After an exuberant week with loads of shopping, pandal hopping and Puja festivity, a short trip to unwind from the festive hangover is always a good idea…
We decided to look for spots in close proximity of Pune where you can relax, destress and treat your soul without burning a hole in your pocket –
Matheran
A trip to the hills, in a pollution free environment will surely give the peace you need. The smallest hill station of India with year round pleasant weather and well preserved colonial architecture is great for a quick weekend trip..
Indulge in the rich and famous Malai Kulfi while riding through the wild in the toy train or enjoying a horseback ride. But stay clear of the unfriendly monkeys here.
Fun Facts:
There are 38 official points to visit.
Try the biryani at the famous Shabbir Biryani House
Distance from Pune: 125 KM
Travel Expenses: Pune to Neral by train Rs 140
Neral to Matheran Taxi Rs 70 per person
Hotels : Horseland Hotel and Mountain Spa @ Rs 1606
The Byke Heritage @ Rs 2278
Mulshi
If a vacation is not your choice then drive to Mulshi and enjoy a family picnic in the soothing weather. The waterfalls and ghats towards Mulshi Dam offers a picturesque view, and ideal for landscape photography. One can also enjoy a short trekking adventure on the hilly terrain or relax with a chilled drink enjoying the view or even do some bird watching.
Fun Facts: Enjoy sports like water-rafting and off-roading.
Distance from Pune: 45 KM
Travel Expenses: A drive is a preferable medium of commute with approximate costs at Rs 300
Hotels : Girivan @ Rs 1795
Cafe Paradise Resort @ Rs 1200
Alibaug
If you are looking for a weekend by the beach, we have you sorted. A coastal town in Konkan region, Alibaug is known for its sandy beaches and dense coconut grooves. With many forts and temples in the vicinity, it is also popular because of its historical importance. A shopaholic can visit the small bustling shops for handcrafted items, footwear and accessories while exploring the town.
Fun Facts: A ferry ride and innumerable water sports are available for the enthusiastic tourist.
Distance from Pune: 140 KM
Travel Expenses: Minimum bus fare Rs 138 one way
Available stay: Killa Cottage @ Rs1421
Naomi beach Hotel @ Rs 2128
Khandala
A popular getaway for people from Pune and Mumbai, Khandala offers a scenic view of the valleys, with grassy hills, serene lakes and misty waterfalls. Its popularity rose after the arrival of the railways and since then is a popular weekend destination. The Duke’s Nose peak and Karla hills are the two popular spots for rock climbing. The mint vada-pav and freshy roasted sweet corn are the delicacies one should not miss.
Fun Facts: Visit the nearest Imagica water and theme park.
The Ancient Jail built in 1896, in which the founders of St Xaviers college were jailed is in Khandala.
Distance from Pune: 70 KM
Travel Expenses: Minimum bus fare Rs 350
Hotels: Hotel Ritz Heritage @ Rs 2000
Weekend Nursery and Cottages @ Rs 3000
Durshet
The unexplored tourist destination, Durshet gives spectacular views of the Sahyadri range. Popular for it’s hot springs, rappelling, river crossing and rock climbing, Durshet has an abundance of green all around making it exhilarating and inspiring.
Fun Facts: It is historically significant place as it served as a battlefield when Shivaji Maharaj fought Kartalab Khan for Umbarkhind in the late 1600s.
Distance from Pune: 100 KM
Travel Expenses: A drive is a preferable medium of commute.
Minimum Bus fare Rs 400 via Pune-Lonavala-Durshet
Hotels: Durshet Forest Lodge @ Rs 1689
Rishivan Resort @ Rs 2190
*Prices are subject to change on different online booking sites, based on booking dates and discount available. Please check with the hotels before booking.
Reach her at loveleen@pune365.com or tweet @KaurKaur18
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