View of rock formation as elephant's head
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Elephant's Head Point

4.5
·10k reviews·Satara, India

Iconic viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar featuring a rock formation resembling an elephant's head, offering stunning mountain vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat crowds & enjoy peace

CrowdLow
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View of rock formation as elephant's head

Elephant's Head Point

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat crowds & enjoy peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar featuring a rock formation resembling an elephant's head, offering stunning mountain vistas.

4.5
(10k reviews)

"A must-visit for its unique elephant-shaped rock and breathtaking Sahyadri mountain views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Beat the weekend rush! Arriving early ensures easier parking and a more serene experience.

📸 Capture the Elephant Shape

Look for the distinct rock formation that gives the point its name. It's a unique photo opportunity!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant's Head Rock Formation

Elephant's Head Rock Formation

Mahabaleshwar

Marvel at the natural rock formation that strikingly resembles an elephant's head and trunk. A truly unique sight!

Panoramic Sahyadri Views

Panoramic Sahyadri Views

Mahabaleshwar

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the lush green Sahyadri mountain range and surrounding valleys. Perfect for nature lovers.

Local Vendor Refreshments

Local Vendor Refreshments

Near Elephant's Head Point

Grab a refreshing kokum juice or bottled water from local vendors to re-energize during your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for the Best Views

Visit Elephant's Head Point early in the morning to avoid heavy crowds and traffic, especially on weekends. This ensures easier parking and a more peaceful experience to soak in the panoramic views. Reddit

Mahabaleshwar's Natural Wonders

Elephant's Head Point, also known as Needle Hole Point, is a must-see in Mahabaleshwar. Its unique rock formation resembles an elephant's head, offering stunning vistas of the Sahyadri mountain range. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat crowds & enjoy peace
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Less traffic, easier parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Oceanic White Tip shark 🦈 : 📍: Elphinstone Reef . Marsa alam : #shark #sharks #dive #diving
@mo.alsbehy
47.2K likes • 2.9M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Beat the weekend rush! Arriving early ensures easier parking and a more serene experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Elephant Shape

Look for the distinct rock formation that gives the point its name. It's a unique photo opportunity! Instagram

📍Elphinstone Reef, Red Sea #redsea #scuba #scubadiving #elphinstonereef #oceanicwhitetip #longimanus #shark #sharkdiving #egypt
@gioscuba
3K likes • 51.7K views
Elephants head point, Kate's point and Echo point❤️ #matheranhillstation #matheran #matherandiaries #matheranhills #maharashtra #matherantrip #nature #sahyadri #hillstation #travelphotography #travel #ig #naturephotography #instagram #india #photography #instagood #trekking #neral #mumbai #maharashtratourism #naturelovers #lonavala #mountains #hillstationsofindia #travelgram #clickers #maharashtr...
singh_sombari
44 likes • 1.4K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Small shops offer kokum juice and water. Perfect for a quick refreshment. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

A short walk is required to reach the viewpoint. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Reddit

📍Elephant's Head Point or Needle Hole Point, Mahabaleshwar Elephant's Head Point is one of the most picturesque viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar which is famous for the unique Nature’s Creation 🐘 and the stunning views of Sahyadri! The extended front part of the hill looks like Elephant Head and it’s trunk. Thus the point got its name as the Elephant's Head Point. This point provides a 360-degree v...
priyanka.shingadee
295 likes • 11.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Beat the weekend rush! Arriving early ensures easier parking and a more serene experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Elephant Shape

Look for the distinct rock formation that gives the point its name. It's a unique photo opportunity! Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Small shops offer kokum juice and water. Perfect for a quick refreshment. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

A short walk is required to reach the viewpoint. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Reddit

🦋 Respect Wildlife

Observe butterflies and other wildlife from a distance; do not attempt to catch them. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique elephant-shaped rock formation and the breathtaking panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains. The accessibility and lack of an entry fee are also highly appreciated. However, some find the crowds overwhelming, especially on weekends, and parking can be a challenge.

"The hillstation that will never let you down is Mahabaleswar. And this place is the paradise of Mahabaleswar. We visited this place in October 2025. It was cloudy. We thought we will not be able to see anything. But what we saw, will remain in my soul until my breath. The immense beauty of this place cannot be described in words.
If you are visiting Mahabaleswar, then please don't miss this place. I am giving 5/5."

Sampa Howlader

"Elphinstone Point provides some of the most stunning panoramic views in Mahabaleshwar. From the top, you can see the vast green valleys, layered mountain ranges, and Pratap gad. The viewpoint is well-maintained and spacious, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. Perfect for photography. Very peaceful and worth visiting."

