Excursion Trip Options Within 100 km of Pune: A Perfect Blend of Nature, History & Adventure!

Namaskar, Punekarans! 🚗🌄 If you're itching for a quick getaway from the city’s hustle-bustle, you’re in luck—Pune is surrounded by amazing weekend destinations within a 100 km radius. Whether you love trekking, history, waterfalls, or just chilling at a peaceful spot, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best one-day or weekend trips you can take without burning too much fuel or time.

1. Lonavala & Khandala (65 km) – The Classic Monsoon Paradise

Best for: Scenic views, waterfalls, chikki & chai

  • Why Visit? The evergreen twin hill stations offer lush green valleys, misty roads, and bhukkad-approved snacks (Maggi, corn, and chikki!).

  • Top Attractions:

    • Tiger’s Leap – A cliff with a breathtaking valley view.

    • Bhushi Dam – Famous for its cascading water in monsoon.

    • Rajmachi Point – Perfect sunset spot.

    • Karla & Bhaja Caves – Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves.

  • Travel Tip: Avoid weekends in monsoon (crazy crowded!).

2. Sinhagad Fort (30 km) – A Trekker’s Delight

Best for: History buffs, trekking, and misal pav

  • Why Visit? A quick escape with a mix of history & adventure. The fort was once called Kondhana and played a key role in Shivaji Maharaj’s battles.

  • Things to Do:

    • Trek up (easy-moderate, ~1.5 hrs) or drive till the top.

    • Enjoy kanda bhaji & taak (buttermilk) at stalls.

    • Visit Tanaji Malusare’s memorial.

  • Travel Tip: Start early to avoid the afternoon heat.

3. Lavasa (60 km) – India’s Planned Hill City

Best for: Instagram lovers, leisurely drives, boating

  • Why Visit? Feels like a mini-Europe with its neat roads, colorful buildings, and lakeside cafes.

  • Top Attractions:

    • Lakeside Promenade – Great for walks & photography.

    • Water sports – Kayaking, jet skiing.

    • Tikona Fort (nearby) – Short trek with panoramic views.

  • Travel Tip: Entry fee applies (₹150-₹200 per vehicle).

4. Mulshi Dam (45 km) – Serene Lake & Nature Retreat

Best for: Peace seekers, camping, offbeat travel

  • Why Visit? Less crowded than other spots, perfect for a quiet picnic by the lake.

  • Things to Do:

    • Photography – Stunning sunrise/sunset views.

    • Stay at a farmhouse/resort (many options available).

    • Trek to Tamhini Ghat (monsoon magic!).

  • Travel Tip: No swimming allowed (deep waters).

5. Rajmachi Fort (80 km) – Best Monsoon Trek

Best for: Adventure lovers, camping under the stars

  • Why Visit? A moderate trek leading to an ancient fort with two peaks – Shrivardhan & Manaranjan.

  • How to Reach:

    • Trek from Lonavala (5 km) or Udhewadi village (15 km).

    • Best time: July-Feb (waterfalls flowing!).

  • Travel Tip: Carry water & snacks; no shops on the way.

6. Bhimashankar (110 km – Slightly Beyond, But Worth It!)

Best for: Wildlife, temple visit, jungle trek

  • Why Visit? One of the 12 Jyotirlingas + a wildlife sanctuary (home to the Indian Giant Squirrel).

  • Things to Do:

    • Darshan at Bhimashankar Temple.

    • Trek through the dense forest (Gupt Bhimashankar is a hidden cave).

    • Spot rare birds & animals.

  • Travel Tip: Wear good shoes (rocky terrain).

7. Panshet & Varasgaon Dam (45 km) – Water Sports Hub

Best for: Adventure junkies, family outings

  • Why Visit? Less commercial than other dams, great for kayaking, speed boating, and camping.

  • Things to Do:

    • Water sports (book in advance).

    • Relax at Panshet Beach.

    • Visit nearby Torna Fort (if you have extra time).

  • Travel Tip: Monsoon is the best time (full water levels).

8. Karla & Bhaja Caves (55 km) – Ancient Buddhist Wonders

Best for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts

  • Why Visit? 2000-year-old caves carved into hills, showcasing Buddhist influence.

  • Key Highlights:

    • Karla Cave – One of the largest rock-cut chaityas.

    • Bhaja Caves – Simpler but equally fascinating.

  • Travel Tip: Combine with a Lonavala trip.

9. Tamhini Ghat (65 km) – Monsoon Magic

Best for: Road trips, waterfalls, photography

  • Why Visit? The most scenic ghat near Pune, with countless waterfalls in monsoon.

  • Things to Do:

    • Drive through misty roads.

    • Stop at small waterfalls for pics.

    • Visit Andharban Forest (if extending the trip).

  • Travel Tip: Drive carefully (slippery roads in rain).

10. Tikona Fort (60 km) – Easy Trek with Stunning Views

Best for: Beginners, family treks

  • Why Visit? A short but rewarding trek (1-1.5 hrs) leading to a 360° view of Pawna Lake & surrounding forts.

  • Things to Do:

    • Explore the fort’s ruins.

    • Picnic at Pawna Lake (nearby).

  • Travel Tip: Avoid peak afternoon (no shade).

Bonus: Offbeat & Unique Options

  • Nighoj Potholes (90 km) – Natural rock formations.

  • Dhodap Fort (100 km) – Less crowded, epic views.

  • Bhor (70 km) – Hidden gem with forts & waterfalls.

Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?

  • For Adventure: Rajmachi, Tikona, Bhimashankar

  • For Relaxation: Mulshi, Lavasa, Panshet

  • For History Buffs: Sinhagad, Karla-Bhaja Caves

  • For Monsoon Vibes: Tamhini, Lonavala, Bhushi Dam

Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip

✔ Weekdays > Weekends (less crowd).
✔ Carry cash (some places don’t accept UPI).
✔ Check weather (especially for treks & ghats).
✔ Leave early to avoid traffic.

Ready to Explore?

Pune’s surroundings are packed with hidden gems—whether you want adrenaline, peace, or just a change of scenery. So, pack your bag, grab your camera, and hit the road!

Which one’s your favorite? Let me know in the comments! 😊🚗