1. Mahabaleshwar

A place full of lush greeneries, sparkling river, and cloudy skies, Mahabaleshwar is a popular escape spot even among the locals. It also has several historical spots and temples where you can have a better understanding of their history and culture. The perfect weather there makes the town a good place to visit all year round. However, there are different things to look out for every season. If you are a strawberry lover, it is recommended to visit during the winter so you can explore various berry gardens. Alternatively, you can visit during the monsoon period where the town will be filled with greeneries — a perfect time for the nature lover.

2. Lavasa

Undoubtedly, Lavasa is a spot built for tourists as it consists of a range of high-spirited activities. This well-planned city will leave you in awe with its natural beauty and enchanting architecture. An ideal destination for couples or the newly wed, you will get to enjoy each other’s company here in the charm of nature or create unforgettable memories while kayaking or playing adventure sports such as paintball and rock-climbing! Lavasa is definitely a destination not to be missed.

3. Matheran

Matheran is one of the cleanest and most beautiful hill stations in India due to its prohibited entry of motor vehicles. Just like many other hills, Matheran provides you with a breathtaking and mesmerizing view when you are at its top. However, this hill has also one of the easiest trails among all, where it is just a 30- to 45-minute trek to the top. It also has a total of 36 viewing points for you to catch the sunset and bizarre landscape. As the smallest hill station, Matheran is also the most peaceful hill and the only one where you are required to travel by toy train, which makes it an unforgettable and unique experience.

4. Tamhini Ghat

Despite being a popular destination, Tamhini Ghat is not as developed when compared to other destinations. With that being said, this place is the closest you can get to nature since there are no manmade works here. A mountain passageway located between Mulshi and Tamhini, it comprises of dense woods, picturesque waterfalls, and lakes. This enticing spot is a great escape for those who have been too caught up in life and would just like to have a peace of mind. Immerse yourself in the silence of nature and enjoy the beauty here.

5. Lohagad-Visapur

Lohagad-Visapur is one of the highest hill forts in Maharashtra. It is also a popular destination for trekkers. Be greeted by lush greeneries and pristine clouds, as this trail is a great place to visit all year round — although it does get a little slippery during the monsoon season. While the difficulty level of the trail is between easy to moderate, it is definitely not for the weak-hearted as it is 1,000 metres (3,280 feet) above sea level! But if you’re a daredevil, you will definitely be awed by the beauty at the hilltop.

6. Kamshet

Kamshet makes for a great one-day getaway near Pune. With its breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and tranquil ambiance, it is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Immerse yourself in the region’s stunning beauty as you witness the rolling hills, lush green valleys, and serene lakes. Explore the ancient rock-cut caves of Bhaja and Bedse, marveling at their intricate carvings and rich history.

Experience the adrenaline rush of paragliding as you soar high above the scenic countryside, taking in panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Feel the wind in your hair and the thrill in your heart as you glide through the sky. Embark on a trekking expedition to the nearby hills, discovering hidden trails, cascading waterfalls, and mesmerizing vistas. Engage in yoga and meditation retreats, finding inner peace amidst the tranquil surroundings.

7. Andharban

The mystical Andharban is a hidden gem in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India, and is one of the top places for a one-day trip near Pune. Prepare to be enchanted by this dense forest trail, known for its breathtaking beauty and serene ambiance. Embark on an adventurous journey through the lush greenery and discover the wonders that await you. As you traverse the winding pathways, be mesmerized by the cascading waterfalls, towering trees, and exotic flora surrounding you.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you explore the hidden treasures of Andharban. Lose yourself in the ethereal mist that often blankets the forest, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Unleash your inner explorer as you navigate the dense foliage, crossing streams and stepping stones. Feel the thrill as you encounter diverse wildlife and witness the vibrant birdlife that calls this place home.

8. Khandala

The shortest distance from Pune to Khandala is approximately 70.9 km (44 mi). The route has an efficient transport system, which makes it easily accessible by road and railway. Once in Khandala, there is a lot you can do. You can start by exploring its natural features, particularly the area lakes and waterfalls. It is always refreshing to spend a few hours meditating and exploring the lush vegetation that surrounds the Kuna Waterfalls.

Besides the serene environs, Khandala also has a rich history that is worth exploring. So make time to visit some of its historical highlights, especially Lohagad Fort, which was used in the 17th century to house prisoners.

9. Panchgani

If traveling by bus, it takes about 3 hours to cover the 108 km (67 mi) stretch between Pune and Panchgani. Once in Panchgani, the Kaas Plateau should be top of your itinerary. As one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, the Kaas Plateau presents a lot of fun for lovers of nature. This is a biodiversity hotspot, with more than 800 species of magnificent wildflowers and butterflies, among other beautiful wildlife.

After admiring the beautiful flora and fauna, head to the lush green mountains of Parsi Point for picnicking, photography, and sightseeing. Parsi Point is one place you can truly get up close with nature.

