About the Author
Written by the team at Satara Car Rentals, local taxi and travel experts who drive visitors through Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani and Satara every day. For sightseeing cabs and outstation trips, call +91 77438 56852.
Elephant’s Head Point, also called Needle Hole Point, is a Mahabaleshwar viewpoint named for a rocky cliff that resembles an elephant’s head and trunk, with a natural hole in the rock like a needle’s eye. Located near Kate’s Point about 11 km from the market, it offers deep valley views, is free to enter, and is usually combined with Kate’s Point.
Why is it called Elephant’s Head Point?
The point takes its name from a distinctive rock formation on the cliff edge that, viewed from the right angle, looks unmistakably like an elephant’s head with a drooping trunk. Beside it is a natural gap in the rock known as the Needle Hole (or Needle’s Eye), formed by erosion — which is why the spot is also called Needle Hole Point. Together they make one of the most photographed natural formations in Mahabaleshwar.
Elephant’s Head Point timings, entry & facts
🚕 Need a Comfortable Taxi to reach Elephant’s Head Point?
Satara Car Rentals offers clean, air-conditioned cabs with experienced local drivers for Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani & Satara sightseeing at the best fares. One-way, round-trip & full-day packages available.
What can you see from Elephant’s Head Point?
Beyond the rock formation itself, the point offers a sweeping view into the Deccan valley and the surrounding ranges. It sits right next to Kate’s Point, so the two share a parking area and are almost always visited together. The short walk to the formation is easy, and the framed view through the Needle Hole is a favourite for photographers.
Planning your trip? Book a hassle-free Satara Car Rentals taxi for door-to-door pickup and sightseeing. Call +91 77438 56852 for instant fares.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning light is best for photographing the elephant-head silhouette, and the October–February months give the clearest valley backdrop. In the monsoon the formation is often veiled in moving cloud, which can be atmospheric but unpredictable.
How to reach Elephant’s Head Point
Elephant’s Head / Needle Hole Point is about 11 km from Mahabaleshwar market, on the same road as Kate’s Point. There is no public transport to the point, so a taxi is the practical way to reach it and combine it with Kate’s Point and Arthur’s Seat. Satara Car Rentals covers this cluster in its sightseeing package. Call +91 77438 56852 to book.
🚕 Need a Comfortable Taxi to reach Elephant’s Head Point?
Satara Car Rentals offers clean, air-conditioned cabs with experienced local drivers for Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani & Satara sightseeing at the best fares. One-way, round-trip & full-day packages available.
🧭 Related Mahabaleshwar & Satara Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Elephant’s Head Point?
It is named after a cliff-edge rock formation shaped like an elephant’s head and trunk. A natural hole beside it, called the Needle Hole, gives it the alternate name Needle Hole Point.
What are the timings of Elephant’s Head Point?
The point is open daily from about 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Mornings are best for photography.
How far is Elephant’s Head Point from Mahabaleshwar?
It is about 11 km from the market, right next to Kate’s Point, and the two are usually visited together.
Is there an entry fee for Needle Hole Point?
No, entry is free. Only a small parking charge applies.