The Needle Hole Point in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra near the western ghats, is worth viewing for. Being present in Queen of Hills, the Point is a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Mumbai. The Needle Hole Point is a natural rock formed over millions of years by the erosion of wind, water, and weathering. The site is filled with stunning viewpoints, and the natural rock structure resembles a narrow hole or eye, calling it the Needle Hole Point. The thing about this place is that it is the only vehicle-free zone in India.
About The Needle Hole Point.
The discovery of the Needle Hole Point or the Elephant’s Head Point can be seen in the 19th century during the British rule in India. During that time, the Britisher’s geologists and other officers noticed and admired the beauty of the unique rock structure. From an ancient point of view, the Needle Point is a part of the Sahyadri mountain range, primarily made of basaltic rocks. These rocks were formed from old volcanic activity and continuous erosion over millions of years. It all gave us a beautiful and unique landscape to ponder on.
The genuine interest for this Needle Hole Point is for those who love exploring new things and visiting the wonders of nature on Earth. The viewpoint is significant from a geological point of view as it forecasts the unexplained erosive processes that have shaped the Western Ghats. The unique structure formation explains that the nature of the earth still gives us mind-boggling landscapes. Many people come here to admire the rock and its breathtaking views. The Needle Point gives a spic view of dense forests and valleys for people to have a fantastic experience.
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Activities To Do At The Needle Hole Point.
Needle Hill Point in Maharashtra is a serene and scenic environment, allowing us to plan many activities with our family and friends.
1. Hiking and Trekking
Hiking and trekking experiences near Needle Hill Point in Maharashtra will pump your adrenaline and give you adventure in the beautiful and panoramic viewpoints. If you are a nature enthusiast and love remaining outdoors, then the Point is something you should explore. The winter months are best for hiking and trekking here.
2. Photography and Bird watching
Image Credit: vinsky2002 for Pixabay
All the twitchers gather here because Needle Hole Point is a hub for a few rare species of birds that can be seen on pre-winter days. October and November are the best months to enjoy bird-watching here. Also, if you are looking for striking poses for your Instagram, the View Point is just for you.
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3. Outdoor Fun and Games Day
If you plan a relaxing outing with your family, this place is for you. Because of the open space around the Needle Hole Point, you can come here to enjoy picnics, play fun games, and enjoy time on a Sunday.
Places to Visit Near The Needle Hole Point
1. Louisa Point: It is around two to three km from Needle Hole Point and is famous for its beautiful views. The best part is that you can plan a trek from the Point to Louisa Point and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.
2. Charlotte Lake: This lake is ideal for boating, eating Maggi, and drinking Chai. It is around 2 km from the needlepoint, and you can reach it on foot.
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Foods To Enjoy On Visit To The Needle Hole Point
The Needle Point is in Maharashtra, famous for many food items. The missal pav is the most famous dish in the place, and you should try it during your visit. Other food items that should be on your list are modak and Maharashtra’s famous special poha. There is also a special drink in the place called the Solkadhi, which is made of coconut milk and Konkan fruit and is unique for this place.
Mathern Market is the best place to eat and enjoy all the special foods. If you are a Chinese food lover, the Echo Point restaurant near Charlotte Lake is the best place.
How To Reach The View Point
Since the area around the Needle Hole point is vehicle-free, people should reach Matheran to view Needle Point. Matheran can be reached only by rail and road.
If you reach it by rail, the nearest railway station is Neral Station. A toy train from Neral to Matheran runs through the western ghats. Enjoying the views takes around 2 hrs from Neral to Matheran. From there, you can walk or ride horses to reach the Needle Hole Point.
If you are choosing to come from the road, then you also have to reach Neral, as it is the last spot where private vehicles are allowed. From here, you can either choose the Toy Train or book a taxi to reach Dasturi Hill, which is the entry point of Matheran. To reach the needlehole point, you can walk, take horses, or take a rickshaw while enjoying the Western Ghats.
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Important Tips to Visit the Needle Hole Point
- Matheran, the reach point for Needle Point, is a highly eco-sensitive zone. Therefore, an entry pass and visit permits are required at the start point (Dasturi Hills). They are readily available as soon as you reach there.
- Needle Hole Point has pleasant weather all year round, but the months of November and February are a little chilly. Therefore, pack clothes according to the weather.
- You can hire a tour guide, who is the best person to give tips about local beauty and viewpoints.
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The Needle Hole Point is an entity where you can witness the rare geological formation that gives the essence of nature at its best. The Place is an ideal choice if you are a nature lover, a person who enjoys seeing new things, or one who likes to go on treks. The surrounding place of the view Point also fulfils your desire to enjoy nature fully. This place is ideal for adventure, relaxing with nature, or a fun outing with family and friends. So why wait? Plan a trip to Maharashtra today.
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Cover Image Credit: Rishabh Tatiraju for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Needle Hole Point
Where is the Needle Hole Point located?
Needle Hole Point is located in Matheran, Maharashtra, India. It is a 4-5 hour drive from Mumbai and Pune.
What are the ways to reach the Needle Hole Point?
You can reach the Needle point either by train or road. If you travel by plane, you can take a flight to Mumbai and then come to Neral Junction by train or car. You can take this amazing Toy train that passes from the western ghats or a taxi to reach the destination.
Give a list of activities to experience near the Needle Hole Point.
You can experience photography for your Instagram, hiking, trekking, and enjoying picnics with your family.
Can One visit the needle Hole point throughout the year?
Yes, there are no safety concerns to take while visiting the place. You only have to take care of your clothing as it gets chilly during the winter months.
What are the primary and mandatory entry fees or permits required? (if any)
There is a need for an entry fee at the start point of the Matheran as it is an eco-sensitive zone. A special vehicle permit is required here if you are coming from your car.
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With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
