Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune, a beautiful city in Maharashtra, is a perfect blend of historical past and modernity. Owing to this reason Pune tourism is flourishing at an increasing rate. Pune is flooded with beautiful gardens, temples, landscapes, palaces, and mouth-watering street food. Pune is not only a famous tourist hub, but it is also an important educational hub of the country. The city is home to much prestigious management and medical colleges as well. All the cultural, educational, and adventure-based aspects add to tourism in Pune.
There are numerous places to visit nearby Pune, which will give you the most enthralling experience of being in nature and those who are into adventure activities, then there are no fewer options to go for. Treks with sheer clear views and green meadows, water sports in lakes or just relax and enjoy the cool breeze. So if you are in Pune do not go without exploring these nearby destinations, which are within the distance of 50-500 Km. Here is a list of 10 Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Interesting Facts about Pune: Proud Records
- Pune commonly referred to as the Oxford of the East, has the highest number of Deemed Universities.
- It also has the highest population of students (in any given city) in the world.
- Pune is often called the Cultural Capital of Maharashtra.
- Pune has the highest number of 2-wheelers in India.
- The city is also one of the fastest growing in the Asia Pacific region.
- Pune is where badminton originated in India.
- The city has the highest number of pubs in the country.
Shivneri Fort – A Hill Fort near Pune
Shivneri Fort is a 17th-century military fortification located near Junnar in Pune district in Maharashtra, India. It is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Maratha Empire.here are statues of Jijabai and young Shivaji inside the fort. At the centre of the fort is a water pond which is called ‘Badami Talav’. To the South of ‘Badami Talav’ are the statues Jijabai and a young Shivaji. In the fort there are two water springs, called Ganges and Yamuna, which have water throughout the year, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
- Hatti (elephant) Darwaza,
- Kulambkat Darwaza,
- Maha (great) Darwaza,
- Parvangicha Darwaza
- Peer Darwaza,
- Phatak (door) Darwaza,
- Shipai (soldier) Darwaza,
Things to Do
Shivneri Fort is a famous hiking spot near Pune that can give you the best hiking experience. Standing in the middle, you can capture the magnificent forts of Narayangad and Harishchandragad. Further from Shivneri Fort, there are few dams which you cannot give a miss are Manikdoh, Pimpalgao, Yedgao, and Vadaj.
Distance from Pune : 94 km
Rajmachi Fort – Trekking Place near Pune
Rajmachi Fort is a historical fort having two stronghold forts in Lonavala. Forts of Rajmachi Lonavala are Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. Visible from Mumbai Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune Expressway on the right-hand side of Borghat, which is a popular spot near Khandala known as Rajmachi View Point. Rajmachi is a famous spot for trekking in popular Lonavala Hill Stations. Lonavala to Rajmachi Fort is a 16 km trekking distance from Lonavala.
There are many routes to reach Rajmachi Fort. We will be camping at Udhewadi Village located below the two Balekilla only during winter and summer months. You can see the beautiful Kataldhar waterfall from Shrivardhan Fort. Rajmachi Fort near Karjat has many caves used by trekkers for night halt. Rajmachi Fort is located strategically overlooking Borghat a historical trade route in Sahyadri Mountains. Popular among trekkers of India as one of the best trekking places in Maharashtra.
Distance from Pune : 168 km if you take NH48
Things to do
Trekking and outdoor camping for sure. You can pay a visit to the temples of Kalbhairav and Jogeshwari. Not to forget to take a tour of the Shriwardhan and Manaranajan Forts as well.
Sinhagad Fort – Best Place for Day Trip
Sinhagad or Kondana is a pride of the southwestern region of Pune. This fort was the one to support Maharashtra during the ancient battles. Sinhagad battle of 1671 is the significant one. Bhuleshwar range of the great Sahyadris is the home to this historical monument.
The fortress has an elevation of around 1312 m above the sea level. Sinhagad has got its own breakneck slopes to protect it from all sides, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
There are two entrances to this fort – one in the north-eastern region (Pune Darwaza) and another one towards the southeastern part (Kalyan Darwaza). The authenticity and the richness of Sinhagad fortress date back to around 1000 years.
This is evident from the carvings present on the walls of Kaundinya Eshwar temple there. Sinhagad is valued as a true sightseeing heritage.
