Being a Punekar, I have had a lot of time to visit a ton of places in Pune. One thing I can guarantee, there is a lot more and to this city other than the regular hustle and bustle, and you can never have enough of it.
The best time to visit Pune is during the monsoon (June - October).
You must have already heard of some of the iconic places in Pune for instance Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, and Lavasa. But, here in this post, I would share some of the places I have come across very recently (during lockdown) and they are unmissable.
1.) Kundalika Valley - Discovered this when one of my friends decide to have her pre-wedding photoshoot there. The valley is beautiful. You know, what is more, beautiful about this place!!! It has an abundant amount of natural beauty which we can't seem to get enough of.
Distance from Pune: 72 kms
2.) Tung Fort - If you have already visited Lonavala or are planning to, consider paying a visit to Tung Fort. It comes after you have visited Lonavala. the road isn't very good but the scenery from the top is amazing. You need to trek to the top which isn't very difficult but yeah it has a steep climb, which might be a little challenging. If you reach the top, you can see the stunning view of Pawna Lake that covers the fort from the sides.
Distance from Pune: 54 kms
3.) Khadakwasla Dam - You must have heard of the famous NDA training campus in Pune, well there is the famous Dam called Khadakwasla Dam which is situated on the Mutha River. The sunset is really good and the water and scenery are incredible. there are some food stalls which serve a variety of edible items like tandoori chaye, maggi and corn fry, etc, that you can enjoy with the view. It is a great place to visit with your friends and family for a day out.
Distance from Pune: 16 kms
4.) Kasarsai Dam - This is situated in the Proximity of Pune and is very close to Hinjewadi which is the IT hub. This is a small dam but easy to reach. If you are obsessed with sunsets then try reaching there before 6 pm.
Distance from Pune: 27.8 kms
5.) Mastani Lake - This is located near Hadapsar. This place has a great history to itself. It was earlier called Wadki Talav. The name was later changed after the two love birds, Bajirao and Mastani kept visiting the spot and it was often considered to be Mastani Bai's bathing spot. The lake is covered by mountains from all sides. The terrain is so beautiful and soothing to the eyes. If you are in Pune, try not to miss out on this place.
Distance from Pune: 22.3 kms
6.) Vetal Tekdi - This is among the Prominent Hill in Pune. It is at the highest point within the city limits. Although it might look barren, it is one of the few places where you can go for a morning walk, small trek, and jogging with being close to nature.
Distance from Pune: 7.7 kms
7.) Pabe Ghat - This is another beauty on its own. Surrounded by lush greenery during the monsoon, Pabe Ghat has been a lesser-known place and that's a reason it should be up on the list. You can have a scenic view of the place with lesser crowd and more peace.
Distance from Pune: 37.0 kms
8.) Kund Mala - Want to have a weekend getaway with a perfect instagrammable place! Kundmala comes to your rescue. try to visit during the monsoon. The water is filled up till the temple's footsteps and beauty are worth anything. There is a small dam on the opposite side. This is more like a picnic place but it's advisable not to go into the water.
Distance from Pune: 38.8 kms
