Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of taking a much-needed break from our daily routines and chose Mahabaleshwar as our holiday destination. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, lush greenery, and strawberry farms, Mahabaleshwar had long been on our travel bucket list. After hearing positive reviews from friends, we decided to plan our vacation with Country Holidays Travel India (CHTI) and I must say, the experience was more than satisfying. Heres a detailed review of our 4-day trip that was both rejuvenating and memorable.
Booking and Pre-Trip Experience
Our experience with CHTI began even before we packed our bags. The booking process was seamless. The representatives were prompt, polite, and transparent. They helped us customize our itinerary based on our preferences a mix of nature, relaxation, and light sightseeing. The customer service team was quick to respond to emails and calls, and we were given detailed information regarding our accommodations, travel arrangements, and sightseeing options. From the beginning, it felt like we were in good hands.
Travel and Arrival
We chose to travel from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar by road. CHTI arranged for a private cab, which was comfortable and well-maintained. Our driver was courteous, knowledgeable about the route, and made the journey enjoyable by stopping at scenic points and food joints on the way. The drive through the winding Western Ghats was nothing short of magical the lush green valleys, the foggy hills, and occasional waterfalls added a cinematic touch to our ride.
We reached our resort by early evening. The property selected by CHTI was nestled amidst greenery, away from the noise of the city, yet close enough to major attractions. The check-in process was smooth, and we were greeted with welcome drinks and warm hospitality.
Accommodation
Our stay was at a premium resort affiliated with CHTI. The rooms were spacious, clean, and equipped with modern amenities. The view from our balcony overlooked a beautiful valley, and waking up to the misty hills each morning was an experience in itself. The resort also had recreational facilities like a pool, indoor games, and a small childrens play area, which kept everyone entertained.
The food at the resort was another highlight. The buffet offered a variety of cuisines from traditional Maharashtrian dishes to continental favorites. Special dietary needs were also catered to on request. We especially enjoyed the strawberry-based desserts, which were fresh and delightful.
Sightseeing and Activities
CHTI had curated a well-paced itinerary for us that covered all the key attractions without making us feel rushed.
Day 1: Panchgani and Table Land
After a hearty breakfast, we set off for Panchgani. Our guide provided by CHTI was friendly and well-informed. Table Land, Asias second-longest mountain plateau, was stunning. The panoramic views from the top, combined with horse rides and local snacks, made for a great start to the trip.
Day 2: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Arthurs Seat, and Eco Point
The next day began with a visit to the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple a place of spiritual and historical significance. We followed this with visits to Arthurs Seat, which offers jaw-dropping views of the Savitri Valley, and Eco Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon. The weather was perfect, with mist rolling in and out, adding to the charm of the spots.
Day 3: Mapro Garden and Strawberry Farms
This was probably our favorite day. CHTI had arranged a guided tour of a local strawberry farm, where we got to pluck strawberries and taste freshly made jams and syrups. It was a fun and educational experience, especially for the kids. Later, we headed to Mapro Garden a delightful place with a caf, factory outlet, and flower garden. Their wood-fired pizzas and strawberry cream are not to be missed.
Day 4: Leisure and Departure
Our last day was reserved for leisure. We spent the morning exploring the resort, taking pictures, and just soaking in the beauty. The return trip was organized with the same level of care, and we made it home safely with wonderful memories.
Service and Hospitality
One of the standout aspects of this trip was the exceptional service by CHTI. Every little detail from punctual pickups to curated sightseeing and helpful staff reflected their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Even during the trip, they checked in regularly to ensure everything was going smoothly. There was never a moment where we felt lost or unattended.
The staff went out of their way to ensure our comfort, whether it was making last-minute changes to our plans, suggesting offbeat spots to explore, or arranging special meals for our dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
Our trip to Mahabaleshwar with Country Holidays Travel India was everything we hoped for and more. The destination itself is a gem lush forests, serene lakes, and cool weather but what elevated the experience was the meticulous planning and personal touch by CHTI. They managed to strike the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation, giving us a vacation that was both refreshing and fulfilling.
If youre planning a trip to Mahabaleshwar or any other Indian destination, I would highly recommend considering CHTI. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and customer-centric approach make them stand out in the travel industry. We returned not just with photos and souvenirs, but with stories and smiles that will stay with us for a long time.