To begin your sightseeing adventure, you have Rajaram’s tomb which is worth a visit. The fortress displays some of the adorable monoliths of Tanaji Malusare – one of the efficient safe-keepers of the fort from Shivaji Maharaj’s era.
Besides these crucial displays, the fortress has got its own military depot, a Kali temple, breweries, and a Hanuman effigy.
Pune Darwaza, Kalyan Darwaza, Tilak Bungalow, Hawa Point, Kade Lot, Amruteshwar Temple, Tanaji Samadhi and Memorial raises the elegance of this fortress even today.
Summiting the fortress offers some stunning views of the Khadakwasla Dam from one end; while from its other side, you can see glimpses of Torna Fort.
Things to do
Apart from trekking, do not forget to click the carvings of Kaundinyeshwar Temple which stands strong for the last 2000 years. You can also visit the ISKCON NVCC temple 16 km. from this place. Katraj Jain temple is 14 km. away from Singhagadh, Khadakwasla Dam is merely 8 km. Down the hill; for kids, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is 15 km. away, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Distance from Pune : 37 km
Rajgad Fort – Beautiful Trekking Place in Maharashtra
Rajgad Fort is the most famous fort located in South-west to Pune City, one of the most serene forts of the region, Rajgad fort is the Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune, to explore the history and its relevance through these architectural marvels. It is said that in Rajgad Fort only Shivaji stayed for the highest number of days. One can trek till the Fort and experience the lush green beauty around the fort.
Things to Do
It is an absolute pleasure to do trekking here. You could visit Torna Fort too. It is 15 km. away from Rajgad Fort.
Distance from Pune : 58 km
Raigad Fort – Majestic Fort in Maharashtra
Raigad is a hill fort situated at about 25 Km from Mahad in the Raigad district. Chhatrapati Shivaji renovated this fort and made it his capital in 1674 AD. The rope-way facility is available at Raigad Fort, to reach at the fort from ground in few minutes.
The fort also overlooks an artificial lake known as the ‘Ganga Sagar Lake’. The only main pathway to the fort passes through the “Maha Darwaja” (Huge Door). The King’s durbar inside the Raigad Fort has a replica of the original throne that faces the main doorway called the Nagarkhana Darwaja. This enclosure had been acoustically designed to aid hearing from the doorway to the throne. The fort has a famous bastion called “Hirakani Buruj” (Hirkani Bastion) constructed over a huge steep cliff, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Things to see
The Samadhi of Shivaji Raje has been kept intact which is worth praise. Other places to visit are Raj Sabha, Holi Cha Mal. The Balekilla fort offers a majestic view of the Sahyadris.
The Rameshwar Mandir, Wagh Darwaja are other places to have a stopover at. Ganga Sagar Lake, a significant water reservoir for the fort. Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune, Come what may don’t forget to enjoy the ropeway experience.
Distance from Pune : 131 kms.
Panchgani – Best Hill Station near Pune
Panchgani is a place to fall in love with. It has a beautiful view as it is located between the five hills of Sahyadri Mountains. The Krishna Valley attracts many. It has remained a holiday destination for many newly married couples. True enthusiasts and nature lovers find this place extremely good. It holds many educational centers, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Things To Do
Must visit places are table land hosting a range, Mapro Garden (not to forget to buy your organic strawberries), Parsi Point. Panchgani has many advanced forms of paragliding, and experience to this is a thrill.
Distance from Pune: 98 km
Lonavala – Popular Hill Station in Maharashtra
Lonavla and the adjacent Khandala are twin hill stations 622 metres (2,041 ft) above sea level, in the Sahyadri ranges that demarcate the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan coast. The hill stations sprawl over an approximate area of 38 square kilometres (15 sq mi). Tourism peaks during the monsoon season. The name Lonavla is derived from the Sanskrit lonavli, which refers to the many caves like Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves and Bedsa that are close to Lonavla. A trip to Lonavla and Khandala can be combined with sight-seeing visits of Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves and also the two fortresses, Lohagad and Visapur, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Things to do
Visit Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap ( a point you cannot miss), Amrutanjan point to get the panoramic view of the town Khopoli, Duke’s Nose Point, Sausages Hill, and Tungarli Lake. The Celebrity Wax Museum attracts many tourists. Trekking is a good way of exploring the place.
