Today, Mahabaleshwar Panchgani is a popular holiday resort and honeymoon spot, and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is the site of Mahabaleshwar Temple. After the construction of a new highway, it is only a five-hour drive from Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar is also known for the honey and strawberries produced here. One can visit strawberry farms to enjoy the real flavour of the fruit. It is said that the climate of Mahabaleshwar is ideal for Strawberries and Mulberries. One can also get a taste of "Strawberries with Cream" (season:Jan -Feb) or "Mulberries with Cream" (season: April–May). Boats on the Venna lake in Mahabaleshwar.
The Venna lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Mahabaleshwar. The lake is surrounded by trees on all sides. A late winter evening boat ride through the slight fog is well appreciated. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride over the lake or a horse ride next to the lake. A number of small eateries line the banks of the lake. The Mahabaleshwar city market and the S.T. bus stand is about 2KM from the lake and makes for a nice walk during the day. Most tour operators include the Venna lake in their tours. Most buses, private vehicles will stop at the Venna lake on their way to Mahabaleshwar on request.
With another popular and scenic hill resort Panchgani in close vicinity (about 20KM), most tourists often visit both places together. The 'Table-Land' phenomenon of nature at Panchgani is breath-taking.
Shopping and eating places-
Mapro Garden - Strawberry With fresh Cream, Hot Veg Sandwich, Pizza, Strawberry ice-cream, Strawberry dipped in Chocolate, Corn bhel etc.
Bagicha Corner (near Venna Lake or at Market) - Veg. Franky, Corn Pattie etc.
Main Market - Cane Handicrafts (Straw Hats), Strawberry / Choco-Walnut fudge at Wilson's, Mahabaleshwar special Chappal for ladies, Ready made Cloths - bedsheets - blankates at Pallod Creations
Mapro / Mala / Manama - Fresh Strawberry, Mulberry (Seasonal), products like fruit squash, jam, jelly, chocolates, Natural Honey, Gulkand etc.
Strawberry Festival - Strawberry Farmers hold 7 day long festival each year around 1st week of April. This is the time when the strawberry crop is at its peak and you can eat free strawberries as much as you want at Mapro Or even in the market, they are available for Rs. 50 per KG. Don't miss this festival. It happened around in April.
