Most Scenic Road Trips in Pune, Mahārāshtra, India
1. Lavasa Hill City
A planned hill city inspired by Italian architecture, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning vistas of the mountain range and nearby water bodies.
- Modern Infrastructure: Well-planned roads and modern amenities make for a comfortable trip.
- Adventure Activities: Includes opportunities for hiking, paragliding, and boating.
2. Mumbai-Pune Expressway
One of India's finest highways, offering breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range and scenic valleys.
- Fast Travel: Allows quick travel from Pune to Mumbai, covering approximately 90 km in just over an hour.
- Scenic Views: Provides a beautiful drive through the Western Ghats, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
- Safety and Efficiency: Widely maintained roads and numerous rest stops ensure a safe and efficient journey.
3. Khandala-Lonavala
A picturesque hill station famous for its scenic valleys, waterfalls, and historic forts.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for the beautiful Kune Falls, Bhushi Dam, and Tiger's Leap.
- Cultural Experience: Visitors can explore ancient caves, forts, and temples.
- Food and Shopping: Offers local sweets like chikki and laddu, as well as unique souvenirs.
4. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
A pristine wilderness home to several endangered species like the Indian Leopard and Sloth Bear.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for birdwatching, tiger tracking, and other wildlife encounters.
- Scenic Beauty: Features lush green forests, waterfalls, and the ancient Bhimashankar Temple.
- Trekking Opportunities: Includes scenic treks to the hilltop temple and surrounding mountains.
5. Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar
Two beautiful hill stations connected by a scenic road offering breathtaking views and strawberry farms.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for the Sunset Point, Lingmala Waterfall, and Sydney Point.
- Adventure Activities: Offers activities like paragliding, trekking, and horse riding.
- Strawberry Farms: Visitors can explore the numerous strawberry farms and purchase fresh produce.
6. Kolad-Sutarwadi
A scenic route offering white water rafting and stunning views of the Bhira Dam.
- Adventure Activities: Known for the exciting Kundalika River white-water rafting experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and lush green valleys.
- Tourist Camps: Provides comfortable tourist camps for overnight stays near the river.
7. Ratnagiri-Ganpatipule
A coastal town famous for its beautiful beach and Ganpatipule Temple.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for the picturesque Ganapatipule Beach and lush green surroundings.
- Religious Significance: Features the famous Ganapatipule Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
- Fresh Seafood: Offers a variety of delicious fresh seafood dishes.
8. Panshet-Varasgaon Dam
A serene location with beautiful dams, lakes, and valleys, ideal for boating and picnicking.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains.
- Water Sports: Includes activities like boating and water skiing.
- Picnic Spots: Provides scenic picnic spots around the dams and lakes.
9. Mulshi Dam-Pavana Lake
A scenic drive leading to a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green valleys.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Pavana Dam and surrounding Sahyadri mountains.
- Water Sports: Includes activities like boating and water skiing at Pavana Lake.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides scenic treks to the nearby waterfalls and hills.
10. Tailbaila Hill Fort
An ancient hill fort offering stunning views of the Sahyadri mountains and valleys.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pune's rich historical past.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides a challenging trek to reach the fort's summit.
11. Tikona Fort
An ancient hill fort offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pune's rich historical past.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides a moderately difficult trek to reach the fort's summit.
12. Visapur Fort
An ancient hill fort offering panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and the neighboring forts.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pune's rich historical past.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides a challenging trek to reach the fort's summit.
13. Rajmachi Fort
An ancient hill fort offering panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and nearby valleys.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pune's rich historical past.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides a challenging trek to reach the fort's summit.
14. Lohagad Fort
An ancient hill fort offering panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and neighboring forts.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pune's rich historical past.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Opportunities: Provides a moderately difficult trek to reach the fort's summit.
15. Shirota Lake and Temple
A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains.
- Religious Significance: Features the serene Shirota Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Peaceful Environment: Provides a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors.