Pressed for time but still craving a break? Living in Pune gives you that rare luxury — iconic weekend escapes just a couple of hours away. From Lonavala’s misty cliffs to the quiet charm of hidden Sahyadri hamlets, a 2-day trip near Pune can be just the monsoon therapy you need.
Thanks to its strategic location, Pune sits close to the Western Ghats, giving travellers quick access to a variety of lush hill stations, serene lakesides, and offbeat countryside gems.
Whether you’re a couple looking for romance, a family planning a short break, or a solo explorer chasing monsoon mist, this region has a little something for everyone.
When the rains arrive, the Sahyadris metamorph into a green paradise, with waterfalls gushing, valleys blooming, and the air laced with petrichor. And the best part? Most of these spots are just a few hours’ drive away.
So pack light, charge your camera, and get ready to uncover some of the best weekend getaways near Pune, perfect for a refreshing 2-day monsoon trip.
Here are 11 places best places to visit near Pune during monsoon or weekends alone or with your family and friends.
NOTE: All drive distances below are measured from Pune Railway Station.
1. Mulshi
Drive Duration: 110 minutes | Drive Distance: 46 km
Tucked in the Sahyadri foothills, Mulshi is a scenic escape just 46 km from Pune. This makes it a top monsoon getaway near Pune within 50 km. Blessed with lush green hills, cool breezes, and peaceful lake views, it makes a perfect spot for those craving nature and quiet.
While you are here you can explore Mulshi Lake, Mulshi Dam, and the nearby Palshe Waterfall, all at their lushest in the rains. For hikers, the surrounding Kailasgad, Ghangad, and Sudhagad forts offer scenic treks through the misty Sahyadris. If you are keen on a relaxed drive you can head out to fog-draped Tamhini Ghat, which remains one of the beautiful ghats in Maharashtra perfect for long drives.
2. Lavasa
Drive Duration: 140 minutes | Drive Distance: 60 km
If you have a private vehicle, Lavasa is a great option for a 2-day trip near Pune during the monsoon. This privately planned city draws inspiration from the Italian town of Portofino, so you’ll find yourself surrounded by buildings and streets that feel like Italy.
Though the city is still developing, it offers lush green landscapes and pleasant hill weather, perfect for a relaxing couple of days. Lavasa has several hotels and restaurants where you can enjoy comfortable stays and delicious meals.
While Lavasa can give you a taste of Italy, it’s best to keep your expectations moderate. It’s an ideal destination for monsoon getaways from Pune for a day or two.
Drive Duration: 90 minutes | Drive Distance: 72 km
Lonavala is one of the most popular and convenient hill stations near Pune. Whether you drive or take the local train from Pune to Lonavala, reaching here is easy and budget-friendly.
As a favourite getaway spot in Maharashtra, Lonavala offers a wide range of accommodations, from hotels and resorts to private villas and lodges. Known for its scenic valleys, lush hills, and cascading waterfalls, it’s perfect for a refreshing monsoon trip.
Spend your day at Bhushi Dam or explore other local attractions. Adventure seekers can trek to Lohagad Fort or visit the ancient Bhaja Caves in Malavli. Don’t forget to savour delicious meals and pick up Lonavala’s famous chikkis and fudges as souvenirs.
4. Khandala
Drive Duration: 105 minutes | Drive Distance: 76 km
Khandala is the quieter cousin of Lonavala, ideal for travellers who prefer laid-back weekends over action-packed getaways. Just a few minutes away from Lonavala, it’s a great alternative if accommodations there are full and it offers the same stunning monsoon charm.
Visit Rajmachi Garden for sweeping views of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway and the lush green valley below. While no Bhushi Dam-style is splashing here, Khandala rewards you with misty hills, waterfalls, and peaceful surroundings.
Book a stay in one of the hilltop resorts or private villas for panoramic views right from your balcony. It’s the kind of place where you sip hot chai, listen to the rain, and unwind, making it one of the most serene monsoon weekend getaways near Pune.
