Question

Write a short tourist leaflet on any hill station you know with the help of the following points:
(i) How to reach there?
(ii) Where to stay?
(iii) What to see?
(iv) Shopping attractions.
(v) Add your own points.

Answer 1

Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station known for its perfect weather all year round. The jungles of Mahabaleshwar are known for their density and a stunning arrray of birds and wildlife. It is 220 km from Mumbai. The first Governor of Mahabaleshwar, Sir John Malcolm established the hill station as a recreational gateway in 1829.

(1) How to reach there:

• Mahabaleshwar is located 32 kms from ‘Wai’. The nearest city is ‘Satara’, located 55 km away from Mahabaleshwar. This hill station is connected by NH-4 and various bus services (MSRTC) and private taxis can be used to shuttle between Pune, Mumbai, Satara and Mahabaleshwar.

• The nearest railway station is situated in the city of Satara. Once in the city, private cars and/or cabs as well as state run buses are available for a direct trip to Mahabaleshwar.

(2) Accommodation facilities:

There are holiday homes and hotels to suit every budget and satisfy every palate.

(3) What to see:

• Pratapgad, near which is the tomb of Afzal Khan.

• Temples – Shri Shankar Mandir, Panchganga Mandir, Connaught Peak, Castle Rock, Wilson Point and Elphinstone Point.

• For adventure, activities like hiking, trekking and climbing are the major attractions.

(4) Shopping attractions:

• Main street is famous for fruit of choice like strawberries, raspberries, mulberries and even jams.

• Local shoes made of wood are also very popular, leather goods, tribal pieces of art etc.

(5) Specialities:

The town is well-endowed with modern amenities such as ATMs, restaurants, hotels as well as various places of worship. While at Mahabaleshwar one can also see a grand view of Krishna valley which is home to many significant temples.