Looking for a quick escape from Pune's bustling city life? Hill stations near Pune offer the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and peace. Whether you want to relax amidst greenery or indulge in trekking and sightseeing, these destinations have something for everyone in 2026.

In this list, we cover the best hill stations accessible from Pune, highlighting their unique attractions, accessibility, and why they remain popular choices for locals and travelers alike.

1. Lonavala

Lonavala is one of the most popular hill stations near Pune, known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate. It attracts tourists year-round, especially during the monsoon season when waterfalls and hills come alive.

• Location:

  About 65 km from Pune, easily reachable via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

• Specialty:

  Famous for Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, and scenic trekking trails.

• Experience:

  Offers a mix of nature, adventure, and local markets with chikki and fudge.

• Price Range:

  Budget to mid-range accommodations and eateries available.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for weekend trips with family or friends due to its accessibility and variety of activities.

Perfect for families and groups looking for a quick, refreshing break with options for sightseeing and light adventure.

2. Matheran

Matheran is a quaint hill station known for being Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, offering a peaceful and pollution-free environment. It is famous for its viewpoints and dense forests.

• Location:

  Around 120 km from Pune, near Neral railway station.

• Specialty:

  Known for panoramic views from points like Panorama Point and Echo Point.

• Experience:

  Offers serene walks and horse rides, perfect for nature lovers.

• Price Range:

  Affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels.

• Why Visit:

  Great for those seeking tranquility away from city noise and vehicle pollution.

Ideal for couples and solo travelers who want a quiet retreat with nature walks and scenic views.

3. Khandala

Khandala is a charming hill station adjacent to Lonavala, known for its waterfalls, viewpoints, and pleasant weather. It’s a favored spot for short trips and romantic getaways.

• Location:

  Approximately 70 km from Pune, accessible via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

• Specialty:

  Famous for Duke’s Nose and Rajmachi Fort trekking.

• Experience:

  Offers peaceful surroundings with good hiking trails and viewpoints.

• Price Range:

  Budget-friendly to mid-range stays.

• Why Visit:

  Perfect for adventure enthusiasts and couples looking for scenic beauty.

Best suited for trekkers and couples who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

4. Panchgani

Panchgani is a serene hill station known for its strawberry farms and colonial charm. It offers a cool climate and beautiful viewpoints overlooking valleys and hills.

• Location:

  Around 100 km from Pune, near Satara district.

• Specialty:

  Famous for Table Land, a vast volcanic plateau, and strawberry farms.

• Experience:

  Calm atmosphere with opportunities for horse riding and paragliding.

• Price Range:

  Mid-range hotels and homestays available.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for families and nature lovers wanting a peaceful environment.

Great for families and groups seeking a relaxed holiday with natural beauty and local produce.

5. Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a renowned hill station famous for its cool climate, strawberry farms, and scenic viewpoints. It is a bit farther but worth the trip for its natural beauty and adventure options.

• Location:

  Approximately 120 km from Pune, accessible by road.

• Specialty:

  Known for Venna Lake, Arthur’s Seat, and Mapro Garden.

• Experience:

  Offers boating, trekking, and fresh local produce.

• Price Range:

  Wide range from budget to luxury accommodations.

• Why Visit:

  Perfect for long weekend trips with family or friends.

Suitable for all kinds of travelers, especially those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

6. Lavasa

Lavasa is a planned hill city near Pune, designed with modern amenities and scenic lake views. It offers a blend of nature and urban comforts.

• Location:

  About 60 km from Pune, near Mulshi.

• Specialty:

  Known for its lakeside promenade and water sports.

• Experience:

  Offers a clean, well-maintained environment with cafes and resorts.

• Price Range:

  Mid to premium pricing for stays and activities.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for families and couples looking for a comfortable, scenic getaway.

Best for travelers who prefer modern facilities alongside natural beauty.

7. Torna Fort

Torna Fort is a historic hill fort near Pune, popular among trekking enthusiasts. It offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Maratha history.

• Location:

  Around 50 km from Pune, near Velhe.

• Specialty:

  Known for challenging treks and historical significance.

• Experience:

  Offers adventurous trekking with rewarding views.

• Price Range:

  Free entry; minimal costs for guides or local transport.

• Why Visit:

  Perfect for adventure seekers and history buffs.

Ideal for experienced trekkers and those interested in Maharashtra’s heritage.

8. Rajmachi

Rajmachi is a twin fort hill station near Lonavala, famous for trekking and scenic landscapes. It is a favorite for nature lovers and adventure travelers.

• Location:

  About 80 km from Pune, accessible via Lonavala.

• Specialty:

  Known for Rajmachi Fort and lush green surroundings.

• Experience:

  Offers moderate trekking with beautiful natural views.

• Price Range:

  Budget-friendly, mostly camping or homestays.

• Why Visit:

  Great for trekking enthusiasts and weekend adventurers.

Best suited for trekkers and groups wanting an immersive nature experience.

When to Visit or Use These Hill Stations Near Pune

Choosing the right time to visit these hill stations can enhance your experience significantly. Here are some tips:

• Monsoon (June to September) is ideal for Lonavala and Khandala to enjoy waterfalls and greenery.

• Winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather for all hill stations, especially Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani.

• Weekends and public holidays are popular, so plan early bookings to avoid crowding.

• Early mornings and weekdays are best for trekking spots like Torna Fort and Rajmachi to avoid heat and crowds.

How to Choose the Best Hill Station Near Pune

Choosing the right hill station depends on your preferences and travel style. Consider these factors:

• Distance and Accessibility:

  For short trips, choose closer spots like Lonavala or Lavasa.

• Activities and Interests:

  Pick trekking forts if you love adventure or calm hill stations for relaxation.

• Budget:

  Some places offer budget stays, while others like Lavasa may be pricier.

• Accommodation Quality:

  Check for availability of hotels, homestays, or resorts as per your comfort.

• Season:

  Visit monsoon-friendly places during rains and avoid slippery trails if inexperienced.

• Reviews and Safety:

  Read recent traveler reviews and ensure safety measures, especially for trekking.

By comparing these aspects, you can pick a hill station that matches your expectations and makes your trip memorable.

Conclusion

Hill stations near Pune offer diverse experiences, from serene nature escapes to thrilling treks. Whether you want a quick weekend getaway or a longer holiday, these destinations provide excellent options in 2026.

Use this guide to choose the hill station that fits your travel style, budget, and interests. With proper planning, your trip will be refreshing, enjoyable, and safe.

FAQs

Which is the most popular hill station near Pune?

Lonavala is the most popular due to its proximity, scenic beauty, and variety of attractions suitable for all age groups.

What is the best time to visit hill stations near Pune?

Winter (November to February) and monsoon (June to September) are the best seasons, depending on whether you prefer cool weather or lush greenery.

Are these hill stations suitable for family trips?

Yes, places like Lonavala, Panchgani, and Mahabaleshwar are family-friendly with safe accommodations and activities.

Can I trek to these hill stations?

Yes, forts like Torna and Rajmachi offer trekking opportunities suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers.

Is Lavasa a natural hill station?

Lavasa is a planned hill city with modern infrastructure, offering scenic lake views but is man-made rather than a traditional hill station.