Pune has astonishingly grown to be one of the most happening youth cities in the country, offering pleasant weather, incredible scenic beauty, aesthetic nightlife, and eventful festivals. Sprawling with the young crowd, the city not only stands out for its prosperous culture but also for the millions of career opportunities available for the students and migrants from all over the world.
Being a city of many cultures and communities, Pune reflects a much-needed blend of heritage and modernization in present times. With the largest green coverage among all other cities in the country, it is a wonderful place to set your inhibitions free. The very famous “Ganpati Mahotsav” celebrated every year in the city is something you cannot afford to miss in your lifetime. The rich geographical splendour and the very modern youth culture have set Pune apart not only as an ideal tourist place but also as a place to settle down.
Besides, the city offers few of the best attractions for a perfect weekend getaway with your friends or spouse. So in case you are planning to visit the city anytime soon or already living there, here’s a list of 20 beautiful and exciting weekend retreat destinations near Pune, to help you Punekars keep the zeal to both work and party hard.
If you are fond of misty, green Mountains, here’s a list of hill stations you can’t miss –
Lonavala (Distance from Pune-64Km)
If you are in Pune, you cannot miss out the most popular hill station closest to the city. Lonavala is the most bewitching experience, especially during the monsoons. Among several places like Rajmachi Point, Tungarli Dam, Bhaja Caves, and the Lohagad Fort, the major attractions to visit are –
- Tiger’s Leap: One of most famous tourist spot with a look of a tiger leaping into the valley. An astounding cliff-top view from a height beyond 650m offers an all-inclusive view of the hills and the Western Ghats. Also, enjoy the most fascinating “Echo point” on the Tiger’s Leap.
- Bhushi Dam: A favourite weekend relaxing place for Maharashtrians. The dam is a beauty to watch during the rainfall. The overflowing water over the steps of Bhushi Dam and then falling through the rocky terrain make this place a hit among the youngsters.
- Lonavala Lake: The Lake covers about 1.6kms of the town and exemplifies the scenic beauty around. The lake water is utilized in powering the plants. This place attracts tourists for the variety of street foods, complimented by the amazing weather.
So if you admire foggy weather, steep hilly roads, edgy mountain tops, candy “chikki”, and nature at its best, Lonavala is a must-visit for you.
Lavasa (Distance from Pune-65Km)
Don’t miss out on the privately planned hill city of Pune, scattered across 7 hills, covering an area of 25000 acres. Lavasa, being the newest hill station designed by the Lavasa Corporation, offers the perfect blend of scenery and magnificent architecture. Based on the town Portofino, the city gives you a perfect aura of Italy. As a result, it is turning out to be a chilling place for people looking for a small getaway from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life.
Situated in the Mose Valley with an elevation of 640m, this city is absolutely a relaxing holiday destination located amidst the lush green hills, and charming the visitors with its mesmerising views. Surrounding the elongated Varasgaon Dam Reservoir, enjoy a luxurious escape with elite hotels & restaurants, site tours, laid-back picnics, high adrenaline sports to nature adventures, and much more.
Mahabaleshwar (Distance from Pune-120Km)
Enjoy the exclusive strawberry farms and captivating beauty of this hill station situated in the Western Ghats. Located in Satara district at an elevation of 1353m, Mahabaleshwar is a breathtaking illustration of magnificent ancient temples, flourishing dense green forest, splendid waterfalls, hill tops, and majestic views. This city is certainly among the most sought after weekend getaways from Pune. Out of its several charming spots, the major attractions are –
- Elephant’s Head Point: The spot is famous for the view of Deccan traps giving an appearance – like an elephant’s trunk.
- Wilson’s Point: This place is recognized being a wide plateau offering an astounding view of the sunrise from any of its three watch points.
- Venna Lake: Constructed by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj – the Raja of Satara, it is a soulful place to enjoy a fun-filled boat ride across the lake along with a horse ride just next to the Venna Lake.
