Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and verdant hills, Pune offers several options for those seeking a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of the best ways to savour the tranquillity and natural charm of the city is by indulging in a delightful picnic. So pack your picnic baskets with snacks and refreshments and head to one of these spots in town to enjoy the pleasant weather along with a book, a loved one, or both!
Roll Out Your Mat At These 7 Best Picnic Spots In Pune
Empress Botonical Garden
Situated in the heart of Pune, Empress Botanical Garden is a verdant oasis that offers a perfect setting for a leisurely picnic. Spread across 39 acres, this botanical garden is home to a diverse array of flora, including exotic flowers, towering trees, and well-maintained lawns. You can find shady spots beneath ancient trees or opt for designated picnic areas with seating arrangements. The garden's serene ambience creates an ideal environment for a peaceful picnic with family and friends.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: INR 20 per person
Vetal Tekdi
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure along with their picnic, Vetal Tekdi is a hill that beckons with its scenic trails and panoramic views. Popular among hikers and nature lovers, Vetal Tekdi offers a vantage point from where you can admire Pune's skyline. The lush greenery and the variety of flora and fauna make it an excellent spot for a picnic with a touch of exploration. Hiking to the top provides a sense of accomplishment, and once there, you can savour a well-deserved picnic while relishing the breathtaking views of the city below.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry: Free
Shaniwar Wada
Shnaiwar Wada's well-maintained lawns, centuries-old architectural remnants, and tranquil ambience make it an ideal setting for a leisurely picnic with family and friends. Picnickers can explore the fort's majestic walls, visit the iconic Ganesh Rang Mahal, and revel in the enchanting beauty of the fountains and gardens that dot the landscape. Plus, there are many food stalls right at the gate where you can pick up refreshments and have a laid-back time inside the fort.
Timings: 8 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: INR 20 per person
Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden
Tucked away in the bustling city, the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden, also known as Pu La Deshpande Udyan, is a hidden gem that transports visitors to the tranquillity of Japan. Established to celebrate the bond between Pune and Japan, this garden offers a peaceful retreat adorned with cherry blossoms, pagodas, and serene water features. The garden's well-manicured lawns and traditional Japanese elements make it an idyllic spot for a calm and contemplative picnic. Whether you sit beneath the cherry blossom trees or near the serene koi pond, we bet you will have a delightful picnic here.
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
Entry: INR 10 per person
Saras Baug
Saras Baug, a popular garden in Pune, is not only a haven for nature lovers, but also a testament to the city's rich history. Spread across 25 acres, the garden is adorned with a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, adding a spiritual touch to the surroundings. The expansive lawns, colourful flowers, and the centrally located temple make Saras Baug an excellent choice for a family picnic. The children's play area and the calm waters of the pond add to the charm, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy during the picnic.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry: Free
Sinhagad Fort
For those with a penchant for history and adventure, Sinhagad Fort offers an enticing option for a unique picnic experience. Located just 29 km from the city, the fort is a paradise for trekkers and picnic enthusiasts. While the trek can be challenging, once at the summit, picnickers can explore the fort's remnants while enjoying a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The best part about a picnic here is that you won't have to pack food. Many stalls offer everything from dry mangoes to buttermilk and even authentic Maharashtrian food.
Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM
Entry: INR 25
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, also known as Katraj Zoo, is another good spot for a Sunday picnic with your little ones. Spread across a massive 130 acres of land, the park's well-maintained grounds provide an ideal setting for picnickers to relish a tranquil escape. Surrounded by enclosures housing a myriad of animal species, including majestic lions, playful primates, and exotic birds, your picnic takes on an immersive quality here. There are dedicated spots for those who want to spread their mat and have a relaxing picnic.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Entry: INR 40 per person
