Discovering Maharashtra: Top Places To Visit Near Pune In Winter

An image showing a stunning sunrise over Pune, capturing the city's skyline and nature.

Winter is actually the season that would be most apt for visiting the beautiful places around Pune. The cooling temperatures combined well with bright sunshine, making it an ideal season to indulge in outdoor activities and immerse oneself in nature. There are several best places to visit near Pune in winter. Starting from beautiful lakes to serene hill stations, many destinations offer something for everyone: fun, tranquillity, or romance, whichever desire might be, all experiencing something unforgettable and stunning.

Top 10 Best Places To Visit Near Pune In Winter

Here are the best tourist destinations near Pune during the winter months, making the season special.

1. Pawna Lake

A picture of Pawna Lake, which is a very popular winter destination near Pune.

Photo: Sachin Mohol / Wikimedia Commons

Located at nearly 55 km from Pune, it is a stunning destination offering breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hills covered with greenery, especially in winter. In fact, the existing artificial lake here invites visitors to have camping and picnics besides boating, making it one of the most in-demand attractions near Pune in winter. The cool weather makes it all the more beautiful for this idyllic destination, where a stroll along the lakeside is a leisurely affair. The calmness and serenity of the environment have attracted families and couples to this place, the Pawna Lake among others in the past.

Distance From Pune: 55 km
Things To Do: Camping, boating, picnicking
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

2. Lonavala

A scenic picture of Lonavala, which is a romantic getaway near Pune in winter.

Photo: Neerajks7690 / Wikimedia Commons

Lonavala is an impeccable hill station with lush greenery and pleasant weather that will make you all love longingly. Lonavala, being only 63 km away from Pune, is one of the best places to visit near Pune in winter, especially for couples seeking a romantic retreat. It forms a lovely landscape with misty mornings and a clear evening during winter. Visit popular places like Bhushi Dam, Lion’s Point, and so on that compose beautiful Lonavala Lake. It is also an ideal location for adventure lovers because they can hike, while gourmands can enjoy the local food.

Distance From Pune: 63 km
Things To Do: Trekking, sightseeing, enjoying local cuisine
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

3. Matheran

A picture of Matheran, which is one of the best places to visit near Pune in winter.

Photo: Le Priyavrat / Wikimedia Commons

Matheran is a beautiful hill station located around 116 km from Pune and is widely known for its pristine environment and pollution-free atmosphere. Matheran, being a vehicle-free zone, allows one to experience nature in its purest forms, making it one of the best places to visit near Pune in winter. The cool winter air and breathtaking views from numerous viewpoints, such as Panorama Point and Echo Point, are simply refreshing. Matthew is particularly loved for the horse rides, nature walks, and quaint colonial architecture to explore. It is perfect for those who are looking for a refreshing break amidst nature.

Distance From Pune: 119 km
Things To Do: Horse riding, nature walks, exploring viewpoints
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

4. Lohagad

A picture of stunning views that you can watch from the iconic Lohagad Fort.

Photo: Harsh243919 / Wikimedia Commons

About 62 km from Pune lies Lohagad Fort, which entwines natural beauty with historical importance. This ancient fort is a must-trek place, especially during winter when the climate is cool and pleasant. The stunning panoramic views from atop are simply eye-catching, making it one of the must-visit places to see near Pune in winter. The visitor can have a fascinating time walking through the crumbling remains of the fort, exploring the trails, and basking in the scenic glory of the surrounding hills. Lohagad is just about the right place for historians and adventure-seekers alike.

Distance From Pune: 62 km
Things To Do: Trekking, exploring fort ruins, photography
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day

5. Khandala

A picture of Khandala, one of the most beautiful places to visit near Pune in winter.

Photo: Vishalsdhumal / Wikimedia Commons

Khandala, another bewitching hill station located near Lonavala, is known for its dazzling views of the Western Ghats. It is located 69 km from Pune and is famous for its breathtaking vistas and soothing atmosphere during the winter. Some of the fabulous viewpoints include Duke’s Nose and Tiger’s Leap, where one can go and click pictures while relaxing. The cool breeze and mist-covered hills create an atmospheric situation for couples. With good scenic picnic spots and the scope to get familiar with local flora and fauna, this place is perfect for nature walks and picnics among the attractions near Pune during winter.

Distance From Pune: 69 km
Things To Do: Nature walks, sightseeing, picnicking
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day

6. Lavasa

A picture of Lavasa, one of the best places to visit near Pune in winter.

