BEST AYURVEDIC HEALTH CETRES IN KERALA / BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KERALA / TOP AYURVEDIC CENTERS IN KERALA

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KASARGOD

PN PANICKER SOUHRUDA AYURVEDA MEDICAL COLLEGE KANHANGAD

Parakalai (po), Anandasram (via), Kasaragod (dist)  Kerala - 671531 
Tel. +91 467 2244701  http://www.pnpsayurmedicalcollege.com

Deepa Ayurveda Hospital & Research Centre
Kanhangad, Kerala, India. 
Phone : 04672 217784  http://deepaayurvedahospital.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KANNUR

PVA Ayurvedic Hospital

Kattampally, Kannur, Kerala,India 

phone: +91 9447283695  http://www.ayurvedaacharya.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN WAYANAD

AYURKENDRA HERBAL VILLAGE

Manjalamkolli, Puthoorvayal P.O.,Kalpetta Via, Wayanad Dist.KERALA
Tel:+91 4936 203952/53   http://www.ayurkendra.com/

Ayurveda Yoga Villa

Palvelichem,Bavali PO,Kartikulam,Wayanad,Kerala,India,PIN:670646 PHONE: +918157011347   http://www.ayurvedayogavilla.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KOZHIKODE

PRANAVAM AYURVEDIC TREATMENT CENTRE

Manipuram (Po), Koduvally(via) Kozhikode. Kerala-India. PIN-673584

PHONE: +91 94473 38048   http://www.ayurvedam.co.in/

Athulya Ayurvedic Medical Research Centre

Mundikkal Thazham, Medical College - Karanthoor Road Kottamparamba Post, Calicut - 673 008, Kerala, India

PHONE: +91- 4952358016   http://www.ayurvediccancertherapy.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN MALAPPURAM

KOTTAKKAL ARYA VYDYA SHALA

KOTTAKKAL PO. ,MALAPPURAM DIST. ,KERALA ,INDIA

PHONE: +91-4832808000   http://aryavaidyasala.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN PALAKKAD

POOMULLI MANA
Peringode (PO), Via. Koottanadu, Palakkad Dist, Kerala, India.
PHONE: + 91 466-2370 660  http://www.poomullymana.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN THRISSUR

AMALA AYURVEDIC HOSPITAL AND RESEARCH CENTRE THRISSUR,KERALA INDIA

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN ERANAKULAM

KOTTAKKAL ARYA VYDYA SHALA HOSPITAL & RESEARCH CENTRE

THRIKAKKARA ,KOCHI. ,ERANAKULAM DIST. ,KERALA ,INDIA

PHONE: +91 – 484 2554000   http://aryavaidyasala.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN IDUKKI

Dhanwanthari Vaidyasala
Thodupuzha Idukki, Kerala, India, Pincode : 685584
Tel: 04862 227566    http://www.dhanwanthari.org/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KOTTAYAM

Athreya Ayurvedic Resorts
Pakkil P. O., Pallom,Kottayam, Kerala, India, 686012.
phone:+91-481 - 2360789  http://www.theathreya.com

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN ALAPPUZHA

KRISHNENDU AYURVEDA HOSPITAL

Chingoli, Karthikappally,,Alappuzha PHONE:  +91 479 2486337

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN PATHANAMTHITTA

Changethu Ayurveda Hospital
Pathanamthitta,Thumpamonthazhom,Kerala,India
Tel : +91 9048519145  http://www.changethuayurveda.com/

CHACKALAYIL AYURVEDA HOSPITALT.B. Jn., Kozhencherry pathanamthitta kerala-689 641Phone: 0468-2210449  http://www.marmacare.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN KOLLAM

SAROVARAM AYURVEDIC HEALTH CENTER

ASHTAMUDI ,KOLLAM ,KERALA 

PHONE: +91-9447774686  http://www.sarovaramkollam.com/

KAYALVARATH AYURVEDIC HOSPITAL 

PANAYAM P.O,PERINAD ,(NEAR PERINAD RAILWAY STATION),KOLLAM -691601
PHONE:: + 91 474 2552737   http://www.kayalvarath.com/

