Picturesque Escapes Close to Pune Ideal for a Brief Holiday Escape

Picturesque Escapes Close to Pune Ideal for a Brief Holiday Escape

For those seeking a break from the bustling city life of Pune, the city's strategic location amidst the Sahyadri ranges offers easy access to a variety of short getaways. Here are ten top destinations, each catering to different interests, all within a short drive from Pune.

1. **Mulshi Lake and Dam** (approx. 40-54 km) – Surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, and the Sahyadri ranges, Mulshi is ideal for nature lovers with opportunities for boating, trekking, and photography.

2. **Lavasa** (approx. 60 km) – A planned hill city with lakeside promenades, European-style charm, restaurants, cycling paths, and water activities, perfect for a relaxing weekend.

3. **Lonavala and Khandala** (approx. 65-71 km) – Twin hill stations famous for attractions like Tiger Point, Bhushi Dam, Karla and Bhaja Caves, waterfalls, and trekking routes to forts like Lohagad and Visapur.

4. **Pawna Lake** (approx. 50 km) – Known for camping by the water, boating, and views of forts like Lohagad, Tikona, and Tung, great for a peaceful retreat.

5. **Mahabaleshwar** (approx. 120 km) – A scenic hill station located at 1,372 meters altitude offering cool weather, strawberry farms, viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

6. **Nashik** (approx. 214 km) – A historic city known for temples (Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Kalaram Temple), caves (Pandav Leni), vineyards, and cultural heritage, ideal for a two-day cultural getaway.

7. **Bekare Waterfall** (approx. 119 km) – A natural waterfall near Bhivpuri Road, offering a refreshing experience along with rappelling options for adventure enthusiasts.

8. **Bhandardara** – A hidden gem known for its calm lake, waterfalls, and proximity to nature, ideal for trekking and boating.

9. **Shivthar Ghal** – A historical cave with spiritual significance, set amidst natural beauty, suitable for a quiet getaway with some hiking.

10. **Morachi Chincholi** – Popular for rural tourism with opportunities to see peacocks and enjoy village life, perfect for a rustic weekend near Pune.

Mahabaleshwar, a picturesque hill station, is 120 kilometers southwest of Pune and known for its gushing waterfalls, lakes, scenic viewpoints, and strawberries. Venna Lake is a lake in Mahabaleshwar where travellers can indulge in boating activities. The nearest railway station to Mahabaleshwar is Wathar, and the nearest airport is Pune Airport.

Matheran, named "forest on the mountaintop," is an eco-sensitive region where motor vehicles are banned, offering a peaceful retreat. Neral is the nearest railway station to Matheran, and the Matheran Hill Railway connects it to the hill station. Panchgani, located about 100 km southwest of Pune, is a hill station cradled by five hills and known for its cool climate, strawberry farms, and colonial-era buildings. Panchgani's nearest airport is Pune International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Satara.

Kamshet, located 50 km from Pune, is a serene getaway known for paragliding, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, and scenic spots like Pawna Lake and Bhaje Waterfall. Kamshet's closest railway station is Kamshet (KMST), and the nearest airport is Pune Airport.

Whether you're seeking adventure, history, relaxation, or natural beauty, these destinations cater to varied interests, all within a short drive from Pune, making them perfect for quick weekend getaways.

1. A relaxing weekend can be had at Lavasa, a hill city that offers lakeside promenades, European-style charm, restaurants, cycling paths, and water activities, providing an ideal backdrop for home-and-garden lifestyle enthusiasts looking for a change from the city's pace.
2. For those with a passion for travel and exploring new cultures, Nashik, a historic city known for its temples, caves, vineyards, and rich cultural heritage, provides an exciting two-day getaway just 214 kilometers from Pune, offering a unique insight into a different lifestyle.

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