoo has more than 160 species of snakes that also includes Kind Cobra. The other variety of snakes that are found in the park are Indian rock python, Russell’s viper, etc. During Nagpanchami, a festival of snakes, a special program is arranged by the zoo authorities in the snake park. This is an effort to create awareness of protecting the snakes. Apart from the snakes, the zoo houses a variety of animals such as leopards, Asiatic lion, blackbuck, sloth bears, Indian crocodiles, elephants, Indian star tortoise, etc. The authorities of Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune are now planning to include animals such as Giraffe, Zebra, etc. The authorities also plan to include the white tiger, giant squirrel, rusty-spotted cat, leopard cat, mouse deer, lion-tailed macaque, hyena, etc. To help these animals to breed and protect the endangered species, they are planning to open an ex-situ breeding centre. Activities in the Zoo The Zoo authorities hold many activities to educate the people on the importance of preserving wildlife. These activities include Earth Day, Zoo Day, wildlife week, educational workshops for children, summer camps, etc. They also celebrate birthdays of all the animals that are housed in the zoo. How to Reach the Zoo The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune is located slightly outside the city. It is located close to the Bharati Vidyapeeth University along the Pune-Satara Highway. You can either hire a taxi or take your car to drive to the zoo. However, there are also buses available that take you to the closest bus station, Katraj Bus Depot. Visiting Hours of the Zoo The zoo is open from April 1 to June 15 from 9.30 am – 6 pm and from June 16 to March 31 from 9.30 am – 5 pm. The zoo entry fee is nominal and in case you want to take a camera, then you need to pay additional charges for the same. You can also hire a guide at a nominal rate while visiting the zoo. If you do not wish to walk within the zoo, then you can also hire a battery-operated vehicle. Things to Do Near the Zoo Once you have visited the zoo, you can also plan to visit the Katraj Lake, Shree Sainath mandir, Guru mandir, etc. There are also some restaurants and hotels that you can go to and enjoy some delicious cuisines. Best Time to Visit the Zoo The best time to visit the zoo is during pleasant weather. Though summers are also a good time to visit the zoo as you can see some animals. However, avoid visiting it during peak summers when the animals prefer to stay in the shade.
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Want to experience the silence of nature? Come to Mushli, the green paradise in the city Pune. You would love to be surrounded by clean nature here. Being located in the central Pune, this is an eco-friendly destination that has gained immense popularity in all sorts of tourists, especially among the adventure junkies. Every one of them has found ways to find their inner peace of mind after spending some days into the calm nature of Mulshi. Description: Mulshi is only 45 km distance from the main city of Pune. Undoubtedly, it makes a perfect gateway for a family weekend trip. Tourists throng to visit here all through the year but Mushli dam is at top of its beauty during the monsoons. The tranquil atmosphere of the dam is blessed with the natural serenity of its surrounding. This is why people count it on the top of their weekend destination from Pune. Surely the green paradise Mulshi is a perfect eco-friendly gateway for its cleanliness. This place witnesses a lot of tourists including birdwatchers, nature-lovers, photographers, trekkers, and campers every year who adore this place for different reasons. Traveler Tips: • No medical facilities available in its nearby places. Get help from the main town. • Almost no network coverage is available in its surrounding areas. • You can visit the dam at any time between 9 AM and 6 PM. You can also plan a picnic here nearby the river banks. • If you are planning camping here when hungry can grab some vada pao from the nearby stalls. • If you are visiting in monsoon, don’t forget to keep some extra pair of clothes with you. • Don’t forget to visit the tourist spots to enjoy some fun and adventurous activities. Things to Do: Being here in Mulshi Dam, Pune you get a lot of things to get involved in your body, mind, and soul. Renting a cottage on the side of the Dam or Lake is the best idea for enjoying a campfire at night, which is truly enjoyable if you are traveling in a group. You can also go for boating in the lake, hill climbing, fishing, riding bullock carts, crab catching, playing cricket, and many other exciting activities to enjoy some quality time with your inner shelf. Sahyadri ranges surround the Mushli dam closely and thus trekking and hill-climbing are the popular activities enjoyed by most of the tourists here. The mighty ranges also offer scenic landscape with a diversity of flora and fauna which attracts the nature photographers. Best Time to Visit: As Mushli Dam, Pune is filled during the monsoon time, it reaches its highest beauty, and nature complements it. The sweet smell of the wet soil and lush greenery of the forest make the place a perfect monsoon retreat. So, if you are thinking t plan a visit here, come during the monsoon of the year. Also, try to plan a visit during the weekdays as weekends often remain crowded here. How to Reach: By road – Mushli is not too far from Pune. Hence, the distance is easily accessible by car, which is nearly 1 hr and 15 minutes of the journey. You can hire one or drive through your own vehicle. By rail – to travel by railways, you can take a train from Shivaji Nagar railway station. There are 5 trains which run from Shivaji Nagar to Malavli. The distance is covered within 1 hour and 10 minutes of the journey. After reaching malvli, hire a taxi to reach Mulshi Dam. It is a one hour ride. By bus – various local buses run between Pune and Mulshi dam. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: • The Mulshi dam, Pune is a hotspot for organizing irrigational reserves and electricity generation centers. • It is situated on the river Mula of the Mulshi taluka. • For the first-time trekkers Mulshi Dam is the best place as it is not too high from the sea level. it is 579 meter high. FAQ: Places to visit nearby – • Tamhini ghat • Andharban trail point • Temghar dam • Kailasgad fort Places to stay nearby • Lemon Tree Premier • St Laurn Business Hotel • The Pride Hotel • Treebo Trend Regency Places to eat nearby • Roadside Dhabas • Chingari • Coriander Kitchen • Feast • Vohuman Café • Asia Kitchen By Mainland China Overall, visiting Mulshi Dam, Pune, you will enjoy some perfect enjoyable holidays.
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Khadakwasla Dam, Pune is an eminent tourist attraction with beautiful sights to behold. It is located at the outskirts of the city. In suburban regions of Pune, the main source of water is river Mutha on which this dam is constructed. The reservoir formed by the dam is known as the Khadakwasla lake. The lake is a pleasant and perfect location for spending time. The area that the reservoir occupies is around 22000 sq. Km. It is around 35 m in depth. As the stream falls from the cliff, there is a heavy rush of water that flows effortlessly from the dam. The Central Water and power research along with the National Defence Academy are located here. Some ancient places like the Karla Caves and the Sinhagad fort are also near to this place. You can go see the preserved artefacts that are about thousands of years old. If you are a person who loved adventure and also love to spend time in beautiful nature this is the best place for you to spend your lovely weekends. You can click amazing photographs here. Traveller Tips Some tips to keep in mind while you visit Khadakwasla Dam, Pune are: • Take proper care when you move around in the surrounding. You will get a mesmerising experience for sure. • You should wear shoes that are comfortable for you as the area can be slippery. If you are visiting the place during monsoon then be extra careful about the places that you are stepping on. The reason is that the surface can be slippery sometimes and even water can get clogged and you have to walk into that. • Make sure that you stay near the Khadakwasla Dam and in the limits of it. You should not go to the other routes as that can become quite dangerous for you. • Carry a medical kit always with you for emergencies and injuries. • Always take an extra pair of cloth as a backup. Things To Do There are several things to do in Khadakwasla Dam, Pune. Here are some that you might enjoy. • Explore The Area: The amazing and beautiful ambience of the dam attracts more tourists every year. Though this place is not so proper for you all to hang out you can surely spend some time here. • Photography: The beautiful lake and the water ripples attract the photographers here. The cascading and thunderous water streams are generally what people love to capture. Across the green lushes bushes, the beautiful water stream is what attracts the people. • Local Food: The other thing that will hypnotise you along with the beautiful view is the local food and snacks. Several vendors sell mouth-watering and delicious snacks like roasted groundnuts, corns, bhel, and much more. Tourist is seen to gather around the local eateries in search of some refreshment. • Enjoy The Beautiful Nature: If you want to run away somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the city under the fearful canopy of the trees, Khadakwasla Dam, Pune is the perfect place for you. It is the best place for you to enjoy mature with your loved ones. Best Time To Visit The best and ideal time for you to visit this place is in the monsoon season. The peak time when visitors are most is in the monsoon season. The reason is the breeze and the mists from the fall make the place pleasant and cool. As a tourist, you can take advantage of the attraction and weather. Fall and spring welcome visitors in all variations of temperature. The winter is quite chilly this the area might feel quite cooler than the rest of the city. But summers are to avoid because of the harsh weather. How To Reach By Rail: If you wish you can take a train to reach Pune. This is also counted as the best option as the city is well connected to all the major cities of the country. Almost 18.5 km you have to cover to reach Khadakwasla Dam, Pune by cab or any other local and public transport. By Road: This dam is around 20 km away from the main city of Pune. The roads are lovely and well-connected which makes it convenient for the visitors to travel. Uber and Ola's cabs are also available here and they are a decent option. You can book a cab and enjoy your trip. By Bus: Hiring a bus is the easiest and most convenient way of visiting the dam. There is two nearest bus stop. Amidst the beautiful canopy of a tree, you will have the best trip if you choose the bus route. Khadakwasla Dam, Pune is the best way to spend your weekends and your holidays. Get refresh amidst the beautiful and lovely nature. You will fall in love with the place if you visit in monsoon.
