Are you looking to take a weekend getaways from Pune? Chances are that you might want to escape on your own. A solo trip could do you a world of good. It will help put things in perspective, ease your mind and refresh you. I lists some of the undiscovered weekend locations near Pune that a solo traveller might enjoy. Is your daily routine getting the best of you? There are a quite a few places around Pune that should catch your fancy. Take a long weekend off from work and make a trip to any of these places.
Pune is a city which is always bustling with energy. When life gets mentally and physically exhausting, a short break for the weekend is always needed. You do not have to go far to enjoy yourself. Maharashtra is a hub for beautiful locations which are rich in history as well as natural beauty. Pune is a beautiful industrial location very close to Mumbai and is now prominent as an educational centre. It is situated on the banks of the Mutha River. Sometimes, a little adventure is good. It helps recharge the batteries and takes your mind off everything else going on around you. If the challenge of a trek excites you, go for it.
A weekend trek sounds like a good idea. Traversing through narrow trails while being surrounded by nature sounds like a great idea. Ask a few friends if they are up for the adventure. If not, take a solo trekking trip of your own.
Looking to leave behind the city for the weekend? Well, it is high time you did so. After all a little break from your everyday routine will help you refresh your body and mind and provide you a peaceful environment where you can simply loll around all day long or carry out your favourite activities. As a matter of fat we would encourage you to explore weekend getaways and resorts around Pune. The time spent at one of the places listed below will help your body and mind relax and get back into rhythm.
The fast-paced life one leads when living in a metro can be too much to handle. Short breaks are needed to recharge the batteries. When rejuvenated, work becomes enjoyable and not a task.
You do not need a reason to pack a small bag and head out for a short trip. Weekend getaways at least once in two months are a must. They give you a reprieve from the dreariness of everyday life. Looking for some peace and quiet? Here are some places you can
Being one of the most developed hubs of India, Pune is also pretty mundane, where people wake up, work, come back home, eat, sleep and repeat. For a change, try packing your things this weekend and escape to a place near enough for a weekend vacation, yet far enough to stay cleared out of the usual life.
When you are mentally exhausted after a long hard week of work, it usually means a vacation is in the offing. Here are some amazing weekend getaways from Pune for you choose from:
1. Lavasa -
Lavasa is the only private planned city in India. So, you can expect to enjoy peace and quiet while also staying close to civilization. The entire town is spread across 25,000 acres of lush greenery. It has become a favourite of people wanting to escape the busyness of city life. Nature lovers can take evening walks on Lavassa roads or take a bike ride up different hills while indulging in nature camping. These tents are air-conditioned and will provide all modern amenities. Lavasa is known as India’s first privately planned city. It also has another distinction – favourite weekend destination.
Spread over 25,000 acres of lush greenery, Lavasa is making its way on the list of the best smart cities in the country. It’s time you paid a visit here and enjoy a few days of much-needed rest and relaxation. The first planned city within a city, Lavasa is soon going to be a part of the smartest cities of the country. The beautiful buildings and beautiful green sceneries are a good option for all tourists from around as well as the whole country. The beautiful holiday resorts serve you with the best of everything. The next place you could plan a weekend getaway at is Lavasa.
Around 58 kilometers away, this place is the first ever private planned city in India. This place is creating quite a stir when it comes to popular tourist destinations close to the city of Pune. So what is it about the place that excites people so much? The adventure sports offered here is a great boost for those who wish to get a rush! Try their zipling, jungle trekking and Burma Bridge based activities and see for yourself. You may also want to try the Segway ride. As the only known planned city in India, Lavasa also proves to be a decent retreat from Pune. Spread across the entire place is a full grown green pasture, thus making your offbeat vacation a true success. Away from Pune by 57.5 kms, the plains of Lavasa are hike-worthy and will thrill you to no end. There are Swiss AC tents built for the trekkers to relax and take comfort in.( Such a happy news!) The Segway Rides are speciality here and you can try your hands at driving the battery powered vehicle brought to life by Dean Kamer. The food available is abundant to fulfil your never ending hunger cravings. Dal Baffla and Churma are must haves here.
2. Wai -
This quaint location is situated on the Krishna River. The city offers scenic views and is among the the best weekend getaways from Pune. If you enjoy the thrill of adventure, Wai is just the place for you. Camping and adventure activities are a great way to de-stress after a trying week at work. It does not end there. You also have the option of choosing from raft building, river crossing as well trekking. There are opportunities for star gazing as well as kayaking. Situated in the Krishna River bed in the Satara District, it is one of the weekend getaways from Pune. In earlier times, it was known as the Viratnagari and is still a place of ruins and immense natural beauty. Camping and trekking are the best activities to do out here and raft building and river crossing are other activities.
