Pune, a bustling city located in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, is not only known for its educational institutions, IT companies, and historical significance but also for its picturesque surroundings. The city is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, offering a variety of tourist places to visit near Pune that cater to different interests and preferences. Visiting these places is essential as they provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance of the region. This overview will discuss some of the popular tourist places near Pune that are worth exploring.
Historical Places Near Pune
Pune’s history dates back to the 8th century, and the region is home to several historical monuments and structures that reflect its glorious past. Some of the historical places near Pune that are worth visiting include:
Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Located about 100 and 30 kilometers from Pune, respectively, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts. These rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and are famous for their intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings that depict Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu religious themes.
Shaniwar Wada
Located in the heart of Pune, Shaniwar Wada is a 18th-century fortification that was the residence of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire. The fort is famous for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and the tragic story of the young Peshwa heir who was murdered within its walls.
Natural Places Near Pune
Pune is surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain range, which offers a variety of natural landscapes such as hills, waterfalls, and lakes. Some of the natural places near Pune that are worth visiting include:
Lonavala and Khandala
Located about 64 kilometers from Pune, Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations that are famous for their scenic beauty, waterfalls, and lakes. These places offer a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and are ideal for trekking, camping, and photography.
Mahabaleshwar
Located about 120 kilometers from Pune, Mahabaleshwar is a hill station that is famous for its strawberry farms, waterfalls, and temples. The place offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and is ideal for adventure activities such as horse riding, boating, and mountain biking.
Conclusion
Pune’s surroundings offer a variety of tourist places that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, there is something for everyone. Visiting these places not only provides a refreshing break from the city life but also offers an insight into the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance of the region. So, plan your trip to Pune and explore these wonderful tourist places near Pune. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Lisbon Portugal)
Tourist Places To Visit Near Pune
Pune, a bustling city located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and educational institutions. The city is also a gateway to many exciting tourist destinations that are located nearby. Here are some of the top tourist places to visit near Pune.
Lonavala and Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala are two hill stations located near Pune that are famous for their scenic beauty and pleasant climate. These hill stations are situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats and are just 64 km away from Pune. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the valleys, waterfalls, and lush green hills. Some of the popular attractions in Lonavala and Khandala include the Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, and the Rajmachi Fort.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station located near Pune that is known for its strawberry farms, scenic beauty, and ancient temples. The town is situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats and is about 120 km away from Pune. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the valleys, waterfalls, and hills from the various viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar. Some of the popular attractions in Mahabaleshwar include the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Venna Lake, and the Pratapgad Fort.
Panchgani
Panchgani is a scenic hill station located near Pune that is known for its picturesque valleys, serene lakes, and ancient temples. The town is situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats and is about 100 km away from Pune. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the hills, valleys, and waterfalls from the various viewpoints in Panchgani. Some of the popular attractions in Panchgani include the Table Land, Sydney Point, and the Parsi Point.
Mumbai
Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is located just 150 km away from Pune and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture by visiting places like the Gateway of India, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, and the Elephanta Caves. Mumbai is also known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping destinations, and street food.
Aurangabad
Aurangabad is a historic city located near Pune that is known for its ancient monuments, caves, and museums. The city is about 230 km away from Pune and was the capital of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting places like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the Bibi Ka Maqbara, and the Aurangabad Caves. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Darwin)
Goa
Goa, the party capital of India, is located about 460 km away from Pune and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy the state’s pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese architecture by visiting places like the Calangute Beach, the Anjuna Beach, and the Fort Aguada.
Conclusion
Pune is a gateway to many exciting tourist destinations that are located nearby. From the scenic hill stations of Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, and Panchgani to the historic cities of Mumbai, Aurangabad, and Goa, there is something for everyone. So, plan your next trip to Pune and explore these beautiful tourist places.
In conclusion, Pune offers a plethora of tourist places to visit, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From the historical forts of Sinhagad and Shaniwar Wada, to the serene beauty of Khadakwasla Dam and Pashan Lake, there is something for everyone. For those seeking spiritual enlightenment, the temples of Bhimashankar and Chaturshringi are not to be missed. And for the nature lovers, the verdant hills of Lonavala and Khandala provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Moreover, these places are not only rich in natural beauty and historical significance, but they also offer a wide range of activities such as trekking, boating, and camping, making them ideal for both day trips and weekend getaways. So, whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or someone seeking a fun-filled adventure, Pune and its surrounding areas have got you covered.
To sum up, Pune is a city that is steeped in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and bustling with activities. With so many tourist places to visit near Pune, it is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a memorable and enriching experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Pune and its surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to Tourist Places To Visit Near Pune
1. What is the distance between Pune and Lonavala, and how can one travel between these two places?
Lonavala is approximately 64 kilometers away from Pune and can be reached by road in about 1.5 to 2 hours. One can travel by private vehicle, taxi, or take a state-run or private bus. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is the most convenient route to reach Lonavala from Pune.
2. What are the popular tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar near Pune?
Mahabaleshwar, a popular hill station near Pune, offers several tourist attractions such as the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Venna Lake, Pratapgad Fort, Lingmala Waterfalls, and Wilson Point. Visitors can enjoy boating, horse riding, and trekking in Mahabaleshwar. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Jurong Bird Park)
3. What is the best time to visit Kamshet, a tourist place near Pune?
The best time to visit Kamshet is between October and May. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and one can enjoy paragliding, which is a popular activity in Kamshet. Monsoon season (June-September) should be avoided as the weather can be unpredictable and unfavorable for outdoor activities.
4. What are the famous caves to explore near Pune?
There are several famous caves near Pune that are worth exploring, such as the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, and Bedsa Caves. These caves are located in Lonavala and are known for their ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture. The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, although a bit far from Pune, are also famous and can be visited on a longer trip.
5. What are the popular trekking spots near Pune?
Pune is surrounded by several trekking spots that offer stunning views and an adventurous experience. Some popular trekking spots include Sinhagad Fort, Rajgad Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, and Korigad Fort. These forts offer a mix of history and adventure and are ideal for a day trip from Pune.