Panchgani is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Satara district of Maharashtra. The name 'Panchgani' translates to 'five hills', as it is surrounded by five majestic Sahyadri hills. This charming destination is renowned for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and strawberry farms, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
Located just 100 km from Pune and 250 km from Mumbai, Panchgani offers breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley, lush green meadows, and colonial-era charm. The hill station is also famous for its educational institutions and serves as a gateway to Mahabaleshwar.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Panchgani
1. Sydney Point
Situated atop a hill, Sydney Point provides breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley, Dhom Dam, and the distant Kamalgad Fort. The cool breeze, peaceful atmosphere, and mesmerizing sunset views make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. This vantage point is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a quiet retreat away from the crowds.
Best Time: Evening (for sunset views)
Distance from Table Land: 2 km
2. Table Land
Table Land is one of the largest mountain plateaus in Asia and the most iconic attraction in Panchgani. This flat, laterite rock surface offers stunning panoramic views of the valleys, hills, and nearby towns. It is a popular spot for horse riding, trekking, and paragliding. During sunrise and sunset, the plateau transforms into a breathtaking sight, with the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Several Bollywood movies have been filmed here due to its surreal landscape.
Best Time: October to May
Activities: Horse Riding, Paragliding, Photography
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal for: Adventure seekers and nature photographers
3. Kamalgad Fort (Bhelanja or Kattalgad), Nandgane
Embark on an adventurous trek to Kamalgad Fort, an ancient hill fortress built during the Maratha era. Nestled near the picturesque village of Nandgane, this fort offers breathtaking views of the Dhom Dam, lush valleys, and the Western Ghats. The trek is moderately challenging and ideal for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: October to February (cool weather, ideal for trekking)
Activities: Trekking, Photography, Exploring ancient ruins, Sightseeing
Nearby Attractions: Dhom Dam, Wai Temples, Panchgani Hill Station
4. Parsi Point
Overlooking the picturesque Krishna River valley, Parsi Point is named after the Parsi community members who once frequented this place for leisure. The spot offers breathtaking views of the lush valleys, winding rivers, and distant mountains. It is an excellent location for photography, picnics, and enjoying the cool breeze. The monsoon season enhances its beauty, with mist covering the valley below, creating a magical effect.
Features: Food vendors, Play area for children
Best for: Families and couples
5. Devrai Art Village, Panchgani
The Devrai Art Village is a unique creative space in Panchgani that blends traditional tribal craftsmanship with contemporary design. Founded as a non-profit initiative, it supports Adivasi artisans by showcasing their exquisite work in metal, stone, wood, and bamboo. Visitors can witness artists at work, participate in workshops, and buy eco-friendly handcrafted souvenirs — all while surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.
Distance from Panchgani: Approximately 2 km from the main market
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (pleasant weather in Panchgani)
Activities: Visiting artisan workshops, Craft shopping, Photography, Learning about Dhokra art
Specialty: Eco-friendly tribal art made using brass, bamboo, and natural materials
6. Mapro Garden
Mapro Garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Panchgani, famous for its fruit-based products and delicious food. The garden offers a factory tour where you can learn about the processing of fruits into jams, crushes, and syrups. The on-site restaurant serves mouth-watering strawberry dishes, fresh fruit cream, and pizzas. It's a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy fresh produce.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (Factory tour available)
Must Try: Strawberry Cream, Fresh Fruit Crushes, Wood-fired Pizza
Shopping: Jams, Squashes, Chocolates
7. Lingmala Waterfall Point, Bhekavali
The Lingmala Waterfall is one of the most stunning waterfalls near Mahabaleshwar, located close to the village of Bhekavali. Cascading from a height of about 600 feet, this waterfall offers mesmerizing views of the valley and the Venna River below. Surrounded by dense forests, it’s a perfect destination for photography, picnics, and nature lovers seeking peace and scenic beauty. During the monsoon, the waterfall is at its most majestic, creating a spectacular misty view.
Distance from Panchgani: Approximately 9 km
Activities: Nature walks, Photography, Picnics, Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit: June to October (monsoon and post-monsoon)
Nearby Attractions: Venna Lake, Dhobi Waterfall, Wilson Point
8. Rajpuri Caves
The ancient Rajpuri Caves are deeply rooted in mythological and historical significance. These caves are believed to have been used by sages for meditation, and they hold a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. Surrounding the caves are sacred water tanks, which are said to have healing properties. The mystical atmosphere, coupled with historic carvings and spiritual aura, makes it a must-visit site for those interested in history, mythology, and religious tourism.
Distance from Panchgani: 15 km
Significance: Religious and historical importance
Ideal for: Pilgrims, history enthusiasts
9. Kaas Plateau, Satara
The Kaas Plateau, often called the Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Satara. Every year during the monsoon, the plateau comes alive with a breathtaking carpet of colorful wildflowers — with over 850 species of flowering plants, many of which are rare and endemic to the Western Ghats. The vibrant landscape, cool breeze, and misty hills make Kaas a paradise for photographers, botanists, and nature lovers.
Location: About 25 km from Satara City, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: Late August to early October (peak flowering season)
Activities: Nature photography, Bird watching, Eco-trekking
Specialty: Seasonal bloom of wildflowers, part of the UNESCO Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot
10. Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar
The serene Venna Lake is one of Mahabaleshwar’s most popular attractions, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hills. Built in 1842 by King Appasaheb of Satara, the lake serves as a perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers. Visitors can enjoy paddle or row boating on the calm waters, go horse riding along the lakeside, or indulge in local street food stalls offering strawberries, corn, and snacks. During the evening, the shimmering reflections of the lights on the lake create a magical atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: October to June (pleasant weather and boating season)
Activities: Boating, Horse riding, Street food, Photography
Location: 2 km from Mahabaleshwar Bus Stand
Ideal for: Families, Couples, and Nature Lovers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Panchgani?
The best time to visit Panchgani is from October to May when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) offers lush greenery but can be slippery for outdoor activities.
How far is Panchgani from Pune and Mumbai?
Panchgani is approximately 100 km from Pune (2.5 hours drive) and 250 km from Mumbai (5 hours drive). It's well connected by road.
What are the famous foods in Panchgani?
Panchgani is famous for fresh strawberries and strawberry-based products like jams, ice creams, and shakes. Also try the mulberry products and corn dishes available at various viewpoints.
Can we visit both Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar in one day?
Yes, both hill stations are just 19 km apart and can be covered in a day trip. However, staying overnight is recommended to fully experience both destinations.