Pune is a beautiful city situated in the western part of India, surrounded by scenic hills and valleys. The city is also surrounded by several natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for weekend getaways. From majestic mountains to lush green forests, there are several places near Pune that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this article, we will explore some of the best weekend getaways from Pune that nature lovers should visit.
If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city life of Pune, look no further than the numerous nature getaways that are just a short drive away. From scenic hill stations to stunning waterfalls, these weekend getaways are the perfect way to recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature.
In this article, we will explore some of the best nature getaways from Pune that are perfect for a weekend trip. From the lush green forests of Mahabaleshwar to the serene hills of Lonavala, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, and let’s hit the road!
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located about 120 km from Pune, and it is known for its stunning natural beauty. With its lush green forests, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar is the perfect getaway for nature lovers. You can spend your days trekking through the hills, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Venna Lake, or simply relaxing in one of the many luxury resorts in the area.
Lonavala
Lonavala is another popular hill station located just 64 km from Pune. This scenic town is surrounded by hills and offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri range. The town is famous for its Chikki, a sweet made from jaggery and nuts, and its natural beauty. You can spend your time in Lonavala exploring the Karla Caves, trekking to the Tiger’s Leap, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
Lavasa
Lavasa is a planned city located about 57 km from Pune. This picturesque town is known for its stunning architecture and serene natural beauty. The town is built around a lake and offers plenty of opportunities for water sports, hiking, and cycling. You can spend your days exploring the town’s many attractions, including the Dasve Lake, the Lavasa Nature Trail, and the Temghar Dam.
Matheran
Matheran is a quaint hill station located about 120 km from Pune. This eco-sensitive town is known for its serene natural beauty and is one of the few places in the world where motor vehicles are banned. You can spend your time in Matheran exploring the town on foot or on horseback, visiting the many lookout points, or simply enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty.
Panchgani
Panchgani is a hill station located about 100 km from Pune. This scenic town is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for weekend getaways. You can spend your time in Panchgani exploring the Table Land, trekking to the Sydney Point, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
Bhandardara
Bhandardara is a scenic hill station located about 170 km from Pune. This picturesque town is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers. You can spend your time in Bhandardara exploring the many waterfalls and trekking trails, visiting the Arthur Lake, or simply relaxing in one of the many luxury resorts in the area.
Rajmachi
Rajmachi is a small village located about 78 km from Pune. This quaint village is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. You can spend your time in Rajmachi trekking to the Rajmachi Fort, exploring the Kondhane Caves, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.
Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a small town located about 120 km from Pune. This scenic town is known for its serene natural beauty and is surrounded by the Western Ghats. You can spend your time in Igatpuri exploring the many trekking trails, visiting the famous Vipassana International Academy, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
Tapola
Tapola is a small village located about 150 km from Pune, also known as the Mini Kashmir of the West. This picturesque town is located near the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its serene natural beauty. You can spend your time in Tapola exploring the many waterfalls, enjoying water sports at the Shivsagar Lake, or simply relaxing in one of the many eco-resorts in the area.
Kaas Plateau
Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 135 km from Pune. This scenic plateau is known for its stunning natural beauty and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. You can spend your time in Kaas Plateau exploring the many trekking trails, visiting the Kaas Lake, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the area.
Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar is a small town located about 110 km from Pune. This scenic town is known for its lush green forests and is home to the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. You can spend your time in Bhimashankar exploring the many trekking trails, visiting the Hanuman Lake, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the area.
Tarkarli
Tarkarli is a small village located about 395 km from Pune. This picturesque town is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. You can spend your time in Tarkarli enjoying water sports, visiting the Sindhudurg Fort, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Dapoli
Dapoli is a small town located about 185 km from Pune. This scenic town is known for its serene natural beauty and is home to some of the best beaches on the Konkan coast. You can spend your time in Dapoli exploring the many beaches, visiting the ancient temples, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a small town located about 250 km from Pune. This picturesque town is known for its natural beauty and is home to the Ratnagiri Fort, a historic fort that offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. You can spend your time in Ratnagiri exploring the many beaches, visiting the famous Ganpatipule Temple, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the area.
Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a scenic mountain pass located about 120 km from Pune. This picturesque pass is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers. You can spend your time in Malshej Ghat exploring the many trekking trails, visiting the Shivneri Fort, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
In conclusion, these nature getaways from Pune offer a perfect escape from the city life and provide an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re looking for serene hills, picturesque beaches, or lush green forests, these destinations have something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the natural beauty of these weekend
Amboli
Amboli is a small hill station located about 345 km from Pune, and it is known for its picturesque landscapes and stunning waterfalls. The town is surrounded by the Sahyadri Mountains, and it offers plenty of opportunities for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. You can spend your time in Amboli exploring the many waterfalls, visiting the famous Hiranyakeshi Temple, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.
Satara
Satara is a historical town located about 115 km from Pune, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The town is home to several historical monuments, including the Ajinkyatara Fort, and it offers plenty of opportunities for nature lovers. You can spend your time in Satara exploring the many waterfalls, visiting the Kaas Plateau, or simply enjoying the panoramic views from your resort.
Kaas Plateau
Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 140 km from Pune. This picturesque plateau is known for its stunning natural beauty, and it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The plateau is especially famous for its vibrant flowers, which bloom in a riot of colors during the monsoon season. You can spend your time in Kaas Plateau exploring the many walking trails, enjoying the scenic beauty, or simply relaxing in the lap of nature.
FAQs
- What are some good places for trekking near Pune? A: Some popular trekking destinations near Pune include Rajmachi, Bhimashankar, and Sinhagad Fort.
- Which is the best time to visit Mahabaleshwar? A: The best time to visit Mahabaleshwar is from October to June, when the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall.
- Is Lonavala crowded during the monsoon season? A: Yes, Lonavala can be crowded during the monsoon season, as it is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the lush greenery and waterfalls.
- Are there any restrictions in Matheran due to its eco-sensitive status? A: Yes, Matheran is an eco-sensitive zone and there are restrictions on the use of motor vehicles and other activities that could harm the environment.
- What are some popular water sports in Lavasa? A: Some popular water sports in Lavasa include jet skiing, kayaking, and boating.