Located in the picturesque hills of Panchgani, Mapro Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re traveling to relax or spend quality time with your loved ones, Mapro Garden offers a peaceful escape from the daily grind.
History and Overview
Mapro, short for Mahabaleshwar Products, was established in 1959 by Mr. Kishore Vora. Starting as a small strawberry jam-making business, it expanded over the years into a popular tourist spot. Today, the garden is run by his descendants, Nikunj and Radhika Vora, who continue the tradition of supporting local farmers while offering high-quality products.
Attractions at Mapro Garden
- Chocolate Factory & Strawberry Fields: One of the main attractions at Mapro Garden is its chocolate-making facility and strawberry fields. You can witness how chocolate, syrups, jams, and juices are made in real-time, adding a fun and educational twist to your visit.
- Mapro Café & Live Kitchen: The on-site café serves fresh food made from locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in sandwiches, pizzas, ice creams, and shakes. The live kitchen lets you watch your meal being prepared fresh.
- Strawberry Festival: Held annually during Easter weekend, this 3-day event celebrates the harvest with various strawberry varieties, cultural performances, and special strawberry treats.
- Children’s Play Area: A dedicated play zone for kids makes it a great family spot. The sprawling gardens and mini waterfall add to the charm.
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Architecture and Landscape
Spanning across 2 acres, Mapro Garden boasts lush greenery and colorful flowers. The premises also include Mapro Stores and a small auditorium showcasing short films about fruit processing and chocolate-making, which are especially engaging for children.
Things to Do at Mapro Garden
- Explore the Manufacturing Unit: Watch the entire production process of Mapro’s products like syrups, jams, and chocolates.
- Relax in the Gardens: Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the natural beauty of Panchgani hills.
- Tasting & Shopping: Taste free strawberries with whipped cream, shop for Mapro products at a discount, and try their organic offerings like flavored yogurt and shakes.
- Capture Memories: Don’t forget to take Instagram-worthy photos amidst the scenic surroundings.
Entry Fee and Timings
There is no entry fee to visit Mapro Garden. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. While entry is free, food and drinks at the café are chargeable.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (December to February): Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C makes winter the best time to visit.
- Summer (March to April): Ideal for attending the Strawberry Festival.
- Monsoon: Not recommended due to unpredictable rains that may disrupt your visit.
How to Reach Mapro Garden
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Pune, 120 km away from Mahabaleshwar.
- By Road: From Mahabaleshwar (12 km) and Panchgani (7 km), you can hire a cab or take an auto. Mapro Garden is well-connected by road to major cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Mahabaleshwar.
Tips for Visitors
- Carry sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun.
- Use dustbins to keep the area clean and tidy.
- Temporary henna designs are available for tourists at no cost.
Mapro Garden offers a unique experience combining natural beauty, delicious food, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect spot for your next holiday in Mahabaleshwar.
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