How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Panchgani
Panchgani is a typical hill station, located in the heart of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, where its cool climate provides a beautiful retreat from the noisy and sweltering weather in the cities. The weekend getaway is popular for its stunning vistas, rolling hills, and strawberry farms. For nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those just wanting to relax it is the perfect weekend destination. Here’s a rundown of how you can utilise your weekend in this lovely town.
In this Blog
Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing Â
The weekend begins with an early morning drive to Panchgani. The drive is beautiful as you have meandering roads, pretty little villages and lush greenery all around. Panchgani is positioned nicely with easy access from Mumbai or Pune making it a good option for a weekend trip.
1. Check-In and Relocate
Get cosy and check into a warm villa or a beautiful homestay once you land. Visitors tend to stay in many hotels where the hills are a sight of many panoramic views so one should select a hotel that places oneself in nature’s surroundings.
2. Explore Table Land
Table Land is the second highest plateau in Asia and makes for a stunning viewpoint over the valleys and rivers that lie below it. It makes for a great place to shoot some photos, take a stroll, or even a quick horse ride. With all of its natural beauty and a gentle breeze, it makes for an excellent place to spend the early hours of the day.
3. Sydney Point
Table Land can be reached in a few minutes and Sydney Point gives a different view of Panchgani which overlooks the Krishna valley and Dhom dam and the Pandavgad fort. It is a great place to catch a sunset or get away from the hustle and bustle in nature.
Day 1: Unwind In Nature and Explore Major Landmarks
If you have settled for the day, it is suggested to wander some of the attractions that are both natural and cultural and quite inimitable in Panchgani.
1. Parsi Point
Famed for stunning views of the Dhom dam as well as the valley which lies beneath it, this viewpoint is loaded with sheer beauty. It is a nice place to watch the sun during the afternoon with beautiful green hills and vast sky around.
2. Devrai Art Village
If you are an avid follower of art and culture, the Devrai Art Village provides a great opportunity. Local artistry such as sculpting, rock carving, and metal crafts can be witnessed here in addition to workshops. It’s a great way of aiding the local TCPP by hopping through the artistic side of Panchgani.
3. Strawberry Farm Tour
Panchgani remains synonymous with its strawberries, as there are various farms around that facilitate the masses with strawberry picking and farming insights. Mapro Garden is quite popular among tourists who would like to munch on strawberry products ranging from jam to milkshake.
Day 2: Adventure Activities and Local ExperiencesÂ
Get back to day two with a promise to perform all things adventurous and outdoorsy to thrill your blood.
1. Paragliding
Panchgani is arguably one of the best spots for paragliding in India. Conquer the sky as you embark tandem paragliding flights as you get to enjoy the view of hills, valleys and great rivers below. With the ecstasy of paragliding along with the breathtaking vistas of the surroundings, we are sure this is something you will never forget.
2. Visit the Rajpuri Caves
The Rajpuri Caves are not only an archaeological site but are also associated with Indian mythology. These caves and several ponds and dense forests near them are believed to have been the hiding place for the Pandavas during their exile. This is a moderate trek that is quite exciting as well as provides an insight into the ancient culture of India.
3. Dhom Dam Boat Riding
For those who like it a bit easy, there is an option of boating at the Dhom Dam. The calmness and the hills around make it an ideal location to spend an hour or two. It is a perfect location for some quiet moments or even a family outing.
Day 2: It’s a Wrap Aside Food and Shopping before Departure
The weekend has come to an end so if you still have some time, try to experience the gastronomy and shopping of Panchgani.
1. Enjoy Local Dishes At Famous Cafes In Panchgani
There are many restaurants in Panchgani which range from a few small cafes to several popular establishments. Oh, and do not forget that you must try the local Maharashtrian cuisine, or the Mapro Garden Café with its famous strawberry dishes. Some other great options include pithla bhakri and vada pav as well.
2. Visiting Shivaji Circle
To top off your closeness to Panchgani’s local life, let’s go to the Shivaji Circle. This active marketplace is ideal for buying some authentic souvenirs like handicrafts, jams, jellies, and prepared food. It will be a fun way to end your trip as you walk along the stalls and speak with the sellers.
3. Departing for the City
As it gets to dusk, get ready to head back to the city. Try to focus on the panoramic and picturesque environment of Panchgani that you experienced over the weekend. As we head back, it is a brief journey that allows us to appreciate the sights and sounds encountered.
Conclusion
Panchgani is certainly a place to unwind, try out thrilling activities, and immerse in the local culture. A trip to this picturesque hill station is bound to be thorough with activities ranging from hill climbing, paragliding across the valley, and enjoying wonderful meals by the strawberry farms. Go off the beaten track and visit such places in Panchgani that will surely make an imprint in your memories for years to come.
FAQ
Is Panchgani suitable for sports enthusiasts?
Yes, there are quite a few sports activities that Panchgani has to offer, including paragliding, trekking, and Dhom Dam boating that are a big plus for adventure lovers.
How long would it take to drive to Panchgani from either Pune or Mumbai for a weekend?
For Mumbai, it takes approximately 244 km to reach Panchgani, while for Pune it is around a distance of 101 km. This makes it possible for people living in either of the two cities to enjoy the hill station for a short duration.
What activities can I take part in while visiting Panchgani on the weekends?
Places like Table Land, Sydney Point, Parsi Point, and Devrai Art Village are must visit places. Each of these places offers a different pronounced view and uniqueness.
Does Panchgani offer various cuisines and are there any specialties?
Panchgani has many such places serving Maharashtra’s food. Among popular names is Mapro Garden Café with its strawberry-based offerings and local cuisine such as vada pav and pithla bhakri is available throughout the area.
What would be a good plan for a couple of days in Panchgani for someone coming from Pune?
First drive from Pune to reach at least say lunch time, get into a nearby villa and then head out to Tabke Land, Sydney Point, and strawberry farms. On the second day, one can try paragliding and local au cuisines before the onset of return.
What popular villas can I use for a weekend in Panchgani?
What more can you wish for when you have StayVista with a range of exotic villas in Panchgani that assure splendid hill views, provide best possible amenities, and are strategically positioned around major centres for an ideal short getaway.
