Sightseeing Highlights:
Do not miss the Rajpuri Caves within the Swami Kartikeya temple, Kamalgad Fort, or the Pratapgad Fort (24 km) built by Shivaji; they are gems from the past. For those who wish for a spiritual experience, the temple of Goddess Bhavani, and the dargah of Afzal Khan are a must.
Sydney Point and Parsi Point are spots with brilliant views of the Dhom Dam. Pandavgad and Mandhardeo, the large laterite rock table land, and the caves at Devil's Kitchen are great for day excursions.
Activities:
Walking, pony rides, and strolls down the bazaar for fresh strawberry and raspberry preserves and squashes are ideal activities in this laid back town. For the more energetic people, there is Tapola, a water sports centre.
Tourism info:
MTDC Central Office Bldg.,
Sassoon Hospital Road,
Tel: 66697. 0212- 626867, 628169, 430499
Nestling between five hills in the Krishna valley, Panchgani (1,334 m) is flanked by the second highest volcanic mountain plateau in Asia on one side and jagged cliffs on the other. It is a neat, colonial-style town, cradled by green coastal plains and the River Krishna.
This pretty hill-station in the Sahaydri hills is close to Pune and Mahabaleshwar. It was a favourite summer retreat for the British and wealthy Parsi families. It also has several well-known boarding schools, set up from the British times. Panchgani has some popular treks through its lush green forests and valleys. You can take pleasant walks or cycle- and pony-rides through the oak forests and enjoy picnics by the banks of the River Krishna that snakes its way through the area. |
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