• BEST AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

KAIRALI AYURVEDIC HEALTH CENTRE

Mascot Hotel, Mascot Square, Trivandrum – 695 003 (INDIA)
PHONE: +91 – 471 – 3296933  http://www.kairalicenters.com

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SHENDURUNEY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY KOLLAM ,KERALA ,INDIA / SOUTH INDIA TOURISM / TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH INDIA

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats, India. It is located in Kollam District, Kerala and comes under the control of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. It was established in 1984 and comprises 171 square kilometres (66 sq mi). It is a part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, owes its name to the endemic species, Gluta Travancorica, locally known as 'Chenkurinji'. The cradle of one of the oldest river valley civilizations in India - older than the Indus Valley (4400 - 3700 BC) - this belt is acclaimed for its rich biodiversity. Lying on either side of the Shenduruney River, the reservoir of the Parappar Dam, constructed across Kallada River in 1986, occupies the heart of this Wildlife Sanctuary which is the only one in Kollam District. The vegetation in the Sanctuary is mainly wet evergreen forests and about eight divergent types of forests have been identified here including the Myristica Swamps and Reed Breaks.

Expedition to the large cave with paintings similar to the Mesolithic paintings of Central India and containing relics of the Stone Age culture is of great tourist attraction. Within the tourism zone of the Sanctuary, boating in the reservoir and trekking are the main activities permitted. Pedal boating and row boating is possible in the Ottakkal Reservoir. The Dharbhakulam trail, Kallar trail and Kuttilappara-Choodal bird watching trail, which are the three ecotourism packages offered here, will give visitors glimpses of the rich flora and fauna at the Sanctuary - 951 species of flowering plants of which 100 belong to the threatened category and around 219 known for their medicinal values. The faunal wealth consists of 34 species of mammals, 245 species of birds, 36 varieties of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fishes.

Around Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Thenmala Dam, Palaruvi Waterfalls near Aryankavu and Courtallam are nearby places of attraction. Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu and Achankovil are important pilgrim centres near the Sanctuary.

Accommodation

Tree top houses are available for those who want to enjoy nature at close quarters.

Accessing Shenduruney

Location: In the southwestern part of the Western Ghats in Pathanapuram, Kollam District. 66 km from Kollam town on the Kollam-Shencottai Road.
Altitude: 100 m to 1,550 m above sea level, Shenduruney has a hilly terrain

Air: Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram, 72 km away.
Rail: Closest railhead is Shencottai (30 km) and then Kollam (70 km).
Road: From Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, the Sanctuary is equidistant at 70 km and from Shencottai, it is 30 km.

For enquiries and bookings, contact:
The Wildlife Warden
Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary
Thenmala Dam P.O.
Kollam district
Phone: + 91 475 344600

Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society, Ph: 0475-2344800
District Tourist Promotion Council Office, Kollam Ph: 0474-2750170

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KALARIPPAYATTU / THE MARTIAL ART OF KERALA

Kalaripayattu the martial art form of Kerala is regarded as the oldest and most scientific of its kind in the world and One of the oldest fighting systems in existence.The Kalaripayattu includes strikes, kicks, grappling, preset forms, weaponry and healing methods Training in combat is given at the Kalari (training school). The principles of Kalari education stipulate that training in martial art begins with an oil massage of the body which goes on until the body is agile and supple. Feats like chaattom (jumping), ottam (running), marichil (somersault) etc. are then taught, followed by the lessons in the use of weapons such as daggers, swords, spears, maces, the bow and arrow and so on.
       Kalaripayattu training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of the mind and body. The traditional training in a kalari includes specialisation in indigenous medical practice too. Kalaris are also centers of religious worship. The general guidelines to be followed in Kalaripayattu demand that once the course is complete, a person should undergo oil massage and engage in the practice of the feats regularly to help him keep in shape
       Kalaripayattu became more developed during the 9th century and Kalaripayattu was first documented around the 11th or 12th century AD by the historian Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai, who attributed its creation to an extended period of warfare that took place between the Chera and the Chola dynasties in the 11th century.



