Panchgani, located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, is a beautiful hill station that is known for its scenic views, lush greenery, and pleasant climate. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,293 meters above sea level and is surrounded by five hills, giving it its name - Panchgani, which means "five hills". This picturesque town is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you're planning a trip to Panchgani, here are the 10 BEST places to visit in Panchgani - Maharashtra that you should add to your itinerary.
1. Table Land
Table Land is one of the largest plateaus in Asia, situated at an altitude of 4,550 feet above sea level. This flat surface of volcanic basalt rock covers an area of approximately 95 acres and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also a popular spot for paragliding and horse riding.
2. Sydney Point
Located on a hillock overlooking the Krishna Valley, Sydney Point is a popular vantage point that offers panoramic views of the valley and the Dhom Dam. The point is named after Sir Sidney Beckwith, who was Commander-in-Chief of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj.
3. Devil's Kitchen
Devil's Kitchen, also known as Devil's Caves, is a series of interconnected caves that are believed to have been used by the Pandavas during their exile. Legend has it that the caves were named Devil's Kitchen because the Pandavas used to cook their food here.
4. Mapro Garden
Mapro Garden is a beautiful garden situated on the Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar road. The garden is famous for its strawberry produce, and you can also try a variety of strawberry-based products like ice cream, jams, and syrups here. The garden also has a small play area for children.
5. Rajpuri Caves
Rajpuri Caves are a group of four caves that are believed to be of religious significance. It is believed that the caves were used by Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva, and the local tribes for penance and meditation.
6. Kamalgad Fort
Kamalgad Fort is a hill fort that is situated at an altitude of 4,511 feet above sea level. The fort offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a popular spot for trekking and camping.
7. Lingmala Waterfall
Lingmala Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall situated at a distance of 6 km from Panchgani. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful and serene environment.
8. Parsi Point
Parsi Point is another popular vantage point in Panchgani that offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The point is named after the Parsi community, who used to visit this spot for picnics.
9. On Wheelz Amusement Park
On Wheelz Amusement Park is a popular amusement park in Panchgani that offers a variety of rides and activities for children and adults. The park has a roller coaster, water slides, and a play area for children.
10. Wai
Wai is a quaint town situated on the banks of the Krishna River. The town is known for its temples, ghats, and natural beauty. It is also a popular spot.
Other Attractions in Panchgani
Apart from the 10 BEST places to visit in Panchgani - Maharashtra, there are many other attractions in and around the town that are worth exploring. Some of these include:
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Mahabaleshwar: Located just 20 km from Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar is another popular hill station in Maharashtra that is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. The town is famous for its strawberry farms and offers many scenic points, waterfalls, and trekking trails.
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Pratapgad Fort: Pratapgad Fort is a hill fort that is located at a distance of 24 km from Panchgani. The fort played an important role in the history of Maratha Empire and is a popular spot for trekking and camping.
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Bhilar Waterfall: Bhilar Waterfall is a lesser-known waterfall that is situated at a distance of 2 km from Panchgani. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful and serene environment.
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Dhom Dam: Dhom Dam is a popular picnic spot that is located at a distance of 21 km from Panchgani. The dam offers a scenic view of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a great spot for boating and fishing.
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Tapola: Tapola is a small village that is located at a distance of 27 km from Panchgani. The village is known for its scenic beauty and is often referred to as the "Mini Kashmir" of Maharashtra. You can also enjoy water sports like kayaking and boating here.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Panchgani?
The best time to visit Panchgani is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over.
- How can I reach Panchgani?
Panchgani is well-connected by road and can be easily reached from Mumbai and Pune. The nearest airport is Pune Airport, which is located at a distance of 98 km.
- Is Panchgani safe for tourists?
Yes, Panchgani is a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling.
- What are some of the popular adventure activities in Panchgani?
Some of the popular adventure activities in Panchgani include paragliding, trekking, camping, and water sports.
- Can I find vegetarian food in Panchgani?
Yes, there are many restaurants in Panchgani that serve vegetarian food. You can also try local Maharashtrian cuisine here.
- Is there any nightlife in Panchgani?
No, Panchgani is a peaceful and serene town and does not have any nightlife.
Conclusion
Panchgani is a beautiful hill station that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and peace. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to escape the city, Panchgani has something for everyone. So, add these 10 BEST places to visit in Panchgani - Maharashtra to your itinerary and get ready for an unforgettable experience.