Wai, a quaint little destination around 89 kilometres away from the city offers much in terms of tourism. Situated on the River Krishna, this place was known as ViratNagar’ during the ancient times. When there thry the water ATV rides, river crossing activities and camping out a well. 89 kilometres away on the banks of the Krishna River is a fun place to be at this weekend. Wai offers one a great getaway option that presents one with a walk down history. The place is filled with quaint and ancient architecture and is a hub for those who love water sports like rappelling, water skiing, outdoor stuff like camping and more. Known as Virat Nagari during the ancient times, the city of Wail beckons one on a weekend vacation. Located in the district of Satara, Wai is around 86 kilometres away from the city of Pune and is consideres to be one of the best spots that one can choose to visit. When here, one can indulge in camping activities, kayaking, river crossing and even raft building. This place has much to offer its visitors and that is why we have included Wai on the very top of our list of weekend getaways from Pune.
3. Sinhagad -
Sinhagad should be your destination of choice as it is located far from the madding crowd. A solo traveller will be able to spot youngsters undertaking a hiking expedition to the top of the hill on which the place is locared. It is a perfect spot for families, too. The ancient ruins of the fort should also be admired. Most locals visit the spot when they are in the mood to bond over a nice picnic. Trekking to the top of the hill is an experience worth the effort. The name literally means ‘lion’s fort’ and the fort is on top of the hill.
You can almost always see young tourists hiking up the hill to reach the fort. Though the fort is almost completely in ruins presently, it serves as a very popular picnic spot. The palace and fort also serve as a watch point to capture some mesmerizing sceneries. Located around 35kms from Pune, Sinhagad is a favourite trekking spot and a picnic destination. It is well-connected by roads but many people prefer trekking to the fort for the experience. At the fort, there are memorials of Tanaji Malusare and Shivaji's younger son Rajaram. Another spot visiting when at the fort are the military stables. Most people also tend to visit the water body there called Dev Taaki. It contains fresh water throughout the year. This is among the best places near Pune for a trek. If your want a slice of history, try a place called Sinhagad, a popular tourist destination that is about 37 kilometres away from the city of Pune. A famous attraction here is the ruins of Singahad Fort.
The name itself means, the ‘lion’s fort,’ and one is requested to pay a visit to this place when here on a vacation for the weekend. The place is good to visit from the month of July through to February and is sure to give one an experience of a lifetime. Situated to the southwest of Pune, Sinhagad offers one the option of going on some adventurous treks as well. Sometimes, being among ruins can help you find your sanity. If you are a history enthusiast, Sinhagad is a place you could consider visiting. The location offers you the chance to get a glimpse in to rich history of the relatively new state of Pune. A visit to the Sinhagad Fort should also be on your list of places to visit. Sinhagad is definitely one of the more offbeat weekend getaways from Pune.
4. Kamshet -
Have you ever wanted to throw caution to the wind and try your hand at paragliding? If yes, a visit to Kamshet will be worth your while. This place is located close to the main city and surrounded by small villages. You will find paragliders dotting the sky throughout the day. This weekend destination also has a number of old cave temples in addition to medieval hill fortresses. Tripoto also recommends undertaking an exhilarating trek to explore the caves in the region. Paragliding is organized by quite a few adventure camps located in and around the area. Kamshet is among the more isolated places near Pune.
A trip to Kamshet is a must. After all, it is located only a few kms away from Pune city. The area is surrounded by a number of small villages. It paints a picture of a town straight out of a story book. Kamshet is also known for offering paragliding as an adventure sport. The town is located proximate to Lonavala. A part from adventure activities, one can also pay a visit to the many cave temples and hill fortresses found in the area. If you have the time, visit Vadivali Lake which is situated around 12km from Kamshet. It should be considered as one of the best places around Pune. The beautiful destination of Kamshet is very close to Pune and is surrounded by a number of local villages. If you are planning to choose this among so many weekend getaways from Pune, you should also get some good news that this is a place which offers you options for paragliding here. You can also do trekking here and the Kondeshwar and Vindeshvar Temples are the perfect pinch of divinity. The caves situated in this location are mainly the Bhaja Caves and the beautiful Vadivali Lake is at a height of around 2000 ft above sea level.
