Panchgani, a small hill resort in Satara, Maharashtra, is surrounded by scenic splendor, with towering Sahyadris on all sides. The hill station is well-known for its breathtaking vistas and serves as an ideal weekend retreat from Mumbai and Pune. Visit Panchgani, and you’ll be transported to another world of lush green landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls. The location is ideal for a family holiday or a weekend away with friends. It caters to a wide range of audiences and should undoubtedly be on your list of places to visit.
But what do you do once you’ve arrived at Panchgani? There are Panchgani visiting places that you absolutely must visit. Check them out below.
1. Sydney Point
From Sydney Point, you can see the wonderful Krishna Valley, the craggy Kamalgad Fort, the immaculate Dhom Dam, and the planned metropolis of Wai all at once. It is widely regarded as one of the top spots to visit in Panchgani. In fact, as a tourist destination in Panchgani, you will be able to take some stunning photographs for your social media or screensaver! Sir Sydney Beckwarth, a former Commander in Chief of Council, was honored with the designation.
- Things to do: Take photos of the distinctive terrace farms, explore the strawberry gardens, and take in the scenery from one of the tourist sites.
- Sunset is the best time to visit.
- Visit Duration: 1 hour.
- There are no entry fees.
Also Read, Visit Chiplun: A Town Near Mumbai | A Must on your Post-Covid Bucket List
2. Table Land Viewpoint: For Scenic views
Table Land Viewpoint is the peak in Panchgani, perched at a dizzying height of 4,550 feet above sea level. Furthermore, after the Tibetan plateau, this entire volcanic plateau is Asia’s second longest mountain plateau. It’s a 6 kilometer stretch of flat laterite rock surrounded by beautiful hills. The viewpoint provides a breathtaking aerial perspective of Panchgani’s picturesque valleys. Have you had your fill of sightseeing? You can also locate the best restaurants in Panchgani right here.
- Things to do: In the evening, go horseback riding, take a quick tour of the Pandavas’ feet and caverns, and return to the lake before dark to view the sunset.
- Daytime is the best time to visit.
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.
- There are no entry fees.
3. Kamalgad fort
Suppose you want to spend your Panchgani holiday exploring the region’s history and experiencing its beautiful past. In that case, you must travel to Kamalgad Fort, which is one of the top locations to visit in Panchgani hill station. During peak season, the fort attracts many tourists due to its centuries-old secrets, grief, and stories. This square-shaped fort, surrounded by high cliffs, was built during Maratha control.
- Things to do: On your way to the destination, explore the Red Ochre cave, climb to the highest point in the fort for a beautiful view, and look for the entrance to Balekilla.
- Daytime is the best time to visit.
- Visit Duration: 2 hours.
- There are no entry fees.
4. Mapro Garden
Do you want to sample some organic foods in Panchgani? Then, Mapro Garden is a must-see. Mapro Garden isn’t truly a garden, although it does sell fruit-based items. Surrounded by lush flora, the garden features a chocolate factory, a restaurant, a posh nursery, a children’s play area, and a Mapro goods outlet. This is one of the most spectacular sites to visit in Panchgani during the summer.
- Things to do: Try the campfire pizza and fresh strawberry cream, buy some organic foods, and go during the Strawberry Festival if possible.
- Noon and evening are the best times to visit.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours.
- There are no entry fees.
5. Rajpuri Caves
Rajpuri Caves is a holy site and one of the most intriguing sites to visit in Panchgani. The residents of Panchgani and the surrounding towns believe that Lord Kartikeya used the ancient caverns for religious rites. According to legend, these caves were surrounded by small ponds that previously housed Pandavas during their exile. It is also thought that the holy Ganges flows into these ponds, which is why people bathe in these sources of water.
- Things to do: Go for a short trek around the caves to see the local flora and fauna.
- The best times to visit are during the day and at sunset.
- Visit Duration: 1 hour
- There are no entry fees.
6. Lingmala Falls
Take a soothing swim in Lingmala Falls, which drops 500 feet. It is one of the best spots to visit in Panchgani and makes for an excellent weekend retreat. You may obtain beautiful views of the Dhobi and Chinaman’s waterfalls, which are nearby. It’s a terrific area to hang out with friends or family, and you can take some great photos to make lasting memories. And if you enjoy the rain, go to Lingmala during the monsoon season. You can also plan a luxury stay in Panchgani near Lingmala Falls by staying in one of the most amazing villas.
- Things to do: Take a detour to the neighboring Dhobi and Chinaman’s waterfalls, go for a short hike through the forests surrounding the fall, and if you’re a photographer, attempt some long-exposure photographs of the landscape.
- Monsoon is the best time to visit.
- Visit Duration: 1 hour.
- There are no entry fees.
7.Wilson Point: Get A Bird’s Eye View
It is the highest point in the region, at 4,710 feet above sea level, and is also known as Sunrise Point. You can observe from three prominent towers, which provide a bird’s-eye view of the entire region. This location is a must-see for nature lovers. In addition, photographers can get some truly breathtaking images of the area. Wilson Point is one of the top spots to visit in Maharashtra during the monsoon season because of its breathtaking vistas.
Things to do:
- Bring out your best camera and perform some scenery photography.
- Try to see both the sunrise and sunset (as this is the only time you will be able to do so).
- Engage in some bird-watching activities.
- Monsoon is the best time to visit.
- Visit Duration: 2 hours
- Entry Fee: None.
8. Veena Lake
Visit this gorgeous lake near Panchgani for a calm escape surrounded by lush foliage and bizarre sights. Sitting by the lake, one may take in the scenery and the silence in the air. This is a man-made lake that was established in 1942 by Sri Appasaheb Maharaj. The main goal of building this lake was to meet the requirements of the locals while also providing a location for relaxation and enjoyment. There are various adventure activities available around this lake, such as boat rides and visits to the amusement park, which is located directly across the lake. Aside from that, one can go horseback riding.
- Things to do: Take a boat ride to the middle of the lake and stop by the Mahabaleshwar market to unwind after the day’s events by shopping and eating desserts.
- Satara, Maharashtra, is the location.
- 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Also Read, What to do in Saputara Hill Station
9. Pratapgad fort
A visit to Pratapgad fort in Satara is recommended for those who enjoy hiking and admiring nature’s splendor. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Panchgani, which is known for its rich history. This fort is 22 kilometers from Mahabaleshwar and sits at the height of 1,080 meters above sea level. The fort’s objective was to connect the settlements of Par and Kinesvar. This fort, surrounded by beautiful foliage, is a work of architectural beauty.
- Things to do: Take in the architectural heritage of the fort, take a diversion into the towns of Par and Kinesvar for a local experience, and climb to the highest point for a panoramic view of the area.
- Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra 412806 Poladpur Mahabaleshwar Road
- 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10.Chinaman’s Waterfall
This is one of the most well-known waterfalls to see when in Panchgani for a relaxing day away from the city. The flowing waterfalls from a height of 500 meters, surrounded by the valley’s beautiful green splendor. The best view of this location is when the water flows from two locations and merges into a single stream. The Chinaman’s waterfall is located at the apex of the Venna Valley, surrounded by tranquility. Along with the waterfall, a few gardens were originally cared for by the Chinese, hence the waterfall’s name.
- Things to do: For an exciting retreat, explore the adjacent Koyna Valley, take a stroll into the woodlands for a temporary camp, and spend the day going down the waterfall.
- 2.5 kilometers from Mahabaleshwar Bus Stand
- Timetable: Throughout the day