6 Amazing Weekend Getaways To Visit Near Pune

Pune is one of the unique cities in India that has a beautiful amalgamation of modern city life while preserving the cultural essence of the state. The city has also bagged the title of ‘most liveable city of India’. With a perfect mix of adventure, spirituality, and history, Pune has managed to please people of all ages. You will be surprised to know that this high-spirited city is surrounded by many landmark destinations. If you are an explorer at heart who loves to visit various places on weekends, then Pune is one such city that will hold your attention. Edgy hiking trails, lush green surroundings, and sparkling waterfalls are just a short drive away from Pune.

If you believe that nature’s beauty is accentuated in monsoons, then you are in great luck. As Pune receives plenty of rainfall during the rainy season, the nearby areas also liven up in the monsoons. If you happen to visit Pune in the monsoons, don’t forget to cover these places near Pune for an exhilarating experience:

# Sinhagad Fort

The Sinhagad Fort, also known as ‘The Lion Fort’, is a remarkable place in the history of Pune. It is located at a comfortable distance of 37 KM from the city. This huge fort was built ages ago at a height of 1312 metres above sea level. Known to be built as a strategic monument that protects the second largest city in Maharashtra, Sinhagad Fortress is the epitome of nature’s beauty.

This is an exemplary weekend destination that is counted as one of the best monsoon places near Pune. Punekers and tourists love to visit Sinhagad Fort in the rainy season to enjoy the scenic beauty of this place. It is an ideal location for moderate hiking and biking. Furthermore, the drive from Pune to Sinhagad is an experience in itself. You can witness the vistas of sylvan charm on the curvy road that leads to the fort. Once you reach there, traverse the uneven path of the fortress and spend some time admiring the majestic surroundings. You can also find some local dhabas preparing authentic Maharashtrian cuisine that is a must-try. Make sure to carry an umbrella as the rain god may pour rain abundantly at any time of the day.

# Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar tops the list of the most popular places to visit in the monsoon near Pune. Rain brings the best out of this small hill station located at a distance of 120 km from Pune. This mystical hill station has a history that dates back to the 13th century when the ancient ruler built a small temple and a water tank near the Krishna river. From then to now, Mahabaleshwar has been a go-to place for nature lovers. If you are looking for a monsoon getaway near Pune, this is the right place for you. Synonymous with panoramic landscapes, plunging waterfalls, and enchanting hills, Mahabaleshwar has a lot in store for you. The gorgeous view of the western ghats in the Sahyadri mountain range during the monsoons is a sight to behold forever.

If you are visiting here between the months of June and September, expect drizzling throughout the day. However, you get to see the famous points of Mahabaleshwar like Lodwick Point, Elphinstone Point, Savitri Point, and Elephant’s Head Point in the most glorious way as the monsoon livens up the entire region. During your visit, make sure to go to the famous strawberry farms of Mahabaleshwar to buy some fresh berries, syrups, and jams.

# Lonavala

Lonavala is the most talked about destination near Pune, which makes it hard to miss as it is one of the best places to visit in the rainy season. This pristine hill station is nestled in the centre of the Sahyadri mountain range at a distance of 67 KM from Pune. Lonavala was also a vital strategic location for the Maratha Empire. It is the region that separates the Deccan Plateau regions from the Konkan coast.

Today, Lonavala is a popular picnic spot near Pune where people visit on weekends to enjoy the enticing view of the valley and explore beautifully built ancient caves like Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves. Other than this, Lonavala has several sightseeing points like Lohgad Fort, Pawna Lake, Bhushi Dam, and Tiger’s Leap that attract a huge influx of tourists during the rainy season. Whether you visit Lonavala with friends or family, be assured that you will have a great time. Plan your trip to cover the prime tourist spots and indulge in adventurous activities to have the most fun. You can halt at the nearby shops to buy ceramic items for your home.

# Khandala

Khandala is counted among the top places to visit near Pune in monsoon. It is yet another hill station that you can explore near Pune to enjoy a breath-taking view of a dense valley and spectacular landscape. Lonavala and Khandala are the twin hill sisters that attract numerous tourists in the rainy season.

If you love to stay connected with nature and have a fascination for cascades, crystal clear lakes and dancing meadows, Khandala will not disappoint you. Sit down on the hilltop and admire nature’s best creation that brings a sense of calmness to your mind. If you are an adventurous person, go for a little hike, passing several brooks and bushes, to drench in the waterfall. The waterfalls are crowded in the monsoons as people gather in large numbers to bathe in the plunge pools. Khandala has several vantage points like Rajmachi Point, Roach–Cut Shrines, and Shingroba Temple that you can visit on your short vacation. Do not miss trying some Vada Pav served with a hot cup of tea or coffee when you visit this hidden gem in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra.

# Bhimshankar

Your Pune tour package is incomplete without visiting Bhimshankar. Located at a distance of approximately 110 KM, it is one of the most loved places by tourists due to its verdant routes and scenic surroundings. This place unfurls into a new form during the monsoons as the circumambient region is washed with rain. When you start your journey to Bhimashankar from Pune, prepare yourself to spot many picturesque locations where you may want to stop and take some photos. Once you reach your destination, gushing waterfalls, dense flora and fauna, breath-taking landscape, and evergreen forest will welcome you in the most glorious way. Bhimashankar is a trekking heaven for adventure seekers. However, the trails are slippery during monsoons, so be mindful when you go for a trek.

Bhimashnkar is also famous because of the Bhimashankar Temple. During your visit, spend some peaceful time at the temple premises beholding the magnificent stills of nature or meditate for some time to centre your thoughts. Other than this, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is also an excellent place to cover during your trip. This is a great place to visit for a well-balanced vacation in the monsoon near Pune.

# Lavasa

Lavasa is one of those places that gives you the feel of an international destination in India. It is famously called the “mini Amsterdam” by some localities. Located at a distance of 60 km from Pune, this place transports you to European culture that is evident in the surrounding buildings and architecture. It has a clean environment, well-constructed buildings, and a beautiful waterfront. During monsoons, you can drive to this place to soak in nature’s goodness. Take a walk around the lake and Temghar Dam to feel the cool breeze that calms your senses. Other than this, there are plenty of food stalls and local shops where you can pick up some gift items for your loved ones. Hands down, Lavasa is the closest place to visit near Pune that you can cover in a single day during the monsoons.