Another cool place to visit during the weekend is Kamshet that is a mall village around 48 kilometres away from Pune and best visited from October to February. A star attraction here is the Vadivali Lake that is around 2200 feet above sea level and the temples Kondeshwar and Vidveshwar. The famous Bhaja, Karla and Bhedsa caves are to be found here as well. Fun activities like paragliding and trekking is organized here as well. Hidden amidst the Western Ghats, Kamshet is a mini paradise in itself. It is a major paragliding center with the meadows all around. This pictorial locale is gaining swift popularity with more and more people knowing about the scenic beauty it is enclosed up in. At a distance of 48 kms from Pune, getting here is as easy as day and a few hours’ drive will end in happiness here. Vadivali lake is about 12 kms from Kamshet and a must visit at its whopping height of above 2200 ft from the sea level. Kondeshwar temple, Karla, Bhaja and Bhedsa caves and the Vidveshwar temple are a few other destinations of traveler interest that you can seek a trip to.
5. Panchgani -
Hill stations have a certain charm to them. Panchgani, located close to Pune, is no exception. This beautiful town is centred in the heart of the five hills in Sahyadris. It is also blessed with pleasant climate all through the year. In fact, the Britishers would use this place as their retreat during their rule here. It attracts people from all over the country. The River Krishna flows by and forms a serene lake at Dhom Dam, which is built right across it.
A visit to one of the many strawberry farms here will definitely also make your day. One cannot doubt that Panchgani is among the best weekend getaways from Pune. Panchgani is just 101 kilometres away and is a fun filled place to trip to. Located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, tent pitching is one of the options that offered to those who like a night out in the open. Ride a bullock cart or a tractor and get back to those good old days here in Panchgani, a place that brings down the curtain on our list of offbeat weekend getaways from Pune. The Satara district of Maharashtra is blessed with a place called Panchgani that is just about 101 kilometres away from Pune. It is a place for those who swear by outdoor activities like tent pitching, bird watching, trekking along trails and camping. You can hop on to a bullock cart for a ride here as well. It is a nice place to visit and this we urge you to explore weekend getaways and resorts around Pune.
With a enjoyable climate all through the year, this hill station has the perfect location between the five hills of the Sahyadri range. The British were the first to institute this place as one of the best weekend spots from Pune and it maintains the tradition to inveigle its visitors till date. River Krishna gushes nearby only to give birth to a lake with the Dhom Dam built crossways. Both the river and the dam are major tourist sites, flocked by families and trekkers in large numbers. Ideally perfect to visit from September to May, the 100 kms drive from Pune will prove to be a boon once you reach here. Strawberry farms here are many and you can even shop from these lands at negligible prices. All of it sounds exciting, doesn’t it?
6. Khandala -
This popular hill station is located proximate to Pune and serves as the twin of the also popular Lonavala. Most city dwellers make their way here to blow off some steam and relax. If you are looking for a brief escape, Khandala should be on your list.
7. Kolad -
This weekend destination is located around 115kms from Pune. The tiny hamlet has a charm about it. The beauty of the Kundalika River and lush greenery adds to the magic of the place. You will find a lot of adventure enthusiasts in the area. There are adventure activities you can try your hand at, including water rafting, waterfall canoeing and rapelling. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is just the place for you. Weekend getaways from Pune are not difficult to come by. This quaint hamlet town is located around 117kms from Pune. It is further enhanced by the beautiful Kundalika River coupled with lush greenery. If you an adventure enthusiast, this place is definitely worth the visit.
The Kundalika River in Kolad is the prime destination for exhilirating water sports like white water rafting, waterfall canoeing and rapelling, among others. Nature lovers will also be enthralled by this picturesque destination. It is perfect for a family outing.
8. Rajmachi -
Escape to this quaint little village located within 100kms from the main city. Situated in the Sahyadri ranges, Rajmachi offers tourists a few days of peace and quiet. It is home to a large fort – a popular hiking destination for adventure seekers. The trek routes have their starting point at Lonavala or Kondivade. The lush greenery is magnified during the monsoon. Between the thick foliage, one can also find waterfalls and streams. This place is perfect when you want to catch up on some reading and relaxation. The best time to visit here if from September to March.
This is a small village and a good option for trekkers. The Rajmachi Fort is the main attraction here and this is located on a high hill which has to be trekked. The trekking route starts from the beautiful Lonavala and Kondivade. As you go up the hill, you will find the two divisions of the fort namely the Shrivardhan and the Manoranjan Forts. From here you can also get spectacular views of the lush greenery around. Monsoons are the times when the lusciousness of the surroundings comes out in an even better way. So, if you are looking for some of the good weekend getaways from Pune, this is definitely a place to consider. Rajmachi is located proximate to Lonavala and offers stunning views of Sahyadri range in addition to the backwaters of Shirota Dam. The trek to the fort is easy and perfect for amateurs for first-time trekkers. It will only take you around 40 minutes to get to the top. Veteran trekkers say the fort’s construction is quite stunning and is a perfect place for camping. One can also take a tour of two caves situated near the fort. It can accommodate close to 40 people. Places near Pune can be interesting too. The surrounding areas near Pune are perfect for a short weekend break. One such place is Rajmachi.
