The pretty hill station of Panchgani perched amid the Sahyadri range of mountains has pleasant weather through most of the year. The
best time to visit Panchgani is between the months of September to early May. Although being a mountainous region, the temperatures are fairly pleasant and stable most of the year. During winters the temperatures range between 8 degree Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius, and this is usually the
peak season to visit Panchgani.
Panchgani at an altitude of 4376 feet, takes its name from the five (panch) plateaus (gani) that surround it. The town offers mesmerising views of the surrounding hills and the Krishna river that flows below. Tourists from Pune and Mumbai especially throng the town during the
Panchgani tourist season. The place is often referred to as the “Mecca of Maharashtra.”
During the peak summers - mid May to end June, it can get as hot as 35 degrees and hot winds from the surrounding plains makes it hot and dry. Thereafter the next few months of heavy monsoons again make it not so conducive to visit, as rainfall is usually incessant. However post the monsoons everything is a lush green and temperature are cool, hence September onwards the
Panchgani tourist season starts off.
Panchgani is well-known for the various educational institutes in its vicinity, mainly boarding schools. The place is also dotted with old British buildings, farms, and hamlets. Panchgani’s natural fresh air and pleasant weather has also made it a site of a TB Sanatorium. The pristine environs of the place attracts many visitors here.
During November to February a number of tourist activities take place in Panchgani as this is the peak tourist season. A lot of outdoor adventure activities can be undertaken at this time as the weather is just perfect. A great way to explore its quaint hamlets, strawberry farms, and enjoy the lovely views is on foot, on a pony, or a bicycle, as it has many green trails to follow. Ponies and bicycles are easily available on hire at this time. Of course local cabs are also available for those who prefer that mode of travel.
During the month of March a 4-day Strawberry Festival takes place in Panchgani and a lot of tourists come here at this time. Panchgani is well-known for cultivation of strawberries and has many farms that tourists can visit and even enjoy freshly plucked strawberries. In April the Mapro Strawberry Festival takes place in the adjoining town of Mahabaleshwar, and again a lot of tourists come visiting during this period.
Getting
accommodation in Panchgani is generally not a problem, and you have plenty of options to choose from. If you are travelling with family during the peak season it is advisable to
book Panchgani packages in advance, to ensure everything goes smoothly. Panchgani is an idyll hill station for the entire family and is well-connected by road from Pune and Mumbai.