TRADITIONAL KALARI TREATMENT
       The training of a student to become a master includes the training in Ayurveda and in locating the vital points of the body. A Kalari Guru is not only a trained movement artist but also a professional in Ayurveda, a doctor who treats people of diseases and general ailments. Kalari has developed a traditional orthopedic system which is widely popular all over the states, especially for the setting of displaced bones. There are different types of Oils, pastes, herbs etc are used only by kalari masters to treat muscle and bone injuries.

KALARI MASSAGE
       The first stage of the preparation of a warrior and the artiste is based on oil massage known as Udvarthaizam or Uzhichal. The Ayurvedic tradition of Susrutha says that diseases are afraid of approaching a body which has been foot-massaged, just like animals in the sight of a lion.
      Combat situation demands an extremely agile, strong and supple body, which would instantly obey the focused mind. The ancient martial artists (warriors) used kalari massage to prime their body and sharpen reflexes.
      In Kalari massage the therapist or the kalari master uses his hand and feet to massage the recipient using medicated oils. The masseur uses nadisuthra kriya to apply pressure with the fingers, thumb or toe at certain points on the body. These pressure points (Marma points) are areas where there is a high concentration of Prana. Prana is the energy which gives life for the living organism.

Usually an uzhichil course lasts for fourteen days. At the time of massage the student has to follow strict restrictions in his or her daily routines. He should not expose to the sun for a long time should take only the prescribed food and should follow strict celibacy.

Three types of kalari massages are used for different purposes.

• Sukha thirummu: This system of massage relieves the body from aches and muscular pains and also provides physical relaxation and rejuvenation.

• katcha thirummu massage, given to increase a person's body flexibility and physical endurance, is particularly efficacious for those who practice martial arts and dance forms. It gives flexibility and suppleness to the body. This form of massage is combined with different yoga postures.

• Raksha thirummu: This massage is for healing. Different ailments require specific massage techniques, which the masseur selects keeping the individual's condition in mind. The speed, force, number of stroke, the type of herbal oil used and the system of massage will vary depending on the patient's physical strength, age and ailment.

Massage helps the body to attain a healthy constitution as well as flexibility, nimbleness and suppleness. Moreover, massage can improve mental alertness and attention span by reducing tension and calming the mind .Kalari massage can keep one disease free and in a state of positive health.

MARMA POINTS
      Marmas are certain vital points of the body. A marma point is a juncture on the body where two or more types of tissue meet, such as muscles, veins, ligaments, bones or joints and 'where the Prana is present'. There are total 108 Marma points in the body in which 64 are considered as kulamarma (deadly points). These points could be used to heel or to harm. If these points are pierced hard, it could result in trauma or even death. A kalari masseur uses the Marma points to heal. 
    The mind is considered as the 108th marma. The other marma points are classified for better understanding according to the physical components:
     Mamsa Marma - muscle
     Sira Marma - vessel
     Snayu Marma- Ligament
     Asthi Marma- bones
     Sandhi Marma - joints
Various kalari stylesKadathanatan KalariKaruvancheri KalariKodumala KalariKolastri Nadu KalariKurungot KalariMathilur KalariMayyazhi KalariMelur KalariNadapuram KalariPanoor Madham KalariPayyampalli KalariPonniyam KalariPuthusseri KalariPuthuram KalariThacholi KalariThotuvor KalariTulunadan Kalari
Weapons used in kalari

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN MAHARASHTRA / MAHARASHTRA TOURIST MAP / BEST OF MAHARASHTRA / SOUTH INDIA TOURISM / TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH INDIA

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LAVASA -INDIA'S NEWEST HILL STATION AND PRIVATE PLANNED CITY IN MAHARASHTRA / SOUTH INDIA TOURISM / TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH INDIA

