Pune, often referred to as the twin city of Mumbai, is a vibrant metropolis brimming with numerous tourist attractions. Moreover, this bustling city is surrounded by a variety of stunning locations that are a must-visit during the monsoon season. As the intense summer heat gives way to the first raindrops, these destinations come to life with lush greenery, glistening waterfalls, and captivating mist-shrouded hills. Pune, among the must-include places in Maharashtra tour packages, serves as an ideal gateway to explore these locales that flourish during the monsoon. From the serene retreats of Matheran and Alibaug to the picturesque hill stations of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, these areas offer a delightful escape from everyday life and entice travelers to embark on a journey of exploration amidst nature’s seasonal wonders. With the monsoon looming, let’s explore some of the exquisite places to visit near Pune during the rainy season.
Mahabaleshwar
Nestled at an elevation of 1,353 m in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar stands as one of the cherished hill stations in Maharashtra and is among the finest destinations to explore near Pune during the monsoon season. Often hailed as the queen of hill stations, Mahabaleshwar adorns itself with abundant natural beauty during the monsoon in the form of gushing rivers, magnificent cascades, and majestic mist-covered peaks. It also marks the origin of the Krishna River, which meanders through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Krishnabai Temple, Lingamala Falls, Tapola, and Panchgani are some important tourist places in Mahabaleshwar. This scenic hill station near Pune also boasts several viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, and Connaught Peak that provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Book Here : Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages
Panchgani
Situated at an altitude of 1334 m, Panchgani is a captivating hill station that derives its name from the five majestic hills that encircle it. Overlooked by the Sahyadri mountains, this town was once a charming summer escape for British officials. Panchgani is renowned as one of the most picturesque hill stations near Pune, particularly during the monsoon season when its lofty peaks, meandering valleys, glistening lakes, and breathtaking landscapes burst into life. Visitors can explore an array of tourist places in Panchgani such as Table Land, Parsi Point, Kamalgadh Fort, Devil’s Kitchen, Rajpuri Caves, Sydney Point, Mapro Gardens, and Dhom Dam. For adventure enthusiasts, Panchgani also offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities such as paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, speed boating, and horse riding.
Book Here : Panchgani Tour Packages
Lonavala & Khandala
Located at an altitude of 622m in the Sahyadri Mountains of Western Ghats, the charming twin hill stations of Lonavala & Khandala make for perfect weekend getaways from Pune. These destinations are particularly enchanting during the monsoon season, when the air is crisp and cool, enveloping the hills in mist and reviving the lush greenery with refreshing rainfall. Regarded as one of the must-include places in Maharashtra honeymoon packages, these hill stations boast breathtaking natural beauty, featuring majestic mountains adorned with cascading waterfalls, glistening lakes, ancient caves, and historic forts. Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Point, Karla Caves, Valvan Dam, Lonavala Lake, Bhaja Caves, Rajmachi Fort, Bhushi Dam, Kune Waterfalls, Tikona Fort, Bedse Caves, and Tung Fort are just a few of the must-see tourist places in Lonavala.
Book Here : Lonavala Tour Packages
Malshej Ghat
Snuggled in the Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat emerges as one of the most scenic places to visit near Mumbai & Pune during the monsoon season. The lush green hills and numerous waterfalls of this scenic ghat create a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The iconic Harishchandragad Fort provides a stunning backdrop for hikers and rewards them with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Shivneri Fort, Junnar Caves, Bird Graveyard, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, and Malshej Falls are some of the most popular places to visit in Malshej Ghat. The drive to Malshej Ghat is itself a calming experience, adorned with splendid valleys, scenic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. It’s an ideal place to revel in the rain and engage in outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and bird-watching.
Book Here : Pune Adventure Packages
Lavasa
Nestled at an elevation of 640 m, Lavasa is claimed to be the first planned hill station in India, and among the must-include places in Pune 3-day tour. This pristine hill resort is modeled after the quaint Italian town of Portofino. Lavasa boasts a highly developed infrastructure, featuring enchanting residential and commercial areas, public conveniences, and vibrant marketplaces. The delicate charm of this place gets more vivid during the monsoon season with gushing streams, overflowing dams, and verdant environs. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s splendor by witnessing the Devkund waterfall, traversing the Tamhini Ghat, exploring Tikona Fort, and taking in the panoramic Dasve viewpoint. The mountains in this region are covered in dense vegetation and coupled with pleasant weather make this place one of the perfect hill stations near Mumbai.