Photo: Sugu1067 / Wikimedia Commons

Lavasa is a hilly city, nearly 60 kilometres from Pune, which does its best to combine elements of modernity with nature. The beautiful waterfront promenade and a wide variety of lively buildings make it one of the best spots to see around Pune in winter. People here can enjoy activities like boating, cycling, or nature walks along the lakeside. The pleasant winter climate adds a touch of beauty to the hill station, making it a beautiful destination for family getaways and a romantic hideaway. The peacefulness of Lavasa and its scenic beauty is a refreshing respite from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Distance From Pune: 60 km
Things To Do: Boating, cycling, dining
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

7. Panchgani

A picture of Panchgani, a hill station known for spectacular sunsets near Pune.

Photo: Akhilesh Dasgupta / Wikimedia Commons

Panchgani is a beautiful hill station located almost 100 km from Pune, which is renowned for excellent sunsets and panoramic views of valleys. It is one of the best tourist attractions near Pune during the winter, providing a great escape from nature. Table Land and Parsi Point are the most famous places to be visited for the breathtaking views and picnic spaces. The cool winter breeze and clear sky make it an excellent place for trekking and cycling. The beauty of Panchgani makes it the perfect getaway destination for couples and families alike.

Distance From Pune: 100 km
Things To Do: Trekking, sightseeing, enjoying local cuisine
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

8. Bhimashankar

A picture of Bhimashankar, one of the most scenic places to visit near Pune in winter.

Photo: Jayesh Singh / unsplash

Bhimashankar, which is located about 110 km from Pune, is one of the most beautiful places with a rich history. This is because it has the importance of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, the Bhimashankar Temple. Therefore, if you are looking for an excellent winter destination near Pune with lush green surroundings and pleasant wintry weather, this is the perfect place for you. Alongside a wildlife sanctuary, it was a nature-walking heaven that could be put to use for birdwatching; therefore, picnics and family outings were always on its agenda. Bhimashankar provided a serene getaway from city life, a favourite among locals.

Distance From Pune: 110 km
Things To Do: Temple visits, trekking, wildlife spotting
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

9. Bhandardara

A picture of Bhandardara, a picturesque trekking destination near Pune in winter.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Bhandardara, 162 km from Pune, is a peaceful and extremely beautiful destination that is a perfect sojourn for nature lovers as well as adventurous souls. It is known for the beautiful scenery that it has to offer; Arthur Lake and Randha Falls are two of its popular tourist destinations. During the winter months, it is one of the best places to visit near Pune. The trekking trails around the area are well-suited for winter treks, so people can immerse themselves in nature’s excellent beauty. Cool weather and clear skies provide excellent background photographs and research opportunities, making this a must-see site.

Distance From Pune: 162 km
Things To Do: Trekking, camping, exploring waterfalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

10. Tapola

A picture of Tapola, known as Mini Kashmir, a must-visit attraction near Pune in winter.

Photo: Hanmant Dadaso Rane / Wikimedia Commons

The place is called “Mini Kashmir” and primarily consists of a scenic village that lies approximately 133 kilometres away from Pune. The main nature attractions are the breathtaking scenery and serene lakes. During the winter, it’s one of the most beautiful tourist spots near Pune. There is cosy weather and great scenery, so it is a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts as well as photographers. Here, you can involve yourself in boat rides on the Tapola Lake besides exploring the surrounding forests.
You can also get involved in other outdoor hobbies that are being carried out in the local area.

Distance From Pune: 133 km
Things To Do: Boating, exploring forests, picnicking
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days

Winter brings thousands of opportunities to go on excursions throughout Pune. The serene landscapes of Pawna Lake and the historical richness of Lohagad are among the endless places to visit near Pune in winter. Each such destination offers a unique mix of nature, adventure, and serenity that makes it perfect for a weekend getaway or family outing. During the winter season, plan your trip with TripXL to visit these breathtaking tourist spots around Pune.

Cover Photo: Sanil Mahajan / wikimedia commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time is from December to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Yes, most of these attractions near Pune in winter are family-friendly and offer activities for all ages.
Yes, public transport like buses and taxis are available for most places to see near Pune in winter.
Yes, many of these destinations can be explored as day trips, though some may offer better experiences with an overnight stay.
Yes, many locations offer adventure activities such as trekking, boating, and sightseeing, particularly enjoyable during winter.

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