Lavasa is striking tourist destination which is situated in the western mountain ranges. This city is well planned which lies in the Pune district of Maharashtra state. You can pleasure your holidays while visiting this city as you can explore beautiful landscapes and serene environment. It is the most well planned city which is famous for its dam and scenic beauty. People visit this city to experience the most exciting adventurous activities. Water Sports are the prime attraction of the city. People can go for trekking, mountain climbing, and hiking to take the unforgettable experience in the mountain ranges. Lavasa Travel guide serves the best option to get more information and unseen sights of this city.
            It is the city which is set in the Sahayadri Mountains at the shore of Warasgaon lake. People can experience various water sports here. You can relax and experience world-class water sports facility in this city. Tourist who are visiting this city can enjoy boating, playing volleyball, jet skiing. You can take a ride on Bumper boats, Luxury cruise boats, jetty, jet skis and Bumper boats. Temghar Dam is the most visited and popular sightseeing in this city. You can also explore the cultural heritage in this city. Lavasa Travel guide is to know more about the city. This city is also considered as a well planned city which is located on the Mose Valley.
          HCC India built this city with the latest technologies and infrastructure. You can relax by getting exotic ayurvedic massages, therapeutic massages, ayurvedic treatments, yoga classes and much more. You can also experience pleasant all round the year which allows the tourist to visit anytime. Eco-friendly ambiance in this city provides you comfortable holidays. This city is the home of several Hospitality, Educational, Health and Tourism organizations.

GETTING IN LAVASA

BY ROAD

From Mumbai:
On the Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- Via Panvel - Lonavala - Chandini Chowk
- Via Hinjewadi exit
- Via Lonavala - Somatne exit - Pirangut
- Via Lonavala - Nive - Tamhini

On Mumbai-Goa Highway
- Via Kolad

From Pune :
Via Chandini Chowk - Pirangut

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MAHABALESHWAR -MAHARASHTRA TOURISM / SOUTH INDIA TOURISM / TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH INDIA

Soaring peaks, breathtaking valleys.  Lush flora.  Cool, crisp mountain air.  This is Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra’s most popular hill station, and once the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj.

      A tour of Mahabaleshwar town and the surrounding countryside would take at least a couple of days as there is much to see and experience.  The town bazaar is called Malcolm Peth after the then British Governor of Bombay, Sir John Malcolm.  It lies at the heart of Mahableshwar with its hotels, shops, restaurants, outlying bungalows, government offices, and jostling crowds.

        Mahabaleshwar has proper, motorable roads to every point worth visiting. So one could tour the place by car, jeep, or even horseback. There are many buildings and sites that take one back to the days of the Raj. There’s Mount Malcolm, the one-time residence of Governor Malcolm; Moraji Castle, where Mahatma Gandhi lived during 1945; and the Mahabaleshwar Club.
As short drive from town is the beautiful Venna Lake, where one can go boating, fishing, and pony riding. Or indulge oneself at the entertainment center with its numerous food and game stalls. Near the lake, further down the road on the way to neighbouring Panchgani, are the great strawberry fields.
Mahabaleshwar is known for its numerous sightseeing points, each providing a unique perspective of the majestic hill range. En route to Babington Point is Dhom dam, which is a good place to take a break. Or one could visit Old Mahabaleshwar and the famous Panchganga Mandir, which is said to contain the springs of five rivers: Koyna, Venna, Savitri, Gayatri and the sacred Krishna River. There’s also the Mahabaleshwar Mandir, revered for its Swayambhu Lingam

History of Mahabaleshwar
          Mahabaleshwar means ‘God of Great Power’ in Sanskrit. In 1215 King Singhan of Deogori first visited Mahabaleshwar. A Brahmin dynasty is said to have taken over around 1350, and they made the area prosperous. In the 16th century the Maratha family of Chandarao More annexed Mahabaleshwar and built the famous Mahabaleshwar temple. Shivaji during his rule built the famous Pratapgad Fort in 1656. From 1828 Mahabaleshwar was visited by Sir John Malcolm, Arthur, Carnac, Frere after whom the famous points in Mahabaleshwar are named.

