Maharashtra – the Indian state that is flowing with lush-green destinations and also homes some beautiful beaches of the country, one cannot stay away from nature. More than a pleasure, it has now become a need to sometimes ditch the schedules and surrender to the nature. Enlisted here are 10 weekend getaways from Pune that will rejuvenate you.
1. Matheran
Matheran is about 120 km away from Pune. The beautiful hill point can be either trekked or enjoyed while in the toy train. The place is untouched by pollution as motor vehicles are banned in the region. The place has close to 38 view points from where one can admire the region. Also it has lakes and temples to keep the visitors engaged.
2. Lonavla
Lonavala, famous for its fudge and chikkis is about 66 km away from Pune. This quiet little hill top is a trekker’s paradise during the monsoons. The lush-greens that give you an absolute breath taking view of the region will also charm you with beautiful sunsets that one can never get bored of. Bushi dam is also one of the major attractions of Lonavala and people love to visit this easily reachable destination.
3. Alibag
The small little town of Alibag lies on the coastline of Maharashtra overlooking the Arabian Sea. Located 142 km away from Pune the place is an absolute delight for beach and sea-food lovers. While some beaches are crowded some are comparatively quieter. Take a book, sit on the sands, admire the horizon and hear some wonderful music produced by the waves and for the meals dive into some local sea-food delicacies. Isn’t it already too relaxed for a weekend?
4. Kamshet
If you don’t want to travel much on your weekend but yet want some fun, drive in till Kamshet. Just at a distance of 50 km this place is surrounded by few hamlets the place is the love for those who want to paraglide. Apart from giving your adrenaline the required rush you can also explore the caves of Bhaja and Bhedsa, visit the temples of Kondeshwar and Vidveshwar or just spend a quiet evening by the Vadival Lake.
5. Diveagar
The yet unexplored destination is about 160 km away from the city of Pune. Diveagar is untouched by the commercialization and has very little traces of visitors. The beach overlooking the Arabian Sea stretches for about 4 km and is not a flat one making the surf enjoyable. One can indulge in the local resorts that have just started touching the coastal area and are a perfect retreat for a lazy weekend.
6. Panchgani
Wrapped between five hills of the Sahyadaris, Panchgani is an exquisite retreat to the soul. Situated at a distance of 101 km from Pune, this place cannot be missed while searching for escape from the city life. The Dhom Dam built on the Krishna River forms a lake in the region. The Sydney point and the Parisi Point give an amazing view to the lake while the Devil’s Kitchen Caves can be viewed at a distance from the Table land, the longest mountain plateau of Asia.
7. Mahabaleshwar
South-west to Pune at about 120 km is another escape in the laps of nature, Mahabaleshwar. Surrounded by valleys on all the sides Mahabaleshwar the hill station is a huge plateau. Considered divine and holding the belief that River Krishna once originated from here the place is a remarkable tourist spot. One can easily see the rock formations and can adore the views from point like the needle point and the 3 monkeys point.
8. Bhandardara
Being the highest peak of Maharashtra situated at a distance of 162 km from Pune, Bhandardara is a popular tourist destination for its sky-high mountains, roaring waterfalls and lush-green land. With lakes, dams and waterfalls this hill station also drenches you in the sights of different and engulfing water bodies. Also being of historic importance the place is visited frequently but is undisturbed by the noisiness of the cities as everyone who comes here is searching for peace.
9. Kolad
Around 115km from the busy city of Pune, Kolad is a paradise for water sports lovers. Once here, activities like kayaking, river rafting, flying fox, river crossing, night camping and bonfires will keep the weekend too busy but in a way that will refresh each and every cell of the body. Whether you want to go with your sweetheart or all friends trip, both are of equal fun.
10. Satara
About 112 km from Pune is Satara enclosing a rich heritage amidst the beauty of nature. Ajinkyatara Fort and Sajjangarh Fort have ancient trails that will fill up the curiosity quotient while the nature will surprise you with the beautiful formations Kaas plateau and the sights of water from the tributary Veena meeting the River Krishna. A quite weekend is guaranteed in the arms of nature.
Exploring the nearby destinations while managing the daily lives is what leaves one refreshed. The little escapes from the city blues are necessary. Take a weekend off and see the nature welcomes you for surprising your senses and leaving you calm and energized.
