Pune, a vibrant and culturally rich city in India, is surrounded by a multitude of picturesque destinations that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, there are several best places to visit near Pune. In this blog, we’ll explore 15 enticing destinations that will surely capture your heart.
About Pune
Pune, a vibrant metropolis in Maharashtra, holds the distinction of being India’s top city for quality of life. Often likened to the “Oxford of the East,” it stands as a thriving hub of diverse cultures and activities, steadily evolving into one of the nation’s foremost metropolitan centers. Pune seamlessly marries contemporary living with its rich cultural heritage, imbued with a dash of colonial-era allure, rightfully earning its status as the cultural capital of Maharashtra.
Must Visit Places in Pune
- Shaniwar Wada
- Aga Khan Palace
- Osho Ashram
- Katraj Snake Park
- Sinhagad Fort
- Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
Lonavala and Khandala: Hill Station Haven
Nestled in the Sahyadri range, Lonavala and Khandala are famous for their lush green landscapes and serene atmosphere. These twin hill stations are a mere 65 kilometers from Pune and offer an ideal weekend retreat.
Mahabaleshwar: The Land of Strawberries
Renowned for its succulent strawberries, verdant evergreen forests, refreshing climate, and captivating landscapes, Mahabaleshwar stands as the premier hill station in the Sahyadri Mountain Ranges. Drawing visitors from both near and far, it lies a mere 285 kilometers from Mumbai and 120 kilometers from Pune. Nestled amidst scenic valleys, this lush getaway serves as an idyllic haven for nature enthusiasts within the Western Ghats, situated in Maharashtra’s Satara district.
Matheran: Asia’s Only Automobile-Free Hill Station
Referred to as the “most charming hill station in India,” Matheran offers an unparalleled experience for witnessing both sunrise and sunset, all amidst breathtaking scenery that rejuvenates your spirit. This exceptional hill station boasts pristine tourist destinations in Matheran, untouched by the hustle and bustle of city life that envelopes the town. Nestled in the Western Ghats at an elevation of approximately 800 meters above sea level, Matheran consistently offers delightful weather year-round, with its allure magnified during the monsoon season and thunderstorms.
Lavasa City: India’s First Planned Hill City
Lavasa, often referred to as India’s little Italy, is a beautiful planned city with a Mediterranean charm. The picturesque landscape and the serene lakefront promenade are major attractions.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves: Ancient Marvels
Ajanta and Ellora, two remarkable rock-cut cave complexes, stand as icons of Indian artistic and architectural prowess. Despite their separation by a distance of roughly 100 kilometers, they are frequently discussed together due to their comparable significance and aesthetics. Both are located in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad district. Ajanta primarily features exquisite paintings adorning cave walls, centered around Buddhist themes, while Ellora showcases intricate sculptures and architecture representing three distinct religions that were prominent in ancient India—Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
Alibaug: The Coastal Delight
Alibaug, located along the Konkan coast, is known for its pristine beaches, historic forts, and delectable seafood.
Panchgani: Table Land and Beyond
Panchgani is famous for its vast plateau, Table Land, and stunning viewpoints that provide a mesmerizing view of the surrounding hills.
Bhimashankar Temple: A Spiritual Retreat
Bhimashankar stands as an ancient sanctuary nestled in the Sahyadri hills within the state of Maharashtra. The Bhimashankar temple is renowned as one of the twelve prominent Jyotirlingas scattered across India. Situated in the village of Bhorgiri, it lies approximately 50 kilometers to the northwest of Khed, near Pune. This sacred site is positioned 125 kilometers from Pune, set amidst the picturesque terrain of the Sahyadri hills.
Kamshet: Paraglider’s Paradise
Kamshet is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, especially paragliders. The vast expanse of clear skies and the perfect wind conditions make it an ideal spot for flying.
Karjat: Nature’s Bounty
Karjat is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a lush green landscape, waterfalls, and a chance to explore the outdoors through treks.
Jejuri: The Temple of Lord Khandoba
Jejuri is a significant pilgrimage site known for its vibrant turmeric-covered temple and the annual Bhandara Festival.
Sinhagad Fort: History and Hiking
Sinhagad Fort is not only a historic site but also a great place for trekkers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Kaas Plateau: Valley of Flowers
The Kaas Plateau, often referred to as the “Kaas Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra,” is a well-kept secret nestled within the Western Ghats of India. This UNESCO World Natural Heritage site is a paradise for those who cherish nature and photography. When the monsoon season arrives, the plateau undergoes a spectacular transformation, turning into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers that paint the landscape with an array of colors. This remarkable location is home to rare and indigenous flower species, attracting botanists and researchers, making it a haven for their studies.
Diveagar: Secluded Beach Paradise
Diveagar, a quiet and pristine beach destination, is perfect for those who seek solitude and wish to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Kolad: Thrills by the River
Kolad is an adventure hub, offering thrilling water sports and river rafting on the Kundalika River.
Conclusion
The vicinity of Pune is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, ranging from the calm and serene to the adventurous and historic. Each of these destinations near Pune has a unique charm that awaits your exploration.
FAQs
Q1. How far is Lonavala from Pune?
Lonavala is approximately 65 kilometers from Pune, making it an easily accessible weekend getaway.
Q2. What is the best time to visit Mahabaleshwar?
The best time to visit Mahabaleshwar is during the post-monsoon season, from October to June, to enjoy pleasant weather and ripe strawberries.
Q3. Are the Ajanta and Ellora Caves worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and showcase incredible ancient rock-cut architecture.
Q4. Which is the best beach in Alibaug?
Alibaug has several beautiful beaches, but the most popular one is Alibaug Beach, known for its scenic beauty and water sports.
Q5. Can I go paragliding in Kamshet as a beginner?
Yes, Kamshet is an excellent place for beginners to try paragliding, with experienced instructors and ideal flying conditions.