- Mahabaleshwar Temple: The Mahabali or Mahabaleshwar temple is a prehistoric shrine and a reflection of the Maratha tradition. The temple is divided into two sections – the inner section features the 6 feet tall Shiva linga, as the presiding deity.
Mahabaleshwar can be summarized into alluring valleys, serene lakes, majestic mountain tops, and a refreshing strawberry delight for your weekend fun!
Bhimashankar (Distance from Pune – 127 Km)
The Bhimashankar is the perfect destination for the Road Trip Lovers from Pune due to its Gorgeous Routes and Scenic Beauty. The tourists can visit one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples of Lord Shiva. In addition to religious destinations, the tourists can also enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty and lush green surroundings. The animal lovers can visit the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary to witness some endangered species such as Giant Indian Squirrel. It is regarded as one of the best monsoon picnic spots near Pune. A perfect time to visit Bhimashankar is during the monsoon season.
- Places to Visit – Guptbheem, Padar Killa, Nagphani Hill, Shiva Temple
- Things to Do – Wildlife Watching, Temple Visit, Picnic
Panchgani (Distance from Pune-104Km)
Discovered by the British as a summer resort in the 1860ss, Panchgani forms a beautiful tourist attraction. Situated at an altitude of 1334m and surrounded by 5 hills, this beautiful hill station can be spotted with Parsi houses and British style old bungalows. Besides the striking attractions like Parsi Point, Kamalgad Fort, Devil’s Kitchen, Rajpuri Caves, and Mapro Gardens, the major sightseeing options in Panchgani are–
- Table Land: Covering an area of 100 acres, this flat land covered with a carpet of grass offers scenic beauty along with entertainment in the form of horse riding, merry go rounds, and mini trains for kids.
- Kate’s Point: This spot is famous for offering a great view of the valley and waters of Dhom Dam and Balakwadi.
- Sydney Point: It is an awe-inspiring sight from the top of high land and is ideal for creative photography.
- Mahabaleshwar Temple: The Mahabali or Mahabaleshwar temple is a prehistoric shrine and a reflection of the Maratha tradition. The temple is divided into two sections – the inner section features the 6 feet tall Shivalinga, as the presiding deity.
Karnala (Distance from Pune – 124 Km)
If you are looking for a Refreshing and Invigorating monsoon destination near Pune, then the Karnala is the place for you. The tourists can enjoy the sweet melody of the birds chirping and relish the views of the natural habitat of flora and fauna. The tourists can explore the Ruins of the Karnala Fort or they can engage themselves in a Trek to the Karnala Pinnacle, which is maintained for birds such as vultures, eagles, and many endangered species. There is also a Bird Sanctuary where you can see more than 40 species of migratory birds.
- Places to visit near Karnala – Ambarnath Fort, Elephant caves, Karnala Bird Sanctuary
- Things to Do – Corporate Outing, Trekking, Camping, Birdwatching
Bhandardara (Distance from Pune-175Km)
Home to the highest peak in Maharashtra – Mount Kalsubai (1600m elevation), Bhandardara is a soulful experience for your weekend vacations. The splendid waterfalls, lush greenery, and high mountains make the place perfect for holidaying and trekking. The major attractions of this hill station are –
- Wilson Dam: Built on Pravara River in the year 1910, it is the largest earthen dam in the country boasting the dense green trees and little streams at the base of the dam.
- Umbrella Falls: Formed under the Wilson Dam, this falls takes the appearance of an umbrella because of the immense force with which the water falls on the rocks at its base. The view is simply breathtaking.
- Kalsubai Peak: Known as the Everest of Maharashtra, the Mountain Kalsubai is highest peak of the Sahyadri Ranges. It is also an ideal place to trek.
If you really admire the beauty of the majestic mountains, then do not miss out on Bhandardara.
