Are you tired of the same old routine in Pune and looking for a quick escape from the city chaos? Well, you’re in luck! Pune is strategically located near several exciting destinations that can be easily explored over a weekend. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a history buff, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit near Pune on weekends, helping you plan your next getaway.
Why Visit Places Near Pune on Weekends?
A weekend getaway from Pune can be a great way to recharge, relax, and refresh your mind and body. It’s an opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, spend quality time with family and friends, and create unforgettable memories. Moreover, exploring nearby destinations can be a cost-effective and time-efficient way to travel, without having to plan an elaborate vacation.
What to Expect
In this article, we’ll cover a range of exciting destinations near Pune, including hill stations, forts, temples, and scenic getaways. We’ll provide you with essential information on how to reach each place, what to do, and where to stay, making it easy for you to plan your next weekend adventure. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the best places to visit near Pune on weekends!
Places to Visit Near Pune on Weekends
Pune, a city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, is a popular weekend getaway destination. The city is surrounded by scenic hills, forts, and ancient temples, making it an ideal base to explore the region. Here are some of the best places to visit near Pune on weekends:
Lavasa
Lavasa is a planned hill city located about 65 km from Pune. It’s a popular weekend getaway known for its scenic beauty, water sports, and adventure activities. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddle boating, and jet-skiing on the Warasgaon Lake. The city also has several luxury resorts and hotels, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend.
Mulshi Dam
Mulshi Dam is a scenic spot located about 45 km from Pune. The dam is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can enjoy a picnic with family and friends or take a leisurely walk around the dam. The area is also home to several ancient temples and forts, making it a great destination for history buffs.
Lohagad Fort
Lohagad Fort is a historic fort located about 52 km from Pune. The fort is situated at an altitude of 1,033 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can trek to the fort and enjoy the scenic views from the top. The fort is also home to several ancient temples and caves, making it a great destination for history buffs.
Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad Fort is a historic fort located about 30 km from Pune. The fort is situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can trek to the fort and enjoy the scenic views from the top. The fort is also home to several ancient temples and caves, making it a great destination for history buffs. (See Also: Beautiful Places To Visit Near Birmingham)
Rajmachi Point
Rajmachi Point is a scenic spot located about 78 km from Pune. The point offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. You can also visit the ancient Rajmachi Fort and enjoy the scenic views from the top.
Lonavala and Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala are two popular hill stations located about 64 km from Pune. The towns are known for their scenic beauty, waterfalls, and ancient temples. You can enjoy trekking, hiking, and rock climbing in the area. The towns are also home to several luxury resorts and hotels, making them an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend.
Tikona Fort
Tikona Fort is a historic fort located about 55 km from Pune. The fort is situated at an altitude of 1,450 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can trek to the fort and enjoy the scenic views from the top. The fort is also home to several ancient temples and caves, making it a great destination for history buffs.
Bedse Caves
Bedse Caves are a group of ancient Buddhist caves located about 45 km from Pune. The caves are situated in a scenic valley and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore the caves and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Khadakwasla Dam
Khadakwasla Dam is a scenic spot located about 20 km from Pune. The dam is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can enjoy a picnic with family and friends or take a leisurely walk around the dam.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit these places near Pune is during the monsoon season (June to September) or winter season (October to February). The weather is pleasant during these seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and sightseeing.
How to Reach
Pune is well connected to other cities in India by air, rail, and road. You can reach Pune by flight, train, or bus and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach these places. The distance between Pune and these places varies from 20 km to 100 km, making them easily accessible for a weekend getaway. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Seattle Airport)
Accommodation
There are several luxury resorts, hotels, and budget-friendly options available in and around Pune. You can choose from a range of options depending on your budget and preferences. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
These are some of the best places to visit near Pune on weekends. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or sightseeing, there’s something for everyone in and around Pune.
Conclusion
Pune, a city in western India, is surrounded by numerous exciting destinations that make for perfect weekend getaways. In this article, we explored some of the most popular and offbeat places to visit near Pune on weekends. From the historic forts of Sinhagad and Rajmachi to the scenic hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
We also delved into the spiritual side of Pune, exploring the ancient temples of Narayangaon and the tranquil atmosphere of Lavasa. For adventure seekers, we recommended the trekking trails of Matheran and the water sports of Mulshi Dam. Additionally, we touched upon the cultural heritage of Pune, highlighting the importance of visiting the Aga Khan Palace and the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum.
In conclusion, Pune offers a diverse range of weekend getaways that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for history, adventure, spirituality, or simply a relaxing break, there’s a destination near Pune that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So, pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and get ready to explore the exciting places to visit near Pune on weekends!
Frequently Asked Questions: Places to Visit Near Pune on Weekends
What are some popular hill stations near Pune that can be visited on a weekend?
Pune is surrounded by several beautiful hill stations that make for a perfect weekend getaway. Some popular options include Lonavala, Khandala, Matheran, and Mahabaleshwar. These hill stations offer stunning views, trekking trails, and a relaxing atmosphere, making them ideal for a quick escape from the city. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Glasgow)
Are there any historical places near Pune that can be visited on a weekend?
Yes, there are several historical places near Pune that can be visited on a weekend. Some popular options include Sinhagad Fort, Shivneri Fort, and Rajgad Fort. These forts offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
What are some popular trekking spots near Pune that can be visited on a weekend?
Pune is a trekker’s paradise, with several trekking spots located nearby. Some popular options include Sinhagad Fort, Rajmachi, and Lohagad Fort. These treks offer stunning views, challenging trails, and a chance to connect with nature.
Are there any scenic drives near Pune that can be taken on a weekend?
Yes, there are several scenic drives near Pune that can be taken on a weekend. Some popular options include the Pune-Mahabaleshwar route, the Pune-Lonavala route, and the Pune-Matheran route. These drives offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, picturesque villages, and a relaxing atmosphere.
What are some popular picnic spots near Pune that can be visited on a weekend?
Pune has several picnic spots that are perfect for a weekend outing. Some popular options include Khadakwasla Dam, Panshet Dam, and Mulshi Lake. These spots offer stunning views, a relaxing atmosphere, and a chance to connect with nature.