8 Epic Hill Weekend Getaways from Pune You Must Visit

Home to a young crowd, Pune is known for its vibrant, cosmopolitan and fun environment. A short get away from the mundane city life needs to be on your travel list in the coming long weekends. Here are some beautiful hill stations around Pune, which are perfect for a weekend getaway. Here you go.

Lonavala and Khandala

Synonymous with beauty, Lonavala and Khandala are covered with a green blanket, embracing the scenic peaks. Around 100 km from Mumbai, Lonavala and Khandala are an ideal escape for a young crowd that wants a short break.

Don’t miss buying the popular ‘Chikki’, a sweet candy prepared with ground-nuts and jaggery, available in a lot of different varieties.

Mahabaleshwar

A blank canvas comprising of subtle hues and vibrant colours, Mahabaleshwar is one of the most famous summer retreats in Maharashtra. During the British rule, it was referred to as Malcolm Perth.

Enthralling and captivating, Mahabaleshwar is also famous as a religious spot. A plethora of attractions and a range of activities to indulge in, this hill station offers a lot on the platter. Don’t forget to go strawberry picking if you visit in March/April.

Matheran

Famed to be the smallest hill station in India, Matheran offers 1800 appealing views of the nearby surroundings. Located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Matheran is the picture-perfect retreat suggested to be among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Due to its charm, Matheran has gained immense popularity among couples for short weekend getaways.

Interesting Fact: Matheran is the only automobile-free hill station in Asia.

Panchgani

Nestled between the majestic hills of the Sahyadri range, Panchgani is famous for its unparalleled beauty. Locals believe the air in Panchgani has healing attributes, rejuvenating your body and mind.

Known to be a summer retreat for the British in the colonial era, Panchgani is bestowed with both coastal plains and hilly terrains.

A short weekend getaway to Panchgani offers a stay in scenic and dynamic surroundings. Visit Rajpuri Caves, Tableland, Lord Karthikeya Temple, and indulge in paragliding.

Malshej Ghat

Bestowed with the monsoons during June-September, Malshej Ghat gives you a glimpse of magnificent beauty with all its splendour and glory.

Uneven and rugged, this hill station is home to unexplored waterfalls that add to the appeal of Malshej Ghat. The birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Malshej Ghat is also popular among history buffs.

Tapola

Called the ‘Kashmir of the West’, Tapola is set on the banks of the Shivsagar Lake, and offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. Try out water scooter rides, boating, swimming and kayaking in Shivsagar Lake, a delight for water sports enthusiasts.

Exploring long trails in the jungle, plucking strawberries from nearby farms, witnessing the beauty of colourful flora in Kas Pathar and visiting the Nageshwar Temple will keep you occupied. Or maybe just lie back, and breathe-in the fresh air you miss out on in the city.

Amboli

An unexplored hill station in the Sahyadri hills, Amboli is considered to be one of the best ‘Eco Hot Spots’ in the world. Offering unique flora and fauna, its home to 108 Shiva Temples, and stunning waterfalls.

Though Amboli isn’t abuzz with touristy activities and sites, it’s a quiet and quaint town, offering the charm of seclusion and peace.

Bhandardara

Embraced by the appeal of the Western Ghats, Bhandardara is a less-known, enchanting hamlet. Known for its serene hills, lush mountains and stunning waterfalls, this small hill station is set beside the Pravara River.

Home to Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, the rugged terrains of Bhandardara are a dream-come-true for trekkers.

Be it a corporate retreat, a family vacation or a short getaway for friends, weekend getaways from Pune to hill stations don’t disappoint. With rich cultural and historical past, natural beauty, and activities to indulge in, you’d be introduced to a world of rejuvenation and relaxation.