Located on the periphery of Mahabaleshwar, the stunning hill station of Panchgani is one of the most prominent attractions of the area. Overlooking the pristine Dhom Dam Lake, which is created by the Krishna river, it is the meeting point of five hills of the Sahyadri range, and is thus called Panchgani. The five hills are topped by Table Land, the second-highest volcanic plateau in Asia that was formed due to pressure between the earth plates and is well-known for its scenic beauty. Paragliding is a popular activity here because of the picturesque views that few other places can match. Panchgani is known for strawberry cultivation and jam is one of the best buys here. Visitors can sit by the farms, where cafes and restaurants have been set up, and savour not only desserts, but yummy pizzas, pastas and other dishes while enjoying the fresh air. Crushes, candies and other products can also be purchased here.

This lovely place was discovered by the British as their summer resort, with Superintendent John Chesson in charge of developing it. In an effort to set it apart from its contemporaries, Chesson imported several exotic plant species to Panchgani, including poinsettia and silver oak. He also encouraged vegetable farmers, barbers, tailors and others engaged in similar trade to settle in Panchgani. The area below the main market was reserved for them, and is known as Gaothan. Chesson is now buried in the graveyard of St Peter’s Church, and his death anniversary saw the first time that everyone, students and elders alike, came together in remembrance of the founder of the town. The Pandavas are said to have lived here for some time and that spot is known as Devil’s Kitchen.

Panchgani also plays host to several premier educational institutes, most of which are boarding schools. Freddie Mercury, the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen, and Kajol, the famous Bollywood actress, are both alumni of Panchgani’s boarding schools.