Pune is a city in India and part of the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Pune lies approximately 150 Kilometres away from the metropolis Mumbai. Pune is strategically placed in the midst of the Western Ghats which is a biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Give its vantage location Pune is an ideal city that serves as the jumping of point to some scenic hill stations. Pune being a major commercial hub is well connected to all parts of India by air, road, and rail. The Capital of India Delhi too is well connected to Pune and you can always do your Pune Delhi flights booking and spend a couple of days in the hill stations and resorts around Pune before heading back. Here are a few tantalizing glimpses of some of the popular hill stations around Pune.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a town that nestles in the Sahyadri mountain range. It is about 120 Kilometres from Pune. Lying at an altitude of 4,439 feet Mahabaleshwar is a pristine retreat which offers a salubrious climate. It is covered with an evergreen forest and offers some spectacular views. Strawberry farming is done in abundance in this enchanting hill station. There are multiple viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the valley, rivers and reservoirs down below. A picturesque lake forms the central point of attraction in Mahabaleshwar. A walk in the natural settings of Mahabaleshwar is indeed a romantic experience as one takes in the views of lakes, waterfalls, rivers and valleys that frame the red strawberry farms.
Panchgani
Panchgani is a beautiful and scenic hill station that is only about 100 Kilometres from Pune. The scenic beauty and the cool climes of the place had enchanted the British in the Colonial period and they developed Panchgani as a summer retreat and a retirement destination. Panchgani is perched between five hills of the Sahyadri range of mountains in the Western Ghats and hence the name. Panch in the local language means five. Panchgani is a lovely place to immerse oneself in nature and be awed by views at the viewpoints like Sydney Point. One of the prime attractions of Panchgani is the Table Land, a volcanic plateau which is a large expanse of laterite rocks and is the second largest of its kind in the continent of Asia. The ideal location and climate of Panchgani also ensures that there are numerous residential schools situated here. Panchgani makes for a lovely and rejuvenating stay amidst the clouds.
Lonavala
Lonavala is a hill station that is just 64 Kilometres from Pune. It lies on the Mumbai-Pune route. If you are traveling by train from Mumbai to Pune you will be treated to some scintillating views of the Western Ghats as the train cuts through the mountains and travels through tunnels emerging to reveal stunning views of the valley below. Lonavala lies almost at the centre of this route. Lonavala is a lovely place which seems to dance the melody of nature especially during the rainy season. One gets to see innumerable small and big waterfalls washing the rocks and little rivulets meandering on their way. Lonavala is also famous for a unique and special candy called Lonavala Chikki which is made from sugar, peanuts, cashew nuts etc.. Though Lonavala is great to getaway to throughout the year, if you are a romantic who loves the symphony of the rains, get to Lonavala during the rainy season.
Matheran
Matheran is yet another jewel in the crown of the Western Ghats. It is situated about 125 Kilometres away from Pune. Matheran which lies approximately 2,625 feet above sea level is a very popular weekend getaway as it is near to both Mumbai and Pune. People head out from these urban centres to get away from the stresses of modern day living. The pristine and cool environs of Matheran act as a balm in soothing the frayed city nerves. Matheran is known for the stunning views it offers. It has a total of thirty eight designated viewpoints including one which offers a 360 degree panoramic view of the surrounding land. Matheran is great if you are a sun chaser. It offers views of some magical sunrises and sunsets that will leave awed. Matheran is covered with semi-evergreen forests that lend an emerald hue to its beauty. A getaway to Matheran makes for an ideal day trip from Pune or even from Mumbai.
These are some of the getaway destinations that are scattered around Pune, there are many more and each of them have their unique character and make for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. Though it is possible to do a day trip to all these places from Pune, it is recommended to spend a couple of days at the hill stations to truly get a feel of the place and enjoy its natural splendours.
