7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Pune

Pune, often known as the Oxford of the East due to its educational institutions, is also a hub for digital nomads who enjoy the city's cosmopolitan vibe, pleasant weather, and proximity to several weekend getaways. Whether you're looking to explore historical forts, relax by the beach, or discover some offbeat destinations, Pune's location in the Western Ghats offers a plethora of options. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for those living the digital nomad life in Pune.

Lonavala

Just a short drive from Pune, Lonavala is a popular hill station known for its lush green valleys and serene landscapes. It's a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle. You can explore the historic Rajmachi Fort, take a hike to Tiger's Leap for a panoramic view, or simply enjoy the tranquility of Lonavala Lake. During the monsoon season, the waterfalls in and around Lonavala are a sight to behold.

How to Get There: Lonavala is about 65 kilometers from Pune and is easily accessible by road. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, local trains and buses frequently ply between Pune and Lonavala.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try the famous Lonavala chikki, a traditional Indian sweet made from jaggery and groundnuts. It's a delightful treat for your taste buds!

Where to Stay: The Della Resorts offers luxury accommodation with an adventure park, while The Lagoona Resort is known for its eco-friendly approach. For a more intimate setting, consider staying at a local B&B.

Where to Eat: The German Bakery Wunderbar is a cozy spot for a delicious breakfast or a light snack. They are famous for their freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee.

Alibaug

Alibaug is a coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic forts, and tranquil temples, making it a perfect seaside getaway. Visit the Alibaug Beach for a relaxing day by the sea or explore the Kolaba Fort, which becomes accessible during low tide. For a more secluded experience, head to the less crowded Nagaon Beach. Alibaug is also known for its fresh seafood, which you can enjoy at local restaurants.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Alibaug from Pune is by road, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. You can also take a ferry from Mumbai to Alibaug if you're up for a scenic route.

Travel Tip: Visit the Kanakeshwar Forest for a peaceful hike amidst dense vegetation and diverse wildlife. The forest is also home to the ancient Shiva temple, which is a must-visit.

Where to Stay: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Sanman Beach Resort.

Where to Eat: Sanman is a local favorite for traditional Konkani and seafood dishes. Their fish thali is particularly renowned among visitors and locals alike.

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill station known for its strawberry farms, ancient temples, and panoramic viewpoints. Visit the Arthur's Seat for a breathtaking view of the deep valleys, or take a boat ride on Venna Lake. Strawberry picking at one of the many farms is a delightful experience, especially during the harvest season.

How to Get There: Mahabaleshwar is about 120 kilometers from Pune, and the drive takes around 3 hours. Buses are also available, offering a scenic route through the Western Ghats.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit Mapro Garden, where you can try a variety of strawberry-based products and learn about the process of cultivation.

Where to Stay: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa provides a luxurious escape with forest views, while Bella Vista Resort offers a peaceful stay with beautiful garden landscapes.

Where to Eat: The Olive Garden serves Italian cuisine with a local twist and is known for its romantic ambiance and stunning valley views.

Kaas Plateau

The Kaas Plateau, also known as the Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comes alive with a blanket of flowers post-monsoon. It's an unusual destination that offers a unique experience for nature lovers and photographers. The plateau is home to various species of endemic flowers and butterflies.

How to Get There: Located about 136 kilometers from Pune, the best way to reach Kaas Plateau is by car, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: The best time to visit is from late August to early October when the flowers are in full bloom. Make sure to carry your camera to capture the vibrant landscapes.

Where to Stay: There are limited stay options near Kaas Plateau, but the nearby town of Satara offers various hotels and guest houses. Hotel Lake View provides comfortable accommodation with scenic views.

Where to Eat: For a local dining experience, try the Maharashtrian thali at Hotel Radhika Palace in Satara, which offers a taste of the regional cuisine.

Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary

Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located on the backwaters of the Ujani Dam, it is known for the migratory flamingos that visit during the winter months. Apart from flamingos, you can spot a variety of other bird species, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature walks.

How to Get There: Bhigwan is about 105 kilometers from Pune, and the drive takes around 2 hours. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach the sanctuary.

Travel Tip: The best time to visit is from December to March when the migratory birds are present. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for birdwatching.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in Bhigwan are basic, but you can find decent places to stay in the nearby town of Baramati. The City Inn Hotel offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities.

Where to Eat: Local dhabas around Bhigwan serve home-style cooked meals, where you can enjoy authentic Maharashtrian dishes.

Panhala Fort

Panhala Fort is an offbeat historical destination that offers a glimpse into the Maratha Empire's past. The fort is perched on a hill and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a great place for history buffs and trekkers alike, with several points of interest such as the Teen Darwaza and Sajja Kothi.

How to Get There: Panhala is approximately 240 kilometers from Pune, and the drive takes around 4.5 hours. There are also buses that run between Pune and Panhala.

Travel Tip: Visit during the monsoon season when the greenery is lush, and the fort is enveloped in mist, creating a magical atmosphere.

Where to Stay: The Valley View Grand offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the valley, while the Panhala Heritage Resort is known for its traditional architecture and serene environment.

Where to Eat: Hotel Hilltop is a popular choice among visitors for its delicious Maharashtrian cuisine and panoramic views of the valley.

Tamhini Ghat

Tamhini Ghat is a mountain pass that runs through the Sahyadri range and is known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and dense forests. It's an unusual destination that's perfect for those looking to explore the untouched beauty of nature. The ghat is especially beautiful during the monsoon when the waterfalls are at their full glory, and the region is covered in a lush green carpet.

How to Get There: Tamhini Ghat is about 70 kilometers from Pune, and the drive takes around 2 hours. The roads can be challenging during the monsoon, so it's advisable to drive with caution.

Travel Tip: Make sure to stop at the Mulshi Dam on the way to Tamhini Ghat for some stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Where to Stay: There are few stay options directly in Tamhini Ghat, but the nearby town of Mulshi offers resorts like the Malhar Machi Mountain Resort, which has a beautiful setting overlooking the lake.

Where to Eat: Quick bites and local snacks are available at roadside stalls along the ghat. For a more substantial meal, try the Green Gate Resort in Mulshi, which serves a variety of cuisines with a scenic backdrop.

These weekend getaways offer a mix of popular and offbeat destinations for digital nomads living in Pune. Each place has its unique charm and activities, ensuring that there's something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or simply take a break from your screen, these spots are sure to rejuvenate you for the week ahead.