15 long drives from Pune: Best road trips


Being situated at a vantage point of tourists zone in Maharastra, Pune is an ideal city for road trips and long drives for all age groups including couples. Pune offers a plethora of choices when it comes to road trips from Pune. Those could be sea beaches, drive through the reserve forests, drive to forts around Pune or even road trips to religious places. Here are the list of places that we have prepared for the road trip from Pune which also are romantic weekend gateways where you can spend sometime on weekends and drive back to pune.

1. Lonavala

Distance from Pune: 70 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

lonavala pune mumbai expressway

Source: http://mouthshut.com

Lonavala is one of the most famous hill stations in Pune often combined with Khandala. Drive to Lonavala from Pune is a combination of thrilling driving experience and beautiful nature along the Mumbai-Pune expressway. The journey to Lonavala is not complete without many places of interests around Lonavala. It will surely take you one day to visit all those places around.

The Lonavala City is popularly called the “city of caves’ ‘ and the “Jewel of Sahyadri”. That is because the hill station boasts of some of the most spectacular settings that include luxuriant green valleys, remarkable caves, serene lakes and stunning waterfalls. The spectacular rock-cut Bhaja and Karla caves in Lonavala have been amazing tourists with their old beams, motifs and inscriptions. If you want to stay, there are many hill resorts around Lonavala where you can spend your night.

Places of interest around Lonavala:

  • Lonavala lake (1.5 kms)
  • Rajmachi point
  • Valvan dam
  • Karla caves
  • Lohagad fort
  • Bhushi dam

2. Mahabaleshwar

Distance from Pune: 125 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: South-west

Mahabaleshwar

Source: http://audiocompass.com

Situated at almost 4400 feet, Mahabaleshwar is known as Hindu pilgrimage as well as hill station. This beautiful city located almost in the center of Koyna wildlife sanctuary was summer capital of Bombay province of British India. Last 50 kms of drive is very scenic crossing through places like wai, panchghani etc. After Panchghani, the road crosses through the Koyna wildlife santuary and the vehicle climbs up the reserve forest. That part of drive is really beautiful. Famous for popular holiday resorts and honeymoon spots, you can prolong your trip and take one day rest before returning to Pune.

Nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats, tourist places in Mahabaleshwar will captivate your imagination with their natural splendor. Mahabaleshwar is well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades, and majestic peaks. The city comprises of ancient temples, boarding schools, manicured and lush green dense forest, waterfalls, hills, valleys that will take your breath away on your visit.

The city is definitely among the most sought-after weekend getaways from metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Pune. Once, a summer capital of Bombay during the British Raj, the city has British influence of in its architecture. It is a very popular hill station that offers a plethora of tourist activities and attractions to avid travelers and nature lovers.

Places of interest around Mahabaleshwar:

  • Arthur’s seat
  • Needle hole point
  • Wilson point
  • 3 monkey point
  • Krishnabai temple
  • Pratapgad

3. Shirdi

Distance from Pune: 200 Kms
Duration: Two days
Direction from Pune: North east

shirdi temple at night

Source: http://metrotrend.com

Shirdi is mainly famous for sai baba temple. Also the drive to Shirdi crosses through some of the busiest highways in Maharastra. But if you are planning a trip with your parents in your car, Shirdi is a must place.  Shirdi, also known as Sainagar, is a town located in the Rahata Taluka of district Ahmednagar. The quaint city of Shirdi is one of the holiest places to visit in Maharashtra. While most people know Shirdi for its temples and pilgrimages, the city has so much more to offer to tourists.

The city is famous around the globe as the birthplace of late 19th century spiritual guru Sai Baba. His temple, Sai Baba Mandir attracts thousands of tourists each year and gives peace and solace to the visitors. Here you can witness the resting place of the saint and take blessings.

4.  Alibaug

Distance from Pune: 150 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

Alibag Fort

Source: Wikipedia

If not known to you, then Alibag is famous for weekend home and sea facing bunglows of rich and famous personality from Mumbai including Tata, Godrej, Raymond, Sachin Tendulkar, Ravi Shastri etc. Besides this, Alibag is also famous for mangoes, coconut gardens and long spread and peaceful beaches. Culturally and ethnically, Alibag is also famous for Jewish community. You can still experience the Jewish culture through the old streets of Alibag.

