Best Weekend Getaways Near Pune for Families, Couples and Groups
Weekends are when Pune slows down, and for many residents, it’s the perfect chance to escape into fresh air, rolling hills, or coastal breezes. Luckily, Pune is blessed with one of the best locations in Maharashtra. Surrounded by forts, hill stations, cultural towns, and seaside retreats, the city makes an excellent starting point for travellers who want to explore more without spending too many hours on the road.
Whether it’s hiking up a fort in the Sahyadris, sipping wine at a Nashik vineyard, enjoying a quiet sunset by the sea in Alibaug, or walking through heritage caves in Aurangabad, weekend trips from Pune offer something for everyone. With destinations spread within 100–300 km, these short breaks are convenient, affordable, and diverse. From group villas for friends to homestays for families, there’s a wide range of stay options that make planning even easier.
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Why Plan Weekend Trips from Pune?
1. Proximity to major attractions: Pune’s location connects you easily to the Sahyadri ranges, coastal Konkan towns, and UNESCO heritage sites.
2. Variety of destinations: From hill stations and beaches to vineyards and forts, the choice of places near Pune for the weekend is endless.
3. Comfortable stays: Weekend villas and homestays are abundant around Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Nashik, and other hotspots, making them perfect for groups and families.
4. Favourable weather: The region offers everything from cool hill station breezes to warm seaside escapes depending on the season.
Lonavala and Khandala
When it comes to weekend trips from Pune, Lonavala and Khandala are timeless favourites. Just a short two-hour drive from the city, these hill stations are surrounded by the lush Sahyadri ranges, making them an easy escape for families, couples, and groups of friends. The twin towns are famous for their rolling valleys, mist-covered mountains, and historic forts that offer stunning panoramic views. December to March is especially magical here, with cool weather and crystal-clear skies.
Things to do in Lonavala and Khandala: Start your day with a trek to Rajmachi Fort, one of the most popular trekking spots near Pune. Explore the fascinating Karla and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves that date back centuries. Families love spending time at Lonavala Lake and Bushi Dam, while adventure seekers often head towards Lohagad Fort or Duke’s Nose in Khandala for cliffside views and photo-worthy landscapes. For foodies, no trip to Lonavala is complete without buying its famous chikki and fudge.
Stay options: Booking a villa in Lonavala is one of the best ways to enjoy this weekend getaway. Many villas come with private pools, gardens, and hill views, making them perfect for groups looking for both comfort and privacy.
Mahabaleshwar
For those planning a slightly longer 2-day trip near Pune, Mahabaleshwar is a classic choice. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is a hill station known for strawberry farms, colonial charm, and viewpoints that stretch across valleys and rivers. During the winter months, Mahabaleshwar enjoys crisp weather that ranges between 10°C and 20°C, perfect for exploring its scenic beauty.
Things to do in Mahabaleshwar: A weekend here isn’t complete without boating at Venna Lake, where the still waters reflect the surrounding hills. Visit Mapro Garden for strawberry desserts and locally made jams. For history lovers, Pratapgad Fort offers insights into Maratha heritage, while panoramic viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head Point are must-visits for photographers. Families often enjoy horse riding and exploring local markets filled with handicrafts and produce.
Stay options: There are plenty of villas in Mahabaleshwar ranging from cosy heritage cottages to luxury private homes. A villa stay is ideal for those looking to enjoy the fresh mountain air while relaxing in comfort.
Matheran
If you want a truly unique experience among weekend getaways near Pune, Matheran stands out for being India’s only vehicle-free hill station. With no cars or motorbikes allowed inside, visitors are greeted with quiet, unpolluted surroundings. The charm lies in exploring the hill station on foot or on horseback, with dense forests and viewpoints scattered across the plateau.
Things to do in Matheran: Take the toy train that winds through forests to reach the hill station or go for long hikes through shaded trails. Popular spots include Panorama Point for sunrise views, Echo Point for its natural sound effects, and Charlotte Lake for a peaceful picnic. Matheran is also great for those who enjoy horse riding, with local guides offering short and long rides across forest trails.
Stay options: From heritage hotels to homely cottages, Matheran offers accommodation that blends colonial architecture with modern amenities, making it one of the most charming weekend trips from Pune.
