Western Ghats region of India, lying along the west coast of India, is a region of exotic natural beauty and bio-diversity, being home to a number of geographical features and flora and fauna. During the monsoon season, the moisture laden westerly winds rise along these mountains and lead to heavy rainfall towards the coastal areas, bringing life to greenery all around and giving this place spell-binding beauty. Mahabaleshwar, a remnant of an eroded hill and now a plateau, qualifies as one of the foremost hill stations of this region. Tourists visit this place all around the year due to its pleasant cool environment. However, the tourist rush is particularly high during the monsoon season when nature is in full bloom. Even the waterfalls of Lingmala, Chinaman and Dhobi come to life during the rainy season. For this reason, if you have plans to come here during the monsoons, it is better to get Mahabaleshwar hotels booked well in advance.
However, there is one more reason for it being famous. This place is home to one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva. Though Amarnath cave and Mount Kailash are quite famous, their terrain is far more difficult to tread. Mahabaleshwar temple is an ancient temple, believed to be older than even the times of Mahabharata. It is said that Dronacharya, the teacher of Pandavas, first worshiped here.
Besides the temple of Lord Shiva, there is another temple close by which is also quite ancient. It is called the Panchganga temple because it is said to be the point of origin of five rivers. These rivers are Krishna, Savitri, Venna, Gayatri and Koyna. Temples of Ram, Hanuman and Radha-Krishna are also present. What is quite distinctive of these temples is that these are not yet commercialized to the same extent as some of the other places of worship in this country. So, a visit to these places fills you with utmost spiritual satisfaction, sans the commercial touch.
Another notable temple is that of Krishnabai, which is slated to be the point of origin of the mighty Krishna River. The temple bears an old look and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Apart from the religious inclination, tourists can also revel in the marvels of nature and appreciate its beauty. There are many tourist attractions which will delight you with panoramic views of picturesque surroundings. You can enjoy boating in Venna Lake. Shivaji Bravery is another popular place. Pratap Garh Fort, which is about 25 kilometers away, can also be visited during the tour.