Mountains are so special that they glisten with magic. It were they who compelled me to write about hill stations this month. I try to beat the sultry summer heat and make the most of the summer holidays.
I continue to write about hill stations as I have always preferred mountains over beaches. Adhering to my motto 'Calmness resides in the coolness of mind'.
I continue to write about hill stations as I have always preferred mountains over beaches. Adhering to my motto 'Calmness resides in the coolness of mind'.
From Mahabaleshwar we proceeded towards the twin city of Panchgani which is about 19 kms from Mahabaleshwar.
Panchgani is surrounded by hills on five sides (Panch=five, Gani=hills). This lush green hill station is situated at the altitude of 1,293m.
Mesmerizing in its natural beauty, it entices tourists from all over the world. The smell of strawberries re-vibrate and makes the air smell sweet. A heaven to feel yourself rejuvenated.
Panchgani is famous for its boarding schools and strawberry farms.
It was during the reign of British superintendent John Chesson who had made Panchgani a retreat for people to take a break from their hectic schedules. He planted foreign plants like silver oak and poinsettia.
Panchgani has been the settings for Several plots of Indian movies like 'Tare Zamin Par', Agent Vinod etc
Places of Interest in Panchgani
Table land
It is the longest mountain plateau in Asia spread over an area of 95 acres. The table land offers a gorgeous and breathtaking views of the valleys which are a treat to eyes.The colour of nature relax muscles and induces tranquility.
Legend says that the Pandavas had stopped here and hid in the caves called Devil's Kitchen and as a proof one can even see their footprints embedded on the earth.
Table land is an excellent place for sightseeing and a horse ride. This location is dotted with several majestic horses out of which you can choose any for a ride.
An amazing restaurant lies await for you in a cave here. This restaurant is called Devil's kitchen the same place where the pandavas stayed.
The entry of table land is marked by several shops for amusement and fun. You can play games like Loop the Loop and can try your luck with three balls or you can just eat, drink and relax.
Sydney Point
Named after Sir Sydney Beckwarth who was commander in chief of Bombay in 1830. An amazing point which offers the charming view of -
- Krishna valley
- Dhom dam,
- Kamalgarh fort
- Pandavgad range
- Mandhardeo hills
- The city of Wai
Parsi Point
Parsi point gives an exotic view of the valley. You can capture some memorable pictures at this place. This place has a small play area and several food stalls. One can see the Krishna Valley and the backwaters of Dhom Dam.
Elephant's Head Point
An astonishing sculpture where nature has turned its magic wand and has carved itself into a elephant's head and trunk.
It is at the extreme end of the Lodwick point and is jointed to it by a narrow ridge about 5-6 feet wide.
From this point the stunning Koyna Valley can be seen. The point is flocked by tourist all round the year.
MAPRO GARDEN
Panchgani is known for its strawberry farm. Mapro Garden is a very beautiful garden with a small plant nursery, children play area and a retail outlet for selling Mapro products.
The retail shop has jellies, jams, chocolates, sweets, crush in all the different flavours one could imagine. The bright colours in the bottles seem more vivid and appeals the fhe foodie within you.
The place allows you to have a glimpse of how bread and khakras (Crunchy flat crackers) are made. You can see the bakers slicing away great loaves of bread. The taste of which you can have on your plate in sundry varieties in the restaurant at Mapro Garden. To awaken your taste buds buy loaves of bread for amazing flavours the next day for an appetizing morning breakfast.
Mapro garden overlooks a strawberry farm and if you get a chance to visit in the month of March you can be the part of the Strawberry festival and have the memorable experience of plucking strawberries yourself by shaking off your laziness.
Local markets are much more brighter and are washed with the colours of fresh fruits and vegetables that invites you to take goodies back for friends and families.
Along with a visit to nature amidst the clouds which is simply irresistible do not forget to visit Cheese and Chocolate factory on your way.
Enjoy the process of decadent cheese and chocolates being made in front of your very own eyes at the cheese and chocolate factory An experience only you can witness before they get wrapped up and displayed in your grocery aisles seeming like the everyday mundane products.
Along with a visit to nature amidst the clouds which is simply irresistible do not forget to visit Cheese and Chocolate factory on your way.
Enjoy the process of decadent cheese and chocolates being made in front of your very own eyes at the cheese and chocolate factory An experience only you can witness before they get wrapped up and displayed in your grocery aisles seeming like the everyday mundane products.
To resuscitate your soul from the pollution of your mind the best way is to travel. There would be a hundred reasons not to go but only one way to keep yourself kicking. Stalling is just an issue which never ends so pack your bags and Get Set Go!
3 comments
You should publish books. A very deserving writer!!!
ReplyDeleteAbhishekji ,
DeleteI am glad to inform you that my poem on Mother's Day has been selected in poetry planet for publication along with other poets.It will be available in book "Sending Love to Mom" on Amazon.
My pleasure! Thanks foe reading!
ReplyDelete