Living in Pune has its perks like great food, pleasant weather (most of the year), and enough cafes to keep your weekends busy. But every now and then, you just want to get out of the city, breathe in fresh air, and come back feeling like you’ve hit a reset button.
The good news? There are plenty of tourist places near Pune within 100 km that are perfect for a one-day trip or a short weekend break. Think hill forts, lakeside sunsets, quiet temples, and monsoon drives that feel like scenes from a movie.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Where can I go near Pune this weekend?” this list is for you.
Why Weekend Trips Near Pune Are So Popular
Pune is surrounded by the Sahyadris, which means you’re never too far from nature. Within just 1 to 2 hours, you can swap traffic noise for birdsong. These short trips work so well because:
- You don’t need long leaves even a Saturday is enough.
- Travel is easy most places are reachable by car or bike.
- There’s variety treks, temples, hill stations, dams, forts, and picnic spots.
I’ve found these mini getaways are like power naps for your mind short, simple, and surprisingly refreshing.
Top Tourist Places Near Pune Within 100 Km
Below are some of the best weekend getaways near Pune within 100 km. I’ve included what to do, who it’s ideal for, and a few practical tips, so you can plan without overthinking.
1) Lonavala & Khandala (The Classic Weekend Escape)
If you’ve lived in Pune for even a few months, you’ve probably heard someone say, “Let’s go to Lonavala.” And honestly, it’s popular for a reason. Lonavala and Khandala are among the most loved tourist places near Pune, especially during the monsoon.
What to do
- Visit Tiger Point for sweeping valley views.
- Stop at Bhushi Dam (best in rainy season, go early to avoid crowds).
- Explore Rajmachi Fort if you’re in the mood for a trek.
- Snack on chikki, because it’s basically mandatory.
Best for: Couples, families, first-time travellers, monsoon lovers
Small tip: Go on a weekday if you can. On weekends, Lonavala can feel like all of Pune decided to holiday together.
2) Lavasa (A Pretty Drive and Lakeside Vibes)
Lavasa is one of those places people either love or skip but for a short drive and a relaxed evening by the lake, it works perfectly. The roads leading up to Lavasa are part of the fun, especially if you enjoy scenic drives.
What to do
- Walk along the lakeside promenade.
- Try cafes with water views.
- Go for light adventure activities (depending on what’s open).
Best for: Friend groups, couples, quick day trips
Good to know: It’s more of a “relax and stroll” destination than a sightseeing heavy one. Think of it like a short recharge spot.
3) Sinhagad Fort (A Trek With a Reward at the Top)
When someone says “trek near Pune,” Sinhagad Fort is usually the first name that comes up. It’s close, it’s doable even for beginners, and it comes with a delicious bonus and hot kanda bhaji and pithla-bhakri at the top.
What to do
- Trek up early in the morning for cooler weather.
- Enjoy panoramic views once you reach the fort.
- Learn a bit of history (the fort has seen its share of battles).
Best for: Beginners, trekking fans, history lovers, sunrise chasers
Personal note: I once started the trek thinking, “This will be easy,” and halfway up I questioned every life choice. But the view at the top? Worth it.
4) Lohagad Fort (Easy Trek and Great Monsoon Views)
Lohagad Fort is another favourite among places to visit near Pune within 100 km, especially during monsoon when everything turns fresh green. The trek is considered easy to moderate, and the route is quite scenic.
What to do
- Trek to the top and explore the fort walls.
- Pair it with a visit to Visapur Fort if you want a longer hike.
- Enjoy the misty viewpoints in rainy season.
Best for: Weekend trekkers, nature lovers, monsoon travel near Pune
5) Tikona Fort (Triangle Shaped Fort and Peaceful Trek)
Looking for something less crowded but still exciting? Tikona Fort (named after its triangular shape) offers a refreshing trek with lovely views of surrounding lakes and hills.
What to do
- Trek up for sunrise if you’re an early bird.
- Take photos of the landscape
- Tikona is surprisingly photogenic.
- Explore nearby lakes like Pawna (more on that below).
Best for: Trekkers, photographers, people who like quieter trails
6) Pawna Lake (Camping, Bonfires, and Slow Evenings)
Pawna Lake is one of the most popular spots for camping near Pune. It’s not about shopping or sightseeing, it’s about sitting by the water, eating simple food, and watching the sky change colors.
What to do
- Go for lakeside camping (many organizers offer tents and meals).
- Enjoy bonfires and music (depending on the campsite).
- Wake up early for a peaceful sunrise.
Best for: Groups of friends, couples, anyone who needs a digital detox
Small tip: Carry a light jacket. Evenings can get chilly near the lake.
7) Mulshi Dam (Easy, Scenic, and Great for a Drive)
If you want a calm day trip without trekking, Mulshi Dam makes a great pick. The drive itself is soothing, green hills, small villages, and that “far from city” feeling that kicks in surprisingly fast.
What to do
- Plan a picnic style outing.
- Stop at viewpoints for photos.