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Surrounded by lush green forest and flowering plants, Vetal hill, Pune is known by several names such as Vetal Tekdi, Hanuman Tekdi, MIT Tekdi, and Pashan Tekdi. Touted as one of the highest points in Maharashtra, this beautiful place offers a panoramic view of the entire Pune city. Enriched with a wide range of flora and fauna, Vetal hill is one of the popular attractions in Pune. Blessed with serenity and pristine natural beauty, Vetal hill is very popular among birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and photographers. It is home to a diverse range of bird species like peacocks, bulbul, Indian Robin, oriental white-eye, sunbirds, and many more. Offering a splendid panoramic view of the surroundings from the top, Vetal hill is an ideal place for a family picnic or to spend time with your loved ones amidst nature. Situated at an elevation of 2600 ft, Vetal hill is dotted with a small manmade lake and a temple built on top of the hill. Traveler tips: • Carry drinking water and snacks with you. • Although the hill is accessible from many directions, it is easier to climb from Pashan (Panchavati). • Try to return from the trek before night falls, as there are no street lights. • For safety, it would be good to avoid climbing the hill post dark(after 6 pm). • Carry your camera to shoot splendid landscapes from the top. • Use insect repellents to stave off bugs and insects. • Carry a hat to protect yourself from the scorching sun rays. • If visiting Vetal hill in monsoon, carry a raincoat. Famous for: Hiking, Trekking, Photography, Nature, Adventure Opening time: Although the hill is open at all times of the day, it is advisable to visit from 5 am – 6 pm. Visit duration: 2-3 hours Entry fee: Free Things to do • Enjoy a leisure stroll or nature walk in this beautiful place and see colorful butterflies fluttering and birds chirping around. • Have an early morning trek to Vetal hill, the highest point of Pune, and witness the splendid view of sunrise. • Cycling is also a popular activity here, so you can try that as well. • Adventure enthusiasts can trek up to the peak of the hill as there are well-maintained trails leading to the top. • Vetal hill is very popular for bird watching, you can spot many migratory birds along with francolins, peacocks, robins, bulbuls, etc. in this quaint place. • Brimming with tranquil neutral beauty, this place is ideal for photography. • Besides, Vetal temple, you can also pay a visit to the very famous Chaturshringi temple situated on Senapati Bapat Road. How to reach? • By rail: Located at a distance of 10 km, Pune junction is the nearest railway station from Vetal hill. One can board a bus or hire a cab to Vetal hill which from the Pune railway station. • By road: With Pashan Road on one side and S B Road on the other, Vetal hill is easily accessible by car. If coming in your own car, take the Paud road as there is parking space alongside the road. There are two spacious parking spaces on top of the hill also. • By bus: Get down at Pashan and take the trekking route to reach the top of the hill. You can start climbing to Vetal hill from multiple trekking points such as Kothrud (Paud Road), Chhaturshringi, MIT college road, or Pashan side. Best time to visit To witness the beauty of the hill at its best with myriad shades of green everywhere, visit Vetal hill in the monsoon months, between July to November. As in summer, the landscape becomes dry and arid, it is not recommended to plan a trip to Vetal hill, Pune at this time. The best time to visit the hill in the day is in the early morning when the air is fresh and crisp. Nearby attraction: The following are some of the popular attractions that you can add to your itinerary after visiting Vetal hill in the early morning. • Chattushringi Mandir • Lal Mahal • Durga Tekdi • Pashan lake • Matoba templeGram Sanskruti Udyan Village Park • Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum • Pataleshwar Cave Temple • Pune tribal museum • Sri Balaji temple Trivia: Spread over an area of around 11 km, Vetal hill is maintained by the forest department of India. There is an observation deck at the top of the hill constructed by the Indian Forest Department, which offers an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding landscape Most of this hilly region is controlled by the Indian defense force. Vetal hill is home to ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India). Vetal hill has been named after a temple situated at the top. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Vetala. Called the lungs of Pune city, Vetal tekdi or Vetal hill is surely a must-visit place during your trip to Pune. With enchanting landscapes and surreal beauty of nature, Vetal hill, Pune will leave you in awe for sure.
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Bhandardara is a renowned hill station nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra. This tourist spot has got all the nature's blessings any place can get. The lavish greenery, the self-effacing waterfalls are fenced by high mountains marks this place as the perfect holiday spot for city dwellers. Bhandardara is in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. It is around 117 km from Mumbai. However, it is easily accessible through roadways. This tiny village is full of so many attractions united with the tranquillity of the nature that it makes for an exciting vacation to run away from the hustle and bustle of noisy metropolises. There are so many waterfalls to view in Bhandara which give a breath-taking view. One of the most visited places is Randha Falls. Randha Falls, Bhandardara Overview A famous waterfall attraction in Bhandardara is the Randha Falls of the Pravara River with unbelievably clear water ferociously falls from a height 170ft into a glorious gorge. But, to the matter of fact, this waterfall is attractive in the monsoons only. Best Time to Visit: Although suitable for a casual visit for rejoicing any time of the year, Bhandara unveils its mesmerizing charm in the monsoon months of Maharashtra from June till September. This is when the climate is cold and blustery as contrasting to the summer. Temperatures range between 20 degrees C to 30 degrees C. Hence, the months from June to March is an ideal time to visit Bhandardara. The downpours during these months create breath-taking sights for one to explore. How to Reach? Bhandardara is easily connected to all parts of India by road. Regular bus facilities ply to and from the city of Bhandardara. Buses operated by private and government owners run in this place. However, no direct flight or rail connectivity is there. But Bhandardara is some 165 km away from Mumbai airport. This is known to be the nearest airport that connects Bhandardara to the rest of India. The closest railway station to Bhandardara is in Igatpuri, 42 km away from Bhandardara. How to reach Bhandardara by flight? The nearest airport, Mumbai International Airport is 165 km away from where taxis can be hired to Bhandardara. New nearest Airport: New Pune International Airport is just 79 km from Bhandardara. Consider it if you want to reach by air. You can quickly get tickets to New Pune International Airport from major cities in India. How to reach Bhandardara by road? Mumbai is by road 180 km from Bhandardara. One can reach there via National Highway 3 (NH3) followed by a right turn from Ghoti toll post. After Ghoti 30 km more and you arrive in Bhandardara. However, from Pune, the distance is 175 km and can be accessed through NH 50 up to Ghargaon, from where take the State highway (SH 21) till Bhandardara. How to reach Bhandardara by train? The nearest railway station is Igatpuri lying on the Mumbai - Nashik rail route. It is the closest, 45 km from Bhandardara. From there, you can easily take local transport. Local transport in Bhandardara State transport buses and taxis ply to and from Bhandara to the whole city. But these taxis are usually crowded as they have a shared system. Tourists places nearby Randha Falls, Bhandara Umbrella falls The Umbrella Falls is famously formed under the Wilson Dam. The force by which the waterfalls on the naturally placed rocks gives an impression of an umbrella hence got its name. Wilson Dam The Wilson Dam is built on Pravara River. It is known to be the largest earthen dam in India boasting about the engineering brilliance of those days. The base of the dam has a garden that claims of thick huge trees, greenary and little streams. Kalsubai Peak Mt. Kalsubai is the topmost peak of the Sahyadri Ranges from where get the view of the majestic mountain. This is a fantastic spectacle in Bhandardara. It is also called as the Everest of Maharashtra, the highest peak in the state. Arthur Lake The lush mountains of Sahyadri range surround Arthur Lake. It is a picturesque little pool that gets its water from the Pravara River. It is a tranquil place to relax and soak in the natural beauty. Agastya Rishi Ashram: This age-old ashram finds its mention in the mythological text of Ramayana. It is said that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman came to seek the blessings of Agastya Rishi who gave Lord Ram an arrow to defeat Ravana. Availability: This place has parking convenience at a very reasonable cost. Small-time vendors from the village sell local food like corn, bananas, cucumber, guava. Many people carry their lunch and enjoy a day picnic at this place. Some small hotels are around the falls, which provide local lunch, tea, coffee, WADA, bhajiya and all. The road to this place is right and not too crowded. This place remains crowded on the event of a national holiday. Plan on a weekday or any other day but not a national holiday. Traveller Tips: 1. If you see warnings or instructions posted at the waterfall, over the hike or at the trailhead, then obey them. The signs are there for your protection. 2. Stay on public land and marked trails. Do not venture onto private property and avoid the temptation to venture along trails created by visitors or through the wilderness to find a waterfall or better view. 3. Do not climb on or go beyond fences or barriers into restricted areas. 4. If there are observation platforms, stay on them. They have been created for your safety and enjoyment of the waterfall. 5. Tread carefully as the tracks around waterfalls can be slick from the mist growing off the fall. Mud, slippery rocks, algae-covered rocks, loose rocks, gravel, and exposed roots can all be hazardous. 6. Do not lean over unprotected ledges. 7. Do not climb on or around a waterfall. The surfaces are slick and dangerous. 8. Do not jump or dive from waterfalls or neighbouring cliffs or rocks into the pool below the waterfall.