10. Alibaug

Are you looking for the perfect place to escape city life on your next vacation? Look no further, the coastal city of Alibaug has a number of things that are guaranteed to make your getaway memorable. For instance, there is Alibaug Beach, whose long stretch of sand is ideal for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. The beach is also famous for camel rides, biking, and an array of water activities.

Alibaug’s coastline is also packed with great eateries that serve delicious seafood. Try some, you may learn a thing or two about local cuisine. Lastly, Alibaug has a few roads which make meandering road trips delightful.

11. Sinhagad

If you are not a big fan of traveling, Sinhagad is an excellent destination for your weekend getaway. Located just 37.5 km (23.3 mi) from Pune, Sinhagad holds a number of top tourist attractions worth visiting. One of them is the Sinhagad Fort in the beautiful ranges of Bhuleshwar. This fort has withstood several battles and, today, it stands strong for exploration by historians and enthusiasts.

Besides the fort, the Kaundinyeshwar Temple is another recreational spot you should visit. The temple is a priceless piece of history that offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover more about the area’s history. While here, you should expect nothing short of a spectacular display of ancient carvings and other artifacts.

12. Junnar Caves

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Junnar is known to have a multitude of ancient caves surrounding it, with approximately 220 caves in total. It also consists of the largest and longest caves in India and makes for a great one-day trip near Pune. The most popular among all the caves is Lenyadri Complex, which is a series of rock-cut Buddhist caves. This place makes a great picnic spot for families and friends. The way up the fort though, depending on the individual, may be tough. However, once you get there, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view and extremely clean air that has close to zero pollution!

Weekend getaways from Pune

If you have a whole weekend to spare once you’re done exploring Pune, take your time to discover the city’s beautiful surroundings. Check out these weekend getaways, each with its unique vibe!

13. Rajmachi

It takes about three and a half hours to travel from Pune to Rajmachi. However, if you want to explore more on the way, you can take the long route via Mumbai – the journey will take an extra one and half hours, but it is worthwhile, considering the countless attractions en route.

In Rajmachi, you will have easy access to two historical forts, namely Manaranjan and Shriwardhan. If you love trekking, this is a great opportunity to explore these highlights. The elevation of the fort also allows nature lovers to admire the vast plateau, deep valleys, and ancient passages, including the famous trade route called Bhor Ghat.

14. Mumbai

Maharashtra’s capital, Mumbai, is located 149.7 km (93 mi) from Pune. Here, there are no alternative routes like in the previous cases and so you will have to go through Bengaluru to get to Mumbai. Although Mumbai may be chaotic at times, it is an exciting place with many fascinating things to see. For instance, the city holds beautiful architecture that reflects its colonial past under British rule.

Visit some of its most impressive structures, including the Taj Mahal Palace hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and the Bombay High Court, whose design inspires reverence to the laws of the land. Mumbai is also packed with shops, malls, and markets with a rich assortment of products for your shopping needs.

15. Kolad

Situated 145.6 km (90.5 mi) from Pune is another excellent destination for a weekend getaway, called Kolad. This village is a true gem for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. So, if you are looking for something to fix your adrenaline rush, come to Kolad for a weekend of rafting action, along the 14 km (8.7 mi) Kundalika River. Coupled with the beauty of nature, rafting in Kolad provides an excellent opportunity for beginners to fight their fears with regards to water expeditions.

From here, head to Sutarwadi Lake for more water exploration with your family. The tranquility, cool breeze, and beauty of Sutarwadi Lake is what you need to truly distress after a long week.

16. Nashik

Nashik is located 212.2 km (131.9 mi) from Pune, which is slightly further than the many cities on our list of top destinations. By plane, it will take about an hour to get here, but this option is not as fun as using the bus or other personal means, which allows passengers to interact with countless attractions along the way.

In Nashik, you will also have plenty of opportunities for recreation to fill up your weekend schedule. You can start with a short wine tasting tour of the famous Sula Vineyards. For those touring with kids, make time also to visit Zonkers Adventure Park – it offers a lot of family fun in terms of go-karting, rock climbing, water zorbing, and quad biking.

17. Igatpuri

Not far past Mumbai lies another great recreational destination, called Igatpuri. For those departing from Pune, the journey takes approximately 5 hours, which may seem a lot, but the attractions that await you at your destination are worth the time.

Myanmar Gate is one of the most notable highlights in this area. The gate is an outstanding work of art that draws inspiration from Thai architecture. Here, visitors are advised to take many pictures with the magnificent ornate decorations on the gate – they make excellent souvenirs. Before you get to Igatpuri, there is another perfect spot for lovers of nature called the Bhatsa River Valley. The valley is rich in beautiful vegetation and land formations.

Discover Pune's beautiful surroundings

A city with countless scenic views, beautiful weather, and attractions for everyone, Pune captivates visitors throughout the year. If you’re planning a trip to Pune, but are not sure what to do or where to go after you have exhausted the city’s attractions, worry no more. Visit any of these nearby locations for memorable experiences!