Also Alibag houses a lot of medieval forts and old and new naval bases from the times of Shivaji to modern Indian naval system. Driving to Alibag is half way on Pune-Mumbai expressway so, overall it takes lesser time than we expect to reach to Alibag from Pune.

Located just below the border of Mumbai, Alibag is a little coastal town in the state of Maharashtra. The name of the town literally means “The Gardens of Ali” and refers to the fruit orchards that were planted by Ali, an Israelite who used to live in the town during its earliest days. Owing to its convenient location by the sea, the town was regarded as an important strategic port during the British reign in India.

Being a coastal town, the beauty of Alibaug derives largely from the various beaches here. With its glittering golden black sands and clear blue waves, the clean and sparkling beaches of the town are a sight to behold. The brilliance of the beaches is often complemented by the historical fort ruins and ancient temples that can often be found scattered around the place.

Places of interest around Alibag:

  • Alibag beach and fort
  • Khanderi and Underi islands
  • Beaches: Varsoli, Akshi, Nagaon
  • Mandawa beach
  • Kulaba fort
  • Kanakesgwar temple

5. Matheran

Distance from Pune: 120 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: North West

Matheran railway

Source: http://anilcm.wordpress.com

Matheran is best known for being the smallest hill station in India. Half of the drive to Matheran from Pune is over Pune-Mumbai expressway. So, definately it reduces the overall driving time. After Lonavala, the drive is mostly amid the reserve forest. So, it can be said that the whole road trip is eye candy until Matheran.

Culturally, one can still experience the Parsian lifestyle and old British architecture in Matheran. Enroute, there will be many Panoramic view points where you would want to park you vehicle and take pictures of the valley and hills. Besides these all, Matheran is also famous for a lot of view points offering views of ranges of hills and spectacular nature scenary. Do not forget to take a ride in the Matheran hill railway.

Known as the” cutest little hill station of India”, the Matheran hill station is the best place to enjoy the sunset and sunrise view along with some mind blowing sceneries to keep you fresh and up front. This extraordinary hill station offers the best tourist places in Matheran which are untouched and undisturbed by the rustling city life that surrounds the town. The place is actually located on the Western Ghats that ranges in an elevation of around 800 meter above the sea level. The place always has a pleasant weather to enjoy during any time of the year, but its beauty gets added up during the season of rain and thunderstorm.

Places of Interest around Matheran:

  • Louisa point
  • Monkey point
  • Matheran Hill railway/ Toy train
  • Pisharnath mahadev Mandir
  • Chowk point
  • And, many points around Matheran

6. Mulshi

Distance from Pune: 50 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

Mulshi Lake

Source: http://indimike.com 

Mulshi is a 365 days tourist destination, located 35km from Pune city which is famous for Mulshi Lake, Dam, forest, and hill destinations. The most common activity along with a picnic and enjoying it’s a natural beauty, you can also enjoy trekking and camping. Camping tents are provided on rent by many providers along with barbeque and bonfire. 

Monsoons are the ideal time to plan and visit Mulshi along with your friends and family. You can reach Mulshi directly by bus or taxi from Pune. Mulshi is quite famous for the Mulshi dam over the Mulshi River. Mulshi is still in its beginning stage of gaining popularity but offers breathtaking views of the valley. Spending time in the valley is the best thing to do here

7. Lavasa

Distance from Pune: 60 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

Lavasa

Source: http://gotravelaz.com

Lavasa came into limelight after it became famous for first private planned city on hill station. Stylistically, this city is based on Italian architecural town of Portofino. People those who have visited this city find the Lavasa’s resemblance with the Italian city of Portofino like terraced houses, parallel streets, window opening into streets, colorful houses and wooden architectures etc.

However, currently the construction of the whole city has been halted due to some environmental violation. If you want to take a feel of luxurious and flambuoyant Italian architecture or if you aspire for some nice architectural house design and location, you should surely visit this town.

