25 Picnic Spots Near Pune To Escape The Hustle & Enjoy A Good Day Out

Inspired by the Italian town of Portofino, Lavasa is a short and scenic drive away from Pune. Surrounded by the magnificent Sahyadri mountain range, the hill station makes for a perfect escape from the concrete jungle. It is a privately planned hill city and has a lot to offer from picturesque scenery to water sports. FYI, Lavasa is referred to as a ghost town because of the unfinished construction and lack of residents.

Popular For: Sightseeing, nature trail and watersports

Time Require To Explore: 5 hrs

Distance from Pune: 70 KM

How To Reach: The best way is to drive or book a cab.

Rating: 4/5

Panshet, also known as Tanajisagar Dam, is the closest destination for water sports near Pune. This dam was built on the Ambi River in the late 1950s and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. You can go there with your family for a relaxing one-day trip. It is a popular spot for picnics and photography enthusiasts. It also offers a variety of activities, such as banana rides, kayaking, rowing, and jet skiing. Panshet is, indeed, one of the best one day trip places near Pune in summer. For the ultimate picnic experience, pack a basket with your favorite food, beverages, and napkins. 

Popular For: Boat ride and quaint vibes

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 54 KM

How To Reach: You can book a cab or hop on the state-run buses from Swargate.

Rating: 4/5

Previously known as Kondana, Sinhagad Fort is a popular choice for trekking and offers breathtaking landscapes at every spot. We suggest you go early in the morning to explore every nook and corner of the ancient fort. Don't miss out on the delicious Pitla Bhakri, Kanda Bhaji, and more at the local stalls. 

Popular For: Trekking, bike rides, and rich history

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 40 KM

How To Reach: You can travel by MSRTC bus or opt for private cabs. 

Rating: 4.6/5

Panchgani is known as the Land of Five Hills and is a popular picnic spot for its captivating views and excellent weather. Situated approximately 4,242 ft above sea level, the beautiful hill station promises a trip you will cherish. Table Land in Panchgani is the second longest mountain plateau in Asia and a perfect place for one day trip near Pune. The picturesque valley views at Table Land have been the backdrop for many Bollywood films.

Popular For: Serene views, cosy weather, and safari tour

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 103 KM

How To Reach: There are frequent buses from Pune station or you can book a cab if you're planning to make pit stops for pictures.

Rating: 4/5

Around 28 km from Pune on the banks of Khadakwasla Dam, Shantivan Picnics is a lake-view picnic spot in Panshet that provides a charming getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by dense greenery, the place provides a respite from the cacophony of city life. They also offer activities for fun like Burma Bridge, Flying Fox, and Commando Rope. This is a good spot for one day trip near Pune with your friends or kids.

Popular For: Peaceful environment and entertainment activities

Time Require To Explore: 4 hrs

Distance from Pune: 28 KM

How To Reach: The best way is to drive or book a cab.

Rating: 4.1/5

Once a Buddhist monastery, Karla Caves has a rich history worth exploring. It was an integral part of Buddhist monks' and traders' lives. The presence of stupas, including the Great Chaitya, shows the reverence held towards monks and important relics in the Buddhist tradition. The caves has a mixed form of Indian and Buddhist styles of rock carving. Constructed between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD, Karla Caves, carved out of living rock, feature incredible precision and techniques that are a sight to behold.

Popular For: Ancient architecture and history

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 60 KM

How To Reach: You can reach by cab or bus, or you can take a train to the nearby Karla railway station.

Rating: 4.4/5

If you're looking for something grand, take a day trip to Fort Jadhavgadh. Maharashtra's only heritage hotel which is built inside a fort. It was built by Sri Pillaji Jadhavrao in 1710 CE as a place of residence. The palace is surrounded by custard apple and fig farms with the hills of Dive Ghat in the backdrop that make for a picture-perfect picnic. 

Popular For: Green landscape, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 28 KM

How To Reach: You can book a cab.

Rating: 4.3/5

Louisa Point is a popular viewpoint in Matheran. Located at 800 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. You can view the Western Ghats and the historical Prabal Fort. It is a great spot to watch a sunset. The viewpoint is an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking one day trip near Pune. 

Popular For: Walk, trek, and watch the sunset

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 126 KM

How To Reach: You can take a train to Matheran. It takes half an hour to walk from the railway station to reach the destination.

Rating: 4.7/5

Unleash your inner child by planning picnic trip to Imagicaa. It has theme, water and snow park. You can pre-book the tickets online and get discounts. The tickets starts at INR 670. If you book 10 or more tickets, you can save 10%. Also note, they have an on-premise hotel – Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli.