If you enjoy the thrill of trekking and adventure, this is the right place for you. The location offers stunning views and exotic natural locations. The lush greenery coupled with a number of cascading waterfalls and small streams add to the charm of the place. The best time to visit the place would be from September to March. 78 kms from Pune, Rajmachi falls between Lonavala and Khandala. September to March would be an ideal time to set your foot here. Trekking and camping are frequent activities brought together by groups of adventure buffs. Not to be missed are the innumerable waterfalls and streams, that will make you wonder at the beauty of nature. That being said, the major attraction of the place are however the Rajmachi, Shrivardhan and Manaranchan forts. Rajmachi all in all, is an ideal place to travel to if you’re looking for excuses to escape to one of these weekend spots from Pune.
9. Satara -
This beautiful weekend destination is located right where the River Krishna joins its tributary called Venna. This place was the erstwhile capital of the powerful Maratha Empire. This little city should interest history buffs as there are a number of places of historical relevance to visit. Most of the heritage sites and other cultural hubs are the reason why tourists come here for a relaxing weekend. The weather is good throughout the year for a lovely picnic with family and friends. To experience one of the best weekend getaways from Pune, make a visit to Satara. Once known to be the capital of the powerful Maratha Empire, Satara stands at the meeting point of the Krishna River and Venna, its tributary.
It is the monuments here that draw in the tourists in droves and one is sure to have a great time here. The Vajrai waterfalls, and the forts Sajjangarh and Ajinkyatara are places one cannot miss here and the Kass Plateau is one of nature’s wonders to behold here in Satara. July to February is when one should visit this wonderful place. Around 112 kilometres away from Pune, Satara is full of surprise packages that one should visit in order to unravel. Take your pick from the list above of some of the best weekend getaways from Pune.
10. Mahabaleshwar -
One of the best places for a weekend getaway would have to be Mahabaleshwar. The large plateau is surrounded by valleys on all four sides. It is among the best picnic spots situated near Pune. What adds to its charm? The lush evergreen forests and beautiful imagery. Legend has it that Mahadev temple is located where the River Krishna originates. A boat ride down Vienna Lake is definitely worth your time. Pratapgarh Fort is another historical place of significance one can visit. Strawberries and resorts is a luxury resort at Mahabaleshwar that is located amidst valleys that grow strawberries. The place is modern with all the amenities that one can ask for. It is a great place to rush off to for the weekend with your family. So be wise and try this out.
11. Malshej Ghat -
The mountain pass is the home to a variety of birds and flora as well. From here, one can expect to witness beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. The forests also contain a wide variety of wildlife. Weekend getaways from Pune are not so hard to find after all.
12. Matheran -
Matheran is widely regarded as India’s smallest hill station. Therefore, it is perfect for a weekend getaway away from city life. Residents of both Mumbai and Pune take long drives here for a holiday with family or friends. This gem of a place gives you close to 38 viewpoints from the site. The views are absolutely breathtaking. If you enjoy taking in the beauty of a sunset, this is the place for you. It definitely makes for one of the amazing weekend getaways from Pune.
13. Mudathon Nashik -
Very close to the Grape City of India, this is a place for unending fun and especially popular with tourists. You can enjoy mud -slinging with strangers and make friends on the go. Just be sporty and get up and dance with others on the beach parties. You can go climb and run around the sporty parks here.
14. Lohagad -
Once the capital of the braveheart Chhatrapati Shivaji, this means the fort made of iron. The Visapur Fort is also nearby and in the same range but this is a symbol of might at its best. Trekking to the Lohagadh fort is the most popular activity and the Bhaja and Karla Caves can be visited together during the same day trip here.
15. Visapur -
A trekking trip to Visapur can be a little tricky once the cross pass of Lohagadh ends. One can find a number of waterfalls at the top of the hill. The steps are quite steep, making the climb a tad bit difficult. The fort looks its best during the monsoon as new waterfalls form after the rain. There are quite a few water bodies near the plateau. From the fort wall, one can get great views of the Pune-Mumbai highway.
16. Torna -
If you are not looking to travel far from the city for a trekking adventure, Torna is the place for you. It is also popularly referred to as Prachandagad. The fort is spread across a large area. Situated proximate to Rajgad, it is the highest fort in the district, measuirng 1400 metres. In order to reach the top, one will be required to trek to Jhunjar machi and Budhla machi. Once there, a direct route will lead you to Rajgad as well. The trek is not difficult. However, if you have a history of heart disease, you might want to spend your time at the base camp.