Apart from these, there are a lot of water sports facilities along Mutha river, a river beside which this beautiful city is located. You can also get a lot of western cuisines around the town. Credited as the first planned hill station, the planning of the hill station draws inspiration  on the Italian architectural town of Portofino. You will find lots of terraced houses, parallel streets, colorful houses, and wooden architecture

Places of Interest around Lavasa:

  • Lavasa Lakeshore watersports
  • Boating in Mutha river

8. Kamshet

Distance from Pune: 50 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

 kamshet paragliding

Source: www.swaroopch.com

The paragliding capital of India surrounded by the Western Ghats has located 45km from Pune. This town has picturesque mountain views, beautiful climate & greenery, with unmatched charm and simplicity. Kamshet can be reached directly by train or bus from both Mumbai & Pune.

Along with paragliding, people also enjoy trekking, camping, cliff climbing, and Buddhist caves which have images of Lord Buddha. Pawna Lake and Uksan Lake are the two most famous lakes famous among family groups as picnic spots. Do visit Tikona Fort, Lohagad Fort, and Visapur Fort to learn more about the history of the Kamshet.

Kamshet had been this quiet virgin beauty of Maharashtra all the while. The self-effacing beauty now is a popular place for adventure lovers. One road trip from Pune worth taking is coming to Kamshet in search of self.

9. Khandala

Distance from Pune: 70 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

khandala

Source: www.Panormio.com

Khandala is said to be the twin hill station of Lonavala. These two hill stations are not so apart from each other. Khandala also became famous from the song “Aati kya Khandala” from Movie Ghulam. Khandala road trip goes along Pune-mumbai expressway. Khandala is mainly famous for breathtaking views of western Ghats from many view points. People from Pune and Mumbai often go there on weekends drive.

Khandala is a beautiful place and has got a good share of nature’s alluring beauty. As it is surrounded by lush green forest covers, misty valleys, and cascading waterfalls, this place serves as a great weekend getaway as well as adventure hotspot for travellers from various parts of the country. Khandala is mainly famous for hiking tours to sight panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges in Western Ghats.

Points of interest around Khandala:

  • Tiger’s leap
  • Amrutanjan point
  • Karla cave and bhaje cave
  • Duke’s nose
  • Bhushi lake

10. Panchgani

Distance from Pune: 100 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: South

Panchgani

Source: WIkimedia

Panchgani is famous for good residential schools. Panchgani was not such a famous spot until many commercial ventures set up their schools recently following the trends of other schooling system in hill station like Mussoorie, Shimla, Nainital etc. Besides residential schools, Panchgani is also famous for medical centers and strawberry farms and the view points.

Overlooked by the Sahyadri mountains, this town served as a beautiful summer retreat for the British officials in the bygone times. At the present day, Panchgani is visited by a plethora of tourists seeking peace, romance, nature, and adventure. Enthralling local destinations such as Sydney Point, Table Land, Rajpuri Caves, and Dhom Dam form the major attractions of Panchgani and add to the beauty and charm of the place. Panchgani is not limited just to a few picturesque sights, but also goes beyond to offer its visitors a plethora of mind-boggling activities.

Points of interest around Panchgani:

  • Sydney point
  • Tabla land
  • Parsi point
  • Devil’s kitchen

11. Kolad

Distance from Pune: 110 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

Kolad river rafting

Source: WIkipedia

The “Rishikesh” of Maharashtra, surrounded by picturesque mountains and evergreen forests in the Raigad district which is 120 km from Pune. The famous attractions in Kolad are Kundalika River famous for water rafting, Tamhini Ghat, Bhira Dam, Devkund Waterfalls, Talgad Fort, Ghosala Fort, and the Kuda Caves.

Kolad has everything an adventurer seeks from a trip.  It has water sports water rafting and boating to activities like hiking, camping, and trekking. The peaceful and dense evergreen forests make Kolad the perfect place to spend your long & extended weekends.

Kolad is a treasure trove of sightseeing attractions, and caters to all kinds of tourists. Some of the best attractions in Kolad City include the Kundalika River, which is the hub of white water rafting in the region. You can also visit the serene Tamhini Ghat, and soak in picturesque views of the surrounding hills.

Or you can enjoy a fun-filled and memorable picnic at the Bhira Dam, while enjoying views of the gorgeous Devkund Waterfalls. Other famous attractions of Kolad include the ancient Ghosala Fort and the Kuda Caves. You can also enjoy camping and bird watching at the tranquil Sutarwadi Lake, or enjoy the history at the Talgad Fort. For adventure sports lovers, you can go trekking at the Plus Valley, or hike to the Devkund Waterfalls.

