New Mahabaleshwar Hill Station Project to Boost Tourism and Create Jobs in Satara

In a landmark move set to transform the tourism landscape of Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the development of a new hill station in Mahabaleshwar, the first of its kind since the British era. The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the Maharashtra Tourism Festival, held from May 2 to 4 in the scenic hill town of Mahabaleshwar, Satara district.

Addressing a crowd of enthusiastic attendees at the ‘Mahaparyatan Utsav’, CM Fadnavis said, “Tourism has immense potential for job creation, and we believe the new Mahabaleshwar hill station will significantly contribute to local employment.” He emphasized that the initiative would not only attract more visitors but also open up new avenues for economic development and self-sustainability in the region.

Organized by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the three-day festival witnessed a footfall of over 75,000 visitors. The event was a vibrant blend of culture, adventure, and leisure — featuring mesmerizing musical performances, including a soul-stirring morning raga by renowned flautist Amar Oak, and a variety of interactive attractions.

Highlights of the Maharashtra Tourism Festival:

  • Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance shows delighted visitors.
  • Adventure Activities: From helicopter rides and drone shows to water sports and trekking.
  • Exhibitions: Display of forts, vintage ammunition, and Maharashtra’s rich heritage.
  • Floating and Flea Markets: Set up at Venna Lake, drawing crowds with local crafts and cuisine.
  • Tent City Experience: A camping site that gave tourists a taste of luxury in nature, likened by many to the famous Rann of Kutch festival.
  • Children’s Workshops and Yoga Sessions: Family-friendly experiences that encouraged wellness and learning.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai also attended the event, underlining the government’s commitment to elevating Maharashtra’s status on the national tourism map.

“Our state has a 720-km coastline, seven tiger reserves, numerous forts, and natural treasures. With focused efforts, we aim to become the number one tourist destination in India within five years,” said Fadnavis.

Tourism Minister Desai added, “The overwhelming response from tourists and locals alike has encouraged us to turn this into an annual event and expand it across the state.”

A New Era for Satara

The development of the new Mahabaleshwar hill station isn’t just about tourism — it represents a strategic investment in local economies. With employment generation, infrastructure growth, and enhanced visibility for the region, this project is poised to be a game-changer for the people of Satara and Maharashtra at large.

As Maharashtra sets its sights on the top spot in India’s tourism index, initiatives like these reflect a broader vision: to make the state a hub of culture, nature, and opportunity.