If city life has you feeling like a hamster on a wheel, it's time to escape. Pune is blessed with hills, lakes, forts, waterfalls and hill towns just a short drive away perfect for quick picnics, lazy lunches, and soul-refreshing weekends. This list brings together the best picnic spots near Pune for 2026, carefully sorted by distance, type of place, and season.
Picnic Spots Around Pune
From misty ghats and lakeside hideaways to heritage forts and forest trails, Pune sits right in the middle of a nature lover's paradise. You can drive less than an hour and end up beside a quiet lake, or take a longer ride into cool hill stations and flower valleys.
Also Read: Places to Visit Near Pune
Here Is the List of Best Picnic Spots Near Pune
1. Mulshi Lake & Dam (44 km from Pune)
Mulshi Lake & Dam is a calm, scenic picnic location near Pune, perfect for people who want wide open views, fresh air, and still water framed by green hills.
2. Panshet Dam (41 km from Pune)
Panshet is the go-to destination for water sports lovers. It's a massive dam that offers a great mix of adventure and quiet lakeside lounging.
3. Pawna Lake (60 km from Pune)
Probably the most popular camping spot near Pune, Pawna Lake is famous for its vast blue waters and the view of three forts in the backdrop.
4. Tiger Point, Lonavala (66 km from Pune)
Perched on a cliff with a sheer drop, Tiger Point provides a dramatic view of the Sahyadri valleys. Best visited during the monsoon.
5. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary (125 km from Pune)
Home to the rare Giant Indian Squirrel (Shekru), this sanctuary offers dense forest trails and a cool climate.
6. Tamhini Ghat (70 km from Pune)
Tamhini is less about a single "spot" and more about the journey. It's a scenic mountain pass that transforms into a lush green paradise with countless waterfalls.
7. Lavasa (58 km from Pune)
If you want a picnic that feels like a trip to an Italian lakeside town, Lavasa is the answer.
8. Rajgad Fort (60 km from Pune)
For those who like a side of history with their hike, Rajgad is the king of forts.
9. Sinhagad Fort (25 km from Pune)
The ultimate "quick" Pune getaway. Most people head here for the legendary local food.
10. Shivneri Fort (95 km from Pune)
As the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this fort is well-maintained and historically significant.
11. Tikona Fort (60 km from Pune)
Named for its distinct pyramidal (triangular) shape, Tikona is a relatively easy trek with a stunning "birds-eye" view of Pawna Lake.
12. Lohagad Fort (65 km from Pune)
Lohagad (the "Iron Fort") is one of the most accessible forts near Pune, featuring the Vinchu Kata (Scorpion's Tail).
13. Visapur Fort (66 km from Pune)
Sitting higher than its twin Lohagad, Visapur is famous for its "waterfall staircase" during the monsoon.
14. Tung Fort (65 km from Pune)
Tung is small but steep. The fort is surrounded by water on three sides, providing an incredible 360-degree view.
15. Korigad Fort (90 km from Pune)
Located near Aamby Valley, Korigad is a flat-topped fort that is exceptionally easy to climb.
16–20. Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedse Caves, Duke's Nose & Khandala Sunset Point
These Lonavala-Khandala area attractions offer ancient Buddhist architecture, dramatic cliff views, and the most beautiful sunset views in the Western Ghats.
21–25. Bhushi Dam, Lonavala Lake, Kune Waterfalls, Rajmachi Garden & Scorpion's Sting
The heart of the Lonavala picnic circuit—from the famous overflowing dam steps to the iconic Vinchu Kata ridge walk.
26–30. Aamby Valley, Morachi Chincholi, Andharban Forest, Devkund Waterfall & Bhor Ghat
From luxury townships to dark forest treks and magical turquoise waterfalls—these are Pune's hidden gems.
31–35. Mulshi Waterfall, Kaas Plateau, Tapola, Devrai Art Village & Dhom Dam
UNESCO flower valleys, "Mini Kashmir" lake towns, and tribal art villages—the best of Pune's outer ring.
36–40. Mahabaleshwar, Arthur's Seat, Lingmala Waterfall, Mapro Garden & Venna Lake
The classic Mahabaleshwar circuit with its famous viewpoints, waterfalls, and strawberry cream stops.
41–45. Kate's Point, Wilson Point, Sydney Point, Table Land & Parsi Point
The panoramic viewpoints of Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar—each offering unique perspectives of the Krishna Valley.
46–51. Rajpuri Caves, Bhilar Waterfalls, Nighoj Potholes, Malshej Ghat, Panhala Fort & Karnala Bird Sanctuary
From ancient Pandava caves to geological wonders and Maharashtra's most significant historical forts.
Want a Resort-Style Picnic Near Pune?
If you're looking for a resort near Shirwal that blends nature with comfort, Avior Resort Shirwal – ARC Lakeside Resort is one of the best picnic spots near Pune. Set beside a peaceful lake, it offers open lawns, fresh air, delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the best picnic spots near Pune for a one-day trip? Mulshi Lake, Sinhagad Fort, Pawna Lake and Avior Resort Shirwal are perfect for short trips.
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Which picnic spots near Pune are best for families? Lavasa, Mahabaleshwar, Venna Lake and Avior Resorts are great for kids and elders alike.
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Which picnic spots near Pune are best in monsoon? Tamhini Ghat, Bhushi Dam, Mulshi, and Malshej Ghat shine during the rains.
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What are the best picnic spots near Pune for couples? Pawna Lake, Khandala Sunset Point, and lakeside resorts in Shirwal are perfect.
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Are there free picnic spots near Pune? Yes, forts, lakes, ghats and viewpoints are mostly free to visit.
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Which picnic spots near Pune are safe for kids? Resorts, lakes with boating areas, and places like Lavasa and Mahabaleshwar are safest.
Final Thoughts
From misty mountains to lakeside lawns, Pune's picnic options are endless in 2026. Wherever you go, remember to respect nature, avoid littering, and travel responsibly.