The first historical mention of Mahabaleshwar dates back to year 1215 when the King Singhan of Deogiri visited Old Mahabaleshwar.
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Starting with Sir John Malcolm in 1828, a succession of them from Sir Mountstuart Elphinstone, Arthur Malet (for whom the seat at "Point Arthur" is named), Carnac, Frere and many others became regular visitors.
Most popular chikkis are sourced from the Indian towns of Lonavala, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani and Karjat near Mumbai.