Popular For: Water park, snow park, and rides

Time Require To Explore: 6 hrs

Distance from Pune: 91 KM

How To Reach: The best way to get there is by car.

Rating: 4.4/5

Located near Bhira, close to the Raigad district in Maharashtra, Devkund Waterfalls is a popular summer destination near Pune. It originated from the Kundalika river and is surrounded by a lush-green forest named Devkund. To reach the waterfall, you'll need to trek about 3-4 kilometers from Bhira village. It is a perfect one day trip near Pune that offers a glimpse into the captivating rural life of the nearby villages.

Popular For: Trekking and camping

Time Require To Explore: 5 hrs

Distance from Pune: 101 KM

How To Reach: You book a cab or take a bus. But you have to change the bus at Khopoli and Pali to reach Bhira Village where Devkund Waterfall Trek is.

Rating: 4.5/5

Arthur Lake is a man-made lake and is one of the top places to visit in Bhandardara. Stretching around 34 km, this lake is home to Randha Falls. In addition to its natural beauty, the lake holds religious significance, as it is believed to be the meditation site of Agastya Rishi. For nature lovers, the lake offers the chance to witness a variety of exotic birds that flock to the area, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

Popular For: Camping and boating

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 169 KM

How To Reach: The nearest bus stop is Bhandardara which is 500 metres from the location.

Rating: 4.5/5

The Tiger View Point in Lonavala is a perfect blend of peace and beauty. It is a cliff-top which is 650 meters high with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The windy hilltop makes it a perfect one day trip near Pune capturing some sunrise and sunset moments. So, whether you are coming with family and friends, or as a romantic spot, this place won't disappoint. 

Popular For: Breathtaking views, sunset and stargaze

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 75 KM

How To Reach: You can rent a cab or you can catch the Pune-Lonavala trains. They run every 30 minutes.

Rating: 4.5/5

Pawna Lake is another one day trip near Pune, perfect for a picnic spot with friends or family. This artificial water reservoir is known for its scenic beauty, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located within 100 km of Pune, it's one of the top destinations to visit nearby.

Popular For: Panoramic views and camping

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 56 KM

How To Reach: The best way to get here is by car.

Rating: 4.5/5

Takve Lake in Maval is an exciting adventure spot. If you are someone who loves a good adrenaline rush, this place is a perfect choice. They have some thrilling water activities like kayaking, river swimming, commando walk, then net climbing, among others. FYI, Maval is where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj trained his soldiers who were called Malvas.

Popular For: Watersports and camping

Time Require To Explore: 6 hrs

Distance from Pune: 198 KM 

How To Reach: The best way to reach is by road in a car.

Rating: 4/5

Bhaja Caves, dating back about 2,200 years, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and makes for an excellent one-day trip near Pune. Inside, you'll find several stupas, and the caves themselves are perched atop a hill, offering both historical intrigue and scenic views. Be sure to capture stunning photos, as the views here provide the perfect frame for beautiful shots.

Popular For: History and Buddhist cave architecture

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 61 KM

How To Reach: The nearest railway station from Bhaja Caves is Malavli.

Rating: 4.4/5

Rajgarh Fort is a beautiful site that offers a glimpse into the royal history of the Marathas. Commissioned by the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fort stands as a symbol of grandeur, covering an area of 24 square miles. The fort has breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for one day trip near Pune, blending history, adventure, and nature.

Popular For: History, trekking, and scenic beauty 

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 36 KM

How To Reach: You can take a bus from Swargate Bus Depot to Gunjawane which is the base village for Rajgarh Fort. From there, the fort is 2.5 KM away.

Rating: 4.8/5

Tikona Fort, located near the village of Tikona-Peth, is a great picnic spot for those keen on exploring historical sites. This fort is widely regarded as one of the best places to visit near Pune during the summer, providing both a cultural experience and a refreshing escape.

Popular For: Stunning view and trekking

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 53 KM

How To Reach: You can take a train to Lonavala. From there, there are regular buses to Kamshet. Once you reach there, take a bus to Tikona Peth.

Rating: 4.6/5

Harihareshwar is a destination of religious importance and is an underrated spot for one day trip near Pune. The breathtaking sights around this location will leave you in awe. Harihareshwar Beach is surrounded by four hills called the Harihareshwar, Harshinachal, Bramhadri, and Pushpadrib. Nestled along the picturesque Konkan coast, it’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Popular For: Temples, watersports, and turtle hatching

Time Require To Explore: 4 hrs

Distance from Pune: 170 KM

How To Reach: You can book a cab and come by road via the Tamhini Ghat.

