Pune, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful nature, offers a plethora of weekend getaway options for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. From serene hill stations to historic forts and pristine beaches, Pune and its surrounding areas boast an array of destinations that cater to every traveller’s taste. In this blog, we will explore the 10 best weekend getaways from Pune, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

List of Places for Your Weekend Getaways

Matheran

Matheran, a charming hill station located in Raigad district, is a tranquil haven nestled in the Western Ghats. What makes Matheran unique is that no vehicles are allowed within its limits, ensuring a peaceful and pollution-free environment. Visitors can enjoy a gentle stroll through the scenic pathways, surrounded by dense forests and a cool climate. Matheran is an ideal getaway for nature lovers seeking serenity and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Distance from Pune: Approximately 120 km

Attractions: Panorama Point, Charlotte Lake, Louisa Point

Alibaug

Alibaug is a delightful coastal town that beckons with its sandy shores and historical charm. Known for its pristine beaches like Alibaug Beach and Nagaon Beach, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. One of its prominent attractions is the Kolaba Fort, a historic sea fort accessible during low tide. Alibaug is a favored destination for those seeking a serene getaway by the Arabian Sea, where gentle waves and warm sands create a tranquil atmosphere. 

Distance from Pune: Approximately 143 km

Attractions: Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, Nagaon Beach

Nashik

Nashik is a city with a rich mix of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Famous for its vineyards, Sula Vineyards being one of the prominent ones, Nashik attracts wine enthusiasts from near and far. The city is also home to the Trimbakeshwar Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. For those interested in history, the Pandavleni Caves showcase ancient rock-cut architecture. Nashik offers a unique blend of modern wineries and ancient religious sites, making it an interesting destination for a weekend escape with diverse experiences.

 Distance from Pune: Approximately 210 km

 Attractions: Sula Vineyards, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Pandavleni Caves   

Lonavala and Khandala

Lonavala and Khandala, situated approximately 65 kilometers from Pune, are twin hill stations known for their scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Surrounded by lush greenery, these destinations offer a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Lonavala is famous for its cascading waterfalls. Together, they provide a peaceful environment with opportunities for trekking, enjoying panoramic views, and relishing the cool, misty weather, making them popular weekend getaways for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

 Distance from Pune: Approximately 65 km

 Attractions: Tiger Point, Bhaja Caves, Karla Caves   

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a captivating hill station known for its natural beauty and pleasant climate. Famous for its strawberry farms, Mahabaleshwar offers a beautiful nature with lush greenery and breathtaking viewpoints. Venna Lake, a serene water body, and Wilson Point, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar, are popular attractions. Also, the historic Pratapgarh Fort adds a touch of history to the region. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, explore the viewpoints, and indulge in the charm of this hill station. 

Distance from Pune: Approximately 120 km

Attractions: Venna Lake, Wilson Point, Pratapgarh Fort   

Panchgani

Panchgani is a serene hill station surrounded by hills and valleys in the state of Maharashtra. Known for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather, Panchgani offers a peaceful escape from the daily routine. The town is adorned with attractions like Table Land, the second-largest mountain plateau in Asia, and viewpoints like Sydney Point and Parsi Point, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 

 Distance from Pune: Approximately 100 km

 Attractions: Table Land, Sydney Point, Parsi Point   

Satara

Satara, located approximately 113 kilometers from Pune, is a charming destination that boasts colorful areas, historical forts, and natural wonders. One of its key attractions is the Kaas Plateau (Kaas Pathar), a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its vibrant wildflowers that bloom during specific seasons, creating a beautiful carpet of colors. Satara is also home to majestic forts like Ajinkyatara Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Distance from Pune: Approximately 113 km

Attractions: Kaas Plateau, Thoseghar Waterfalls, Ajinkyatara Fort   

Murud-Janjira

Murud-Janjira is a famous fort and tourist spot situated on an island off the coastal town of Murud in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. The fort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and is considered one of the strongest coastal forts in India. The best time to visit Murud-Janjira is between October and February when the weather is pleasant and there is enough greenery to enjoy. 

Distance from Pune: Approximately 160 km

Attractions: Murud Beach, Murud-Janjira Fort   

Sinhagad

Sinhagad is a historic fort located atop of the hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. This popular destination is a quick escape for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The fort, with its ancient structures, tells tales of valor and courage from the bygone era. Visitors can trek to the top, exploring the Kondhana Caves along the way, and witness the scenic beauty that unfolds from the fort’s points. With a rich history and beautiful surroundings, Sinhagad is an ideal spot for a short and enjoyable getaway near Pune.

Distance from Pune: Approximately 30 km

Attractions: Sinhagad Fort, Kondana Caves, Tanaji Malusare Samadhi   

Kolad

Kolad is a beautiful village in the Raigad district known for its natural beauty and thrilling adventure activities. It is often referred to as the “Rishikesh of Maharashtra” due to its scenic valleys, mist-laden hills, and dense evergreen forests. The village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a popular destination for adrenaline junkies. 

Distance from Pune: Approximately 120 km

Attractions: Kundalika River, Tamhini Ghat, Bhira Dam,Tala Fort, Kuda Mandad Caves   

In Conclusion, these destinations offer a perfect respite from the city life, allowing you to rejuvenate amidst nature’s beauty and explore the rich history that the region has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, these weekend getaways from Pune cater to all tastes and preferences. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable journey to unwind and recharge your spirit.

Embark on unforgettable weekend trips from Pune, explore historical forts, beaches, and scenic hill stations. Explore the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. For seamless travel, consider a bus and tempo traveller on rent in Pune. Pack your bags and let Maharashtra’s hidden gems be your next rejuvenating escape from city life.