5. Karjat
Drive Duration: 160 minutes | Drive Distance: 106 km
Tucked away past the scenic Bhor Ghat, Karjat is one of the lesser-known monsoon getaways near Pune and a true gem if you know where to go. While it’s more popular with Mumbaikars due to proximity, Punekars can still reach here in under three hours for a peaceful 2-day escape.
Karjat doesn’t have the fame of Lonavala, but what it lacks in reputation, it makes up for in natural beauty and adventure. With misty hills, quiet stays, and lush green landscapes, it’s perfect for a laid-back weekend. There are plenty of hotels and resorts where you can relax with a hot beverage and enjoy the monsoon views.
Feeling adventurous? Explore local spots like Solanpada Dam, Kothaligad Fort, Sondai Fort, and Morbe Dam, or hike the thrilling trails to Kalavantin Durg and Prabalgad Fort.
You might even spot some fascinating monsoon wildlife along the way. If you’re seeking a scenic, uncrowded destination for a 2-day trip near Pune in monsoon, Karjat fits the bill.
6. Matheran
Drive Duration: 220 minutes | Drive Distance: 121 km
If you’re searching for unique places to visit near Pune in monsoon, Matheran deserves a top spot. Tucked away in the Sahyadri Hills, it is India’s only automobile-free hill station making it a serene, pollution-free escape ideal for the monsoon season.
You can either drive to Dasturi Naka (the car drop-off point) or take a train from Pune to Neral, where you can board the historic Matheran toy train. This narrow-gauge journey winds through misty hills and lush green forests, offering some of the most scenic views along the way.
Once you reach, spend your time unwinding, strolling through forest trails, and soaking in the rain-drenched beauty. With its peaceful vibe, foggy viewpoints, and colonial-era charm, Matheran is perfect for a quiet 2-day trip or even a relaxed one-day trip near Pune in monsoon.
7. Panchgani
Drive Duration: 140 minutes | Drive Distance: 101 km
Nicknamed the “Table Land of Maharashtra,” Panchgani is a scenic hill station that makes for a dreamy 2-day trip near Pune, especially during the monsoon season. At just over 100 km from the city, it’s perfect for those who want a quick break without spending hours on the road. It remains one of the top hill stations in Maharashtra for monsoon holidays.
Famous for its vast plateau, colonial-era charm, and fog-laced viewpoints, Panchgani offers a mix of solitude and sightseeing. Parsi Point and Sydney Point are two must-visits that give you sweeping valley views made even more dramatic with monsoon clouds floating by.
8. Mahabaleshwar
Drive Duration: 180 minutes | Drive Distance: 118 km
If you’re planning a 2-day trip near Pune in the monsoon, especially as a couple, Mahabaleshwar should be at the top of your list. With mist-covered valleys, cool weather, and lush strawberry farms, this charming hill station offers romance and relaxation in equal measure. If you’re torn between Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, we’ve broken it down for you in this detailed comparison.
Perched at a higher elevation, Mahabaleshwar receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon, which adds to its beauty, but also demands some planning. Keep an eye on weather updates before you travel.
The town offers a wide range of stays from boutique resorts to luxury villas perfect for couples looking for privacy or families seeking comfort. You can enjoy quiet mornings with valley views, explore lush viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat or Wilson Point, and wrap up the day with warm bhajiyas and masala chai.
And if you’re planning a romantic escape, don’t miss our ultimate honeymoon guide to Mahabaleshwar.
9. Satara
Drive Duration: 150 minutes | Drive Distance: 112 km
Satara is one of the most underrated weekend getaways near Pune, ideal for those who want to explore beyond the usual touristy spots. Nestled in the Sahyadris, it works perfectly as a base to explore nearby natural and historical wonders across 2 days.
You can visit the ancient Ajinkyatara Fort one of the best historic forts in Maharashtra. Similarly, you can explore the roaring Thoseghar Waterfalls, or head to the UNESCO-listed Kaas Plateau, also known as the Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra.