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Located in the spectacular regions of Western Ghats in Maharashtra, Amboli is a hill station that is beautiful by all means. This one is just the right place for anyone who wants to relax and get to know a true nature of the island. This place consists of many attractive sites that are a center of tourism and one of the most beautiful places is Amboli Waterfall. Amboli Waterfall – The Main Attraction Amboli Waterfall is an amazing alive waterfall where a water stream flows through the rocky surface of the land and is a real beauty to watch. Located in the province of Albay, the falls is enveloped with forests and remarkable lush vegetation to give a breathtaking view of the natural world. These waterfalls are effective in providing sound and site of water that has the ability to discourage visitors to let their mind be disturbed by other issues. Best time to visit Amboli Waterfall The best time to visit Amboli Waterfall is actually in the monsoon season that runs from June to September. It is also important to know that during this time the waterfall is really powerful and has a lot of water falling down and thus the best time to visit. The greens surrounding it make it even more appealing for the programmer which makes it suitable for photography amongst other activities. Activities to Enjoy at the Waterfall Amboli Waterfall offers a variety of activities that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Prominent photographers will have a lot to explore and take good photos, especially during the monsoon when the waterfall will be at full blast. For the trekking lovers, many trails are available in the region surrounding the waterfall and go through lovely, beautiful and green meadow areas. A hike to the waterfall can be such an encouraging experience; you get to be part of nature right from the close range. People may also lounge by the water’s edge, the sound of the falling water, the breeze blowing through the area. Top Places to Visit Near Amboli Waterfall While Amboli Waterfall is a main attraction, several other captivating sites nearby deserve a visit. Hiranyakeshi Temple Historical and religious importance of the Hiranyakeshi Temple has its own importance. The Belgaum Fort and the Kamal Basti temple housing the statue of Goddess Hiranyakeshi are the places of great interest in this region.The temple is sited near the Hiranyakeshi River. People come to this place not only for worship, but also in order to enjoy the scenery. This is a very beautiful temple with very beautiful architectural work and the serene environment others make it very relaxing to visit. Nangartas Waterfall There is yet another splendid waterfall called Nangartas Waterfall in the area and the best thing about this wonder is that the area has a gorge. The cascade is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also perfect for photography, so lovers of nature who are keen on such sights are attracted by it. It is perfect for nature walks and exploration since nature involves steeped rocky ends and green vegetation. Amboli Sunset Point Sunset lovers can’t afford to miss Amboli Sunset Point, which offers the bewitching beauty over the Sahyadri hills. This position provides a bird eye view of the valleys and other terrains beneath particularly so in the evening when a spectrum of colors develops on the horizon. It is a perfect place for those who like to be closer to nature and take beautiful exclusive photos you won’t forget. Madhavgarh Fort This fort is culturally significant as there is much one can learn from the Maratha Empire. This fort stands on a hill and has a great scenic view of the whole area. The ruined structure of the fort enables a visitor to be able to visualize just how important the place was in the past. Because of which the fort is ideal to photograph and also enjoy the worth looking views and sceneries. Kavalshet Point Kavalshet Point is particular for the magnificent views over the surroundings and the mysterious shrouded valleys in oblivion in the hoods. It is simply a nice place to take a break and take photographs; it is not a tourist attraction, but a fine place to relax from the throngs of other tourists. There will also be opportunities for visitors to find personal reflective quiet spaces surrounded by nature and spectacular scenery. Mahadevgad Point One has to go to Mahadevgad Point, it is not commercialised and less populated thus a great place for anyone who wants to be alone. This viewpoint provides the view of the forests and valleys around, and makes the visitors feel closer to nature in the serene environment. It is largely recommended for those seeking for a serene environment with exquisite views in a serene background. Activities to Enjoy in and Around Amboli The visitors, eager to enjoy the beauty of nature, seek opportunities to be involved in various activities found around Amboli. Nature Walks and Trekking Amboli is more or less a reserve forest with green trees and pathways that make it suitable for trekking. The participants can follow a number of tracks where they can meet different plants and animals living nearby. The facilities such as waterfalls, hills and valleys provide unique scenery, and every time makes the place look like a new experience altogether. Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting It is also very rich in avian and wildlife and as such bird watching and animal lovers will find a good destination in Amboli. Many birds live in the rain forests and on the hills of Tlaxcala and may be seen in the region at various times. Tourism lovers may also meet several native animals and that will add joy while exploring the park. Exploring Caves and Historical Sites All around Amboli, there are places of historical importance and archaeological caves to explore. Visiting these areas allows experiencing the history and making a tour among the beautiful nature. Cultural interests could be viewed and obtained knowledge of the history of the particular area’s existence. Enjoying Local Cuisine at Nearby Eateries The local cuisine has to be tasted to be believed and no visit to Amboli is without sampling the local food. Maharastrian cuisine served in the eateries around the hill station are delicious and fit everybody’s budget as well as preference. Tasting these cuisines enhances the flavor of the image, they said, as consuming such meals gives the travelers an insight of the local cuisine. Travel Tips for Amboli Visitors To make the most of your trip to Amboli, consider these travel tips: Best Time to Visit Amboli The best time to visit Amboli is in the monsoon period June to September if you get a chance to see the waterfalls in full. On the other hand, winter months present a good climate and are therefore suitable for trekking and other activities. Packing Essentials In organizing the visit, it is necessary to carryalong comfortable shoes for walking and trekking. During the monsoon it rains most of the time hence wearing rain gear will ensure that you are not soaked up while enjoying the waterfalls. Light woolens are also advised for the cool night as they make it easier to have a pleasant experience at all times. Conclusion The beauty of monsoon is visible in Amboli and is famous for its waterfalls and lush green surroundings. The main attraction here is the Amboli Waterfalls, however; what surrounds it and accommodates it for the tourists is an all-encompassing fun package. Surprising, exciting or leisure, entertainment, food, or shopping, Amboli has it all to suit any one’s type and taste. Therefore come and visit Amboli and take a break to feel surrounded by the serenity of nature. To get more travel information and for packages, log on to TourTravelWorld.com and start the journey towards making your vacations in Maharashtra’s fascinating geographical terrains memorable.
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Amba Ghat is an enchanting mountain pass that lies on the highway that connects Kolhapur and Ratnagiri. It is an extension of the Sahyadri ranges that is covered with a canopy of the lush green vegetation. Passing through the green surroundings at a height of 2000 feet above the sea level is an experience which is beyond description.It Is Known For:-1) Amba Ghat is known for its visual appeal.2) It pleases the tired eyes immediately and has emerged as a prominent site for clicking pictures. While passing through this highway road, one can see many passer-byes clicking pictures.3) This place looks even appealing to eyes when the rains wash away the tiresome layer and refreshes the leaves.4) Sipping a cup of tea at the dhabas located nearby shouldn’t be missed.Best Time To Visit:-Amba Ghat never disappoints its visitors. Due to its location at a great height, the vehicles pass through this place throughout the year. Also, the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year as it is adorned with the greenery on both sides. Thus, it can be visited during any season of the year.Enjoying the rainfall at this site is a blissful experience. The fragrance of the wet soil makes weather cooler as the first drop mingles with the earth’s soil.Reaching There:-Amba Ghat is well-connected via all roads as it is a major highway. It can be accessed at any time simply by a bus, taxi, or a car.Nearest Railway Station:- Kolhapur Railway StationNearest Airport:- Kolhapur Airport
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Khandala is 8 kilometres away from Duke’s nose. This place is famous and popular for its picturesque locations and hiking. People often visit the beautiful landmark to get amazing pictures and panoramic view of the Sahyadri Ranges. This valley is amazing, beautiful and splendid and is covered by dense forests. People who come and visit Lonavala, never miss a chance to visit Duke's Nose, Khandala. The landmark is one of the best picnic spots for the tourists. The place is called Duke's nose because the shape of the cliff resembles the nose of the Duke of Wellington. But the locals call is Cobra's Hood or Naagphani due to the shape of the cliff. You will get a clear and beautiful panoramic view of the Duke's nose from the Sunset point that is in Khandala. Several people who are travelling from Pune to Mumbai and vice verse come and visit this place for the mesmerising view of the valley. Traveller Tips • Wear rubber-soled shoes if you want to go for trekking because the track is very slippery. • Do not forget to carry some food and water along with you. • Start early if you want to do trekking. • The place has no entry fee and its open 24 hours. Things To Do In Maharashtra, Khandala is one of the most popular hill stations. This place is perfect for you to spend your holiday. People living in Pune and Maharashtra often visit this place during their weekends with friends and family. The scenic beauty, lovely weather and the amazing charm are enough to fill your heart. The waterfalls and the lakes add to the beautiful ambience of the place. Duke's Nose, Khandala is a famous tourist spot. This is known for rock climbing. You can perform these thrilling activities and can make your trip exciting and more fun. Other than Duke’s nose, you can also visit the waterfall, caves and lakes. Then there is the Karla hills and Rajmachi fort. The fort is situated between Khandala and Lonavala. The beauty of this fort is breath-taking. Near Tungarli and Kondhavi lake, there are caves where you can visit as well. There are some other ancient caves which are famous for their excellent carvings, which includes the Bhedsa Caves. There are some other places as well where you can visit in Khandala. Tiger’s Leap is one such place which attracts people for far. Kune Waterfall, Echo Point, Bushi Dam and the popular Lonavala Lake are must-visit. If you love food, after sightseeing you should enjoy the local delicacies that are available in Khandala. You will get mouth-watering and tasty North Indian and Gujarati cuisines. Visit different restaurants and cafes and enjoy the served local food. Among all the dishes that you get in Khandala, Vada Pav is the most popular dish that people love to have. Best Time To Visit Duke's Nose, Khandala Just like Lonavala, Khandala is loved for its pleasant weather and natural beauty. Tourist from all around the country, visit this place to enjoy the charm of the place and the beauty of nature. One can experience pleasant weather in Khandala, throughout the year and therefore you can visit Duke's Nose, Khandala any time of the year. Summer The summer starts in the middle of March and ends in May in Khandala. The temperature in May rises to 40 degree celsius, this is the hottest month of the year. It is not that uncomfortable in summer and generally, the temperature remains moderate in Khandala during summers. The heat is not that repressive and therefore, tourist can enjoy their trip to Khandala even during summers. Monsoon Monsoons in Khandala starts from June and lasts till the end of September. You can choose to visit this hill station during this season as the rain enhances the beauty of the place. The surrounding turns more appealing and lovely. This is the ideal time for the couples and newly married people to plan their honeymoon trip to Khandala. Do not forget to carry umbrellas and raincoats during this time of the year. Winter Winter sets in October and continues till Mid-March. During this time the temperature is around 12 degree Celsius and it is a complete bliss for the people who love winter. You can plan and visit Khandala during this time of the year and enjoy with your loved ones. This is the ideal time for hiking, trekking and relaxing but do not forget to carry warm clothes. How To Reach Duke's Nose, Khandala? Khandala is a perfect place to relax with your friends and family amidst the mesmerising hills, green valleys and beautiful lakes away from the crowd and noise of the city. This place is easily accessible and it is connected by all means of transport and well-connected to other major cities. You can reach this place without trouble. By Air The closest domestic station near Khandala is the Pune airport and the international airport is in Mumbai. Both domestic and international flights are available at these airports from the major cities and the rest of the world. You can avail the local transports from the airport and reach Duke's Nose quite easily. By Rail Lonavala railway station is the nearest station to Khandala. The station is connected by all the local trains from Pune and Mumbai. Therefore one can reach to any of the cities that are mentioned and then travel to Lonavala. From here you can take a cab, taxi or bus to reach Khandala. Khandala also has its railway station where several trains from Mumbai come and take a halt. By Road The hill station is connected with well-maintained roads. You can reach here by availing the Mumbai-Pune expressway or NH4. Maharashtra State Transport provides several buses regularly to travel to Khandala. Many tour organisers provide luxury buses and also there are non-luxury and luxury taxis which will help you reach your destination. Enjoy long drives in your private cars with your loved one to Khandala. Visit Duke's Nose, Khandala with your family or friends and enjoy. Plan the best holiday of your life and choose the best package among the available tour packages for Maharashtra online.
