Top 15 Hangout & Picnic Places in and Around Pune City
Pune is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity while being surrounded by lush green landscapes and scenic getaways. Whether you are looking for a fun day out with friends, a peaceful picnic with family, or an adventure-filled trek, Pune has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top 15 hangout and picnic places in and around Pune that you must explore.
1. Shaniwar Wada – A Historic Landmark
📍 Location: Shaniwar Peth, Pune
One of the most famous historical sites in Pune, Shaniwar Wada was the seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire. It is an ideal place to explore Pune’s rich heritage while enjoying a walk through the massive gates, gardens, and remains of the fort.
Best For:
✅ History lovers
✅ Photography
✅ Evening light & sound show
⏰ Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
2. Aga Khan Palace – A Monument of Freedom Struggle
📍 Location: Kalyani Nagar, Pune
Built in 1892, the Aga Khan Palace is an architectural marvel and a major landmark in Indian history. Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, and other leaders were imprisoned here during the freedom struggle. The palace has lush gardens, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed picnic.
Best For:
✅ History & architecture lovers
✅ Peaceful outing
✅ Photography
⏰ Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
3. Sinhagad Fort – A Trekker’s Paradise
📍 Distance from Pune: 30 km
For adventure and history lovers, Sinhagad Fort is one of the best places to visit near Pune. The fort, once a strategic Maratha stronghold, offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri hills. The trek to the top is moderately challenging and rewarding, especially during monsoon.
Best For:
✅ Trekking & adventure
✅ Historical exploration
✅ Eating local delicacies like Kanda Bhaji & Pithla Bhakri
⏰ Timings: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
4. Khadakwasla Dam – A Perfect Picnic Spot
📍 Distance from Pune: 20 km
Khadakwasla Dam is a scenic water reservoir, ideal for picnics and nature lovers. You can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the lake, watching the sunset while relishing some local snacks from the roadside stalls.
Best For:
✅ Picnics
✅ Photography
✅ Relaxation
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon & winter
5. Mulshi Lake & Dam – A Scenic Escape
📍 Distance from Pune: 50 km
Surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills, Mulshi Dam is a perfect getaway from Pune’s hustle and bustle. The calm waters and cool breeze make it an excellent location for a one-day picnic, photography, or camping.
Best For:
✅ Nature lovers
✅ Photography
✅ Camping & boating
⏰ Best Time to Visit: June to February
6. Lavasa – India’s First Planned Hill City
📍 Distance from Pune: 60 km
Lavasa is a European-style hill station featuring colorful buildings, a waterfront promenade, and adventure activities. It’s a great place for a romantic getaway or a relaxing weekend with family and friends.
Best For:
✅ Boating & water sports
✅ Cycling & walking trails
✅ Adventure activities
⏰ Best Time to Visit: September to May
7. Pawna Lake – A Camping & Picnic Paradise
📍 Distance from Pune: 55 km
For those who love camping by the lakeside, Pawna Lake is a perfect destination. You can enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and outdoor adventure activities. The stunning view of the lake against the backdrop of forts like Lohagad and Tikona adds to its charm.
Best For:
✅ Camping
✅ Bonfire nights
✅ Adventure lovers
⏰ Best Time to Visit: October to March
8. Rajmachi Fort – A Must-Visit Trekking Spot
📍 Distance from Pune: 80 km
If you love trekking, Rajmachi Fort is an excellent choice. The fort offers breathtaking views of Sahyadri hills, waterfalls, and valleys.
Best For:
✅ Trekking
✅ Historical exploration
✅ Photography
⏰ Best Time to Visit: June to September
9. Lonavala & Khandala – The Monsoon Getaway
📍 Distance from Pune: 65 km
The twin hill stations Lonavala and Khandala are best known for their lush greenery, waterfalls, and misty hills. Whether you are exploring Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, or Karla Caves, Lonavala never disappoints.
Best For:
✅ Monsoon trips
✅ Waterfalls & scenic beauty
✅ Adventure activities
⏰ Best Time to Visit: June to February
10. Osho International Meditation Resort
📍 Location: Koregaon Park, Pune
A world-renowned spiritual retreat, the Osho Ashram is perfect for meditation and self-discovery. It attracts visitors from across the world for its peaceful ambiance and spiritual teachings.
Best For:
✅ Meditation & yoga
✅ Spiritual seekers
✅ Relaxation
⏰ Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
11. Bhimashankar – A Religious and Natural Wonder
📍 Distance from Pune: 110 km
Bhimashankar houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is surrounded by dense forests and wildlife.
Best For:
✅ Religious tourism
✅ Wildlife exploration
✅ Trekking
⏰ Best Time to Visit: June to February
12. Parvati Hill – A Panoramic Viewpoint
📍 Location: Parvati Hill, Pune
This scenic hilltop temple provides a panoramic view of Pune city. It is an easy trek and a great place for morning walks and photography.
Best For:
✅ Sunrise & sunset views
✅ Religious visitors
✅ Fitness & trekking
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early mornings
13. Katraj Snake Park & Zoo
📍 Location: Katraj, Pune
A perfect hangout for kids and wildlife lovers, the Katraj Snake Park has various species of snakes, crocodiles, and birds.
Best For:
✅ Wildlife lovers
✅ Families & kids
⏰ Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
14. Pashan Lake – A Bird Watcher’s Paradise
📍 Location: Pashan, Pune
Pashan Lake is a serene place for bird-watching and photography. It is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings.
Best For:
✅ Bird watching
✅ Nature walks
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Winters
15. Alibaug – The Perfect Beach Getaway
📍 Distance from Pune: 145 km
A perfect beachside retreat, Alibaug is famous for its golden beaches, forts, and water sports.
Best For:
✅ Beach lovers
✅ Water sports
✅ Family outings
⏰ Best Time to Visit: October to March
Conclusion
Pune offers a diverse range of hangout and picnic destinations, from historical forts and nature retreats to beaches and adventure spots. Whether you want to trek, relax, or explore, Pune has it all! 🚗🏕️
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