With a plethora of tourist attractions that include gardens, amusement parks, forts, palaces, pubs and clubs, museums, and malls, Pune is a city that delights travelers to no end. But what if you have already visited all these places within the city? Well, you don’t have to keep yourself shut inside your hotels in Pune. Instead, you can take a short trip, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and explore some of the nearby attractions. Fortunately, there are many places to visit near Pune within 100 km.
So, are you up for a short trip, alone or with your family or crazy gang of friends? Read on. We give you a snapshot of the best tourist places near Pune, all located within 100 km.
1. Sinhagad Fort
How about indulging in some adventure and breaking a sweat this weekend? Take a trip to Sinhagad Fort aka Lion’s Fort, a hill fortress perched on the Buleshwar Range of the Sahyadri Mountains. It is believed that the fort dates back to over 2000 years and stood witness to several historical battles, the most important of them being the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670. Besides its historical significance, the fort is a hot favorite among trekkers. The trekking trail starts from the base of Sinhagad village and goes all the way up to the top of the fort (about 2.7 km, one way). During the trek, you can enjoy beautiful vistas of the surrounding region from an elevation of 1950 feet. Other key attractions here include a memorial to Tanaji, the tomb of Rajaram Chhatrapati, and a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, among others.
- Distance from Pune: 38 km (approx.)
2. Panshet Dam
Also known as Tanaji Sagar Dam, Panshet is an earthen dam built across the Ambi River and a popular tourist spot near Pune within 100 km. With the lush green Sahyadri Ranges forming its backdrop, it is a scenic location ideal for one-day picnics and weekend trips. The key attractions here include water sports like kayaking, boating, water scooter rides, and banana boat rides. The place is also a preferred location of nature lovers and adventure seekers for trekking and overnight camping. And it goes without saying that the best time to visit Panshet is during or immediately after the monsoon season.
- Distance from Pune: 41 km (approx.)
3. Kamshet
Searching for a spot where you can engage in adventure activities while on a one-day trip from Pune? Your search ends at Kamshet, a picturesque village located on the Western Ghats. The place is best known as a location for paragliding and has many take-off points including Shinde Wadi Hills. There are many schools in Kamshet that offer lessons in paragliding and you can engage in the activity under the supervision of experienced trainers.
- Distance from Pune: 47 km (approx.)
4. Pawna Lake
Thinking of an overnight picnic with your family or friends, away from the city and close to the wonders of nature? Well, we recommend Pawna Lake. Counted among the top camping sites near Pune, the lake and its surroundings will rejuvenate your weary soul and body. While camping here, you can soak in the beauty of the starry night, listen to great music, enjoy a BBQ session or just talk to your partner for hours. Whether you are a nature lover, peace seeker, shutterbug or an avid camper, Pawna Lake will not disappoint you.
- Distance from Pune: 54 km (approx.)
5. Bedse Caves
Another popular weekend getaway from Pune within 100 km, Bedse Caves is a group of Buddhist rock-cut monuments. It is believed that these caves date back to the 1st century BC, which makes it a preferred spot for history buffs. Together with Karla and Bhaja, it completes the trio of the Buddhist caves in the region. These caves are located near Lonavala, so you can plan a visit to Bedse during your Lonavala trip.
- Distance from Pune: 55 km (approx.)
6. Lavasa
How about enjoying a slice of Europe right here in India? Yes, we are talking about Lavasa, the newest hill station and the first planned city in the country. The city has been designed taking architectural inspiration from Portofino, a hillside town in Italy. Away from the hustle and bustle of Pune, Lavasa offers you the perfect retreat with its colorful buildings, lush green hills, cobbled streets, and a man-made lake. You can also engage in adventure sports, watersports, indoor golf, and other recreational activities on your trip to this beautiful hill city.
- Distance from Pune: 57 km (approx.)
7. Rajgad Fort
Previously known as Murumdev, Rajgad Fort aka the Ruling Fort is an ancient hill fort located on the Sahyadri Ranges, at an elevation of over 4500 ft. above sea level. True to its name, the fort once served as the capital of the Maratha Empire during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Pune during the monsoons and comprises of four parts, namely Suvela Machi, Padmavati Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, and Balekilla. As the fort is huge and cannot be explored in one day, you can opt for overnight camping. The many trekking trails that lead to the fort make it a popular choice among trekking enthusiasts as well. History, scenic beauty, and adventure all come together to make Rajgad one of the top places to visit near Pune within 100 km.
- Distance from Pune: 57 km (approx.)
8. Karla Caves
Want to witness the grandeur of India’s ancient rock-cut architecture? Plan a visit to Karla Caves, a monument protected by the Archeological Survey of India. Located at Karli, near Lonavala, this is a group of ancient Indian Buddhist rock-cut cave temples built over several centuries, spanning from 2nd century BC to 5th century AD. There are 16 caves in the complex, of which the Great Chaitya is the largest and the most popular one. If you are a history buff or an architecture lover, Karla Caves will be the perfect weekend getaway for you.
- Distance from Pune: 58 km (approx.)
9. Bhaja Caves
Located near Lonavala, Bhaja Caves is a complex of 22 rock-cut caves that trace their origins back to 2 BC. These Buddhist caves are among the top historical places to visit near Pune within 100 km. The caves feature a number of stupas, inscriptions, and carvings, making it an ideal spot for history buffs and lovers of art and architecture. While you are in the region, make sure that you visit the other two caves in the trio, namely Karla and Bede caves.
- Distance from Pune: 61 km (approx.)