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Valvan Dam near Lonavala in Maharashtra is surrounded by stunning scenic views. As an almost- perfect evening tourist spot, lush greenery Valvan Dam is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. A pleasant walk in the evening on Valvan Dam will soothe your mind and will give you a breath of fresh air. Valvan Dam, which is 1,356 m. long supplies water to the Khopoli Power Station, owned by Tata Power. The Dam on Indrayani river, located at the foothills of the Sahyadri Mountains, generates hydroelectricity power. Traveller Tips: You may have an evening walk on the Valvan Dam, Khandala. A pleasant walk and enjoying the calm surroundings, scenic beauty of lush green Sahyadri Mountains, and the chattering sound of the Indrayani river are so romantic for travellers. The touch of the gentleness of nature will give you a break from the hectic schedule of city life. Things to Do: You will be mesmerized viewing the scenic beauty of Valvan Lake near Valvan Dam. Valvan Dam on Indrayani river and Valvan Lake are the perfect places for photographers, and nature lovers. Adventure seekers may visit Tungarli Dam and Lake. Rajmachi Fort near Valvan Dam attracts tourists for its historical significance. Moreover, travellers can visit temples, which are near Valvan Dam, Khandala. Valvan Dam is considered as the best picnic spot in Khandala. Availability: There are no entry fees for visitors. This place is open to all and you can visit the dam anytime. You can take a camera with you for capturing splendid moments and the amazing beauty of the dam. History: The Valvan Dam was originally constructed by the Tata Group. Now the dam is maintained by the same group. Architecture: The Valvan Dam, Khandala is 1,356 m. long. The height of the dam is 26.36 m. or 86.5 ft. The measurement of the Dam volume is 182.000 m3(cubic meter). The total storage capacity of the Valvan Dam is 72,122,000m3 Festival: People celebrate Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Ekvira Devi festival, and Diwali near Valvan Dam, Khandala with pomp and fanfare. In February- March, people take delight in the celebration of Holi, a festival of painting each other's face with abir or colours. In September, people worship Lord Ganesh. This festival is known as Ganesh Chaturthi. Ekvira Devi Festival is celebrated on the eve of Navaratri in October. Valvan Dam turns into a gorgeous place on the eve of the Diwali, the festival of light, in November. Popular Culture: The people of Khandala believe in traditional culture. The inhabitants near Valvan Dam, Khandala save themselves from the industrialization and modernization of Mumbai. Here the people are friendly and cordial. Most of the residents of Valvan Dam are Hindu. Other religious people like Christians, Buddhists, and Jains live in peace along with Hindus. Here the inhabitants generally speak Marathi, English, and Hindi. The mouthwatering Maharashtra cuisine is popular among the residents of Valvan Dam. Chikki, a dish made of peanuts, is the most famous food in Khandala. Travellers, who visit the Valvan dam, enjoy vada paos, roasted corn, wafers, etc. Delicious cuisines of Valvan Dam are a great attraction to tourists. Best Time to Visit: The monsoon season is the best time to visit the Valvan Dam. The beauty of the Valvan Dam flourishes during the rainy season owing to its swollen water. How to Reach: The Valvan Dam is just 5 km. away from Lonavala Railway Station. As the distance between the Valvan Dam, Khandala and Lonavala is 2 km., you can reach the Valvan Dam by trek, cab, and buses. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: The Valvan Dam ranks 12 among other tourist places of Khandala. In summer, the temperature varies from 30-35 degrees, and the winter temperature range is between13 to 28 degrees. In the FAQ format Q. Which is the ideal time to visit the Valvan Dam, Khandala? A. July- September (rainy season) is the ideal time to visit the Valvan Dam. Q. What is the opening hour of the Valvan Dam? A. Valvan Dam is open throughout the day round the year. Q. What is the entry fee? A. There is no entry fee. Q.What are the things to do in Valvan Dam? A. Boating, walking, viewing scenic beauty are the main things to do at the Valvan Dam. Q. Who constructed the Valvan Dam? A. Tata Group constructed the Valvan Dam. Q. What is the nearby station of Valvan Dam? A. Lonavala Railway Station is the nearest station of the Valvan Dam. Q. What is the length of Valvan Dam? A. The Valvan Dam is 1,356 m. long. Q. On which river the Valvan Dam is constructed? A. The Valvan Dam stands on the Indrayani river.
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Townhall garden is situated in the heart of Kolhapur city. The garden covers an area of about 7 to 8 acres full of old precious tropical and exotic trees, shrubs, lawns, creepers and climbers. In the year 1876 the construction of the Townhall building was completed. In the year 1904 the Glasshouse was constructed and in the year 1927 Marble bust of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was installed. The archaeological museum is an added attraction.
