The beautiful hill station, Mahabaleshwar is located approximately 120 kilometres from Pune and is well connected by road. You can either hire a cab from Pune or drive your own car and reach Mahabaleshwar in not more than 2 hours 30 minutes. The advantage of having your own car is that you can take halts whenever you want to and see the various attractions on the way.
There are many cab operators in Pune, and you can quickly look them up on the Internet, check the reviews, get a quote and book one. These cabs charge you per kilometre. The price is on the higher end when compared to buses, but this gives you the advantage to fix your own time and schedule and saves you the hassle if you are travelling with much luggage. Another advantage is that you can tell the driver to show you the attractions and tell you about them.
You can hire a zoom car or self-drive or book an Ola outstation as well. Among local cab and taxi operators, the popular ones are Savaari, Shivneri Travels, Balaji Cabs, GetMeCab, Regal Cabs, Gozocabs etc. If you are travelling with your family or in a group of 4-5 people or with too much luggage, it is preferable that you take the cab or taxi.
Another option which some people prefer is biking. The roads are perfect for biking as well, and if you are a regular biker, 120 kilometres is not a long distance to cover, if you stop for refreshments on the way. This is one of the most inexpensive and fulfilling ways to reach Mahabaleshwar, exploring the lush green surroundings and fresh breezes on the way.
The Routes That Can Be Taken
Route 1 Pune - Surur - Wai - Mahabaleshwar (111 kilometers, takes lesser time due to more highway stretch)
Route 2Pune- Kapurhol - Wai - Mahabaleshwar (112 kilometers, takes more time since the road passes through villages and ghats)
Route 3Pune - Satara - Mahabaleshwar (149 kilometers, takes maximum time due to distance)
Road Condition
NH4 highway is straight and ensures smooth driving, with average traffic. After taking the turn towards the ghats, the roads turn weary. They are curvy hill roads and not recommended for amateur drivers and bikers. Night driving is not recommended because visibility and safety are an issue. NH48 ensures an exhilarating and sublime ride.
Eating Options on the Way
Breakfast at Mapro Garden
Maggi and Chai at Elphinstone Point
Joshi Wadewale