12. Malshej Ghat

Distance from Pune: 120 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: North

malshej ghat

Source: www.travology.in

If you only love driving into the nature and some long road trips, Malshej ghat road trip is for you then. During or after the monsoon, trip to Malshej ghat is filled with waterfalls falling on the roadsides. Last part of drive is through the Bhimashankar wildlife reserve which is the best drive. Everywhere there will be greenery and there will enormous number of waterfalls roadside. Every kilometer, you will feel like stopping taking pictures. Malshej Ghat is a paradise for adveturers, bird watchers, photographers.

One of the best road trips from Pune, Malshej Ghat is a true beauty full of scenic waterfalls and carpets of green strewn on your way. In the last part of the drive, you will drive through the Bhimashankar Wildlife reserve which is your experience with the best side of nature. The roadside is full of waterfalls and greenery and is a treat to the eyes. If you plan to take road trips from Pune in Monsoon, then the Malshej Ghat is unmissable because the lush green vegetation looks richer in rains.

13. Bhandardara

Distance from Pune: 170 Kms
Duration: Two days
Direction from Pune: North

bhandardara

Source: www. bcmtourimg.com

Bhandardara is a weekend gateway from Pune in true sense. First, this place is lesser known to people. Second, drive from Pune to Bhandardara is not the same as other drives. Difference being you cross through remote village, untouched nature, pristine waterpools etc. Third, Bhandardara is an odd mix of all the elements of nature like fresh air, waterfalls, majestic hills, greenery etc. Bhandardara is situated at the northern point of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary.

The same reserve forest which has the highest peak of Karnataka. You can still see the red thatched houses, paddy and cotton farms on the way. Pravara river adds the crest to the crown. I insist a nature lover to spend a night in the nature in some resorts.

Perched beautifully amidst the Sahyadri ranges in the state of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a wonderful hill station for nature lovers. It is often called the Queen of Sahyadri ranges for its lush green natural landscapes. The name Bhandardara literally translates to valley of treasures and it is not a doubt to say that the natural beauty of this place certainly justifies the name. It is a picturesque retreat for the backpackers in Ahmednagar district and boasts of some scintillating natural attractions for those who are fond of raw beauty of nature.

Points of interest around Bhandardara:

  • Wilson dam on Parvara river
  • Randhaa waterfalls
  • Tribal villages
  • Ratangad fort
  • Arthur lake
  • Mount kalsubai
  • Boating from Ratanwadi village into the nature

Pawna Lake

Distance from Pune: 56 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: West

Pawna Lake

Source: www.aroundpune.com

Pawna Lake is an artificial lake formed by a Dam built across the Pawna River. About 11 Km’s from Lonavala, the road leading to the lake is very beautiful. You drive through quiet villages that silently greet you from their slumber, green ghats that lay tall on both your sides and weather that is to kill for. The serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the sunset are what makes the place special. Sitting by the lake with your friends is nothing but pure bliss. There’s no other feeling that can beat your experience in the Pawna Lake, amidst nature.

Pawna Lake promises stunning sights that will hold your attention. The lovely vegetation, glistening waters and the running road, all present for a must-visit point from Pune. You can sit here in silence and enjoy the calm presence of the lake, or make it a hot picnic spot amidst music and dance. Whatever your reason is to visit the Pawna Lake, this place is surely worth it.

Places of interest around Pawna Lake:

  • Tung Fort
  • Visapur Fort
  • Tikona Fort
  • Bhaja Caves

Wai

Distance from Pune: 88 Kms
Duration: One day
Direction from Pune: South-West

Wai

Source: indiantourist-spots.blogspot.com

A popular temple town with a lot of mythical significance, just stop here for a few hours before you head to other weekend getaways like Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar. Home to more than 100 temples thus earning the title – ‘Dakshin Kashi’, a great destination for history buff, architects and devotees.

Places of interest around Wai:

  • Menwali Ghat
  • Wai Caves
  • Nana Phadnavis Wada


Did you like it?
Please Rate it below:

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (11 votes, average: 4.55 out of 5)
Loading...

5 Replies to “15 long drives from Pune: Best road trips”

Leave a Reply