While Pune is popular for its student culture and never-ending list of universities, the city is known for its natural beauty. Around three hours drive from the busy city of Mumbai, Pune is a perfect getaway from the everyday rush of life. The fast transforming city, Pune's charm and rich heritage has made it a favourite among travellers, and a weekend destination for Mumbaikars.
Here is a list of places in and around Pune that one shouldn't miss. Their natural beauty, calming ambience and mesmerising viewpoints are a quick recharge for the tired and stressed minds.
Around 15 km from Pune city, the beautiful Khadakwasla Dam is a major water source for the city and its nearby areas. It's a 45-minute drive through the lush green hills of Lonavla and you can munch on the Maharashtrian-special vada pav or some pakodas (highly recommended during the monsoons) as you enjoy the view. Safe for visitors during the heavy rains, the place is a visual treat for the eyes as the vastness of the water captures the imagination. Around 16 km from the dam is the majestic Sinhagad Fort. Include this in your bucket list.
There are regular bus services to Khadakwasla Dam from Pune city. You can hire a taxi to reach the place or drive down.
Located in the heart of Pune, the Vetal Hill is the highest point in the city. A favourite of early morning joggers and walkers, there are several trails across the hill. The short trek to the top will be worth it once you see the lush green landscape of the hills. A small cobalt blue lake is nestled between the low lying shrubs and weeds. Look further beyond, you can see the rolling mountain ranges that extend beyond the city. Truly, the city's green lungs.
Since Vetal Hill is within the city limits, you can take a bus or an auto. Both modes of transport are easily available.
Pawna Lake, around 52 km from Pune, is a must-visit for nature lovers. A two-hour drive from the city, the best time to be here is during the monsoons when the rains add life to the sun-soaked lake. Surrounded by a lush green foliage and an array of mountains, the water body is stunning during sunrise. Watch as the sun rises from the protection of the mountains and unravels itself in all its glory while lifting the blanket of mist and darkness. The areas around the lake are scenic and are popular camping sites. You can also climb the Tunga Fort near Pawna lake for more captivating views.
You can hire a cab from Pune or take your vehicles to reach Pawna lake. Alternatively, you can take a train from Pune railway station to Kamshet. You will get a train every 45 minutes. From Kamshet railway station, you can hire a jeep which will take 45 minutes to get you to the lake. If you opt for a bus ride, you can take a bus from Pune to Lonavala or Kamshet. You will need to hire a vehicle from here.
A hillock in Pune, Parvati Hills is a scenic location, popular among the locals. Offering an epic panoramic view of the city, the hill is named after the Parvati Temple built here during the rule of the Peshwa dynasty. After a relatively simple 30-minute climb to the pinnacle, one can see the skyline of Pune merge with its low-lying skyscrapers. Elegantly weaving a harmony between its manmade structures and natural wonders, the view from here enigmatically captures the calm and order that encapsulates the lives of the locals.
Parvati Hill is around 7 km from Pune railway station and 15 km from the airport. It is only 2 km from Pune Swargate bus stop. You can take a bus to Parvati Hill or take an auto, which is easily available in the city.
Around 30 kilometres from Pune, Sinhagad, earlier known as Kondhana, is a paradise for trekkers and birdwatchers who throng its rocky terrain for a day in the sun. The name translates to Lion's Fort, and Sinhagad was an important fortress during Shivaji's reign. Shivaji's trusted and brave general fought a battle here all with the Mughal army but was martyred. It is believed that on hearing the news of his death, Shivaji called out, "We won the fort but lost the lion" (Gad ala pan sinha gela). It was after his death that the fort was renamed Sinhagad.
Located at village Donaje, Sinhagad fort is one hour and 15 minutes drive from Pune. The two majestic entrances Pune Darwaza and Kalyan Darwaza lead to the ancient architectural marvel. The view from the top is breathtaking. You can also see the stunning Khadakwasla Dam from the fort.
You can take a bus from Swargate bus stand in Pune to reach Sinhagad fort. You can opt for share taxis, hire a vehicle or travel by private vehicles to reach the fort.