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Tiger’s Leap is a famous tourist site in Ambay Valley of Lonavala. It is a scenic viewpoint that tranquilizes the visitors immediately with its ambiance. The alluring surroundings of this place never disappoint the visitors and thus, Tiger’s Leap is a major site of interest that is thronged by visitors. It Is Known For:-1) Tiger’s Leap is known for its beauty.2) It’s enchanting circumjacent and a soulful ambiance is perfect for making anyone succumb to this place.3) This viewpoint provides a great panoramic view of the woods, waterfalls, and lakes in the nearby areas.4) Tiger’s Leap is also regarded as the right destination for witnessing a meteor shower and thus, the astronomy enthusiasts can be spotted here during such occurrences.5) This site is a haven for the ones looking out some adventure. The activities like rock climbing, trekking, and camping can be enjoyed here.Best Time To Visit:-Tiger’s Leap is a beauteous spot for spending some hours as it provides the best view of the nearby places. Since it is located at a high altitude and is surrounded by greenery in all directions, it welcomes the tourists throughout the year. The best time for visiting this place is during monsoons. The sight of Tiger’s Leap during monsoons is simply indescribable.Reaching There:-Tiger’s Leap can only be accessed via trekking. To reach this point, one has to de-board the local bus at the nearest village and enjoy a short trek till the viewpoint.Nearest Railway Station:- Lonavala Railway StationNearest Airport:- Mumbai Airport
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Imagica Adlabs is perfect holidaying for your family. It was inaugurated in 2013 and since then it became one of the most privileged amusement parks of Lonavala. That is not all! It is counted as an one-stop recreation destination for all age group of people. Being sited on the Mumbai – Pune Expressway, it has been counted as a latest entry in the popular weekend gateways from Mumbai and Pune. Description: Imagica Adlabs, Lonavala is divided into three halves, which are – Snow Park, Theme Park and Water Park. Hence, visitors get plenty of options to get entertained by riding on the roller coasters, enjoying in the refreshing water parks, watching the live shows and themed shows, etc. Imagica entertainment theme park is the brainchild of Adlabs Entertainment Ltd. which is a popular media farm owned by Manmohan Shetty, a famous film producer and entrepreneur of India. Traveller Tips: • You need to deposit your bags and luggage. Use lockers to store your valuables. • Children, who are above 3 years age, will be charged with entry fees. • You need to carry an original ID proof to enter the park premises. • You cannot carry outside foods inside the park. Foods are available inside. • Smoking is prohibited inside the Park except for the Smoking Zones. Things to do: Imagica is loaded with several leisure and amusement options apt for all age group of visitors coming here. Except for enjoying several rides on the land and water areas, you can also enjoy lavish accommodation here with plenty of luxurious dining and shopping options. Spend some quality time with your family and friends by watching exclusive acrobat performances, magic shows, hip-hop dancing and countless other fascinating activities. The detective bow wow show (live interactive comedy) or Salimgarh (haunted town ride) are a never miss. Save the pirate, wagon-o-o-wheel, mambo chai chama, wrath of the gods and tubby takes off and the magic carousel will blow your mind. The water rides are no less in entertainment skills! Zip zap zoom, loopy whoopy, yell – o, the screamer, splash, and many more are there for your entertainment in thrill. Architecture: Imagica Adlabs, Lonavala was built over 300 acres vast area with a massive budget of Rs 1600 Crore. Thus, the entire infrastructure is displaying a magnificent art structure. The thrilling layout of the of this amusement park incudes a plethora of rise opportunities ranging from Dare 2 Drop (gravity drop from 132 ft high) to Nitro (roller coaster runs at a crazy speed of 120 km / hour). There is Scream Machine too. And, as the name suggests, this rotating pendulum spins madly to gather momentum and then swings. One should not miss the ride named ‘I for India’. This indoor ride includes a 90 feet wide screen which showcases 59 milestones of India. There are more to explore with the state-of-the-art structure and advanced technology rides such as gold rush roller coaster, deep space roller coaster, etc. And, there is Snow World too. In fact, Imagica Adlabs, Lonavala has the largest snow amusement park in the Mumbai regions. It is constructed over a massive 15000 sq ft area. Simulated snowfall, snow basketball, snow castle, snow hiking, snow dance floor, etc. are built inside the gigantic snow setting. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Imagica Adlabs, Lonavala is between October and May. You can visit here in winter and summer but monsoon is not advisable to come here i.e. between June and September. This time heavy rainfall happens here which is not favourable for the tourists. How to Reach? The local tour operators of Mumbai offer multiple bus services all through the day, which can book easily only. Otherwise, after reaching Mumbai hire any local cab, which is an available option. Mumbai is easy to reach from all the parts of India. It has Chhatrapati Shivaji international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus and Mumbai central railway stations. Also, bus services are easy available to reach Mumbai from all the major cities of India. FAQ: Where to stay? Imagica Adlabs has a hotel facility inside its campus named Novotel Imagica Khopoli. It is worth of a fun-filled holiday stay. You will get complementary benefits of booking rooms here. Along with kids’ play areas you will be able to get complementary tickets to the three parks which starts from Rs 10250. Where to eat? You can find a range of restaurants within Imagica Adlabs to satiate your ill-timed munchies. Jain meals are also available inside. If liked, you can have American dinner too. For a memorable dinner enter Arrmada, which is a ship-themed restaurant. For an Indo-African dinner, Zeze Bar + Grill is a great option. Other nearby places to visit – • Tiger’s Leap • Bushi Dam • Lonavala Lake • Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum • Rajmachi Fort So, find a suitable time to visit Imagica amusement park in Lonavala and enjoy at your best!
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Planning a perfect holidaying in Mahabaleshwar? Then visiting Vennna Lake is a must! It is one of the best tourist destinations in Mahabaleshwar and Maharashtra. It is not a naturally built lake but man-made. It is built on a huge area of 28 acres and its periphery is spread over 7 – 8 Km. Tourists of every age group and especially couples enjoy the best coming here. Description: This is an artificial lake and there was a specific reason behind the construction of this lake. It was made to fulfil the water needs of the local residents of the city. Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar has a pair of underwater thirths or pilgrimage spots. Today, it is one of the most-cherished tourist spot of the city. One prime reason why travellers keep coming back here is classic horse riding offered here along with the beautiful views of range of extravagant local delicacies prepared at the local eateries. Traveller Tips: Row boats are charged as Rs 250 per half hour / Rs 500 per hour. A row boat can contain a maximum of seven passengers. Peddle boats are charged as Rs 440 per hour. A peddle can carry a maximum of 6 people together on a ride. You can get tickets for boating until sunset. Things to do: Venna Lake includes two submerged pilgrimage locations.so, if you are have religious interests, you can spend some quality time there. The banks of the lake hold gorgeous Chhatrapati Pratapsihn Garden which is a soothing attraction for the travellers. Due to its beautiful surrounding, tourists who have interests in photography feel attracted towards this place. Boating facility is available in the lake. You can choose between peddle and row boats, whatever you prefer. Except for boating, you can enjoy horse riding too. Kids enjoy best here by making fun activities like playing marry-go-round, riding toy trains, etc. History: Originally, Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar was constructed by the maharaja of Satara, Shri Appasaheb. He made it in the year 1942. A beautiful garden is formed surrounding the lake which still offers an eye-soothing experience for the visitors. Best time to visit: This peaceful Lake in Mahabaleshwar usually hold a pleasant cool climate. Rainfall often happens here all through the year. So, weather remains pleasant every time. Usually, temperature here lies between 10 and 35 degree Celcius. You can plan your trip according to your leisure time. Other ways, the months of December, January and February are recommended as the best time to visit here. How to Reach? Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar is easy to reach from anywhere in the city. It is at 2 Km distance from the Mahabaleshwar market. You can hire a local cab to reach there. Mahabaleshwar is easy to reach from most of the major cities of the country. By air – reach Pune airport and Mahabaleshwar is only 80 Km away from the airport. Hire a local cab or bus to reach your destination. By rail – the nearby railway station of Mahabaleshwar is Wather. It is 60 Km away from the city which can be covered within 2 – 3 hours of journey via a bus or cab. By road – local bus services are available between Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, Kolhapur, Nashik, Pune and Satara. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar has plenty of roadside eateries to attract tourists of different interests. These local restaurants promote the products of the local farms like bhutta, carrots, mulberries and strawberry. Prepared with these vegetables and fruits, all the local choupatis sell several traditional Marathi dishes. Usually these restaurants are found in between Panchgani and Venna Lake. FAQ: Other popular lakes to visit nearby – • Upvan lake • Vihar lake • Powai lake • Rankala lake • Panshet lake • Ganesh lake • Lonar lake • Khindsi and Ambazari alkes • Tansa lake • Vaitarna lake Where to stay? Nearby Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar, you can stay at the below locations which are famous for offering good amenities. They are – • Brightland Resort & Spa • TGL Resort & Spa • Bellevue Resort Plan your trip to Venna Lake accordingly and have a happy holidaying!
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Popularized by the name of Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra, Tapola is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Situated in the quaint valley of Mahabaleshwar, Tapola is truly a mesmerizing place to visit which is just 147 km away from Pune. With breathtaking landscapes, scenic beauty, fresh strawberry fields, water sports, and panoramic views you would enjoy in nature's lapse. The prime attraction of Tapola, Mahabaleshwar is the magnificent 90 km long Shivsagar Lake, where you could do boating, swimming, kayaking, and enjoy exciting water scooter rides. Hence, the place is an amalgamation of the picturesque beauty and thrilling adventure. You could do trekking, as well as many forts, are available around the enchanting lake like Vasota Fort. In fact, Tapola is popularly known as the satellite village of Mahabaleshwar. Traveler Tips Instead of taking any private bus, it is recommended to drive yourself to enjoy the exciting ride to Tapola, admiring the natural beauty in between your journey. If you want to spend quality time with your family and friends, then ride to this spectacular destination would surely be thrilling. You could feel the peace and solitude in this stunning valley of Tapola, Mahabaleshwar. There is no mobile network in this valley, so you could not communicate with each other in case of any emergency or mishap. So, be prepared and don't go overboard in excitement. If you are keen on photography, then do carry your camera with you. This amazing place would give you thousands of moments to capture the breathtaking natural beauty of the valley. Things To Do There is a long list of exciting and adventurous activities that you could do at this captivating place of Mahabaleshwar. You could do trekking in the dense forest of Tapola, which would be exciting and thrilling. You could visit the historical attraction of this fantastic place like Vasota Fort, Pratapgad Fort, and Jaygad Fort. Moreover, the tour to Tapola would be incomplete without visiting the enchanting Shivsagar lake offering you numerous water activities. Hence, you could do swimming, kayaking, boating, and many more adventurous water activities. The ideal way to enjoy at Tapola is to gaze at the breathtaking scenic beauty with luxurious greenery, fragrant flowers, and capturing all these mesmerizing moments. Availability You could either go for camping on the lakeside of Tapola, Mahabaleshwar or could stay at the hotel. Doing camping along the lakeside would be adventurous and exciting. You could have a bonfire with your friends and enjoy the night under the stars. Otherwise, you could book a room in a hotel, and many hotels within the range of 3 km are available. The services of the hotel are quite good and offer a comfortable stay. Moreover, they are highly affordable and hence making your trip more peaceful. Festival Since there are vast farms of strawberries and the same is cultivated in a massive amount. So, people celebrate the strawberry festival in March for two days. The festival is celebrated uniquely with great delight and full of enthusiasm. Everyone ranging from kid to adult participates in this festival to commemorate the first reap of strawberries. Apart from this, Maharashtra's prime festival is Ganesh Chaturthi, where people worship Lord Ganesha for seven days. This festival is celebrated in September with great excitement and gratification. Popular Culture Tapola is located in Maharashtra; therefore, Maharashtrian culture is followed. But you would be nostalgic to find that people follow an excellent mix of traditional Maharashtrian culture with modern sophistication. Though the people are rooted in their traditions and value them a lot, this does not make them outdated. People are very good-natured and soft-spoken at heart. You could chat with them and could connect with them instantly. Best Time To Visit As this place is famous for trekking, camping, sight-seeing so the best time to visit would be the months of October to February. During this time, the weather would be marvelous, making the destination more charming and enjoyable. Moreover, at this time, Tapola, Mahabaleshwar showcases its real natural beauty with blooming of adorable flowers and lush green backdrop. One more advantage of visiting during this time is that you could visit alluring strawberry farms. Hence, you could satisfy your appetite by eating fresh and tasty strawberries. How To Reach This excellent destination could be easily reached from various cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Kolhapur via trains, buses, or any other conveyance. Tapola is only 25 km away from Mahabaleshwar and 147 km from Pune. There is a constant ply of buses between these stations. But it is recommended to drive yourself to Tapola to enjoy the charming beauty in between the pathway. It is advisable to take an early morning road trip to reach this captivating place of Mahabaleshwar with your family or friends. You would reach your destination within a journey of 4 hours and would make thousands of memories in between with your family, making the drive more enthralling. Interesting Facts Shivsagar Lake, the prime attraction of Tapola, Mahabaleshwar, is the reservoir of the Koyna Dam, which is the biggest dam of Maharashtra. Moreover, the hydroelectric project of Koyna is India's biggest hydroelectric power plant. This fantastic destination is known as the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra and the village satellite of Mahabaleshwar. Hence, the trip to Tapola would be visual entreat for the photographers, nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure lovers. This spectacular place has something to offer for all, ranging from scenic beauty to exciting water activities. Hence, this place is regarded as the perfect combo of beauty and adventure.
