Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern infrastructure. However, if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of weekend getaways near Pune that you can explore. From scenic hill stations to serene beaches, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top 10 weekend getaways from Pune to escape the city blues:
1. Lonavala-Khandala
Located around 70 km from Pune, Lonavala and Khandala are popular hill stations known for their picturesque landscapes, misty mountains, and pleasant weather. These twin hill stations are famous for their scenic beauty, ancient caves, and waterfalls. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Lonavala and Khandala include Bhushi Dam, Karla Caves, Rajmachi Point, and Kune Falls.
2. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar, located around 120 km from Pune, is a scenic hill station known for its lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. The town is also famous for its strawberry farms and has a pleasant weather throughout the year. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar include Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgarh Fort, Lingmala Waterfall, and Venna Lake.
3. Lavasa
Located around 60 km from Pune, Lavasa is a planned hill city that offers a perfect escape from the city blues. The city is built around the picturesque Warasgaon Lake and is known for its scenic beauty, water sports, and adventure activities. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Lavasa include Bamboosa, Lakeshore Watersports, and the Lavasa Nature Trail.
4. Panchgani
Panchgani, located around 100 km from Pune, is a serene hill station known for its scenic beauty and colonial architecture. The town is situated on a plateau and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Panchgani include Sydney Point, Table Land, and Parsi Point.
5. Matheran
Matheran, located around 120 km from Pune, is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty, toy train, and colonial architecture. The town is situated at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level and is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Matheran include Charlotte Lake, Panorama Point, and Louisa Point.
6. Alibaug
Alibaug, located around 140 km from Pune, is a serene coastal town known for its scenic beauty, pristine beaches, and historic forts. The town is situated on the Konkan coast and is a popular weekend getaway for beach lovers. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Alibaug include Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, and Nagaon Beach.
7. Bhandardara
Bhandardara, located around 170 km from Pune, is a scenic hill station known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and serene lakes. The town is situated in the Sahyadri mountain range and is famous for its trekking trails and adventure activities. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Bhandardara include Randha Falls, Arthur Lake, and Ratangad Fort.
8. Dapoli
Dapoli, located around 170 km from Pune, is a serene coastal town known for its pristine beaches, historic temples, and cultural heritage. The town is situated on the Konkan coast and is a popular weekend getaway for beach lovers. Some of the popular beaches in Dapoli include Murud Beach, Karde Beach, and Ladghar Beach. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing or take a boat ride to explore the nearby fishing villages. The town is also known for its ancient temples such as the Keshavraj and Vyaghreshwar temples.
9. Kolad
Kolad, located around 120 km from Pune, is a picturesque village situated on the banks of the Kundalika River. The town is famous for its adventure activities such as river rafting, trekking, and camping. Visitors can also explore the nearby waterfalls and ancient temples. Kolad is a perfect weekend getaway for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
10. Matheran
Matheran, located around 120 km from Pune, is a beautiful hill station situated in the Western Ghats. The town is famous for its panoramic views, lush green forests, and tranquil ambiance. Visitors can explore the town on foot or take a horse ride to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. The town is also known for its toy train, which takes visitors on a scenic ride through the hills. Matheran is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to escape the city blues and rejuvenate in nature.
In conclusion, Pune has several weekend getaway options that cater to different interests and preferences. From hill stations to beaches and adventure activities, there is something for everyone. These weekend getaways provide a much-needed break from the hectic city life and allow visitors to relax, rejuvenate and explore the natural beauty of Maharashtra.
Travel Tips:
- Plan your trip in advance and make reservations for accommodation and transport.
- Pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the activities and weather conditions.
- Carry basic medications and first aid kit.
- Follow safety guidelines and rules of the places you visit.
- Respect the local culture and traditions.
- Carry enough cash as some places may not accept cards.
- Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
- Keep your surroundings clean and avoid littering.
- Check weather conditions before planning your trip.
- Keep your travel documents safe and handy.
FAQs:
- What is the best time to visit these weekend getaways from Pune?
The best time to visit these places is between October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.
- Are these weekend getaways suitable for families with kids?
Yes, these weekend getaways have something for everyone, including families with kids.
- Can we reach these places by public transport?
Yes, most of these places are well-connected by public transport such as buses and trains.
- What are some popular adventure activities in these weekend getaways?
Some popular adventure activities include trekking, river rafting, camping, parasailing, and jet skiing.
- Is it safe to travel to these weekend getaways during the monsoon season?
It is advisable to check weather conditions before planning a trip during the monsoon season, as some places may be prone to landslides and flooding. It is better to avoid such places during heavy rainfall.