Lonavala and Khandala
Maval taluka
The twin hill stations on the way to Mumbai, with viewpoints, waterfalls, caves, forts and the famous chikki.
Read more about Lonavala and KhandalaPicnic Spots and Forts
Hill stations, dams, lakes, forts and one day trips from Pune.
Pune is surrounded by hills, lakes and valleys, and some of the best weekend getaways in Maharashtra are within two or three hours of the city. In the monsoon the Sahyadri turns green and waterfalls appear on every hill. In winter the dams and backwaters are calm and full of birds.
Here are the favourite picnic spots and one day trips from Pune.
Stay safe
- Do not go into dams, lakes or waterfalls in the monsoon. Every year people drown at picnic spots near Pune.
- Many places have rules or closures during heavy rain. Check the news before you leave.
- Carry your rubbish back with you.
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Mulshi and Tamhini Ghat
Mulshi taluka
A big lake surrounded by hills, and a ghat road full of waterfalls in the monsoon. A favourite long drive from Pune.
Read more about Mulshi and Tamhini Ghat -
Pawna Lake
Maval taluka
A quiet lake near Lonavala with lakeside camping, surrounded by the forts of Tikona, Tung, Lohagad and Visapur.
Read more about Pawna Lake -
Bhimashankar
Ambegaon taluka
A Jyotirlinga temple deep in the forest, and a wildlife sanctuary where the giant Shekru squirrel lives.
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Khadakwasla and Panshet
Haveli and Rajgad talukas
Pune's own lakes: Khadakwasla for an evening snack by the water, and Panshet for a quieter day out.
Read more about Khadakwasla and Panshet -
Bhigwan
Indapur taluka
The backwaters of Ujani dam, where flamingos and hundreds of other birds spend the winter. A birdwatcher's favourite.
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Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani
Satara district
The best-known hill stations of Maharashtra, with viewpoints, Venna lake and strawberries. An easy weekend trip from Pune.
Read more about Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani -
Malshej Ghat
Near Junnar, on the Thane border
A ghat road on the north edge of Pune district, with clouds and waterfalls all through the monsoon.
Read more about Malshej Ghat