Posted on 17-01-2025 | By Admin
Living in Pune, you’re never far from the serene and scenic hills. Whether it’s for the cooler climate, breathtaking views, or peaceful escape from city life, the nearest hill stations from Pune offer diverse experiences that make them ideal weekend getaways. Here’s a guide to the eight best hill retreats, all within a convenient distance of Pune, to elevate your weekends.
Distance: 65 km
Lonavala is often the first name that comes to mind when thinking of a nearest hill station from Pune. Famous for its lush greenery, misty hills, and waterfalls, Lonavala offers plenty of attractions like the Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Point, and Tiger’s Leap. For trekking enthusiasts, Lonavala provides access to the Rajmachi and Lohagad Forts, which offer panoramic views of the Sahyadri Mountains.
Distance: 70 km
Just a stone's throw away from Lonavala, Khandala is another nearest hill station from Pune. Known for its captivating viewpoints and majestic cliffs, Khandala offers places like Duke’s Nose and Amrutanjan Point. The pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect spot for a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Distance: 120 km
Matheran stands out as a unique hill station because of its no-vehicle policy, making it an eco-friendly destination. Visitors can explore the lush trails and colonial architecture on foot or horseback. Some must-visit spots here include Echo Point, Panorama Point, and Charlotte Lake. The journey from Neral to Matheran via the narrow-gauge train is an experience in itself.
Distance: 120 km
One of the most popular hill stations near Pune, Mahabaleshwar offers dense forests, strawberry farms, and scenic viewpoints. With spots like Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgad Fort, and Venna Lake, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. Mahabaleshwar is also known for its refreshing weather, especially during the summer months.
Distance: 100 km
Panchgani is a charming hill station near Mahabaleshwar and is well known for its lush green hills and beautiful plateaus. It offers scenic viewpoints like Table Land and Parsi Point, which provide fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Panchgani is also a haven for paragliding and other adventure sports.
Distance: 60 km
Lavasa, India’s first planned hill city, offers a Mediterranean-style ambiance. This beautiful hill station features scenic waterfront views, charming promenades, and colorful buildings. Lavasa is an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat close to Pune. It also provides opportunities for water sports and hiking, making it a versatile getaway.
Distance: 170 km
For a quiet, offbeat experience, Bhandardara is the nearest hill station from Pune known for its scenic lakes, waterfalls, and peaceful ambiance. You can visit the Randha Falls, Arthur Lake, and the Wilson Dam here. The trek to Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak, is a must for adventure lovers visiting Bhandardara.
