Mahabaleshwar, Pune, Mathran, Bhimashankar 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, December 23: Arrival in Mahabaleshwar

Start your trip by arriving in Mahabaleshwar. In the morning, visit the famous Mapro Garden known for its strawberry plantations and delicious food products. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Venna Lake where you can enjoy boating and horse riding. In the evening, witness the stunning sunset from Wilson Point, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar.

• Mapro Garden: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Venna Lake: Estimated cost - Boat rides starting from INR 200 ($3) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Wilson Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Explore Mahabaleshwar

Start your day with a visit to Arthur's Seat, a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. In the afternoon, visit Mahabaleshwar Temple, a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Wrap up the day by relaxing at the serene Lingmala Waterfall.

• Arthur's Seat: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 50 ($0.70) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mahabaleshwar Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lingmala Waterfall: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 20 ($0.30) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, December 25: Travel to Pune

Leave Mahabaleshwar and travel to Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra. In the morning, visit Aga Khan Palace, a historic landmark known for its architectural beauty. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant streets of Koregaon Park and indulge in some shopping. In the evening, visit Shaniwar Wada, a grand fort built in the 18th century.

• Aga Khan Palace: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 25 ($0.35) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Koregaon Park: Estimated cost - Free (shopping expenses extra), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shaniwar Wada: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 10 ($0.15) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Explore Pune

Start your day by visiting the iconic Parvati Hill, offering panoramic views of Pune city. In the afternoon, explore the impressive exhibits at Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, showcasing Indian artifacts and collectibles. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll at the beautiful Pashan Lake.

• Parvati Hill: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 50 ($0.70) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Pashan Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Journey to Mathran

Leave Pune and travel to Mathran, a small village known for its serene surroundings. In the morning, explore the scenic spots at Mulshi Dam. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Tamhini Ghat and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the evening, take a nature walk in the lush greenery of Bhira Dam area.

• Mulshi Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tamhini Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Bhira Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Explore Mathran

Start your day by visiting the famous Bhimashankar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, explore the scenic Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot various species of flora and fauna. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the village and interact with the friendly locals.

• Bhimashankar Temple: Estimated cost - Free (donations appreciated), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 50 ($0.70) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring the village: Estimated cost - Free (shopping and dining expenses extra), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Return to Mahabaleshwar

Leave Mathran and return to Mahabaleshwar for your final day. In the morning, visit the captivating Elephant's Head Point known for its rock formations resembling an elephant's head. In the afternoon, explore the scenic Panchgani Table Land, a vast plateau offering panoramic views. In the evening, enjoy a horse ride at the scenic Kate's Point.

• Elephant's Head Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Panchgani Table Land: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 50 ($0.70) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kate's Point: Estimated cost - Horse ride starting from INR 100 ($1.40) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One local favorite hidden gem in Mahabaleshwar is the Pratapgad Fort, a historic fort nestled in the mountains. It offers scenic views and a glimpse into the region's history. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Rajgad Fort near Pune, which boasts stunning architecture and hiking trails. Both sites are family-friendly and provide a unique cultural experience.

Check out Kayak.com to compare hotel and flight prices for your trip!