Pune is a great place to work if you consider the energy levels of the people living there. It is one of the primary cities targeted by youngsters seeking to make a career. Just as slogging through the week is important for the young professionals partying becomes equally important for getting rid of the weeklong pressure. Living in Pune offers the possibility of visiting a number of great weekend getaways which are easy to reach and return before the beginning of the week.
Lonavala: Not far from Pune, Lonavala is a refreshing break from the city. Its numerous gardens, lush green fields and lakes offer ample fresh air for the lungs. The place is located almost 67 kilometres from Pune and makes for a great long drive with friends and families. For the avid tourist the place offers a number of temples, caves and forts which make picturesquephotos. Check out the valley from the Lion’s point and the Tiger’s point for a great bird’s eye view. The Rajmachi Fort is an ancient piece of Indian history waiting to amaze you.
Khandala: While Hindi songs have made this place famous to a generation, the place actually offers a panoramic view that is worth remembering. Located at the Sahyadri foothills, Khandala is only 70 kms from Pune. So, if you love a road trip you cannot afford to miss this place especially during the monsoons when the verdant green spreads its wings and makes the valley look lovely. For nature and history lovers the place offers a rich historical past spread amidst the sites. There are plenty of options for paragliding and trekking. If you are travelling all the way to visit Khandala, just put up at any of the hotels near pune airport and plan your trip.
Matheran: This is a great place to be because of forest canopies, plunging cliffs and gushing waterfalls. Mountain lovers can have an amazing time climbing its 38 peak points. It also has a park and a cave, which should keep mountain lovers happy. The air in and around the area is crystal clear and free from pollution because of the anti-vehicle guidelines which are quite stringent.
Bhimashankar: This is a nature resort which is loved by photographers and families alike. Located at a 110 km drive the place has a Shiva temple which is among the 12 Jyotirlingas. If you are a fan of trekking then you can try your hand at trekking as well.
Panchgani: Also known as the Place of Five Hills, Panchgani is a mere two-hour drive from Pune. If you love to take photographs then this will be the perfect destination because it is an amalgamation of coastal plains and hill station. This is the easiest and closest camping destination available within just 107 kilometres.
Alibag: Located only three hours from Pune, Alibag, which means the Garden of Ali, is a great place for spending the weekend. It is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea and its location has appropriately given it the name of Maharashtra’s Goa. It has beaches and also historical landmarks to soothe the historian at heart.