- Visit during monsoon for the most dramatic scenery.
Best for: Families, couples, road trip lovers, relaxed weekends
8) Panshet Dam (Picnic Spot and Water Activities)
Panshet Dam is another solid choice for people looking for places near Pune for one day trip. It’s known for calm surroundings and, at times, water sports options.
What to do
- Relax by the water and enjoy the views.
- Look out for boating or water activities (seasonal).
- Combine it with nearby attractions like Sinhagad (if you’re up for a packed day).
Best for: Picnics, family outings, laid-back travelers
9) Khadakwasla Dam (Quick Escape Without Planning Much)
Want something super close where you can just hop in the car and go? Khadakwasla Dam is a quick getaway near Pune that works especially well in the evening.
What to do
- Watch the sunset near the dam.
- Grab snacks from nearby stalls.
- Pair it with a visit to Sinhagad or local eateries for a complete outing.
Best for: Last minute plans, short evening drives, casual hangouts
10) Alandi (Spiritual Calm Close to the City)
If you’re looking for a peaceful, spiritual place near Pune, Alandi is well-known for its religious importance and calm atmosphere. Even if you’re not particularly religious, the energy of the place can feel grounding.
What to do
- Visit the temple and walk around the ghats.
- Explore local streets for simple snacks and prasad.
- Go early morning for a quieter experience.
Best for: Spiritual travelers, families, culture lovers
11) Jejuri (The Golden Temple Town)
Jejuri is famous for the Khandoba temple and its striking setting. The steps, the chants, and the wide open views from the top make it a memorable short trip.
What to do
- Climb up to the temple for panoramic views.
- Visit during festivals if you want to see the town at its liveliest (expect crowds).
- Carry water, those steps can feel longer than they look.
Best for: Temple visits, cultural exploration, short family trips
12) Kamshet (Paragliding and Open Skies)
Want to do something that makes your weekend feel bigger than it actually was? Head to Kamshet, known for paragliding and wide, open landscapes. Even watching the paragliders is fun.
What to do
- Try paragliding (book with a reputed operator).
- Visit nearby spots around Lonaval-Khandala belt.
- Enjoy the countryside vibe and fresh air.
Best for: Adventure lovers, friend groups, thrill seekers
13) Rajgad Fort (For People Who Want a Real Trek)
If Sinhagad feels too easy and you want a trek that makes you earn the view, Rajgad Fort is a strong contender. It’s a bit more demanding, but it’s also one of the most rewarding forts near Pune.
What to do
- Trek up and explore the different sections of the fort.
- Plan an early start (or even an overnight trek if you’re experienced).
- Carry enough water and snacks.
Best for: Experienced trekkers, history fans, adventure weekends
14) Bhimashankar (Nature and Temple in One Trip)
Bhimashankar is ideal if you want a mix of spirituality and nature. It’s home to a Jyotirlinga temple and is surrounded by lush forest areas. If you like peaceful travel where you can slow down, this is a great pick.
What to do
- Visit the temple (try weekday mornings for fewer crowds).
- Explore the surrounding nature trails.
- Enjoy the cool, green environment, especially in monsoon.
Best for: Families, spiritual travelers, nature lovers
15) Matheran (No Cars, Just Fresh Air)
Technically, Matheran can be close to the 100 km mark depending on your route, but it’s worth mentioning because it feels different. It’s a no-vehicle hill station, so the air feels cleaner and the pace naturally slows down.
What to do
- Walk to viewpoints like Echo Point and Panorama Point.
- Try the toy train experience (if operational).
- Eat local snacks and enjoy the old-school hill station charm.
Best for: Families, couples, anyone tired of constant honking
How to Choose the Best Weekend Getaway Near Pune
Not sure where to go? Ask yourself one simple question: What kind of tired are you?
- If you’re mentally tired, choose calm places like Pawna Lake or Mulshi.
- If you’re physically restless, go for treks like Sinhagad, Lohagad, or Rajgad.
- If you want something different, try Kamshet paragliding.
- If you want spiritual peace, visit Alandi, Jejuri, or Bhimashankar.
It’s a bit like picking food when you’re hungry, once you know what you’re craving, decisions get easy.
Quick Tips for One-Day Trips Near Pune
- Start early to avoid traffic (especially on highways and ghat roads).
- Carry cash as some smaller spots may not accept cards/UPI consistently.
- Wear good shoes for forts and treks (slippery in monsoon).
- Pack light snacks and water if you’re trekking.
- Check weather updates during monsoon the visibility can drop fast in the ghats.
Best Time to Visit Tourist Places Near Pune Within 100 Km
Most of these destinations are enjoyable year-round, but here’s a quick seasonal guide:
- Monsoon (Jun to Sep): Lonavala, Lohagad, Tikona, Mulshi (lush views, misty hills).
- Winter (Nov to Feb): Treks and forts feel easier; Pawna camping is comfortable.
- Summer (Mar to May): Plan early morning trips; dams and shaded spots work better.
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