Visit the Ryewood Park, Botanical Park for kids to play in natural surroundings with tall trees and a clean environment. It is a picnic spot for many.
Distance from Pune: 65 kms.
Matheran – Smallest Hill Station in India
This beautiful place is located in the district of Raigad of Maharashtra. You could visit this place any time of the year. The government has stated Matheran as an ‘Eco-Sensitive Region’. This is why you cannot take any kind of vehicles inside the town. So basically, if you are looking for peace of mind, this is the place. There are a bulk of points to visit, lakes to adore and temples to get solace at, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Things to do
Visit the points such as the Echo point, Alexander point, Khandala Point, Rambaug Point, Chowk Point, porcupine point, monkey point, Garbutt point, hart point. It will be interesting to know that each point offers to keep you mesmerized with their spectacular view. Charlotte lake, Panther’s caves, paymaster park are other places you must make it to.
Distance from Pune : 120 km
Mahabaleshwar – Beautiful Hill Station near Pune
Mahabaleshwar is a place of sheer joy and relaxation. It is one of the famous hill stations near Pune which you can visit at any time of the year. Surrounded by forests of the Western Ghats, features many destination points to visit. If you are looking for a weekend trip or even 3-4 days of the trip, Mahabaleshwar hill station is one of the Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune or Mumbai.
Things to Do
Points such as Arthur’s Seat a picture-perfect view. Pratapgad Fort has historical importance. Enjoys the Lingmala Waterfall and take a boat ride on the Venna Lake. Points such as Monkey, Carnac, Falkland, Helen Elphinstone, Marjorie, and Babington are such places to visit.
Distance from Pune : 117 km
Kamshet – One Day Picnic Spot near Pune
Tucked amidst the scenic Western Ghats in the state of Maharashtra, there are many things to do in Kamshet, a small hill station surrounded by alluring valleys, verdant meadows and the majestic Sahyadri Mountains. Also known as a “Paraglider’s Paradise,” Kamshet is the best place in this region to enjoy a thrilling and adrenaline-filled paragliding experience. Adventure seekers from all over the country come to this hill station to chase the skies by paragliding across the mountains and plateaus, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
Blessed with a varied terrain, there are many kamshet activities that you can try when visiting this land. From enjoying adventure activities like camping near Karla Caves, Bedse Caves or Bhaja Caves, trekking and hiking near the Tower Hill, Shelar or Kondeshwar Cliff, to exploring the numerous Buddhist caves and other sightseeing attractions, there is a lot that you can do while in Kamshet.
Things to Do
Trek up towards the Tower Hill. Take a glance at the Shelar cliff. The Kondeshwar Cliff is equally amazing. Besides, Bhandar Dongar(hill) is one of the must-visit lists. The Bhairi Caves and the Kondeshwar Temple to end your perfect holiday at Kamshet.
Distance from Pune : 49 km
Best time to Visit Pune
If you want to sum up Pune’s weather in one word, it would be pleasant. The city courteously opens its doors to travellers from around the globe all year, greeting them with soft winds and calm skies. From July to February the weather gods bless Pune – first with rain, and then with chilly winter weather, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
In the monsoon season, the skies are laden with a thick layer of clouds that wash the city in hues of grey and green. Unfortunately, the rain can be a bit overenthusiastic leading to flooded streets and congested roads. Towards September, the rain eases, leading to the occasional drizzle.
The pleasant weather is interrupted by a stark rise in temperature during summers. Slather on your sunscreen before you head to explore the city. Luckily, the evenings bring cool winds and a significant drop in temperature.
How to get to Pune: Path to Perfection
By Road – If you’re in Mumbai, Pune is a convenient 150 kilometres away via the Mumbai-Pune expressway. You can catch buses from different cities in the country, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Nashik, Udaipur, Indore and more. Or you can choose to drive down in your own car, Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune.
By Rail – Pune Junction welcomes all trains that roll into her embrace. Several mail and express trains, from all parts of the country, thunder their way into this station. Hop on board the Deccan Queen or the Shatabdi Express, until you make your way to Top Tourist Places to Visit near Pune Junction.
By Air – Pune city boasts of its own port for the skies – Lohegaon airport, which is a 10 to 11-kilometre drive from the centre of the city. Many different domestic carriers fly their way to the airport, and you can also catch international flights to Dubai, Frankfurt and Abu Dhabi from this airport.