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Lovingly coined as the 'Queen of the Points', the actual name of Arthur's Seat in Mahabaleshwar is Madhi Mahal. Arthur’s Seat is nestled at a height of about 1470 m above sea level and is located some 13 kilometres away from the city centre of Mahabaleshwar. Looked upon as one of the most famous viewpoints of the city, Arthur’s Seat Point is listed among the best jewels of Mahabaleshwar, and is thronged by tourists from across the world. The place derived its name from Arthur Malet, who happened to lose his wife along with his month old girl child to a horrific accident in the Savitri River. While one part of the place is encircled by the deep gorge of Savitr, the other part is surrounded by the verdant green plateau. Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar is said to have derived its name from Sir Arthur Malet, who is believed to have built the first house there. The only viewpoint to overlook the geological contrast between the Deccan territories and Konkan, Arthur’s Seat point comprises of 6 points. Traveller Tips to Keep in Mind • The parking slot for the place is a little far away, and would thus need you to walk 30 minutes to reach the viewpoint. • You can expect myriad vendors all along your way to the viewpoint. • The trek to the Arthur’s Seat Point is considered easy, given the stone steps that cover most of the route. • The viewpoint is a 1km walk from the base, and is worth all your efforts and energy, given the outstanding views it offers you with. • You must carry sufficient water, as the chances of getting fresh water along the route are bleak. There happens to only one source of fresh water along the entire trek to the viewpoint. • It is advisable to hire a guide with you as the route might sometimes get confusing. • Try visiting the viewpoint in the early morning to avoid the parking problems and crowds. • The place gets unbelievably crowded during the weekends. Hence, always plan your trip to the viewpoint during the weekdays. Things to Do at Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar The barren deep Savitri valley on one side of the viewpoint and the verdant green Jor valley on the other side allows a breath-taking view to the seat point which you can enjoy. Upon moving a few steps downward, you can witness the window point just beneath the viewpoint beside the beautiful Tiger Spring, which is looked upon as the origin of Savitri River. You can also gaze at the spellbinding views of the great Mahabaleshwar Range which runs inclusive of Koleshwar, Chandragad, Pratapgad, and Raireshwar. Arthur’s Seat offers pleasant views of the Western Ghats, the Koyna and Sita rivers, and some dense jungles around. Besides, you can treat your taste buds to some sparkling natural spring water. The most interesting activity one engages in while at Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar is throwing light objects like bottle caps right in the valley, to watch it bounce back due to extreme air pressure. Be prepared to get up and personal with numerous monkeys at the viewpoint. Availability The Arthur’s Seat Point in Mahabaleshwar is open between 9 in the morning to 8 in the night. Plan your trip either in the early morning hours, right when it opens for tourists, to marvel at the sunrise, or during the evening time to get awestruck by the marvellous sunset views. The Interesting History Behind Arthur’s Seat Point Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar is said to have derived its name from Sir Arthur Malet, who according to folklore had lost his wife and his month old daughter to a horrific accident in the Savitri River. Upon witnessing the gruesome ferry accident and having lost his beloved ones, he was seen to be sitting at the viewpoint every day, wishing and hoping for them to return to life. The Marvellous Architecture of Arthur’s Seat Point Arthur’s Seat Point has gained popularity and fame amongst tourists from all over the world due to its stunning rock settings and formations here. Thanks to its geographical design, magnificence, and grandeur, Arthur’s Point, Mahabaleshwar is frequently compared with the famous Great Canyon in the States. Colourful Festivals Held One of the most significant festivals held in Mahabaleshwar is Ganesh Chaturthi, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. Followed to this, Diwali is also seen to be enjoyed with the entire hill station getting decked up in lights and decoration. Another most enjoyed festival of Mahabaleshwar is the famous Strawberry Festival, which is held during the March for two consecutive days. Popular Culture Mahabaleshwar is blessed with an unparalleled beauty, characterized by marvellous foggy hills, picturesque valleys, breath-taking waterfalls, sparkling spring water, dense woods, and stretches of lush strawberry farms. The visitors thronging the place enjoy adventurous sports like trekking, horse riding, boating, etc. Marathi, is the most spoken language of Mahabaleshwar, which also unfolds the vast Maharashtrian culture. Best Time to Visit Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar The ideal time to visit Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar is between June to February when the viewpoint is endowed with nature’s bounty and allows breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding place. How to Reach Arthur’s Seat Point? Arthur’s Seat Point is an hour’s drive from the city centre of Mahabaleshwar, Pune. It is always wise to book a taxi from the city of Mahabaleshwar, as public transportations aren’t always available. Pune on the other hand is one of the vital railway stations in Maharashtra, which has several trains coming and going from all parts of the nation. You can also expect direct state transportations from Mumbai, Pune, and Poladpur. You can hire shared public transports and buses from Poladpur to Dhawale, the base village. Interesting Facts and Trivia About Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar • One has to cross a minimum of 5 different viewpoints before reaching Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar. • Sharing close vicinity with Arthur’s Seat Point is a man who helps tourists have a telescopic view of the Pratapgad Fort in exchange for some pennies. You can enjoy a brief glimpse of the fort and the magnificent statue of King Shivaji. • The viewpoint offers a 360-degree view of the Mahabaleshwar hills where it is centred. • The place is also referred to as the Pocket Valley. • The valley is in a perfect V shape between the mountains. With tremendous air pressure all around, to have enough wind lashing against your face. • Few other interesting viewpoints that you can enjoy are the Tiger Spring Point, Echo Point, and the Malcon Point. Frequently Asked Questions on Arthur’s Seat Point, Mahabaleshwar Q1) Does the place have any entry fees? No, the place doesn’t require any entry fees. Q2) Is Videography and Photography allowed at Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar? Yes, both videography and photography are allowed at Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar. You can capture the breath-taking views of the valleys, hills, and Pratapgad Fort from here. Q3) What are the nearby hotels from Arthur’s Seat Point? A few of the nearby hotels are: • Citrus Chambers Mahabaleshwar • Bella Vista Resort • Ever shine Resort • Bella Vista Resort • Le Meridian Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa • Rasmukh Resorts and Spa Q4) What are some of the restaurants near Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar? Few of the famous restaurants near to the viewpoint are: • The Grapevine • Bagicha Corner • Farmhouse Bistro • Mad Smoke House • Mapro Garden
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Matheran is a beautiful platue in Mumbai district which drags most of tourist attractions due to its dark green forest cover. With an altitude of 803 meter above the sea level, this place remains pleasant almost every time of the year. So, if you want a calm and undisturbed vacation on this weekend, plan a trip to Matheran. Though this place remains crowded all through the year but motor vehicles are not allowed here, so you will find a noise-free holidaying here. Almost 38 or more viewpoints are there and all of which offer the extensive views of the Western Ghats. But, among them, Lousia Point offers the most significant and prominent ones. Description: Louisa Point, Matheran offers myriad views of the surrounding which will mesmerize almost every visitors coming here. The location is only at 1.5 km distance from the local market area. You will get clear breath-taking views from here on any sunny day and these are enough compelling to settle down for a moment. The uniqueness of Louisa lies in the two different sets of picturesque views offered here. On one side, the sky-high mountains range and the civilization spread over the valley will melt your heart, and on another, there is Lake Charlotte, which appears as a diamond necklace from the hilltop. Visiting here during monsoon is best with the enthralling views of water-filled lake and the captivating waterfalls. From Louisa Point, you can clearly get a view of the Prabal and Vishalgad forts. Traveller Tips: There is an entry fee required to enter the premises of Matheran. No vehicles are allowed here, so need to walk through the viewpoints. From one year back, adults are charged with Rs 50 and children are charged with Rs 25 to enter this area. Things to Do: All the views from Louisa Point, Matheran are so intriguing that one can spend hours here gazing at them. Peace-lovers can relish some couple of hours’ of silence here with mind-blowing views to sooth eyes and soul. It is a photographers’ paradise too. Your photographer mind can spend countless minutes here capturing the panoramic views of waterfalls, lake, valleys and mountain peaks. Don’t miss a sunset here! You can also visit another popular attraction here in Matheran – the Lion’s Head from here. Best Time to Visit : Matheran is a hill station and hence it remains pleasant all through the year, though winters are often chilly here. You can find post-monsoon months are the best to visit here, as these times are enthralling to visit Louisa Point, Matheran with water-filled Lake, lush greenery and many restless waterfalls. How to Reach? Louisa Point lies at a walking distance from the Matheran railway station. It will take 40 minutes to reach there. You can also hire ponies to ride there which is available at the Matheran market. Per pony you will be required to pay Rs 500. But the route to Louisa is soothing for the eyes with its dark green cover. To reach Matheran, you can use the airways, roadways or railways according to your comfort. By air – Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai is the nearby airport. By rail – you can board trains for Neral railway station (11 km away), Kalyan Junction (45 km away) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (94 km away), whichever is comfortable for you. By road – Neral bus stop is the closest to Matheran. It is only 12 km away from your destination. After reaching the airport, railway station or bus stop, you need to hire any local car or any other vehicle to reach Louisa. FAQ: Popular places to visit nearby • Panorama Point • Monkey Point • Porcupine Point • Echo Point • Charlotte Lake • Alexander Point • PorcupinePoint • One Tree Hill Point • Garbett Point • Prabalgad Fort • Vishalgad Fort Where to stay? Some popular hotels and resorts nearby Louisa Point, Matheran are – • Hotel Lake View • Brightland Resort • Hotel Royal • Hotel Panorama So, plan your trip safely and enjoy holidaying at Louisa Point, Matheran. Happy journey!