Kamshet (Distance from Pune: –Just over 50 Km)
Kamshet is a beautiful location situated at 2,200 ft above the sea level. This place has all the things, which are needed for a perfect vacation and can be easily accessed by road and rail. There are many private companies offering Paragliding facilities to the visitors. The tourists can enjoy Paragliding activities if they visit the Kamshet between the months of October and May. Along with this activity, you can visit Placid Lakes, Lush Green Hills, Ancient Caves and Medieval Fortresses. Other main attraction near Kamshet is Vadivali Lake. The lake is one of the most Scenic and Largest Lake in the Area.
- Places to visit in Kamshet: – Shinde Wadi Hills, Pawna Hills, Bedsa Caves, Bhairi Caves, Kondeshwar Temple
- Things to Do: – Paragliding, Hiking, Sightseeing
Mulshi Dam and Lake (Distance from Pune – 35 Km)
It is a great lakeside Getaway situated at a couple of hours drive from Pune. It is truly a Hidden Gem to visit this place during the Months of Monsoon. The tourists will love to watch the scenic beauty and they can easily relax there for hours. The adventure lovers can opt for a Drive Through picturesque Cliffs and Valleys. It is one of the best tourist spots near Pune famous for its Several Waterfalls and Lakes in the monsoon season.
- Places to Visit – Tamhini Ghat, Tung Fort, Korigad Fort, Tikona Fort
- Things to Do – Lake Sightseeing, Camping, Relaxing etc.
Lohagad Fort (Distance from Pune – 74 Km)
Lohagad is an Impressive Fort located on the Top of a Hill overlooking the Pavana River flows down the valley. This fort was once the Bastion of the famous Shivaji and known as one of the most impressive forts in the states of Maharashtra. The major attractions nearby fort are Bhaja and Karla caves. The tourists can also opt for Trekking to the Caves and Fort in the vicinity while on a trip to Lohagad. It is perfect to visit this fort between the months of June and August.
- Things to Do – Trekking, Camping, Sightseeing from the Top of Cliff
Rajmachi (Distance from Pune – 78 Km)
Rajmachi is one of the perfect weekend getaways near Pune for the Trekking and History Lovers. It is a small village located within the Sahyadri Ranges, making it a paradise for Trekking and Camping. There is a fort in its vicinity which is a popular choice for the people who loves to trek. Along with adventure activities, this place offers a chance to witness lush greenery to the tourists. The other attractions of the Rajmachi are Shrivardhan Fort and Manoranjan Fort.
- Things to Do – Trekking, Camping, Sightseeing
Wai (Distance from Pune – 88.5 Km)
Wai was famous with the name of Virat Nagari during the ancient times. It is situated on the banks of the Krishna River. It is a perfect weekend getaway and one reached in just 2.5 hours from Pune. Wai is also known as Kashi of Dakshin as there are more than 100 Temples situated in the region. If you are looking to see some Scenic Beauty and some Divine Experience with your family or friends, then you can choose this beautiful city.
- Places to Visit – Wai Caves, Krishna Ghat, Ganpati Temple, Kamalgad
- Things to Do – River Crossing, ATV rides, Trekking, Raft Building
Koynanagar (Distance from Pune – 174 Km)
Koynanagar is a small town famous for the Koyna Dam among the travelers, which is built across the Koyna River. The main attractions of this town are the Botanical Gardens, Kumbharli Ghat Viewpoint, and Nehru Gardens. There is a famous Wildlife Sanctuary where lots of wild creatures live. The tourists can enjoy activities such as Bird watching, Camping, and picnic near the Koyna Lake. It is perfect to visit this beautiful town during the monsoons.
- Places to Visit – Kumbharli Ghat, Koyna Reservoir, Nava Bhairi Mandir, Lake Resort
- Things to Do – Bird watching, Picnic, Sightseeing
Sinhagad (Distance from Pune – 37 Km)
Sinhagad is a beautiful and Ancient Fortress located nearly 30 Km from the city of Pune. If you are a group of youngsters looking to Hike the Slopes of a mountain near Pune, then the Sinhagad is the perfect destination for you. It is also a popular go-to destination for Puneites and situated in the Bhuleshwar range of the Sahyadri Mountains. It was built as a Strategic Battleground about more than two thousand years ago. It is perfect to visit this place during the months of July and February.
