Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar is one of the most picturesque and visited tourist attractions in Maharashtra’s charming hill station, Mahabaleshwar. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a fun family vacation, or a peaceful solo retreat, Venna Lake offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, serenity, and adventure. Nestled amidst lush green hills and lined with tall trees, the lake is a visual treat and a must-visit destination for every traveler.
📍 What is Venna Lake?
Venna Lake is a man-made lake constructed in 1842 by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha ruler. Spread across 28 acres, this freshwater lake is fed by natural springs and is surrounded by thick forests and rolling hills, giving it an ethereal charm.
🌟 Why Visit Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar?
Here’s why Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar continues to be a top-rated tourist attraction:
- Boating Delight: Choose from paddle boats, rowboats, or shikaras and enjoy a calming ride across the tranquil waters.
- Horse Riding Adventures: Children and adults alike can enjoy horse rides near the lake, a fun activity that’s both exciting and affordable.
- Food Stalls & Local Delicacies: Taste authentic Mahabaleshwar strawberries, corn patties, bhel puri, and local snacks at the lakeside stalls.
- Photography Paradise: The lake offers stunning backdrops perfect for romantic couple photos, family portraits, and travel reels.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar
| Season | Weather | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov – Feb) | Pleasant (10°C to 25°C) | Perfect for boating and sightseeing |
| Summer (Mar – Jun) | Moderate (20°C to 30°C) | Cool escape from the city heat |
| Monsoon (Jul – Sep) | Rainy (15°C to 25°C) | Lush green surroundings, but boating might be restricted |
Pro Tip: Visit during sunset hours for the most breathtaking views and peaceful ambiance.
🧭 How to Reach Venna Lake
Venna Lake is easily accessible by road and located just 2 km from Mahabaleshwar Bus Stand.
🚗 By Road:
- From Pune – 120 km (~3.5 hours)
- From Mumbai – 260 km (~6 hours)
🚂 By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Wathar (60 km)
- Alternatively, reach Satara Station and hire a cab.
✈️ By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (130 km)
🎡 Things to Do at Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar
1. Boating
Experience a peaceful boat ride, ideal for couples and families. Prices start from ₹250 onwards depending on boat type and duration.
2. Horse Riding
Various horses are available for a quick round or a longer ride through nearby trails. Rates range from ₹100–₹300.
3. Photography & Nature Walks
Capture the lake in all its glory during golden hour. Walk along the lakeside paths to explore untouched corners and scenic views.
4. Strawberry Farm Visits
Several farms around the lake offer guided tours, tastings, and fresh strawberry picking – a delight for fruit lovers.
🏨 Hotels Near Venna Lake
| Hotel Name | Distance | Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evershine Resort | 1.5 km | Luxury | ₹6,000+ |
| Lake View Hotel | 0.5 km | Mid-range | ₹3,000–₹5,000 |
| Treebo Trend JP Cottage | 2 km | Budget | ₹1,500–₹3,000 |
For the best views, choose hotels with lake-facing rooms.
🍓 Nearby Attractions
While visiting Venna Lake, don’t miss out on these nearby gems:
- Mapro Garden – 8 km
- Wilson Point (Sunrise Point) – 2.5 km
- Pratapgad Fort – 20 km
- Lingmala Waterfall – 6 km
✅ Travel Tips for Visiting Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar
- 🧥 Carry a light jacket – even summers get chilly in the evenings.
- 🎫 Boating hours – 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
- 🍽️ Try local food – don’t miss strawberry cream and corn pakoras.
- 🚯 Avoid littering – keep the area clean and eco-friendly.
- 🕊️ Reach early – for fewer crowds and uninterrupted views.
📸 Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar in Photos
Romantic boat ride with a view of lush green hills Mahabaleshwar
Horse rides are a favorite among kids and tourists
🔍 Search Trends & Queries Answered
Q: Is Venna Lake open now?
✔️ Yes, Venna Lake is open year-round from 10 AM to 6 PM, except during extreme weather.
Q: How much is boating at Venna Lake?
💰 Boating costs range from ₹250 to ₹500 depending on boat type and ride duration.
Q: Is parking available near Venna Lake?
🚗 Yes, there is ample paid parking available near the entrance.
Q: Is it safe for solo travelers or couples?
👫 Absolutely! The lake is safe, well-patrolled, and family-friendly.
📌 Final Thoughts
Venna Lake Mahabaleshwar is more than just a tourist spot – it’s an experience. Whether you’re gliding across the serene water, savoring fresh strawberries, or simply soaking in the cool breeze by the lakeside, every moment here is magical. It’s not just a place to visit, but a memory to treasure.
If you’re planning your next trip to Mahabaleshwar, make sure Venna Lake is at the top of your itinerary.
🔗 Suggested Read:
- Top 10 Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar
- Strawberry Farms of Panchgani & Mahabaleshwar
- Best Time to Visit Mahabaleshwar
- Satara to Mahabaleshwar Distance
📣 Share Your Experience
Have you visited Venna Lake? Share your favorite moment in the comments or tag us on Instagram with #VennaLakeMahabaleshwar for a chance to get featured!