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Blessed with the surreal beauty of nature and tranquillity, Panorama point is one of the most popular and visited spots in Matheran. Located at the farthest point of Mathern, a beautiful hill station in Maharashtra, Panorama point offers the most stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Western ghat range. Popular for: Trekking, nature, adventure, photography, picnic Visit time: 6am-7pm Visit duration: 1-2 hours Entry charge: Free Overview: Located almost 8 km far from the main market area in Matheran, this secluded viewpoint is one of the must-visit scenic spots for tourists. Panorama point is a slice of heaven on the earth for photo fanatics, nature lovers and adventure seekers as it offers magnificent views of the mountains, adjoining peaks, valley and a lake. From this point surrounding scenic locations like Navara-Naveri, Chanderi, Navara-Navari, Peb fort can also be seen easily. Unlike other popular points in Matheran, you will not find many tourists at Panorama point as it involves a strenuous trek to reach the top. The view from the top is stunning as it offers a panoramic glimpse of the majestic Western ghat range and small villages far below. Traveller tips: • No motorised vehicle is allowed in Matheran. Tourists need to move around on foot, rickshaw or horse ride. • Keep your Matheran's entry ticket with as you will need to re-enter the city after visiting Panoroma point. • Wear sturdy shoes and carry a bottle of water as you need to trek to reach this viewpoint • Don’t forget to carry your camera as the shots you will get from this point are stunning. • Bring enough cash along as there are a very few ATMs in Matheran. • Trek to this point at dawn to see the stunning sunrise view. Things to do • Located far away from the city hustle and blessed with tranquillity, Panorama point, Matheran is a great place to revive your romance or enjoy a picnic with your family. • Set against a stunning backdrop, this site offers you a great opportunity to capture some splendid shots of the surroundings. • It offers stunning views of Prabalgad fort and distant views of Monkey point, Heart point, Porcupine point. • Relax and spend some quiet time appreciating the magnificent beauty of nature while inhaling fresh air. • Give a treat to your eyes with a splendid view of the sunset or sunrise. Best time to visit: Panorama point comes alive with lush greenery all around in rainy season (July to September). Though Matheran records heavy rainfall in monsoon, it’s the best time to witness the beauty of serene nature at its best. How to reach? Panorama point is very close to Matheran entry point and can easily be reached by pony or walk from main the market. You can also take Neral-Matheran toy train from the marketplace and trek for 2 km through rocky terrain. Though taking a horse ride is a convenient and time-saving option, trekking to this point through the lush green landscape is a wonderful experience. The trek to the point is strenuous but the sight of the mountains is worth the pain. The most easily accessible railway junction from Matheran would be Pune. You can take a bus or taxi from Pune to reach Matheran. Located at a distance of 131 km, the nearest airport is Pune airport. Nearby attractions: Following are some of the popular tourist attractions located near Panorama point which you can certainly add to your sightseeing tour to Matheran. • Echo point • Elephant’s head point • Monkey point • Louisa point • Peb fort • Charlotte lake • Sunset point • Little chowk point • Kate’s Point • Mapro garden Blessed with natural beauty and tranquillity, Panorama point, Matheran is a never miss-out on tourist spot during your vacation to this hill station. Book a trip to Matheran and get ready to experience an awesome trekking experience to the stunting Panorama point.
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Matheran is a mesmerising hill station located in Maharashtra. This truly unique destination overlooks a beautiful scenery of the Western Ghats and its intimidating mountains and deep gorges which makes it a perfect summertime retreat. There are many viewpoints in Matheran and the monkey point of Matheran holds an exclusive significance. As the name suggests, this place is often hit by groups of monkeys. The Monkey Point of Matheran is a popular spot famous for its stupefying sunsets and many monkeys. One of the most justifying qualities of this place is its scenic beauty, which is quite quaint and humbling. The rocky terrain of this vacation spot also makes it an implausible trekking destination. This destination also has generous quantities of endemic flora and fauna and makes up for a fascinating way to learn about the local weather and plantation. You can also experience the delightful echo sound here if you shout out into the mountains while facing the Hart Cliff. Trip to Matheran would be one to remember for a lifetime with several monkeys around you. This is the perfect place truly adored by all – Picnic Lovers, Trekkers as well as jungle lovers. Things to do in Matheran are: Louisa Point Charlotte Lake Neral-Matheran Toy Train Porcupine Point (Sunset Point) Panorama Point What is the best time to visit Matheran? Post monsoon is the best time to visit and enjoy the spectacular beauty of Matheran. At this time the place is covered with lush greenery, waterfalls and the lake full with water. How to reach ? The alluring hill station Matheran in Maharashtra relishes an admirable connectivity with Maharashtrian cities like Mumbai and Pune, therefore reaching Matheran is not at all challenging for the tourists. The nearest station is Neral on Mumbai-Pune railway route which is just 21kms away from Matheran. From Neral, you can board the toy train which can add beautiful experience to your journey and this railway route is very picturesque. The airport closest to Matheran is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai and another one is Pune Airport. Another convenient option is taking cab or taxis from the railway station or airport to reach Matheran. Automobiles are not allowed inside Matheran. Foot, Pulled rickshaw, Horse ride are the only means of transport within the city and hence one has to use these pollution free methods to reach Monkey Point. History Matheran was identified by the british officials in the mid 19th century and laid the foundation of the development of this beautiful hill station to beat the heat of summers. It is continued to be a popular tourist destination for the people of Mumbai and Pune. Architecture Matheran is a hub for colonial architecture and heritage which includes- Parsi Manor: This manor is full of mysterious beauty and will fill you with nostalgia for a time long. One can enjoy the core parsi meal along with all the attractions of Parsi culture. Churches: The Holy Cross Church is a one of a kind spot which was built with vaulted ceilings which will take you back in time of British rule. The pinched arches with the cross in the windows are one of the indisputable signs that display the still lofty colonial bearings of this church. Matheran Toy Train: Most hill stations in India are not connected with railway routes but Matheran toy train is a tourist attraction that shows the heritage of this place. Old Matheran Market: The beauty of the streets are enhanced with old lamp posts and cobblestone pathways. A stroll around the old Matheran Market will take you back in time. What are the cultural festivals celebrated in Matheran? Matheran Mahotsav is a great festival coordinated by the Matheran Municipal Council (MMC). This is a five day festival held annually in order to promote the art and culture of the place. Ganesh Chatuthi is another most important festival celebrated in Matheran to commemorate the birth of Lord Ganesha. Few traveller tips to plan your upcoming weekend trip to Matheran are- Book your toy train seats in advance through IRCTC and witness the awesome views. Don't forget to carry Umbrellas and raincoats to save yourself from rain. Carry comfortable shoes as the place especially Monkey point requires you to trek.