Panchgani
Close to Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is a quieter hill station perfect for those who want a laid-back weekend trip from Pune. Famous for its strawberry farms and the dramatic Table Land Plateau, Panchgani offers stunning views of valleys and rivers below. The cool weather in winter, usually between 10°C and 20°C, makes it ideal for nature walks and farm visits.
Things to do in Panchgani: Visit strawberry farms to pick fresh fruit, shop for locally made jams and syrups, or try paragliding over the scenic valleys. Sydney Point and Parsi Point offer sweeping views, while Devrai Art Village is popular for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Families often enjoy spending time at Mapro Gardens nearby or exploring the charming cafes in town.
Stay options: Booking a villa in Panchgani is highly recommended. Many villas are perched on the hills with valley-facing balconies, offering a peaceful stay that combines privacy with natural beauty.
Alibaug
If you’re craving sea views, Alibaug is one of the best weekend trips from Pune. Located along the Konkan coast, it is a popular choice for both Pune and Mumbai residents. The drive to Alibaug is scenic, and the winter months from November to March bring pleasant weather with temperatures around 15°C to 25°C.
Things to do in Alibaug: Stroll along sandy beaches like Nagaon Beach and Kihim Beach, try thrilling water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing, or go on a seafood trail through local eateries. History enthusiasts can explore Kolaba Fort, which sits dramatically by the sea. Watching sunsets on Alibaug’s beaches is one of the highlights of a weekend here.
Stay options: A villa in Alibaug is the ideal choice for groups and families, especially those looking for beach-facing homes with private pools and gardens.
Satara
Satara is a destination that offers both history and nature, making it a versatile choice for a weekend trip from Pune. Known for the Kas Plateau, which blooms with colourful wildflowers between September and October, Satara also has forts, waterfalls, and temples that make it worth visiting in winter.
Things to do in Satara: Trek to Ajinkyatara Fort for sweeping city views, spend time at Thoseghar Waterfalls, and try authentic Maharashtrian thalis at local restaurants. History lovers can visit Sajjangad Fort, while nature enthusiasts will enjoy drives through the Kas Plateau region, which remains scenic even after flowering season.
Stay options: From traditional Maharashtrian homestays to private villas in Satara, travellers can enjoy warm hospitality while exploring this charming town.
Nashik
Nashik is one of the most diverse weekend getaways around Pune. Known for its vineyards, temples, and river ghats, it combines leisure and culture. The winter season is ideal for vineyard tours, with temperatures between 10°C and 22°C.
Things to do in Nashik: Go wine tasting at Sula Vineyards or York Winery, cycle through scenic countryside trails, or explore the sacred Trimbakeshwar Temple. For history lovers, the Pandavleni Caves are a fascinating stop. Nashik also has lively markets where you can shop for local produce and handicrafts.
Stay options: Vineyard-side villas in Nashik are becoming increasingly popular, offering a unique experience of staying right amidst grape plantations.
Aurangabad
Aurangabad is slightly farther than other weekend trips from Pune but is worth it for its rich cultural heritage. Known as the gateway to Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the city is filled with historical architecture, Mughal-era monuments, and bustling bazaars.
Things to do in Aurangabad: Spend a day exploring the magnificent Ellora Caves, followed by the Ajanta Caves, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the “Mini Taj Mahal,” and climb up to Daulatabad Fort for stunning views. Shoppers can head to local markets for Paithani sarees and Himroo fabrics.
Stay options: From heritage hotels to affordable villas, Aurangabad offers plenty of choices for travellers who want to combine comfort with cultural exploration.
Practical Tips for Weekend Trips from Pune
- Start early: Leaving before 7 AM saves time and avoids city traffic.
- Accommodation: Book villas or homestays in advance, especially during long weekends.
- Transport: Self-drive rentals or trains are convenient and affordable.
- Food choices: Local food is cheaper and often tastier than big restaurants.
- Seasonal planning: Always check weather updates before heading out.
Weekend trips from Pune are the easiest way to refresh and recharge. From hill stations like Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, and Panchgani to cultural towns like Nashik and Aurangabad, the options are endless. Families can enjoy relaxed villas with views, couples can plan romantic vineyard or beach escapes, and adventure seekers can trek forts and plateaus.
With the right planning, each short break becomes memorable. Whether you’re craving mountains, beaches, heritage, or vineyards, Pune’s location makes every weekend a chance to explore something new.
Article by Ruben Saha