Rating: 4.5/5

The Mulshi Dam was constructed initially to generate hydroelectricity and support irrigation systems. The dam has now become one of the prominent landmarks, visited by many travelers. Mulshi Dam View Point has gained popularity among localities for its scenic surroundings. The best time to visit there is considered to be monsoon. But if you are looking for trekking and boating activities, visit the place between October and March. 

Popular For: Serene ambience, trekking, bird-watching and hiking

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 74 KM

How To Reach: The best way to reach Lavasa is by road in a car or bus.

Rating: 4.4/5

Khadakwasla Dam is a popular tourist attraction that is built on the River Mutha. The dam creates a reservoir called Khadakwasla Lake, a pleasant and preferred picnic spot. Among cyclists, the roads surrounding the dam are a favorite route. Monsoons draw many people to Khadakwasla Lake. They mostly visit to see the transformation of the landscapes and also enjoy the breathtaking views.

Popular For: Scenic landscape and water sports

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 47 KM

How To Reach: The best way is to drive or book a cab. It is less than an hour’s drive from Pune.

Rating: 4/5

Pune for its beautiful scenery and accessibility. Located on a beautiful hillock near Malavali, the fort was built back in the 18th century. It is a site of UNESCO world heritage. Before it became part of the Maratha and British Empires, it served as a military base for many kingdoms. So, if you are looking for a picnic spot with history nestled amid natural beauty, this site is worth it. There are no food joints at the fort, so carry enough food and water with you.

Popular For: Watersports, adventure sports, and spectacular views. 

Time Require To Explore: 4 hrs

Distance from Pune: 64 KM

How To Reach: You can take a train to Lonavala and then catch a local train to Malavli station.

Rating: 4.5/5

This amusement cum waterpark based in Lonavala offers over 50 adventure sports and activities like ATV rides, bungee jumping, mountain biking, paintball, horse riding, trekking, rock climbing, zorbing, and bumper boats. Additionally, the park features a nightclub and several restaurants for dining. Picnics are no longer just about eating outside. You can have some adventure sports and this park is ideal for a fun-filled outing with family and friends.

Popular For: Artificial Rock Climbing, Bubble Soccer, Bungee Trampoline, and Tandem Cycles

Time Require To Explore: 6 hrs

Distance from Pune: 70 KM

How To Reach: You can take a local to Lonavala Railway Station. From there, the park is 6 KM away. You can also hire a cab or take a bus. 

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Duke's Nose is a beautiful viewpoint that has been named after the Duke of Wellington, whose nose resembled the shape of a cliff. Duke's Nose is 7 kilometres from Lonavala and has long trails that witness adventure seekers for trekking and hiking. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the Sahyadri Ranges from this viewpoint.

Popular For: Spectacular views, trekking, and camping

Time Require To Explore: 2 hrs

Distance from Pune: 73 KM

How To Reach: You can rent a cab or take a train till Lonavala and come by road via Main Bazar Road.

Rating: 4/5

Set against the landscape of Mahabaleshwar, Venna Lake is a man-made lake that was built in 1842 by the ruler of Satara Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, who was a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja. It is one of the most popular picnic spots in Mahabaleshwar due to its stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy a boat ride which is available until sunset. 

Popular For: Boating, scenic beauty and recreational activities

Time Require To Explore: 3 hrs

Distance from Pune: 125 KM

How To Reach: ST Bus Stand is the closest bus stand to the lake. You can also book a cab.

Rating: 4/5

Satara is a beautiful city in the Sahyadri mountain range and one os the offbeat picnic spots near Pune. Shivsagar Lake in the Satara District offers a serene and peaceful setting to spend an entire day. If you love water sports, this site has got boat rides. People come here for the fresh greenery, the quiet atmosphere, and the cool breeze. The lake has few food and beverage options, so you might want to bring your own.

Popular For: Boating, spectacular views

Time Require To Explore: 4 hrs

Distance from Pune: 112 KM

How To Reach: The best way to reach here is by road in a car or MSRTC bus.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

Many picnic spots near Pune are worth visiting during the monsoon season as the landscape turns green and the view is spectacular. Do not forget to wear comfortable shoes for trekking and carry a sweater to keep yourself cosy and warm. Also, carry your camera to capture some stunning landscapes and moments with your loved ones.