Pandavas lived in Panchgani

No tired guide is ever going to give you the juicy nuggets of trivia we've unearthed on 5 of Maharashtra's most famous hill station 'points'

Vairat Point
Chikhaldhara (1,178 m)

The highest point in Chikhaldhara, Vairat Point is at a distance of about 10 kilometres (six miles) from the centre of this hill station. According to Indian mythology, the area was believed to be the ruling seat of King Virat with whom the Pandavas stayed while they were in exile. It commands a grand view of the entire Satpura range in the Melghat corridor, with the Chandrabhaga River rising just below the Vairat Plateau.



Devil's Kitchen
Panchgani (1,334 m)

Situated to the south of Table Land (Asia's second longest mountain plateau: 4.5 km), Devil's Kitchen has an Indian mythological connect. The Pandavas are believed to have built and lived in these caves, while in exile. Hence, it's locally referred to as Bhim Chula. The Pandavgad Caves in Wai, nearby are also said to be carved by the five brothers.

Arthur's Seat
Mahabaleshwar (1,470 m)

This point got its name from Arthur Mallet, who is believed to be the first man to reach this hill station, where he built a home for himself, way back in the early 1800s. The rock formations on its southern side are often compared to those found in the Grand Canyon of Colorado. It's the only point from where you can clearly see the dramatic geographical differences between the Konkan and the Deccan.

Lodwick Point
Mahabaleshwar (1,240 m)

Also called Sydney Point, this point was renamed after a monument built here to honour Commanding Officer General Peter Lodwick. He is believed to be the first European to set foot in Mahabaleshwar in 1824, on hearing of its beauty from the Raja of Satara. Pratapgad fort can be easily spotted from here. It is alternatively referred to as Elephant's Head.

Duke's Nose
Khandala-Lonavala (564 m)

Situated 12 km from Lonavala, Duke's Nose is locally called Nagphani, for its resemblance to the hood of a cobra. A retreat for British officers and Governors during the summer, it received an Anglicised twist since the point resembled the nose of the Duke of Wellington, who frequented this area, on holiday. The cliff offers a spectacular view of the Khandala ghats.

Porcupine Point
Matheran (800 m)

Also called Sunset Point, it earned its original name since the terrain takes the shape of the quill of a porcupine. This point offers some of the best views of the surrounding hills and forests below, especially during sunset. The point is located roughly four kilometres from the main market in Matheran.