For more spiritual or laid-back travellers, Satara has several serene temples dotting the town and surrounding hills. On the contrary, if you have the energy for an adventure, Vasota Fort offers a wild jungle trek and stunning views, especially magical during monsoons.
10. Alibaug
Drive Duration: 220 minutes | Drive Distance: 143 km
If you’re craving a coastal escape, Alibaug is one of the best monsoon destinations in Konkan just a short drive from Pune. Known for its breezy beaches and relaxed pace, it’s perfect for a 2-day trip near Pune in the rainy season.
You can stroll along Alibaug Beach or take in the sea views from your resort balcony when it rains. On clearer days, visit historic sea forts like Kolaba Fort, or explore local temples and cafés that dot the coastline.
Whether you’re travelling with a partner or just need a quick change of scene, Alibaug offers a refreshing blend of beach, culture, and comfort.
11. Igatpuri
Drive Duration: 270 minutes | Drive Distance: 243 km
If you enjoy long weekend drives, a 2-day trip from Pune to Igatpuri makes for a perfect monsoon getaway. Known as a peaceful retreat and meditation hub, Igatpuri is one of the best places to visit near Pune in monsoon for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Surrounded by lush green valleys and stunning waterfalls, the scenery is at its most magical during the rainy season. Take in the pristine landscapes before exploring the local attractions that this hill station has to offer.
Beyond tranquillity, Igatpuri also offers plenty of adventure options like zip-lining, hiking, trekking, and camping, ideal for those who want a mix of calm and thrill on their monsoon break.
Conclusion
With the right accommodations, manageable drive times, and stunning monsoon landscapes, these destinations near Pune promise a memorable 2-day getaway. Each place offers a unique experience, from tranquil hill stations to adventurous forts and waterfalls, making it easy to find the perfect spot that suits your mood and plans.
If you’re interested in exploring Pune’s rich history alongside your nature escapes, don’t miss our detailed guides on the National War Memorial and the Southern Command Museum. These sites provide fascinating insights into India’s military heritage and are well worth a visit during your stay.
Overall, Pune can offer you amazing weekends and monsoon getaways not too far from the city. However, it is essential to plan carefully and check the weather before you head out for a 2-day trip near Pune.
Which of these places have you visited, or which one would you love to explore next? Drop a comment below and share your favourite getaway spot near Pune!
FAQs
Both are iconic, but Lonavala is closer and great for quick escapes with waterfalls and forts. Mahabaleshwar offers higher altitude, denser forests, and strawberry farms, perfect if you’re okay with a longer drive and heavier rains.
Yes, Karjat, Satara, and Mulshi are excellent underrated picks. They’re quieter, greener, and perfect if you want fewer crowds and more nature.
Absolutely, especially to Lonavala, Mulshi, or Lavasa. Just check weather forecasts, wear waterproof gear, and avoid night rides due to reduced visibility.
Yes, Satara, Panchgani, and Lavasa have many mid-range and budget hotels. Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar too, but they get pricier on weekends and long holidays.
Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, and Mulshi top the list. Think misty mornings, valley views, and cosy resorts. Check our honeymoon guide to Mahabaleshwar for dreamy ideas.
4 comments
Wow, that is some rapidly flowing water in Karjat! You’ve made each place uniquely appealing, Sharukh. Great post. Hugs to you and Sarah.
I believe the rapid flowing effect is caused by fast camera shutterspeed. However, glad that you like my travel posts. Thanks for visiting and commenting, Teagan. Hugs.
My first thought during monsoons would be to hunker down and stay inside. You make getting out for a visit look attractive.
There are people I know who would do the same, they prefer to stay indoors. However, heading outdoors in misty and rainy weather is an experience in itself. I think it also comes to us naturally because we go through some scorching summer months and winter is almost absent in Mumbai, so this is the only time of the year when the weather is cool and pleasant so why not make full use of it. Thanks for commenting and visiting Dan.