Explore Panchgani, a strawberry laden hill station loved by Bollywood

Every time I think of Panchgani, I am enveloped with a misty feeling of joy and nostalgia. Since I can remember, summer vacation trips to Panchgani have been a ritual in our family. Any mountain lover will attest to the charm of this little haven in Maharashtra. The rolling hills, the greenery and the lovely views all add to its beauty. And how could this charm be untouched by the silver screen? All the way from the 70s, 80s to the 90s, Panchgani has been immortalised by films like Taare Zameen Par, Trimurti, Raja Hindustani, Being Cyrus, Dabangg, Chennai Express and Bajirao Mastani among several others.

With its picturesque valleys, misty mornings and cosy weather, this hill station is more than just a destination to be checked off your list. Panchgani is the kind of memorable and beloved destination that attracts travellers time and again. So, join us as we explore Panchgani, the mountain lover’s delight and Bollywood’s beloved destination! Let’s find out what makes it a timeless cinematic and travel favourite.

Table Land

One of the most magical and truly breathtaking spots of Panchagani is the Table Land. This vast piece of flat land offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it irresistible to Bollywood filmmakers. In fact, certain scenes of the heartwarming movie Taare Zameen Par starring Amir Khan was shot in Table Land!

Known as the second largest mountain plateau in Asia, Table Land is ideal for enjoying picnics, going on leisurely walks and horse riding. During the monsoon season, the plateau transforms into a lush green carpet and is adorned with wildflowers. It is a beautiful sight that simply cannot be missed.

Sydney Point

We’ve all heard the wonderfully catchy Hindi song, “Dafli wale dafli baja!” in which Bollywood actors Rishi Kapoor and Jaya Prada dance to their heart’s delight. This song from the 1979 Hindi film Sargam was shot at Sydney Point in Panchgani. Perched on a hilltop, Sydney Point offers a mesmerising sight of the Krishna Valley, the Dhom Dam and the neighbouring hill stations. This point, that is ideal for witnessing sunsets, is named in honour of Sir Sidney Beckwarth, a British officer. With a constant breeze blowing, Sydney Point’s calming ambience is the best getaway for both nature enthusiasts and movie buffs.

Parsi Point

How wonderful it is to get a bird’s eye view of all the rivers one can see! Parsi Point is a scenic viewpoint in Panchgani which offers this spellbinding sight. Parsi Point offers captivating views of the lush green Krishna Valley and the Dhom Dam, and is an ideal place to relax and soak in the beauty of nature. The spot is named after the Parsi community who settled here in the past and is a popular destination for picnics and leisurely walks.

Chinaman’s Waterfalls

There’s something special about waterfalls that makes them so calming and peaceful to everyone. Whether it’s the sound of water falling or the cool mist that swirls around, we feel simply refreshed. In fact, just standing and watching a waterfall can wash our day’s stress away. Chinaman’s Waterfalls is one such hidden gem nestled amidst the beautiful landscapes of Panchgani. Surrounded by lush greenery, Chinaman’s Waterfalls offers a wonderful escape from the chaos of city life. Visitors can bask in the beauty of the cascading waters, take leisurely walks or enjoy a relaxing picnic here. A visit to Chinaman’s Waterfalls guarantees a rejuvenating and refreshing experience.

Devil’s Kitchen

Do you like exploring caves? Then a visit to the Devil’s Kitchen is a must! Devil’s Kitchen, also fondly known as Devil’s Caves, is a labyrinth of caves. Legend has it that these caves were carved out by the Pandavas during their exile. The intricate network of tunnels adds to its mystique and makes it thrilling for adventure seekers and history buffs. Whether you enjoy ancient tales or are seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, Devil’s Kitchen promises an unforgettable journey.

Strawberry Farms

Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar are famous for their fertile lands that grow yummy strawberries. Wherever you go, you are sure to find acres and acres of strawberry farms where farm owners allow travellers to enjoy a stroll amidst the fruity fields, indulge in strawberry-flavoured delicacies and even get a first-hand experience of farming. Panchgani is also the place to be for eating and buying delicious jams, syrups and preserves, all locally sourced.

Rajpuri Caves

Rajpuri Caves, located around 10 km away from Panchgani, are a group of ancient caves surrounded by natural springs and ponds. These caves hold religious significance and are believed to have been used by Lord Kartikeya for meditation. Its serene ambience makes it an ideal spot for meditation and relaxation for peace seeking wanderers.

From the breathtaking views of Table Land and Sydney Point, mysterious caves of Devil’s Kitchen to the fun-filled strawberry fields, Panchgani promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or simply a break from city life, this hill station has something special to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and explore Bollywood’s favourite Panchgani on your next getaway!