Bhagya

"Great view of Pratap garh fort from this place.Elphinstone Point in Mahabaleshwar is a must-visit spot. The area is surrounded by nature, and the playful monkeys add charm to the experience. You’ll also find small food stalls along the roadside, offering quick snacks and refreshments. The breathtaking views of the valley make it an unforgettable destination. A fantastic spot for everyone"

D G BERA

What People Like

Unique elephant rock formation
Stunning panoramic views
No entry fee

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Elephant's Head Point is located in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra. You can reach it by car or taxi from Mahabaleshwar town. It's approximately 7 km from the Mahabaleshwar Bus Stand. Instagram+1

Yes, parking is available, but it can get challenging during peak hours and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. Reddit

Mahabaleshwar is accessible by road. The nearest railway station is Wathar, and the nearest airport is Pune. From these points, you can hire a taxi or take a bus. Reddit

Yes, Elephant's Head Point is often visited along with Kate's Point and Echo Point, which are nearby and offer similar stunning views. Instagram+1

While local buses might go towards Mahabaleshwar, reaching the specific viewpoint might require a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the main town or bus stand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry fee to visit Elephant's Head Point, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. Reddit

Elephant's Head Point is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the best views and safety. Reddit

No advance booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during the operational hours. Reddit

Visitors are advised to be cautious near the edges and respect the natural environment. Avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife. Reddit

Yes, Mahabaleshwar is beautiful during the monsoon, but fog can sometimes obscure the views. Check weather conditions before your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the landscape. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow. Instagram

You can capture the unique elephant-shaped rock formation, panoramic valley views, and the surrounding lush greenery. Drone shots are also popular. Instagram+1

The main viewpoint offers the classic elephant head perspective. Exploring slightly different angles can yield unique shots of the valleys. Instagram+1

Exercise extreme caution when taking photos near the edges. Stay within designated safe areas and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Tripods are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors, especially during crowded times. Ensure you have enough space to set up without obstructing others. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary activity is enjoying the stunning natural scenery and the unique rock formation. It's a great spot for relaxation and photography. Instagram+1

You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you want to admire the views and take photos. Reddit

Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to use restrooms before heading to the viewpoint, especially if you are visiting during off-peak hours. Reddit

The walk to the viewpoint is relatively short, but the terrain can be uneven. Visitors with mobility issues should proceed with caution. Reddit

You might spot various species of butterflies and birds. Remember to observe them from a distance and not disturb their habitat. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Elephant's Head Point offers a fantastic visual treat for children, with the rock formation looking like a giant elephant. It's a great spot for kids to engage with nature and learn about geological formations. Remember to keep a close eye on them near the edges and ensure they wear comfortable shoes for the short walk. Instagram+1

Nearby, you can find small vendors selling refreshments like kokum juice, which kids often enjoy. The overall experience is relatively relaxed, making it suitable for a family outing. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Elephant's Head Point is a dream location. The iconic elephant-shaped rock provides a unique subject, while the expansive valley views offer opportunities for landscape photography. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly rewarding for capturing the best light. Instagram+1

Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas for different angles and compositions. While tripods are generally allowed, be considerate of other visitors. The nearby Kate's Point and Echo Point also offer excellent photographic opportunities, making this area a rich ground for capturing the beauty of Mahabaleshwar. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Trekking Lovers

While not a strenuous trek, Elephant's Head Point offers a pleasant walk to reach the viewpoint, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Sahyadri range. The surrounding area is rich in flora, and you might spot butterflies and birds. Reddit

Combine your visit with other nearby viewpoints or explore the trails around Mahabaleshwar for a more comprehensive nature experience. The cool, misty breeze, especially during certain seasons, adds to the serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful spot for nature appreciation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Geology of Elephant's Head Point

Elephant's Head Point, also known as Needle Hole Point, is a geological marvel in Mahabaleshwar. Its name comes from a striking rock formation that uncannily resembles the head and trunk of an elephant. This natural sculpture is a result of years of erosion and weathering, carving out the distinctive shape from the surrounding basaltic rock. The extended ridge juts out, offering a dramatic visual that draws visitors from afar. Instagram+2

This unique formation is part of the larger Sahyadri mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity and dramatic landscapes. The vantage point provides not only the iconic elephant's head view but also sweeping panoramas of the valleys below, including the Koyna and Savitri rivers on clear days. The sheer scale and natural artistry make it a highlight for any visitor to Mahabaleshwar. Reddit

Experiencing Mahabaleshwar's Viewpoints

Elephant's Head Point is one of several stunning viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar, each offering a unique perspective of the Western Ghats. It's often visited in conjunction with nearby Kate's Point and Echo Point, creating a popular circuit for tourists. These points are celebrated for their picturesque beauty, especially during the monsoon season when the landscape turns lush green, though fog can sometimes limit visibility. Instagram+2

Travelers often describe Mahabaleshwar as a place offering peace and a refreshing escape, particularly from the summer heat. The hill station boasts numerous points like Marjorie Point, Savitri Point, and Table Point, each contributing to the region's charm. The combination of natural beauty, cool climate, and accessible viewpoints makes Mahabaleshwar a sought-after destination for a serene getaway. Reddit

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