Book Here : Pune Honeymoon Packages
Matheran
If you are planning a monsoon trip near Pune, then go to Matheran in Maharashtra. Perched at an altitude of 800 m, the cozy little hill station of Matheran is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, and among the top weekend getaways from Mumbai. It is an eco-sensitive region declared by the Ministry of Environment and Forest. it is often described as a monsoon-heaven in the region where one can experience the beauty of green carpeted meadows and hills in their most pristine form. Known for its 38 viewpoints, the town is one of the great spots for those who want to take a break from their busy city life and also for nature lovers. Panorama Point, Charlott Lake, Louisa Point, Paymaster Park, Rambaug Point, Porcupine Point, Echo Point, King George Point, Monkey Point, Panthers Caves, etc. are some of the popular places to visit in Matheran. The Matheran hill railway, also known as Matheran Light Railway (MLR), is being considered for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Book Here : Matheran Tour Packages
Satara
Satara, situated at an elevation of 2320 feet, is a notable destination to explore near Pune during the monsoon season. The town derived its name from the seven mountains surrounding the place implying Sat (seven) and Tara (hills). Located close to the confluence of the River Krishna and the River Venna, Satara is adorned with magnificent temples, forts, and enchanting waterfalls. Ajinkyatara Fort, Vasota Fort, Sajjangad Fort, Kalyangad, Thosegarh Falls, Kaas Pathar, and Vajrai Falls are among the top places to visit in Satara.
Book Here : Satara Tour Packages
Kamshet
Situated at an elevation of approximately 2200 feet in the Western Ghats, Kamshet stands out as one of the renowned hill stations in Maharashtra and among the top monsoon getaways near Pune. This tranquil hill town boasts of rolling hills, peaceful lakes, and verdant greenery. With the arrival of the monsoon season, Kamshet undergoes a mesmerizing transformation, rejuvenated by the refreshing rain. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in exhilarating paragliding activities, soaring above the valleys and relishing the breathtaking views of the scenic landscape. Kamshet is also a paradise for hikers, offering a variety of trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints and hidden treasures. The well-known Pawna Lake, encircled by hills, serves as a favored location for camping and unwinding amidst the natural splendor.
Book Here : Pune Leisure Tour
Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a stunning hill station situated at an altitude of 1900 feet in the Sahyadri Hills of Western Ghats. It is one of the top weekend trips near Mumbai, and among the most popular places to visit near Pune. Lined with rugged hills and dense forests, Igatpuri is a treat for the eyes as this charming hill station is adorned with beautiful temples, quaint old forts, a pleasant climate, majestic mountains, and splendid scenery. This quaint hill town looks even more beautiful during monsoon season with gushing waterfalls, glittering lakes, mist-clad mountains, and lush greenery. Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, Tringalwadi Fort, Ghatandevi Temple, and Vaitarna Dam are some important places to visit in Igatpuri.
Book Here : Igatpuri Tour Packages
Kolad
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Kolad will be one of the ideal places to visit in Pune during the rainy season as it offers several water sports that you shouldn’t miss out on as part of Mumbai adventure packages. The monsoon season breathes new life into the region, as the river swells with rainwater, creating exciting rapids for white-water rafting adventures. Apart from the adventure activities, this place is also famous for its scenic valleys, clear streams, historical spots, waterfalls and more. Visitors can indulge in water sports like rowing, kayaking, rafting, camping, river crossing, rappelling. One can also visit Bhira Dam and the Dholwal Dams are the places where you can spot some migratory birds and the picturesque view of Tamhini Fall and Kansai waterfalls will surprise you.
Book Here : Pune Tour from Mumbai
Related posts:
Tourist Spots Close to Mumbai – Pune Expressway
9 Ancient Caves You Must Visit in Maharashtra
6 Stunning Waterfalls in Mahabaleshwar
6 Forts in & around Lonavala for History Buffs
5 Splendid Places to visit while Travelling from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar
6 Fascinating Hill Stations near Shirdi
8 Stunning Temples to Visit in Bangkok
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Assam
12 Scenic Train Routes that one must experience in India
10 Best Places to visit in Munich