10. Lohagad Fort
Lohagad, which means Iron Fort in Marathi, is a popular hill fort in Maharashtra. Located very close to Lonavala, it is at an elevation of 1033 meters above sea level. The fort boasts of a long and rich history as it was occupied by several dynasties in different points of time. This massive structure is flanked by lush greenery and offers you scenic vistas and fresh mountain air. There’s a beautiful trekking trail that leads to Lohagad, making it one of the favorite destinations for trekkers and nature lovers.
- Distance from Pune: 64 km (approx.)
11. Lonavala
At an elevation of 622 meters above sea level, Lonavala is a popular hill station near Pune, complete with lush green surroundings, cascading waterfalls, placid lakes, and scenic viewpoints. The name of the town is derived from the Sanskrit word lonavli, which means a group of caves. True to the name, there are many caves and forts in and around the region which you can visit during your trip. Set amidst the Sahyadri Mountain Ranges, the hill station offers scenic views of the surroundings and is rightly called the ‘Jewel of Sahyadri’.
- Distance from Pune: 65 km (approx.)
12. Tikona Fort
A triangular shaped mountain fort in the Pawana Maval Region, Tikona Fort was once the nerve-center of the ruling dynasties. Today, it is one of the most frequented trekking destinations near Pune. The trails that lead to the fort are scenic and once you reach the top, you get to enjoy stunning views of Lohagad Fort, Tung Fort, and Pawna Lake. There is also a temple, water tanks, and caves in the premises of the fort. Plan a trip to this fort with your group of friends and get ready for a day filled with fun and adventure.
- Distance from Pune: 68 km (approx.)
13. Khandala
At a distance of about 3 km from Lonavala, Khandala is another popular hill station perched on the foothills of Sahyadri Mountain Ranges. One of the best places to visit near Pune within 100 km, the place is blessed by nature in abundance. Scenic valleys, placid lakes, pleasant weather, ancient caves and forts, and misty waterfalls all come together to lend Khandala a majestic charm. While you are here, don’t forget to trek to Duke’s Nose, a cliff that offers you spellbinding views of the region.
- Distance from Pune: 69 km (approx.)
14. Kune Falls
Another must-visit attraction near Pune within 100 km, the Kune Falls is located in Lonavala. Touted as the 14th highest waterfall in the country, it cascades down from a height of over 660 ft. This three-tiered fall presents a beautiful sight, with the Sahyadri Ranges serving as its background. The best time to visit the Kune Falls in during the months of monsoon, when the waterbody gushes down it its full glory. The areas surrounding the falls are rich in lush green vegetation, making it a popular picnic spot near Pune for nature lovers, photographers, and family holidaymakers.
- Distance from Pune: 72 km (approx.)
15. Della Adventure Park
When you are in the mood for adventure, take a trip to Della Adventure Park, the largest extreme adventure park in the country. With over 50 adventure activities, the park will give you a dose of adrenaline rush and keep you engaged for a whole day. Some of the key attractions here include swoop swing, flying fox, zorbing, archery, dirt bike riding, paintballing, and rappelling, among others. Touted as one of the best weekend getaways near Pune, the park is ideal for individual travelers, families, and groups.
- Distance from Pune: 72 km (approx.)
- Timings: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
- Day Pass: ₹ 2065 for adults; ₹ 1475 for kids and senior citizens
16. Rajmachi Fort
Another historical fort located on the rugged hills of the Sahyadri Ranges, Rajmachi is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers. The fort is located about 15 km from Lonavala and Khandala, so you can easily cover it on your trip to either of these places. The fort comprises of two citadels namely Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, and is surrounded by a wide plateau. Once you are inside the fort complex, you can see massive gateways, strong walls, secret exit gates, water reservoirs, and a temple dedicated to Kal Bhairav. History buffs can visit Kondhane Caves, a set of ancient Buddhist caves located on the plateau. Besides trekking and picnicking, Rajmachi is also an ideal location for overnight camping.
- Distance from Pune: 83 km (approx.)
17. Adlabs Imagica
Looking for fun things to do in Pune? Then you must make your way to Adlabs Imagica, a one-of-its-kind theme park located a short drive away from the city. From fun-filled rides and unique shows to gravity-defying water slides, the park has over 40 rides and attractions. Spread over a land of 130 plus acres, Imagica houses a theme park, water park, snow park, Bollywood themed House of Stars, and an augmented reality park called the Eyelusion. Complete with several themed restaurants and bars and well-equipped room for guests, the park promises you a day of unlimited fun, frolic, and adventure.
- Distance from Pune: 87 km (approx.)
- Timings:
Theme Park – 11:00 am to 07:00 pm; every day
Snow Park – 10:00 am to 07:00 pm; every day
Water Park – 10:30 am to 7:00 pm; every day - Tickets:
Theme Park (Regular, weekdays) – ₹ 1499 for adults; ₹ 1099 for kids
Theme Park (Regular, weekends) – ₹ 1599 for adults; ₹ 1299 for kids
Water Park (Regular) – ₹ 899 for adults; ₹ 799 for kids
Water Park (Regular, weekends) – ₹ 999 for adults; ₹ 799 for kids
Snow Park – ₹ 499 per person
18. Panchgani
A scenic hill station located at an elevation of 1293 meters above sea level, Panchgani once served as the summer resort for the British. Today, it is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Pune and Mumba. Blessed with lush greenery, mesmerizing views of the Krishna River, pleasant weather, and fresh air, Panchgani has everything to give you that much-needed respite from your hectic schedules. Some of the key attractions in and around Panchgani include Sydney Point, Table Land, Parsi Point, and Devil’s Kitchen, among others.
- Distance from Pune: 98 km (approx.)
This is only a handpicked list of places to visit near Pune within 100 km and there are many more hidden gems in the region. Whether you are residing in Pune or visiting the city, take time to visit some of these attractions. Travel, explore, and create memories. And repeat!