Top 5 Offbeat Weekend Escapes from Pune for a Relaxing Holiday!

Table of Content: 

1. Bhandardara – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

2. Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers

3. Sandhan Valley – The Grand Canyon of Maharashtra

4. Velas – The Secret Beach & Turtle Haven

5. Kheerganga – A Blissful Trek in the Western Ghats
    

Pune, a bustling city with its rich history and vibrant culture, is blessed with proximity to some of Maharashtra’s most scenic and offbeat travel destinations. While popular getaways like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar are common choices, there are several lesser-known and less-crowded weekend getaways near Pune that offer tranquility, adventure, and unique experiences. If you're looking to unwind amidst nature, witness mesmerizing stargazing spots, explore hidden lakes, or trek through unexplored trails, these offbeat weekend getaways from Pune promise a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone craving solitude, these destinations are perfect for your next weekend trip. So, pack your bags and head out to explore these hidden gems!
 

Top 5 Offbeat Weekend Getaways Near Pune

1. Bhandardara – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Bhandardara, nestled in the Sahyadri ranges, is a mesmerizing retreat known for its serene lakes, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking stargazing spots. Far from the usual tourist crowd, this place is a paradise for those who love camping and soaking in the beauty of nature. If you are looking for a fantastic staycation on your vacation, here are the top Hotels in Bhandardara where every stay feels like home. 
 

Unique Experiences
 

• Stargazing at Arthur Lake – Bhandardara is one of Maharashtra’s best spots for stargazing. A night by the serene Arthur Lake under a sky full of stars is a magical experience.

• Visit the Mesmerizing Randha Falls – A powerful waterfall cascading from 170 feet, Randha Falls is a hidden wonder worth witnessing.

• Trek to Ratangad Fort – An offbeat trek leading to an ancient fort with panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains.

Best Time to Visit
 

• Monsoon (July – September) – Lush greenery and mesmerizing waterfalls make it an absolute treat for nature lovers.

• Winter (November – February) – Ideal for camping, stargazing, and trekking.

Travel Tips

• Carry warm clothes if visiting during winter for stargazing.

• Opt for a local guide if planning the Ratangad trek.

• Book your campsite in advance for the best stargazing experience.

2. Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kaas Plateau is a hidden paradise known for its seasonal bloom of vibrant wildflowers. Situated around 140 km from Pune, this surreal destination is often compared to the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand.
 

Unique Experiences
 

• Witness the Blooming Flower Carpet – Every monsoon, Kaas Plateau turns into a breathtaking landscape covered with over 850 species of flowers, orchids, and endemic plants.

• Explore the Kaas Lake – A pristine lake surrounded by dense forests, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.

• Photography & Nature Walks – Ideal for photographers and nature lovers who want to capture the beauty of this biodiversity hotspot.

Best Time to Visit
 

• August to October – The best time to witness the vibrant floral bloom.

Travel Tips
 

• Entry is restricted to a limited number of visitors per day, so pre-book your entry permit online.

• Avoid plucking flowers as Kaas Plateau is a protected ecological zone.

• Wear comfortable trekking shoes for exploring the area.

3. Sandhan Valley – The Grand Canyon of Maharashtra

For thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, Sandhan Valley, also known as Maharashtra’s Grand Canyon, is an unmissable weekend getaway. Located near Igatpuri, this hidden gem offers an extraordinary blend of trekking, rappelling, and breathtaking canyon views. If you prefer road travels, check out the Buses to Ahmednagar and book your memorable weekend retreat today. 

Unique Experiences
 

• Descend into the Valley of Shadows – Experience a unique reverse trek into the valley, surrounded by towering rock walls.

• Rappelling & Rock Climbing – Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in rappelling through narrow rock formations and cliff-jumping.

• Camping Under a Starlit Sky – Spend a night in the valley, surrounded by absolute wilderness and a mesmerizing night sky.

Best Time to Visit
 

• Winter (November – February) – Perfect for trekking and adventure activities.

• Monsoon (July – September) – Not recommended due to slippery trails and water-filled gorges.

Travel Tips
 

• This trek is not beginner-friendly; ensure you have basic trekking experience.

• Carry sufficient water and energy bars as there are no food stalls in the valley.

• Avoid trekking alone, always go in a group with a certified guide.

4. Velas – The Secret Beach & Turtle Haven
 

Velas, a charming coastal village along the Konkan coastline, is best known for its annual Olive Ridley Turtle Festival. This offbeat beach destination is an eco-tourism hub, offering a unique combination of wildlife conservation and scenic beauty.

Unique Experiences
 

• Witness Baby Turtles Hatch & Crawl to the Sea – Visit during the Turtle Festival (February–March) to see baby turtles being released into the ocean.

• Relax on the Secluded Velas Beach – Unlike crowded beaches, Velas offers serene sunsets and untouched shores.

• Visit Bankot Fort – A historic fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Best Time to Visit
 

• February to March – This time is best for turtle sightings and pleasant weather.

Travel Tips
 

• Book your stay in eco-friendly homestays to support local conservation efforts.

• Avoid using bright lights or loud sounds near the nesting areas.

• The roads to Velas are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.

5. Kheerganga – A Blissful Trek in the Western Ghats

For those looking for a refreshing trek near Pune, Kheerganga offers lush green trails, natural hot springs, and mesmerizing Himalayan views. Situated in the Parvati Valley, this offbeat trekking paradise is ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers. Check Pune to Kullu Flights at EaseMyTrip and book your unforgettable journey right away. 

Unique Experiences
 

• Trek Through Mesmerizing Landscapes – Enjoy a 12 km trek through pine forests, waterfalls, and apple orchards.

• Take a Dip in the Hot Springs – After a tiring trek, relax in the natural hot water springs believed to have healing properties.

• Camp Under the Stars – The clear night sky at Kheerganga makes it an ideal camping destination.

Best Time to Visit
 

• March to June & September to November – This time offers the best trekking conditions with pleasant weather.

Travel Tips
 

• Carry proper trekking shoes and warm clothing as temperatures can drop at night.

• Pack light and bring your own water bottles to minimize waste.

• The trek takes about 4-5 hours, so start early to reach before sunset.

Suggested Read: Some of the Best Eateries of Pune to Satisfy the Foodie in You

Wrapping Up! 
 

Pune’s surroundings are blessed with a variety of offbeat getaways, from breathtaking mountain treks and hidden beaches to stargazing retreats and historic forts. Whether you're in search of adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these 5 offbeat weekend getaways from Pune offer the perfect blend of tranquility and thrill.

So why wait? Pick your favourite getaway, fuel up your travel spirit, and set off on a weekend adventure that promises unforgettable memories beyond the ordinary!

Happy Exploring!