Pune, known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, comes alive during the monsoons. It is like a rainforest: waterfalls falling off hillsides and rivers that gain momentum and flow with gushing exuberance and air full of petrichor. Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone who wants to get away from the chaos of city life, Pune has something to offer this rainy season. This write-up will provide detailed information on the ten best places to visit in Pune in the monsoon.
Sinhagad Fort
History and Importance: The Sinhagad Fort, built on top of a cliff in the Sahyadri Mountains, is an embodiment of what the city stands for historically. Some of its famous battles include the Battle of Sinhagad, fought here in 1670. Known as Lion’s Fort in Marathi, it reminds one of Maratha’s bravery.
Monsoon Magic: During monsoons, mist swirls around this fort, making it look dreamy and surreal. The trekking route is surrounded by greenery throughout, with several small cascades all along it. When fog covers its remains, it becomes mysterious.
What to Do:
- Trekking: The path leading up to Sinhagad is moderately difficult, which makes it suitable for adventure lovers. You will find many viewpoints on your way that offer panoramic views of surrounding landforms.
- Historical Exploration: Excursion through multiple ruins, including Kaundinya temple, Tanaji Malusare’s memorial, Tanaji Kada, etc.
- Local Cuisine: Taste local treats like “pithla bhakri” as well as “kanda bhaji” from nearby eateries.
Mulshi Dam
Natural Beauty: Located about 50 km away from Pune city, Mulshi Dam offers a calm retreat amidst natural surroundings. The dam lies on the Mula River, surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills, which provide a scenic view.
Monsoon Magic: During monsoons, the dam becomes a beautiful reservoir of overflowing water. It makes these hills glow in emerald green and adds to their beauty by adding more waterfalls.
What to Do:
- Boating: Take a boat ride on the calm lake situated on this dam while enjoying lush surroundings.
- Picnicking: Many people visit Mulshi Dam for picnics. Spend your day at a quiet spot around the water.
- Photography: The lovely scenery of Mulshi Dam attracts photographers during monsoon times. Capture vibrant greens, falling waters, and misty hillocks.
Tamhini Ghat
Scenic Drive: Tamhini Ghat is admired for its stunning drive through the mountains located on top of the Western Ghats. This road connects Mulshi with the coastal Konkan region.
Monsoon Magic: Tamhini Ghat turns into a lush green paradise during monsoons. The route is adorned by multiple falls, streams, and rich vegetation, making it an attractive drive.
What to Do:
- Waterfall Exploration: Drop off at various falls, including Valse Waterfall, Zenith Waterfall, etc., before you continue on your journey for a refreshing dip.
- Nature Walks: There are many pathways and trails that meander through dense forests here. Monsoons bring out colourful flora and fauna in this place.
- Photography: When clouds cover these ranges, streaming waters descend from peaks densely forested; it is ideal for photography.
Lonavala and Khandala
Twin Hill Stations: Twin hill stations, situated about 65 km from Pune, are Lonavala and Khandala. These popular places are recognised for their beauty of nature and good weather.
Monsoon Magic: The rainy season is the best time to visit Lonavala and Khandala because the hills are a carpet of greenery, whereas countless waterfalls and lakes flow with full vigour.
What to Do:
- Tiger’s Leap: Go to this well-known vantage point, which offers an awe-inspiring view of the valley. The fog as well as clouds of monsoon enhance its charm.
- Bhushi Dam: This spot is a hot favourite among tourists who wish to have fun in a natural water park created by an overflowing dam.
- Karla and Bhaja Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves of Buddhist religion look more captivating during the monsoon due to the surrounding greenery.
Lavasa
Modern Hill Station: Located around 60 km from Pune, Lavasa is known as a modern hill station designed on the lines of an Italian town called Portofino. Offering a unique blend of nature along with contemporary facilities, it is famous for its colourful buildings set amidst beautiful surroundings.
Monsoon Magic: With mist enveloping Lavasa during monsoons, followed by dense forests, lush greenery looks amazing at this time. The city’s lakes and waterfalls are in their most beautiful state, thus giving you peace and tranquilly.
What to Do:
- Water Sports: Avail various water sports activities, such as jet skiing, kayaking, or paddle boating, taking place in the lakes of Lavasa.
- Nature Trails: Explore numerous nature trails around Lavasa where you can have a perfect hiking experience because everything gets washed out by rain, so the surroundings become cool too.
- Dining and Shopping: Visit a vibrant promenade that has numerous cafes, restaurants, etc., while it turns romantic during the rains.
