Panchgani

Panchgani derives its name from the five hills around it. At an altitudes of 1334m. it is just 38m. below Mahabaleshwar. These 38m translate themselves into a breathtraking 18 km. approach, that swoops around bends with abandon, offering heart-stopping views of the River Krishna on one side and the coastal plains on the the other.

Panchagani is the quintessential residential hill-station, with the Raj stamped indelibly all over it. It can be seen in the architecture of the old British buildings, the Parsi houses and the boarding schools that have been around for a century or more.

For glimpses of a vanished era, special visit to some of the old British and Parsi houses is also important. Amble along the walkways, thoisckly canopied by lush trees and vegetation and deleight is the secrets you come upon.

The Krishna, snaking through tiny hamlets, farms and ravines, hundreds of meters below. (Visit Table Land, a flat mountain peak and feast your eyes on the coastal pplains, looking like miniature water colours.)

Select a horse from one of the numerous stable and canter along uncharted routes through hidden lovers' lanes, to the caves and Kamalgad Fort. Or while away time at the bazaar.

Panchagani is the one of those rare places that doesnot crowd anyone, yet in its own unhurried way deeply touches every visitor.

Taxis are easily available, though here too, bicycles (and horseback) are recommended for traveling long distances.

Temperatures vary from 16°C in winter to 35°C in summer, with an annual rainfall of 216 cms.

September to May is the best time to visit.

Getting There:

Pune 98 kms. away, is the nearest airport and the most convenient railhead. Oanchgani via Mahad is 266 kms. There is an alternative route via Pune.