Panchgani derives its name from the five hills around it. At an altitude of 1334 m it is just 38 m below Mahabaleshwar. These 38 m translate themselves into a breathtaking 20 kms approach from Mahabaleshwar, that swoops around bends with abandon, offering heart stopping views of the river krishna on one side & the coastal plains on the other. Panchgani is the quintessential hill station, with the Raj stamped indelibly all over it. It can be seen in the old architecture of the old British buildings, the parsi houses, & the boarding schools that have been for a century or more. Amble along the walkways, thickly canopied by lush trees & vegetation & delights in the secrets you come upon. The Krishna, snaking through tiny hamlets, farms & ravines, hundreds of meters below. Visit table land, a flat mountain peak & feast your eyes on the coastal plains, looking like miniature water colors. Select a horse from one of the numerous stables & canter along uncharted routes through hidden lovers' lanes, to the caves & kamalgad fort. Or while away at the bazaar. Panchgani is one of the rare places that doesn't crowd anyone, yet in its own unhurried way deeply touches every visitor.