There is a reason why British chose Panchgani as a favourite summer resort. Make that many reasons. The name means five hills and the beautiful mountains make this the perfect getaway from Mumbai when you want respite from the noise, heat and pace of the city. The mountain air is pure and Panchgani enjoys mild weather through the year. As winter creeps up, is turns colder, adding to its charms. So, pull on your warm clothes and head for the higher climes of Panchgani, where you can take quiet walks amidst woods where the silver oak stands. At this time of year, the poinsettia begins to blooms as well, brightening the hillside with its hues.
While slowing down and watching the mist roll across the mountains is most people's idea of break in Pancgani, there's plenty to do and see as well. Sydney point, situated on a hillock facing the Krishna Valley, is a perfect spot from which to take in views of the Dhom Dam and Pandavgad.
Visit also Table Land, an imposing expanse of laterite rock, considered the second longest mountain plateau in Asia. Stop for senic views at Parsi Point en route Mahabaleswar. Devil's kitchen, at the southern end of Table Land, is wrapped in myth and worth taking a look at. It is believed that the Pandavas made the place their home for a while and also created the Pandavgad caves nearby.
Drive: Panchgani is 245 km from Mumbai. Drive up, negotiating the mountain roads once you leave the plains.
Stay: Check in at the Strawberry Hills Resort for rooms with a view and some warm hospiality from the owners.
Shopping: Panchgani is home to the reputed Mala's Jam industry. Buy some strawberry jam made from locally grown strawberries.
Chiplun, in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district, lies on the Mumbai-Goa driving route and makes for the perfect short break. Here, surrounded by unspoiled nature, you can slow down and find an antidote for city-included stress.
Chiplun is also known as the abode of Lord Parshurama and has a famous temple dedicated to him. The Vashishti river meanders through the little town, lending it a definite serenity. It looks spectacular in the morning light. Sunsets across the river are another of Chiplun's top attractions and you must catch one, too.
On weekend trip to Chiplun visit the 300-years-old Parshurama temple, which draws scores of devotees. Go also to the Marleshwar temple. Spend some time at the Shivaji museum which showcases various aspects of the life of Chhattrapati Shivaji.
Ten km from Chiplun, set in the Vashishti river, is the small island of Gowalkot which houses a fort dating back to 1690. This is a big draw for trekkers who reach the top of the fort to be rewarded with superb views. The route to Nageshwar Temple is also popular with tekkers and exhilarating without being too difficult. The laterite Pandava Caves are also must-see when you are in Chiplun. With the monsoon just receding, the Sawatsada Falls, not far from the Parasurama Temple, will be in full flow and are well worth visiting as is the Koyna Dam. The Nehru Smriti Udyan is a good spot from which to take in this awe-inspiring dam.
Getting There: Chiplun is 320 km from Mumbai and makes for a hotel that has a river view.
Stay: There are local plenty of accommodation choices in Chiplun. Look for a hotel that has a river view.
Eat: Eat the local Malvan cuisine when in Chiplun. The seafood is excellent and the jack fruit chips are a speciality.
