Morning: Leave Pune at 7:00 AM and enjoy the scenic 2‑hour drive through the Western Ghats. Stop at Satara for a quick refreshment and fuel top‑up (≈₹300). Arrive in Mahabaleshwar by 10:00 AM and check‑in at Brightland Resorts & Spa, where a three‑meal plan is included.
Afternoon: After settling in, head to Venna Lake for a paddle‑boat ride and a leisurely walk along the promenade. Kids will love the toy train ride that circles the lake. Lunch is served at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring local strawberries and cheese toast.
Evening: Explore the bustling Mahabaleshwar Market for fresh strawberries, mulberries, and handmade jams. Dine at Mapro Fresh Garden and try their famous strawberry cream pasta. Return to the hotel for a relaxed night.
Book a HotelMorning: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then drive to Elephant’s Head Point for panoramic views of the valleys. The short trek (≈15 min) is perfect for the kid and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Afternoon: Visit Arthur’s Seat, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar, and spend about 45 minutes soaking in the vistas of the Dhom Dam and Krishna River. Have lunch at Hotel Shreyas, renowned for its buttered corn and spicy misal.
Evening: Head to Lakshmi Temple for a brief cultural stop, then unwind with an evening stroll through the Wilson Point sunset spot. Dinner is served back at the resort with a kid‑friendly buffet.
Book a HotelMorning: After breakfast, set out for Lingmala Waterfall. A gentle 30‑minute walk leads to the cascading falls, ideal for a family photo session and a quick splash.
Afternoon: Drive to the historic Pratapgad Fort (≈45 km). Explore the fort’s ramparts and museum for about 2 hours; the guided tour includes fascinating tales of Shivaji Maharaj. Pack a picnic lunch from the hotel to enjoy amidst the fort’s greenery.
Evening: Return to Mahabaleshwar and treat yourselves to a dinner at Sunny’s Restaurant, famous for its mushroom thali and fresh strawberry shake. End the day with a relaxed walk around the hotel garden.
Book a HotelMorning: Savor a final breakfast at the resort, then spend a relaxed hour at Kate’s Point for last‑minute photos of the valleys and the iconic “needle” rock formation.
Afternoon: Check out from the hotel, grab a quick lunch at Mapro Fresh Garden, and start the drive back to Pune. Stop at Baramati for a brief tea break.
Evening: Arrive in Pune by 6:00 PM, concluding the trip with wonderful memories and plenty of strawberry souvenirs.
Book a HotelIf you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a full day to explore the nearby Thoseghar Waterfalls or a relaxing spa session at the resort. To shorten the itinerary, you can skip the Pratapgad Fort excursion and spend the afternoon at Mahabaleshwar Lake for a more relaxed pace. Either way, pack warm clothing for the evenings as temperatures can drop below 10 °C in December.