17. Shivneri -
A short trip from Pune will take you to the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. Shivneri, apart from being a popular trekking spot, is historically significant. When you reach the spot, you will find a number of water bodies as well as statues of Shivaji and his mother Jijabai. This easy trek will hardly take a toll on you.
18. Lonavla -
When the monsoons come, the best place to visit is just a two hour drive away. Lonavla is a paradise during this time of the year and is at a height of 2041 feet above the sea. This hill station is a wonderful place to get away for the weekend and spend a few days in quietness. Nestled in the Sahyadri Ranges, this getaway spot is ideal for those who wish to snooze undisturbed.
If you a looking for a good picnic spot to spend the weekend with your family, you may want to consider this place that is just 66 kilometres along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. For trekkers, this place has a lot to offer you. Visit the hill called the ‘Duke’s Nose’ or cave like Bhaja and Bhedsa for an adventure that will thrill you. The best time to pay this place a visit would be from October through to the month of April. We have made things a lot easier for you by adding Lonavala on our list of offbeat weekend getaways from Pune. Try water rappelling at Durshet, visit a rice plantation or camp out at Maval, this place is filled with options for you.
19. Alibaug -
How about escaping to a place that has a comfortable resort with a spa that provides you with a number of massage options to relax those muscles of yours? There is nothing more comforting that getting pampered whilst getting a hot massage done, then following it up with a dip in the pool. Well, if this idea sounds exciting, pack up and get down to the Radisson Resort and Spa t Gondhalpada, Alibaug. The resort is a splendid place to soak in the best of the Sahayadri Mountains and Veshvi Lake. It provides its guest a number of options for rejuvenation and fun. The place has a number of restaurants that serve exotic cuisines from around the world.
Some of the notable eat outs here are Kokum &, Spice and Aparanta. The cuisines served include Indian, Goan, Mediterranean, Oriental and Continental. Apart from a spa, swimming pool, lounge bar, bistro and fitness centre, this resort is located close to some very popular tourist attractions like the Kolaba Forat which is around 1.5 kilometre’s away. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary and the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary are close and should be visited as well.
20. Tamhini Ghat -
Some of the best weekend getaways from Pune do not necessarily have to have 5-star resorts. The beauty of Tamhini Ghat is the natural surroundings and the peace and quiet it offers. If you are looking for a place to reflect and meditate, look no further. The breathtaking images of waterfalls and mountains will keep you hooked. It is around 112km from the city. The best time to visit this place would be between July and February. It’s time you pack and leave the city behind for the weekend.
21. Panshet -
Most of the places near Pune have sights of rolling hills to offer. In fact, a short escape to the hills is perfect to beat the din of the city. If you haven’t been here already, Panshet could be the choice for you. If you are in the mood, you can always indulge in a few water sports. From jet skiing to kayaking and much more, adventure is endless. This spot is perfect for families who need to bond after a week of being a part due to conflicting schedules.
22. Lenyadri -
Lenyadri offers weekend escapees a chance to interact with nature. The scenic views, the opportunity to take a small trek and a visit to Asthavinayak Darshan are some of the best things to indulge in. Places near Pune are hassle-free – make a trip and you will feel refreshed.
23. Bhimashankar -
Come monsoon and you can pack your bags to leave for this beautiful trekking site. Whether you happen to be an adventure junkie or want some time amidst nature, this place will give your adrenaline a rush you can’t even fathom. Known for the Bhimashankar temple- a primeval shrine on the Sahayadri Hills of Maharastra, it is 125 kms away from Pune in the village of Bhorgiri turning North West to the district of Khed. Enjoying the greenery and local snacks will do you much good here, and characterized by never-ending mountains, the place is high on its lushes and waterfalls as well.
Now that you have options to choose from, take time out and make a visit. You will not regret it. These places near Pune each have a charm of their own. The advantage of visiting any of these weekend getaways from Pune is that it is not far from the city. A road trip is something you can look forward to. The week is drawing to a close and you feel like running away to a place far from the bustling city.
I understand what you feel and thus have come up with this list of offbeat weekend getaways from Pune. From rustic village life to quaint hill stations, you are presented with a plethora of options as you get packing for the weekend. You will find the places listed as great getaways that will calm your nerves and help you unwind. If you feel like you need to go on a weekend trip to rejuvenate, we completely agree with you. As if we have read your mind, here is a list that presents one with a number of spots that make for a great weekend getaway from Pune. It is time that you get those bags of yours packed and hit the highway.