We planned a last minute holiday to Mahabaleshwar. It was
actually a spur of the moment decision. We booked the hotel at 1:00 AM at night,
woke up at 7:00 AM the next morning, packed a quick bag and took off. But we
had such an amazing time, the climate was so wonderful and the resort we stayed
in had such a beautiful view that we don’t regret it one moment. Sometimes in
life we need to stop weighing the consequences, just take an impulsive decision
and it turns out to be fantastic and this was one of them.
So here are the details of the trip.
On arrival we checked in to our Surya Resort (Read my
tripadvisor review here). I was very apprehensive about how the hotel would be
but it proved to be much better than my expectations. The location of the
resort is great. It is away from the city and so very peaceful and quiet. And
the rooms have a breathtaking valley view. You can sit in the balcony of the
room gazing forever. Apart from the occasional chirping of birds and the sound
of water flowing in the distant background its only silence. Sometimes
listening to the sound of silence works wonders.
After lunch, we left for sightseeing. We first visited the PanchGanga
temple. This temple is built on the origin point of 5 rivers. Temple is very
old and lovely. Pictures were not
allowed here, so I don’t have any photos. But it was lovely.
We then set of to Venna lake. This is popularly known as
Mini Kashmir. Boat ride on Venna lake was wonderful. Just listening to the oars
sloshing the water makes you feel at peace.
Just outside, there are vendors selling fresh strawberries,
carrots and radish. Just watching the fresh fruit and veggies is a visual
treat.
We then went to Mahabaleshwar city for a quick stroll. The
climate was pleasant and romantic. If our hands weren't aching from carrrying Anagha turn by turn, and if we weren't so tired, we might have enjoyed it more. But nevertheless!If you are in Mahabaleshwar, you
cannot leave Mahabaleshwar without tasting the famous strawberries and cream.
It was lovely, even now the taste is lingering in my mouth.
Tired, but happy we returned to the hotel. As the evening
turned into night the climate started getting colder and soon we were covered
in sweaters and caps. Dinner buffet was average, not great. The next morning we
woke up late to the sounds of chirping birds. We had a wonderful breakfast at
the hotel and checked out.
On our way back to Pune we stopped at Mapro farm. This is
the factory outlet of Mapro where you get to see how their various products are
made. There is also a sale counter where you can taste their various products
before buying them.
With our hearts content and our minds at peace, we returned
home.