Panshet Dam
Adventure Hub: Water sports and adventure activities are very common at Panshet Dam, which is situated around 50 km away from Pune. This dam has been constructed on the Ambi River, and it is surrounded by hills that are full of scenic beauty.
Monsoon Magic: In monsoon, not only the reservoir but also the surrounding area appear alive, having water filled to the brim along with lush greenery all over the hills. Besides, misty surroundings make it seem more mysterious.
What to Do:
- Water Sports: Panshet Dam offers a range of water sports, such as kayaking, boating, and windsurfing.
- Camping: Arrange for camping besides the dam and spend overnight gazing at stars all night long. This experience becomes magical due to the sound of rain and the cool breeze blowing.
- Picnicking: It is an ideal place for family picnics, as people can enjoy views as well as silence around the dam.
Rajmachi Fort
Historical Trek: Rajmachi Fort is a well-known trekking destination located near Lonavala. The fort comprises two citadels, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, which provide views of the Sahyadri range.
Monsoon Magic: A journey through the green trails in the monsoon will leave you mesmerised on your way up to Rajmachi Fort because one can see several waterfalls on these routes. The fort itself often gets lost in clouds, thus creating a mystical environment.
What to Do:
- Trekking: A trek across Rajmachi remains good for beginners because it is relatively simple compared to others. It presents streams where you can drink or bathe under falls, along with shining flora at different places en route.
- Camping: One should halt near this fort’s vicinity so that he or she may enjoy nature’s company throughout the night until morning approaches. Here, too, raindrops accompanied by gentle winds help create an atmosphere of relaxation and calmness.
- Fort Exploration: Investigate the fort and get a chance to see out over a large area. A touch of magic is added by mist and clouds.
Bhimashankar
A Holy Nature Sanctuary: Bhimashankar is about 110 kilometres away from Pune; it is both a pilgrimage site and a wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the twelve jyotirlingas, surrounded by forests full of trees and hills.
Showering during monsoons: Monsoons turn Bhimashankar into an emerald paradise. The forests are alive, while dozens of waterfalls are at their peak flow. Mist and rain intensify the spiritual mood of this place.
Things to do:
- Trekking: It presents moderate-level trekking that takes you through dense wooded areas as well as streams. Mist plus rain adds thrill to it all.
- Watching Wildlife: At Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, many species can be seen, including the Indian Giant Squirrel. The monsoons are particularly good for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Temple Visit: Pray at Bhimashankar Temple, which is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The monsoon around this temple is calm and beautiful.
Malshej Ghat
Scenic Gateway: Malshej Ghat is located approximately 120 kilometres from Pune, in the Western Ghats, which makes it a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Monsoon Magic: Malshej Ghat shows its best during monsoons. Hills turn into green carpets, while waterfalls flowing down steep cliffs enchant with their beauty, creating unforgettable images. Mist further enhances its appeal.
What to Do:
- Bird Watching: Malshej Ghat becomes heaven for bird watchers, especially during monsoons. Vibrant pink flamingos fly into this area during migration season.
- Waterfall Exploration: Go on exploring numerous nearby waterfalls. The viewpoint at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam is also picturesque.
- Nature Walks: Stroll through the greenery. The cold weather and bright flora make it a refreshing tour.
Pashan Lake
Urban Paradise: Pashan Lake is an artificial lake situated inside Pune city, offering a serene break amidst a chaotic city environment. Nestled between hills and surrounded by lush greenery, this popular nature point has been created.
Monsoon Magic: Pashan Lake is encircled by lush trees that are filled to capacity during the monsoons. In other words, when everything around is washed out by rain and fog takes its place, this calmness reigns in the air.
What to Do
- Bird Watching: Many species of birds, including migratory ones, can be sighted at Pashan Lake, which attracts bird watchers throughout the year. The rainy season makes them come here from distant places.
- Nature Walks: Go for a relaxed walk around it. Delightful cool breezes with leafy environs shall put you in good spirits.
- Photography: Capture amazing shots of the lake and surroundings everywhere. The mist and rain will create an enchanting landscape for taking pictures.
Conclusion
There are many things to do in Pune and around it during the monsoon season. Everything from historical forts to calm dams, green hillsides with waterfalls, and animated hill stations can be found. The rains change the landscape into a green heaven, while mystique covers it with fog and clouds. It’s your place if you want a thrill, tranquilly, or bonding with nature during these rainy months in Pune. Be prepared to carry your rucksacks, put on your trekking boots, and let us witness the monsoon magic of Pune together.
