Panchgani

If you’re looking for a peaceful hill station with breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a touch of old-world charm, Panchgani is the perfect destination. Located in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra, just 20 km from Mahabaleshwar, this quaint town is famous for its lush green valleys, strawberry farms, British-era architecture, and panoramic viewpoints.

Panchgani, meaning “five hills,” gets its name from the five majestic hills that surround it, making it a picturesque getaway for nature lovers, couples, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re in the mood for scenic drives, hiking trails, or indulging in fresh strawberries, Panchgani is a must-visit destination.

Why Visit Panchgani?

✔ Breathtaking Viewpoints – Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets.
✔ Serene & Less Crowded – A peaceful alternative to Mahabaleshwar.
✔ Strawberry Farms – Fresh, juicy strawberries straight from the farm! 🍓
✔ Adventure Activities – Paragliding, trekking, and camping for thrill-seekers.
✔ Colonial-Era Charm – Old British bungalows, Parsi houses, and boarding schools.

Top Attractions in Panchgani

🌄 1. Table Land – Asia’s Second-Highest Volcanic Plateau

Table Land is Panchgani’s most famous attraction, offering a 5 km stretch of flat laterite rock, making it the second-highest volcanic plateau in Asia.

• Why Visit?
  ✔ 360-degree panoramic views of Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar.
  ✔ Perfect for horse riding, trekking, and photography.
  ✔ Famous for its unique caves and natural rock formations.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset for stunning views.

🌅 2. Sydney Point – The Best Sunrise Spot

Perched on a hilltop, Sydney Point offers stunning sunrise views over the Krishna Valley. From here, you can see Dhom Dam, Pandavgad Fort, and Kamalgad Fort in the distance.

• Why Visit?
  ✔ Best for watching the first golden rays of the sun.
  ✔ Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
  ✔ A perfect picnic spot for families.

🏞 3. Parsi Point – Stunning Views of the Krishna River

Named after the Parsi community who once loved visiting this spot, Parsi Point offers breathtaking views of the Krishna River Valley.

• Why Visit?
  ✔ Enjoy cool mountain breezes and misty landscapes.
  ✔ Try hot corn on the cob, chai, and local snacks.
  ✔ Perfect for relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty.

🏕 4. Devil’s Kitchen – The Mythological Cave Site

Devil’s Kitchen is a fascinating cave site associated with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile and used this place for cooking food.

• Why Visit?
  ✔ Explore the mystical caves surrounded by dense forests.
  ✔ A great spot for adventure seekers and trekkers.
  ✔ Feel the spiritual and historical essence of the place.

🛶 5. Dhom Dam – A Serene Boating Escape

Located near Panchgani, Dhom Dam is a picturesque reservoir where you can enjoy boating, jet skiing, and speed boat rides.

• Best for: Peaceful picnics, photography, and water sports.
• Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (October–February) when the dam is full.

Adventure & Fun Activities in Panchgani

🏇 1. Horse Riding on Table Land

Since Table Land is vast and open, the best way to explore it is on horseback. Local guides offer rides across the plateau, making it an exciting experience for kids and adults alike.

🪂 2. Paragliding – Fly Over the Hills!

Panchgani is one of India’s top paragliding destinations, offering a thrilling experience with breathtaking aerial views of the Sahyadris.

• Best Paragliding Spots:
  ✔ Bhilar
  ✔ Tapola
  ✔ Harrison’s Folly

• Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per person (depending on season & duration).

🚶‍♂️ 3. Trekking to Rajpuri Caves

If you love offbeat trails, trek to Rajpuri Caves, an ancient site believed to have been used for meditation and spiritual practices. The caves are surrounded by sacred water tanks, which many believe have healing properties.

Strawberry Farms & Food in Panchgani

🍓 Visit the Famous Strawberry Farms

Panchgani is part of India’s strawberry belt, and no trip is complete without visiting a strawberry farm. Here, you can pluck fresh strawberries, taste homemade jams, syrups, and milkshakes.

• Best Farms to Visit:
  ✔ Mapro Garden
  ✔ Mala’s Fruit Products
  ✔ Laxmi Strawberry Farm

• Best Time to Visit: December to February (Strawberry season).

🍽 Must-Try Local Delicacies

• Strawberry with Cream 🍓 – A must-have dessert at Mapro Garden!
• Puran Poli – A sweet Maharashtrian flatbread.
• Maharashtrian Thali – Enjoy authentic local flavors at Rustom’s Strawberry Inn.
• Corn Pattice & Vada Pav – Best enjoyed at street stalls near viewpoints.

Best Time to Visit Panchgani

✔ Winter (November – February): Best for pleasant weather, strawberries, and sightseeing.
✔ Summer (March – May): Perfect for a cool retreat from the city heat.
✔ Monsoon (June – September): Best for lush greenery, misty views, and waterfalls.

How to Reach Panchgani?

🚗 By Road:

• From Mumbai: 244 km (5-6 hours).
• From Pune: 102 km (2.5 hours).

🚆 By Train:

• Nearest railway station: Satara (45 km).
• From Satara, take a taxi or bus to Panchgani.

✈️ By Air:

• Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (98 km away).

Where to Stay in Panchgani?

🏡 Luxury Resorts:
✔ Evershine Resort – A 5-star retreat with spa services.
✔ Ravine Hotel – Stunning valley views and modern amenities.

🏠 Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:
✔ Hotel Malas – Colonial charm at affordable prices.
✔ Dala Rooster Resort – Cozy cottages with mountain views.

🏕 Farm Stays & Homestays:
✔ Strawberry County Eco Stay – Stay at a working strawberry farm.
✔ Sherbaug Resort – Nature-themed rooms with private gardens.

Why You Should Visit Panchgani

Panchgani is a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re here to enjoy the stunning viewpoints, indulge in fresh strawberries, or try exciting activities, Panchgani never disappoints.

So, when are you packing your bags for Panchgani? 😊