Panchgani: Amalgamation of Five Hills
Panchgani, which derives its name from the five hills that surround it, is a notable hill station near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra that is known for its many sunset and sunrise viewing locations as well as its gorgeous valley vista.
Panchgani, which is located at an elevation of 1,334 meters above sea level, is also known as Paachgani because the five hills that make up the Sahyadri mountain ranges give the town its name. The scenic background of hills on one side and coastal plains on the other creates a breathtaking vista from the top of the mountain. You may find many enterprises from the colonial period in this area since the area was considered as a summer resort under the British occupation. Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani are similar in that they are twin cities.
In addition to the luscious green valleys and tranquil setting, the red, delicious strawberries grown in Panchgani are a big draw for visitors. The fields of Panchgani, also known as the ‘Strawberry Garden of India,’ are a sight to see, particularly during the months of February and March, when the delectable berries are in abundance.
Best Time To Visit Panchgani
When visiting Panchgani, the ideal time to go is between the winters and the beginning of summer between September and April. The weather is good practically the whole day, giving it an ideal time to explore the hill station and take in the surrounding views and sounds. Visiting Panchgani during the months of July and September is another excellent time to do it. This is the monsoon season in Panchgani, and the whole area is blanketed in lush vegetation at this time of year.
How To Reach Panchgani
By Flight:
The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which is 100 kilometers away. Pune is well-connected to the rest of the country, with regular flights operating from major cities. You have two options: either take a straight taxi from the airport, which will cost around INR 2,000, exit the airport, and take a bus from Pune to Panchgani, which will cost much less. The nearest international airport is Mumbai International Airport, which is 250 kilometers away from Panchgani. Buses and taxis are readily accessible from Mumbai to Panchgani on a regular basis.
The nearest airport is the New Pune International Airport, which is 101 kilometers away from Panchgani.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Panchgani is Wathar, which is not well-connected, but it is the most convenient. Getting off at Pune station will be more convenient in terms of time and convenience. Pune’s railway station is well-connected to the rest of the country. You might arrange for a pre-paid cab ride to Panchgani from the Pune train station.
By Road:
It is possible to get to Panchgani by bus from Pune or Mumbai on a regular basis. Depending on your budget, you may choose from a variety of buses ranging from very rapid to luxurious AC and Volvo sleeper buses.
Things To Do in Panchgani
#1. Taste Freshly Delicious Strawberries at Mapro Gardens
Mapro Garden is one of the must-see attractions in Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar, and it is one of the most popular things to do in the area. The Mapro Garden, which is nestled on a lovely hillside in Mahabaleshwar, is a renowned tourist destination noted for its fresh strawberry harvest. Along with lush flora, the garden also has a chocolate factory and café, a small nursery and playground for children, as well as a shop center where you may purchase Mapro items.
#2. Fall In Love With Picturesque Views at Table Land
Located in Panchgani, Table Land is the second-largest alpine plateau in Asia, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hilly landscapes. According to the locals, horseback riding and exploring the plateau are two of the most popular activities in Panchgani. The greatest time to visit the Table Land would be during dawn or sunset when the stunning hues of nature are most visible.
#3. Go Boating On The Serene Waters at Venna Lake
A great thing to do in Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar is to go boating on the beautiful Venna Lake, which is a popular tourist attraction. Around 28 acres of land surround the lake, which is completely enclosed by woods on all sides. In order to enjoy the stunning lush nature of the surrounding area during the day and lay by the lakeside in the evening, the lake is open until late in the evening.
#4. Try Your Hands At Paragliding
Paragliding has achieved widespread recognition and is one of the most popular sports in Panchgani. The clear sky, favorable wind, breathtaking hills, mountains, and picturesque valleys make this a fantastic spot for paragliding and other outdoor activities. Diverse reputable paragliding groups provide high-altitude flights and lessons for all skill levels, ranging from beginner to experienced. However, although the horizon point is regarded to be the best location for paragliding in Panchgani, Bhilar, Khinger, and Tapola are a few other popular sites for paragliding in the area.
#5. Behold The Amazing Views From The Sydney Point
Sydney Point, named after Sir Sidney Beckwarth, the succeeding Commander in Chief of Bombay in 1830, is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley. Sydney Point was established in 1830 to commemorate Sir Sidney Beckwarth, the succeeding Commander in Chief of Bombay. With this activity, which is one of the top things to do in Panchgani, visitors can also take in breathtaking views of the Dhom Dam, Kamalgad Fort, Pandavgad Range, Mandhardeo hills, and Wai city, among other attractions in the area.
#6. Shop For Some Leather Products
Your journey to Panchgani is not complete if you do not stop at the Shivaji Circle Market for some shopping. Both among residents and visitors, the markets have established a solid reputation for offering a wide variety of leather goods. Shivaji Circle has a lot to offer its customers in terms of high-quality products, distinctive designs, and unrestricted shopping. Shopping at this market, which sells everything from bags to wooden handicrafts and spices to the famed chikkis, is unquestionably one of the greatest things to do in Panchgani.
Restaurants and traditional cuisine in Panchgani
Panchgani does not have a particularly distinctive native cuisine, although it is well-known for its strawberries. It is really necessary to sample the fruit and, if possible, to bring some home. Aside from that, the region, in keeping with the essence of the state, maintains a tremendous range in the cuisines that are offered here. There are several menu selections to pick from, including Gujrati, Parsi, Continental, Chinese, Moghlai, Punjabi, South Indian, and Marashtrian cuisines and a plethora of dessert alternatives. Those who prefer non-vegetarian fare will find enough to choose from, ranging from a hearty Biryani to a variety of chicken and mutton options.