Languages spoken
Marathi, Hindi and English.

Sightseeing in Mahabaleshwar
     A sightseeing tour in Mahabaleshwar will let you soak in the breath-taking vistas and varying perspectives of the valley from over 30 different vantage points. which basically consist of different views and perspectives of the valley below.

• Venna Lake

       Venna lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra state in India. The lake was constructed by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, who was Raja of Satara in the year 1842. The lake is surrounded by trees on all sides. 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.

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• Kate's point
•             Kate's point is located to the east of Mahabaleshwar and is famous for its view of two reservoirs, Balakwadi and Dhom. The point is around 1280 mts high.

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  Wilson Point or Sunrise Point
          

Wilson Point or Sunrise Point has the highest elevation at 4710 ft and from its vantage position sunrises and sunsets look absolutely spectacular. Three masonry platforms extend onto the valley and are perfect places to see the sunsets or just look at the expanse of the valley stretching out below. Other points are Connaught Peak and Elphinstone Point those are named after the Viceroys of India- Lord Connaught and Lord Elphinstone. Look down on the valleys of the Rivers Koyna and Savitri, the Marjorie Point offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri Ranges. 

• Arthur's Seat

       Arthur's Seat is justifiably called the prince of all points looking down upon breathtakingly panoramic views of awesome canyons and cliffs comparable to the world famous stratification of rocks of the Grand Canyon in Colorado. The deep Savitri Valley on the right flanks sheer cliffs and layered stratification of rocks, tell the geological story of the area. Arthur's Seat is the only place showing geographical distinction between coastal Konkan and the plateau of the Deccan. A short climb down the steps leads to the source of the River Savitri at Tiger's Spring.

• Needle Hole Point / Elephant Point

      Needle hole point is located near Kate's Point. One can see a natural rock formation with a hole in between, thus giving the name Needle-hole. The point is also famous for the view of Deccan traps, which look like an elephant's trunk.

• 3 Monkey Point

      Named because of the natural sculpture of the stones which looks like three monkeys sitting beside each other and portraying 3 monkeys of Gandhiji..

Other scenic attractions in and around the vicinity of Mahabaleshwar include many cascades and waterfalls like the Chinaman, Lingmala and Dhobi Falls. A number of old temples are also part of the local attraction with the Panchganga Temple considered the source of five important rivers of the region. 

How to Reach Mahabaleshwar
By Air
        The closest airport is Lohegaon Airport in Pune and is located at a distance of 80 kms from Mahabaleshwar. You can also get to Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai’s International Airport, Chatrapati Shivaji (160 kms away). From the respective airports one can hire a taxi or avail the bus service to get to Mahabaleshwar.
By Rail
       You can reach Mahabaleshwar via rail too. The nearest railhead is Satara, at a distance of 47km. There is another railhead located at Wathar (60 kms). One can reach Mahabaleshwar via Pune (120 kms) as it boasts of an efficient rail network. Get off at the railway station and catch a taxi for Mahabaleshwar.
By Bus 
      Mahabaleshwar is well connected by road from Mumbai as well as Pune. Maharashtra State Road Transport provides bus services to all the nearby cities of Pune, Mumbai, Nasik, Satara, Panchgani and Kolhapur.

Driving down to Mahabaleshwar from the neighbouring cities of Alibagh, Adavali, Pune, Nasik, Panchgani is a good option. Private and shared cabs/taxis can also be hired from Mumbai and Pune.
Getting Around Mahabaleshwar

The most convenient way of getting around is if you have your own vehicle but there really is no better way than walking to be able to fully appreciate the scenic beauty of this breathtaking hill station.