- Things to Do – Hiking, Climbing, Sightseeing
If you are a Beach person and love the waves calling, here’s a list of beaches near Pune you can’t miss.
Mumbai (Distance from Pune – 149 Km)
Mumbai is popular as the Financial Capital of India, which can turn out one of the best weekend getaways near Pune. The city is home to the Bollywood Film Industry and consists of a diverse range of attractions and activities. The main attractions of the Mumbai are Haji Ali Dargah, Elephanta Caves, Prince of Wales Museum, Hanging Gardens, Mt. Mary Church, Siddhivinayak Temple, ISKCON Temple, Chor Bazaar and Borivali National Park.
The tourists can also enjoy a Ferry Ride from the Gateway of India or watch a Movie Shoot in the nearby studios of the city. The ideal time to visit Mumbai is between the November and February.
- Things to Do – City Sightseeing, Shopping, Adventure and Lots of Fun
Alibag Beach (Distance from Pune-143Km)
Alibag is one of the most popular beach retreats from Pune. It is a chilling hub for Punekars and Mubaikars. Besides the beach, you have various other options for sight scenes as well as water sports adventures here. One of the famous spots is the Kolaba, which can be a stopover only in the gap between the low and high tides. There are also places like Vikram Vinayak temple, Magnetic Observatory, the tower of St. Barbara, and Kanhoji Angre Samadhi – making it an astonishing tourist attraction near Pune.
Kashid Beach (Distance from Pune-172Km)
Kashid is one of the most alluring sun-kissed beaches in Maharashtra with clean white sand and crystal-clear water. It is an ideal ‘trip’ destination amongst all the other beaches near Pune. Situated on the coasts of Arabian Sea and surrounded by Casuarina groves, you can get to experience greenery and a mind soothing scenic beauty with your friends or family. The Uma Maheshwari Temple, Balaji Temple and the famous Murud Janjira fort are some other attractions of this place.
Diveagar Beach (Distance from Pune-163Km)
Diveagar is a perfect weekend getaway to enjoy the fine white-sand beach located on the shores of the Arabian Sea. Stretching across 5kms the beach is ideal for sea surfing because of its strong tides. Other adventure sports include Parasailing, Jet Ski, Banana boat ride, motor boat ride, and bumper ride. Along with the very popular Ganesh temple, this place is home to stunning landscapes and sceneries making it to the list of “must visit” beaches near Pune.
Harihareshwar Beach (Distance from Pune-174Km)
If you desire to experience the gentle winds, inviting waters, and soft sands, then Harihareshwar beach is the one you must visit. Enjoy the relishing sea food, go boating, or sway on the blue waters of this magical coast – you can enjoy it all! Encircled by four holy hills namely – Harihar, Bramhadri, Pushpadri, and Harshinachal, the place has two beaches on either side of Harihareshwar temple – the main attraction besides the beautiful beach.
Dapoli Beach (Distance from Pune-201Km)
Owing to its cool climate throughout the year, it is an ideal destination for relaxation. Enjoy the clean, virgin beach with comparatively lesser crowds along with the activities like dolphin watching and beach Volley ball. Located in the Ratnagiri district, this famous Konkan hill station is packed with attractions from historic forts, temples, pristine beaches and lush vegetation surrounding all of it, making it a favourite weekend spot for travellers.
This curated list of 20 weekend getaway destinations is best suited for both mountain as well as beach lovers. All of them are reflections of serene beauty and mind-striking architectures. So, don’t just sit at home and spend your weekend lying on your bed. If you are in Pune, take advantage of this opportunity and go around these magnificent places to sooth your mind and heart from the daily hustles of life.