Spectacular Monsoon Getaways From Pune Under 100 Kms

Perhaps one of the most scenic drives, Tamhini Ghat is a mountain pass that connects Kolad to Pune. It is a sight to behold during the Monsoon for its wholesome greenery and a layer of mist as clouds descend into the region! The area is pristine and virtually unexplored. As one gets nearer to Kolad, on almost every curve of the road one is bound to find a cascading waterfall. You can find a suitable spot and even have a picnic along a water body (as long as you don’t go into it, it would all be fun and games) if you can endure and even enjoy the intermittent drizzle. The area is considered haunted and driving/riding after dark is not recommended through the area. Distance – Approximately 70 km from Pune Railway Station towards Mulshi.

Known For : Tiger's Leap Rajmachi Fort Imagicaa

After crossing Tamhini, one can take a right turn into the hills, which leads to Nive and from there to Lonavala. The climb is steep for a few minutes and opens into an amazing viewpoint, which is also an ideal spot for a picnic. However, the mountainside tends to be slippery when wet and it is advisable to stay away from the edge of the ghat. From here the road meanders towards Lonavala and opens near Amby Valley, passing through densely wooded areas as well as a few tiny villages. The road is extremely narrow but the overhanging greenery more than makes up for the alert drive. There are no eateries or shacks on this route till Lonavala. A snack break in Mulshi would, therefore, be ideal if you wish to undertake this drive. Distance – Approximately 50 kms from Tamhini Ghat

Distance from Pune: 68 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

41 Lonavala Attractions

If you don’t want to drive up to Tamhini Ghat, you can drive up to Mulshi dam and grab a splendid meal at one of the numerous eateries that dot this road. The scenery is just as remarkable albeit a bit more urbanised. And the view of the Mulshi reservoir, that is just one reason to drive till here. You can also grab a hot and freshly roasted corn-on-the-cob with a steaming cup of cutting chai at one of the tiny tapris (kiosks). Distance – Approximately 50 kms from Pune Railway Station.

Distance from Pune: 44 km

Driving towards Khadakwasla, which is famous for its military establishment (the National Defence Academy) and as an evening hangout, one can stop at Panshet Dam, which is equally beautiful, is famous for boating opportunities in the reservoir but less populated. Distance – Approximately 52 kms from Pune Railway Station.

After a few kilometres of high speed driving on the Old Mumbai-Pune highway, one can take a left turn at Kamshet into a smaller road that leads to the Pavana river and dam. The drive is picturesque as one meanders through tiny villages to reach the river. The route is also the gateway to Buddhist caves Bedse that has a history dating back to 1 BC. One can opt for the boating opportunity on the reservoir, visit the caves, or climb up the Lohagadh Fort located nearby. The Fort is an easy 20-minute climb from the base and offers a superb view of Lonavala. Climbers are required to exercise caution as the area tends to be very slippery during the rainy season. But as those who love being on the road and revel in the sheer joy of driving while it pours outside, we recommend that one discards the boat rides, the climbs and the picnics for another not-so-rainy day. Distance – Approximately 71 kms from Pune Railway Station. To be even more mesmerized by the beauty that the Sahyadris are, watch this!

Distance from Pune: 58 km

Known For : Louisa point Charlotte lake Monkey Point Matheran

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Matheran is the smallest hill station in all of India, but it is extremely popular in terms of tourists looking for a short trip amid spectacular vistas and serenity.

Best Time: Throughout the year

29 Matheran Attractions

Known For : Calangute Beach Baga Beach Dudhsagar Falls

Lying on the west coast, Goa is one of the smallest states in India known for its brilliant beaches, scrumptious food and Portuguese heritage. Goa experiences heavy rainfall during these months, with July being the wettest month of the year. However, if you enjoy the rain, natural beauty and lush greenery all around you, then this is the perfect time for your trip to Goa.

Distance from Pune: 426 km

Best Time: October to March

198 Goa Attractions

Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall

A hill town in the Western Ghats, apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. However, treks are a marvellous way to spend time during monsoons as the entire place is covered in trees which give out a luscious green lustre that is hugely refreshing. The waterfalls and lakes are filled to the brim as well and must not be missed in this season.

Distance from Pune: 120 km

Best Time: October to June

31 Mahabaleshwar Attractions

Known For : Kaas Plateau Table Land Mahabaleshwar

Panchgani is a perfect spot to visit in monsoons. It is situated at the foot of five hills and lies on the way to Mahabaleshwar. This famous picnic spot is known for its pleasant weather throughout the year making it even more visited. Panchgani lies at a distance of 100 km from Pune which takes nearly 3 hours to reach. Some famous attractions here include Table Land, Sydney Point, Devil's Kitchen and Parsi Point.

Distance from Pune: 102 km

Best Time: September to May

13 Panchgani Attractions

Known For : Sightseeing in Lavasa Lakeside Promenade Bamboosa

Known as India's newest hill station, the Lavasa Corporation is constructing this private city. The rain-soaked trees, the beautiful green surroundings, the excellent accommodation facilities with a lakeside atmosphere, during the rainy season, is nothing short of magic. The best thing to indulge in Lavasa during monsoons includes talking walks in the open areas and enjoying a comforting supper or the romantic combination of chai-pakoda while treating the eyes with the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

Distance from Pune: 57 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Lavasa Attractions

Known For : Rajmachi Fort Visapur Fort Bedsa caves

Perched on the foothills of Sahyadri, Khandala provides for a perfect weekend respite for the Mumbai population, with its scenic valleys, grassy hills, serene lakes and misty waterfalls. The monsoon season in Khandala lasts till September. This is the best time to visit the hill station from Pune as the heavy rainfall makes it look mesmerising with lush greenery, brimming lakes and picturesque valley beckoning bold backpackers. Khandala in monsoon is also a paradise for honeymooners or anyone looking to rekindle their romance. However, don't forget woollens, raincoats and umbrellas if you plan on visiting Khandala during this time of the year.

Distance from Pune: 70 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Khandala Attractions

Known For : Trekking in Rajmachi

Rajmachi is a small village situated in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Rajmachi has two fortified peaks - Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, located near two famous hills of Lonavala and Khandala. Monsoons are the best months to visit Rajmachi - the weather and the views throughout the trek are just amazing. You get to see a number of small rivers and waterfalls all through the trek, and greenery everywhere around you.

Distance from Pune: 79 km

Best Time: June to September

1 Rajmachi Attractions

Known For : Trekking in Suryamal Suryamal Peak

Suryamal is the highest peak of the region, located in Thane district of Maharashtra. The small but beautiful hill is a popular place among people for the sheer breathtaking views that it can be seen from the hilltop. Monsoon begins in late June and continues until September. These regions see consistent heavy rainfall. This time is preferable since you can experience the rain while trekking and biking and the scenery is refreshed by the arrival of rains.

Distance from Pune: 268 km

Best Time: September to May

2 Suryamal Attractions