Driving Direction to Mahabaleshwar

Driving Direction from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar 

Distance: 263 km
Driving Time: 6.00 hours

• Start from Mumbai and take the Eastern Express Highway to get onto Sion-Panvel Express Highway, on this highway there is an HP petrol pump, where you can make a pit stop to run a car check.

• Continue for Mumbai – Pune Expressway, keep driving on the right fork and continue driving onto Mumbai – Pune Expressway, after crossing the Pavana River, take the NH 4, you will pass by Khed Shivapur Toll Plaza.

• Drive on NH 4, take the first left towards Wai– Panchgani road, keep driving straight onto Wai – Surur Pune Road; you will pass by CBD complex on your left.

• Drive on and turn right at Satara Road, take few turns onto MG road and turn right to reach Mahabaleshwar.

Driving Direction from Pune to Mahabaleshwar

Distance: 118 km
Driving Time: 3.00 hours

• Start driving from Pune and head towards NH 4, after passing the Pune  Institute for Advanced Orthopaedics, turn right to continue on NH 4 and make sure to look up for sign boards to stick to this highway.

• Take the fist left towards Wai – Panchgani road, continuing straight on this road and you will pass by CBD complex on the left.   

• Drive on and you will pass by Mapro Garden on the right, turn right at Satara road, follow the signboard till you spot a signboard for Mahabaleshwar, you will have to take few turns onto MG road and you will reach your destination.

Climate and the Best Time to Visit Mahabaleshwar
                   Mahabaleshwar is an all year round holiday destination. Choose anytime and this place will have something to charm you. Every season has its varied colours, painting a beautiful landscape. From the details below you can pick your preferred time.
Summer (March to mid June)
    A perfect weather to escape from the sultry summers of the plains. The fresh air, lush green flora, cloudy mountains and sparkling brooks the place offers will sweep you off your feet. The temperature during this period rises to a maximum of 32°C and falls to a minimum of 15°C.
    You might find the place a little crowded during this time as it sees a huge inflow of tourist finding a reprise from the scorching heat. 

Monsoon (Mid June to September)
    Do you love rains? The smell of earth after the first shower? The freshness and the green after the downpour? If the answer is yes then you will be delighted to visit this hill station during this time. You will be greeted with beautiful landscape and breathtaking views garnished with tiny droplets of rain at this time of the year. Unlike summers you will not experience a tourist rush in monsoon.
You are advised to pre-book the hotel as many hotels remain closed during this time due to the low tourist turn up.

Winters (November to Mid March)
    Are you a winter person? If yes then the place offers a pleasantly cold winters. You will need to carry some extra layers. The minimum temperature during this time is 10°C and rises to a maximum of 30°C. It can be a nice spot for your winter vacations. Dropping your bags of worries, enjoy the vast treasure of nature that the place has to offer you.

           Anytime you that you choose will make you hav fun galore. So all you need to do is pack your bags and set out holidaying!
Festivals and Events in Mahabaleshwar
Gudhi Padava, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, the Strawberry Festival, Diwali are some of the festivals in Mahabaleshwar that are held in the city, with pomp and gaiety.
The festival of Gudhi Padava is celebrated on the very first day of the Hindu month Chaitra to commemorate the beginning of the Hindu solar year. Gudhi Padava is held in March-April to celebrate the Maharashtrian New Year. This festival is celebrated by flying kites. You can see the entire sky filled with colourful kites.

Ganesh Chaturthi, the ten day festival is celebrated in the month of August - September to celebrate the birth of Lord Ganesh. This is the main festival of the state. Devotees bring idols of Lord Ganesh to their homes and make special sweets called modak, to appease the God. Devotional songs and dancing are performed while immersing the idol of Lord Ganesha.

Another prominent festival in Mahabaleshwar is Makar Sankranti. Considered as one of the most auspicious festivals for the Hindus, Makar Sankranti is a harvest festival celebrated in January with great fervour and gaiety. This festival is celebrated in different part of the country by different names such as Pedda Panduga, Lohri, Pongal and Bhogali Bihu to name a few.

