Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani to Host State Tourism Festival with Helicopter Rides and Family Fun This April
The picturesque hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani in Maharashtra’s Satara district are set to host a first-of-its-kind Tourism Festival this April, promising adrenaline-pumping helicopter rides, scenic explorations, and family-friendly activities. Organized by the Maharashtra government and the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the three-day event aims to capitalize on summer vacation crowds while spotlighting the region’s natural splendors.
Slated to run during the peak summer holiday season, the festival will feature collaborations with private operators to deliver unique experiences. Shambhuraj Desai, State Tourism Minister and Satara’s Guardian Minister, emphasized the timing, stating, “Families and children deserve a memorable break, and this festival combines adventure with the serene beauty of our hill stations.”
Among the highlights are helicopter rides offering panoramic views of lush valleys and strawberry farms, alongside curated activities like nature trails, cultural performances, and local food stalls. Authorities are also ensuring robust infrastructure—from road repairs to parking management—to handle the expected influx of tourists.
The festival builds on Mahabaleshwar’s existing appeal, which includes its annual Strawberry Festival in March-April. By adding fresh attractions, the government hopes to position the twin hill stations as a year-round destination for domestic and international travelers.
