Mahabaleshwar and the surrounding Panchgani plateau are India's most productive strawberry-growing area, and the fruits are the local obsession from November to April. The volcanic basalt soils and cool climate produce berries with more flavour than the hothouse varieties that dominate the Indian market, and the roadside stalls that line the approach roads from Panchgani are the best expression of this.
Mapro Garden, on the old Panchgani–Mahabaleshwar road, is the showcase outlet for Mapro Foods, the region's dominant jam and preserves producer. The garden has strawberry beds open for pick-your-own (in season), stalls selling fresh-crushed strawberry drinks, and a large shop selling the full range of Mapro jams, jellies, and chocolates. The strawberry cream — crushed fresh berries with condensed cream — is the indulgence the region is known for. The garden is popular and crowded on weekends; come mid-week or early morning for a more pleasant visit.