5 Monsoon Day Trips near Pune

Monsoon in Pune is real bliss with the lush green cover, the perfect breeze, the cloudy weather and the ambient mood that it brings along. And with that settings by Mother Nature, you cannot help but venture out to explore the outskirts of the city for a quick day trip.

Here are 5 locations close to Pune perfect for a day trip during the monsoons.

1) Wai

In the Satara district of Maharashtra, Wai is about 2 hours away from Pune by car. Not as commercial as the surrounding areas of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, the Dhom Dam backwaters is your spot to enjoy a silent afternoon with nature. Surrounded by rolling hills, the calm waters, thin fog over the mountain tops, there is not much activity in the area. Carry a small picnic basket and set up your own party by the waters and click some pictures as you enjoy the moments! Keep a silent watch out on the land around, and you might just get lucky to see a couple of peacocks with their feathers fanned out dancing away to the glory of the rains!

2) Bhor

Bhor taluka in Pune is yet another offbeat destination for a day trip. You can also book yourself a cottage for the night and spend a leisure weekend at the destination. During monsoon, this area is resplendent with little waterfalls at every bend of the road for you to stop by and drench yourself. Ask the local farmers, and they might also let you come enjoy a unique rice planting experience in the water logged paddy fields! For a more touristy experience, visit the historical palace - Bhor Rajwada. Indian vernacular architecture at its finest, it is one of the most well-preserved royal residences in Maharashtra.

3) Malshej Ghat

A popular spot in the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat is known for the mountain passes that cross through. Breathtaking views of the lush green valley below with a dense fog cover during the monsoons is what makes Malshej Ghat a destination for the revellers to enjoy for a day. Dotted with small waterfalls at every few meters, on a monsoon day, the landscape is a bright mix of the green forests, white waters and steep grey cliffs. Soaking in the seasonal waterfalls that line the winding roads, enjoy a fresh, spicy corn on the cob with piping hot tea before you head back home.

4) Pawna Lake

An artificial lake known for its serene water, and beautiful sunrises and mesmerising sunsets, overnight camping at the Pawna lake grounds is a quite popular. With activities like kayaking, putting up your own tent, enjoying a bonfire by the lake while making some barbecue for dinner, gazing at the stars in the stillness of the night, you can put Pawna lake camping on your list not just during the monsoon, but any time of the year. Panshet Dam backwaters is yet another choice for such experiential camping. Get along with your friends and make some memories for lifetime over a camping night!

5) Kaas Pathar

Identified as one of the World Natural Heritage site, Kaas Plateau near Satara in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, this grassland turns into a ‘valley of flowers’ during late monsoons. Sweeping a blanket of colourful flowers, this plateau is a visual treat when in full bloom. Tiny wildflowers and the cool breeze on a cloudy day leave you mesmerised. You can also visit the Kas Lake nearby. With tourists flocking the place, authorities have not put in place regulations for visitors, so make sure you look them up before planning your travel.

Monsoon is one of the most romantic times of the year, and my personal favourite. For me, monsoon is all about getting close to nature and bonding with friends and family. So where are you headed next? Keep traveling, keep exploring!!