Nestled in the middle of the beautiful environment of Western India, Pune serves as a gateway to some of the most captivating weekend destinations. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, the vicinity of Pune offers many options to explore and unwind. From tranquil beach towns to lush hill stations, each destination promises a unique experience that rejuvenates the soul.
Here Are 7 Beautiful Places to Visit on Weekends Around Pune
1. Ganpatipule
Tucked away along the Konkan coast of Maharashtra, Ganpatipule is a hidden gem that enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and sacred temples. The highlight of this coastal town is the revered Ganpati Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha and nestled amidst coconut groves overlooking the Arabian Sea. Apart from seeking blessings at the temple, travellers can bask in the sun-kissed beaches, indulge in water sports, or embark on a scenic trek along the rugged coastline, offering panoramic vistas of the azure waters and verdant hills.
Tourist Attractions: Jaigad Fort, Water Sport, Ganpatipule Ganesh Temple, Prachin Konkan Museum
Distance from Pune: 280 km
2. Dahanu-Bordi
Situated along the beautiful coastline of Maharashtra, Dahanu-Bordi beckons travelers with its pristine beaches and tranquil ambiance. Famous for its expansive orchards of chikoo (sapodilla) and chickpeas, this coastal town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can indulge in beachside activities, explore the vibrant fishing villages, or simply unwind amidst the swaying palms and golden sands.
Tourist Attractions: Aswali Dam, Mallinath Jain Tirth KosbadTemple, Bahrot Caves, Dahanu Fort, Kalpataru Botanical Gardens
Distance from Pune: 250 km
3. Alibaug
Renowned for its historic forts, pristine beaches, and tranquil atmosphere, Alibaug is a popular weekend getaway near Pune. Located just a few hours away, this coastal town boasts of scenic beauty and rich heritage. From the majestic Kolaba Fort to the serene shores of Alibaug Beach, every corner of this charming town exudes a distinct charm. Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides, adding a dash of thrill to their weekend retreat.
Tourist Attractions: Kanakeshwar Forest, Kolaba Fort, Mandwa Beach, Nagoba Mandir, Kanakeshwar Temple
Distance from Pune: 150 km
4. Khandala
Khandala is a beautiful hill station renowned for its breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and misty landscapes. Blessed with a salubrious climate and verdant surroundings, Khandala offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life of Pune. Whether it’s trekking to the vantage points like Duke’s Nose and Tiger’s Leap, or simply relishing the scenic beauty from the comfort of your resort, every moment spent in Khandala is bound to be etched in memories forever.
Tourist Attractions: Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Lohgad Fort, Bhaja Caves, Kune Waterfall
Distance from Pune: 50 km
5. Matheran
Matheran is a charming hill station nestled in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. It’s a peaceful place, free from the noise of cars and buses because vehicles are not allowed inside. You can explore Matheran on foot, on horseback, or in a hand-pulled rickshaw. The air is fresh and cool, making it a perfect escape from the city heat. Matheran is known for its scenic beauty, with winding pathways leading to stunning viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy nature, and take in the simple joys of life.
Tourist Attractions: Dodhani Waterfalls, Charlotte Lake, Rambagh Point, Irshalgad Fort
Distance from Pune: 122 km
6. Kamshet
Renowned as the paragliding capital of Maharashtra, Kamshet beckons adventure enthusiasts with its panoramic vistas and favorable wind conditions. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri hills, this quaint town offers adrenaline-pumping experiences like paragliding, parasailing, and ridge soaring, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Apart from adventure sports, Kamshet also boasts of scenic lakes, ancient caves, and verdant paddy fields, providing ample opportunities for nature lovers and photographers to explore and capture the beauty of the countryside.
Tourist Attractions: Paragliding, Bedsa Cave, Pawna Lake, Uksan Lake
Distance from Pune: 45 km
7. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a captivating hill station renowned for its scenic beauty, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Blessed with a cool climate throughout the year, this beautiful town offers respite from the intense heat of the plains. From exploring the panoramic viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat and Wilson Point to indulging in strawberry picking at the local farms, Mahabaleshwar offers a plethora of experiences that appeal to every traveler’s soul.
Tourist Attractions: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Venna Lake – Lingmala Falls , Wilson Point, Connaught Peak, Arthur’s Seat
Distance from Pune: 120 km
Conclusion
The weekend getaways around Pune provide a variety of experiences suitable for everyone. From the calm beaches of Dahanu-Bordi to the misty hills of Mahabaleshwar, each destination offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Whether you want peace in nature or exciting adventures, each spot assures a memorable getaway. So, pack your bags and set off to explore the beautiful places of Western India, not far from busy Pune.
Visit weekends holiday destinations around Pune, explore historical forts, serene lakes, 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.