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A dainty hill-station tucked away amidst the mountain tops of the great Sahyadri ranges, Matheran is listed amongst the must-visit places for all the nature and bird lovers. The Echo Point, Matheran has garnered immense popularity for its nature’s bounty and breath-taking scenery and real-life physics lesson illustrations through echo acoustics. Centred by the verdant green stretches and loose clouds dressing up the place in white, the Echo Point is the best viewpoint to witness the hypnotizing views of the Western Ghats and indulge in the exciting echoes and reverberations. This is where, the viewpoint derives its name. Thanks to its location at the hilltop, the place is a haven for adrenaline junkies, which offers a plethora of engaging adventure sports. An eco-friendly hill-station, the Echo Point boasts of being one of the few automobile-free spots and is said to echo in the same manner as the ancient years, irrespective of nature’s erosions and man-made developments. Traveller Tips that Might Be Helpful • Get offline maps installed in your smartphones, as it might be helpful. • The Echo Point, Matheran is a 40 minutes’ walk from the main market. • You can book a horse ride to reach the Echo Point, to help save yourselves from the walk. Though the trees on both the sides of the Echo-Point helps you save from the • The zip-lining is offered to cross the valley, by the local tour agencies and operators throughout the tourist season. • The trekkers usually board the State Transport bus from Panvel to travel to Dodhani, from where the sunset point of Matheran is just an hour trek. This trek is mostly taken up during the monsoons, to enjoy the rich forest area that carpets the trekking route, the sparkling streams, and verdant green trees. Things to Do at the Echo Point • The Echo Point, Matheran offers magnificent views of the lakes and the hills. • The viewpoint is famous as one of the most frequented sightseeing spots in Matheran, where you can enjoy capturing the beautiful sunset and sunrise shots through your lenses. • You can indulge in an adrenaline rush, by choosing to cross the valley by zip-lining. • Masala Chai being sold by almost all the vendors present there is one of the few specialties of the place that you must indulge in. • A nice viewpoint to treat your sore eyes to the riveting water-falls. Besides, the hills surrounding the place are responsible for the reverberation. Availability The place is opened between sunrise and sunset. And, it requires about a couple of hours to take a tour around the place. History of Echo Point Matheran was first explored in the 1850s by Hugh Poyntz Malet followed by the then Thane’s district collector, who while camping across the Village Chowk and quenching his thirst from the spring, unveiled and discovered the spellbinding hill station. The development foundation as a future hill station was however laid by the then Governor of Mumbai- Lord Elphinstone. The development of Matheran and Echo Point by the Britishers were mainly to brave the summer heat in the area, and to become as one of the most favourite hanging spots Architectural Specialties of Echo Point, Matheran The architecture all around Matheran is characterized by restored furnishings and quaint corners, some of them hinting at the Parsi culture. The Echo-Point on the other hand boasts of colonial quality and special heritage. You can expect flawless colonial style in the churches found all around in Matheran with the holy cross in the windows and pinched arches. The colonial charm of Matheran oozes through its famous toy train, narrow lanes, and gigantic mansions. Festivals Celebrated Almost all the Hindu and Muslim festivals are thoroughly enjoyed and celebrated with sheer magnificence and grandeur like the Makar Sankranti and Republic that is celebrated in January, Gudi Padwa in April, followed by Christmas and New Year. However, Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most significant and important festivals that is celebrated here in August or September. Popular Culture The Marathi culture is strikingly dominant all-around Matheran and amidst the lifestyle of the Matheran residents. The food served and sold at Echo point, Matheran is from the two flavoursome cuisines of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The most famous food that is savoured in the stall of Echo Point and all around Matheran is Vada Pav with delicious garlic chutney. The other food items found in the stalls and sold by the vendors along the route of Echo Point, Matheran are jalebi, usual, and missal. Best Time to Visit the Echo Point The Echo Point, Matheran comes alive with the free-flowing waterfalls descending the hills, making it a sight to behold for the tourists during the monsoons. No wonder, why the best time to visit the place is from July to February. You can be part of nature’s precious bounty and flawless beauty. However, the best is also best explored from March to May and between September to December, when there are no showers. How to Reach Echo Point? Matheran boasts of good connectivity to the cities nearby like Pune and Mumbai through a dense roadway network, and you can reach Echo Point at ease, by either booking a taxi or a rickshaw. The distance between the Matheran railway station and Echo Point is 2.5 kilometres. Interesting Facts and Trivia About the Echo Point • You can witness the Prabalgad and West Valley with a visible V-shaped notch. • On a clear sky day, you can marvel at the HPCL Marol of Mumbai Chimney followed by the Tromboy hills, besides the building outlines in Sewri without the help of binoculars. • The last lap of the Echo Point path is a bit risky, courtesy to the 1000 feet valley on of the sides. • It is the only hill-station that could successfully ban motor vehicles, thus deriving the title- eco-sensitive zone of Maharashtra where there is no trace of pollution. • You can marvel at the Sahyadri mountain ranges from here. Frequently Asked Questions on Echo point Q1) When is the Best Time to Visit Echo Point? The perfect time to visit Echo Point, Matheran is during the weekends. Q2) What are the popular hotels near Echo Point? Few of the popular hotels nearby Echo Point are the • TY Cecil Hotel • Regal Hotel • Khan’s Park View Resort Matheran • Diwadkars • Modi’s Resort Karjat • Alexander Heritage and Rainforest Resort
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Also coined as Sharlott Lake, the emerald green Charlotte Lake is one amongst the most frequented tourist hotspots in Matheran. The lake is the only place in Matheran which oozes with its essence and charm. Besides, being the main water source for the residents in Matheran, the Charlotte lake is looked upon as the ideal weekend gateway to catch some fresh air, and to search for the inner bliss. Tucked away from the city hubbub, the Charlotte Lake, Matheran lays centred in the lush forest region, with one dam sprawling from one of its sides and the other side flaunting the holy Pisarnath temple. The lake overlooks some spellbinding views of the Louisa Point and Echo Point. Traveller Tips for Charlotte Lake • Since Charlotte Lake, Matheran is the primary source of water for the residents of Matheran, any kind of water activities including boating, fishing, and swimming are strictly restricted. • If you happen to visit the place for picnic purposes, make sure you keep the area clean and free of any kind of plastics and garbage. • You can choose to opt for a hand-pulled rickshaw or a horse ride back to your hotel from the lake. • The place is filled with monkeys and thus, you must be careful when opening food packets in front of them. • The place doesn’t allow any pets. • Photography, Videography is allowed in the region for tourists. Things to Do at the Charlotte Lake in Matheran • The Pisarnath Mahadev Temple, standing tall on the left side of the lake, is thronged by devotees from across the nation. • The two popular viewpoints- Louisa Point and Echo Point shares proximity with the lake and can be given a brief visit to enjoy some enthralling views of the surrounding mountain ranges, dense forests, and valleys. • When at Charlotte Lake, you can also engage in watching a plethora of migratory and domestic birds flocking to the region for a quick meal, especially during the morning and evening hours. • The breath-taking views of the Charlotte Lake, Matheran following the cool breeze kissing your cheeks are worth the 2.5 kilometres walk from the marketplace of Matheran to the lake. • You can treat your sore eyes to the nearby waterfall, and the sparkling clean lake set against the verdant green backdrop. • The sunrise and the golden rays reflecting on the lake during the hour are a sight to behold as well. • The lake lays out sufficient opportunities for avid photographers or nature lovers to catch a glimpse of nature’s beauty and myriad birds through their lenses. Availability Charlotte Lake is open between 5 in the morning to 6 in the evening. History Built in the early 1956 AD, the Charlotte Lake, Matheran is first filtered and thereafter distributed to the whole of Matheran. The age-old Pisarnath temple on the left side of the lake is devoted to Lord Shiva (The God of Destroyer) who is also looked upon as the village deity of the Charlotte Lake region. The worshipped Shiva lingam present inside the temple is believed to be self-manifested as per the ancient folklore. Architecture One of the key aspects of the Pisarnath Temple at Charlotte Lake, Matheran is the unique Shiva lingam, which is all red, due to smearing of vermillion and is also tilted to one side unlike the usual straight black Shiva lingams found everywhere. Festival While Ganesh Chaturthi is the most celebrated festival amongst others in Matheran. However, there are a few more festivals that are inclusive of Matheran Mahotsav. The Charlotte Lake, is witness to one of the most popular Shivratri, thanks to the ancient Pisarnath Temple situated there. The place is also decked up in a multitude of lights and dresses up in happiness during Diwali, in November. Popular Culture Matheran’s culture strikes a resemblance to Raigad District’s culture. The famous cuisines of Maharashtra and Gujarat are sold abundantly all across Matheran and even in Charlotte Lake. Matheran also boasts of a marketplace that is famous for hats, footwear, belts, purses, and bags. Chikki is a locally based food that is quite hyped all around Matheran and is relished by tourists from all across the world. How to Reach Charlotte Lake? Matheran is the only hill-station to have earned the eco-sensitive zone of the state- thus restricting any movement of buses and transports. This is the exact reason, why people choose horse rides and trekking to move from one place to another. To reach Charlotte Lake, Matheran you have to walk from the nearest railway station, which happens to be 2 kilometres away from the lake. You can also board a bus or book a private cab to Dasturi car point. From here you would be needed to get on horseback or opt for a man-pulled rickshaw to help you reach your hotel in Matheran or straight to the Charlotte lake as per your preference. Best Time to Visit Charlotte Lake The sheer grandeur and the magnitude of the Lake’s beauty are best unveiled during the monsoons when the emerald green reservoir drapes a tinge of gold, that reflects under the sun. However, most tourists prefer planning a trip to the lake right after the monsoons during October-November to best enjoy the place and to witness its’ marvellous beauty and grandeur. Interesting Facts and Trivia About Charlotte Lake • The dam is the source of the lake, which generally overflows during showers and forms into a quaint waterfall, thus leading to the formation of a glistening lake during the monsoons. • The place is an interesting spot for camping and picnicking with your family and friends. An ideal romantic spot where you can indulge in overnight barbecue parties. • The beauty of the place is best enjoyed during the foggy winter mornings. Frequently Asked Questions on Charlotte Lake Q1) Can I find any restaurants near the Charlotte Lake, Matheran? Yes, there are about 9 restaurants within the proximity of 10 kilometres. The restaurants at the lake offer cold drinks and fresh snacks. Q2) Are there any places to sit in and around the lake? There are quite a few benches installed around the lake, where you can sit and celebrate eternal bliss. Q3) Are there any washroom facilities available at the lake? Yes, washroom facilities have been arranged for the tourists here.
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