Sightseeing in Panchgani..
Around Panchgani..
Panchgani has always been a fond getaway from the sweltering heat of summers since the British times. Now famed for the strawberry farms, boarding schools and old British buildings Panchgani has still managed to retain its unhurried relaxed charm. Along with the pleasant weather that it is blessed with all through the year Panchgani turns out as an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
On the banks of the river Krishna is Wai, a temple town by all means. There are seven ghats with each ghat boasting of more than one temple of significance. The 'Dholya Ganpati' temple is one of the major temples in Wai along with other temples like Mahalaxmi temple in Dharmapuri, Kaunteshwar, Kaleshwar and Chimneshwar in Brahmanshahi ghat.
Pandavgad a fort popular amongst trekkers is nearby though the easier access is on the Bhor side.
A short drive from Panchgani will take you to the ancient Rajapuri caves, a relegiosly important spot, the Kartik swamy temple is the major attraction here. The temple is beleived to be built from the sand taken from the caves. The ponds or 'kunds' around the caves is beleived to be holy and a dip in these kunds curative! A local fair is held every year at Rajapuri during the harvest season.
Sajjangad also known as the Ashwalgad is a spot near panchgani of historic importance and was under the control of the Marathas, the Mughals and later the British. Sajjangad was the permenant residence of swami Samarth Ramdas, guru of Shivaji and you can visit 'Ramghal' the place where the saint used to meditate, the 'Dhaabyacha Maruti' temple, and 'Bramhapisa' temple here.
Mahabaleshwar
Another popular hill station in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is just under 20 Kms from Panchgani. Well known for the points which offer panoramic view, Mahabaleshwar has as as many as 30 viewpoints named after notable Britishers like Wilson point, Kates point and Lodwick point.
Adventure in Panchgani
Panchgani, notwithstanding the sedate laid back vibe that it emanates is a also a destination for the adventure sports enthusiast. Panchgani is a pseudo head quarter for the parasailing activities in Maharashtra and the activity is conducted through out the year but for the monsoons. There are many trekking routes also near Panchgani including couple of forts perfect for trekking.