The Strawberry Festival is a two-day festival celebrated in the month of March and celebrates the harvest of fresh strawberries and its delicacies. Stalls are set up in the farms near Mahabaleshwar and freshly prepared Strawberry Dishes are on the offer. Fruit lovers visit Mahabaleshwar at this time to enjoy the festival.

The festival of colours, Holi is celebrated in March to welcome the season of spring. People put colours on each other to celebrate the festival.

The festival of light, Diwali is celebrated in the month of November. Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil. Children and adults burst crackers, perform puja and savour traditional sweets.

Things to do in Mahabaleshwar
          The strawberry capital, Mahabaleshwar, boasts off a fairly good list of things to do that incorporate variety in activities and sightseeing. With its picturesque sights, misty cascading waterfalls, hidden trails and lovely farms growing berries, this hill station forms a paradise for nature lovers. Pack your picnic baskets and head to Wilson Point for spectacular sunrises and sunsets or simply enjoy the rumbling of water at numerous soothing waterfalls.

Shop for fresh honey or canned jams made from strawberries, mulberries and raspberries freshly grown in farms around. Want to try something different? Visit these farms during the month of May and June and go strawberry picking. Enjoy drinking coffee, fresh fruit juices or opt for some peaceful boating or fishing experience. Those who want to sweat a bit, try trekking and horse riding.

For a bit of history, make a visit to Pratapgad fort, which is 27 kms from Mahabaleshwar or choose to visit nearby hill station Panchgani to pick some fresh berries and enjoy stunning scenes.

Shopping in Mahabaleshwar
            It is all about buying fresh fruits, jams, jellies and marmalades. Town Bazaar, Imperial Store at the end of the Bazaar, and Mapro gardens are the places to go for shopping in Mahabaleshwar.

Fresh fruits including strawberries and raspberries are must buys. Although fruits are available in the local shops, there is the Mapro Gardens situated on the way to Panchgani from Mahabaleshwar. There is a wide variety of squashes, jams, jellies, fresh strawberries that are must buys. In Mapro gardens, you can taste the samples before buying. You can also buy fresh honey from the government sponsored bee farms in Mahabaleshwar.

Apart from food products, there are handicrafts items, leather goods, tribal trinkets and other souvenirs available in Town Bazaar. It is located in the centre of the town. It is a street consisting of small shops selling different kinds of products. You can buy honey, Kolhapuri footwear, handcrafted walking sticks, crochet dresses, shawls, baskets and decorative items that are popular here.

Activities in Mahabaleshwar
           Mahabaleshwar offers many outdoor activities for leisure seeking travellers and adventure enthusiasts both. Visit Mahabaleshwar during the month of May/June and enjoy strawberry picking in lovely strawberry fields, which promises to be an exhilarating experience for city slickers. Most farm owners are not averse to having visitors plucking strawberries from the bushes. Ofcourse you are expected to buy some of their produce too - choose from the strawberry milkshakes and jams.

Where to Stay in Mahabaleshwar
          There is no dearth of places to stay in Mahabaleshwar. There are accommodation options to suit all budgets and the options ranges from deluxe to budget hotels.
The deluxe hotels like Park Plaza, Regal, Citrus Chambers, Ishwar Inn or Saket Plaza, Mahabaleshwar Palace, Pratap Heritage, Sunny International and Sunny Midtown are comfortable with all modern amenities.
           The budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar feature good service with all basic facilities. Under this category you can chek out Hotel Blue Park, Dwarka, Sapna, Blue Heaven, Ashoka Inn, President, Sunny Classic, Rahil International and Rahi Plaza.

The MTDC also runs a hotel, besides which there are tourist lodges, exclusively vegetarian guesthouses, luxury resorts, and private apartments for families.

 Mahabaleshwar Travel Information

TOURISM BOARD OFFICE : 2331217,

Tourist Bureau Tel : 260271

Police Station Tel: 260333 / 260217

HOSPITAL Tel: 260247

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