A Weekend Trip From Pune to Mahabaleshwar in Monsoon 

There’s nothing better than driving through a road surrounded by mist-laden trees while looking across mountains drenched with rain. Well, that’s exactly what a weekend trip from Pune to Mahabaleshwar sounds like! Mahabaleshwar near Pune is one of the most sought weekend getaway destinations, especially in July and August. 

Located in the Sahyadri range, Mahabaleshwar is known for its strawberry plantations, serene lake and waterfalls. The perfect way to spend a long weekend near Pune is by heading down to Mahabaleshwar, eating slices of strawberry marmalade and bread by a serene spot at the lake. 

So, here are some quick tips to help you plan a monsoon weekend trip from Pune to Mahabaleshwar in July and August. 

Pune to Mahabaleshwar Distance

When travelling from Pune to Mahabaleshwar by road, the distance is nearly 120 km which is why most people choose this as a long weekend getaway from Pune. It takes nearly 2-3 hours by road regardless of the traffic conditions. There are direct buses offered from MSRTC and private companies at a nominal cost. The route from Pune to Mahabaleshwar by road is nothing less than scenic, offering views of the mighty Western Ghats.

How to reach Mahabaleshwar from Pune 

By Car

Driving from Pune to Mahabaleshwar is the most preferred way to travel. The most popular route is through the Pune-Wai-Mahabaleshwar as the route provides scenic driveways with smooth roads that make it easy for driving year round. 

By Bus

As the distance from Pune to Mahabaleshwar by road is not much and takes less time, there are many MSRTC and private buses that regularly run through this route. These services not only reduce the hassle of driving but also let you enjoy the uninterrupted views. 

By Bike

A bike ride from Pune to Mahabaleshwar is the perfect monsoon road trip in Maharashtra. The road to Mahabaleshwar offers scenic views and a thrilling experience. Popular stops along the way include Wai, Panchgani, and Dhom Lake.

Why travel to Mahabaleshwar from Pune? 

Mahabaleshwar is one of the most popular hill stations in India. It’s proximity from Mumbai and Pune makes it an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar beyond the strawberry farms and Mapro Gardens is home to many temples, forts, lakes and viewpoints that are simply breathtaking. Being the highest point of Maharashtra, there are many cottages in Mahabaleshwar where you can enjoy beautiful views of Mahabaleshwar. For a perfect weekend getaway to relax yourself, Mahabaleshwar is the ideal place to visit in monsoons in Maharashtra.

Highway Information from Pune to Mahabaleshwar

NH-48 is the best route to travel from Pune to Mahabaleshwar. The route is about 120 km and is the shortest as well as the fastest route to travel from Pune to Mahabaleshwar. The route passes through Kasurdi, Kapurhol, Khandala, Surur and then to Mahabaleshwar. 

The road conditions while travelling from Pune to Mahabaleshwar are quite smooth with minimal traffic and tolls. There are many sightseeing places in Mahabaleshwar that come enroute and are perfect to visit in monsoons. 

Wai Village – This is a quaint village that lies on the route and takes us back into the riverside setting of Maharashtra. Temples such as the Dholya Ganapati and Kalubai temple can be spotted in the town and are a perfect detour from driving. 

Satara Ghat – If you’re taking a road trip from Pune to Mahabaleshwar, then stop by anywhere in this ghat and enjoy the lush views. This is also the perfect photography spot in Mahabaleshwar during monsoons. 

Rajapuri Caves – This cave in Maharashtra is located near Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar and is a beautiful place to visit during this trip. The caves were made in the 1800’s and are famous for the temple of Lord Karthikeya. 

If you’re travelling from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar, check out these places to halt when travelling on this route.

Best time to take a road trip by car from Mahabaleshwar to Pune

Primarily when taking a road trip by car from Mahabaleshwar to Pune, the biggest concern is the weather. However, the route’s biggest advantage is the weather as it is pleasant year round.

The best time to travel from Mahabaleshwar to Pune by car is during the monsoon season from July to September when the entire route is blessed with lush forests and drenched mountains. However, if you prefer less rain and more outdoor activities, the winter months of November to February offer cool and pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Tourist Attractions in Mahabaleshwar for sightseeing

Mapro Garden 

This is the most famous strawberry and seasonal fruit farm in Mahabaleshwar which has themed parks, and a lovely park with a cafe for children. Enjoying strawberry and cream is a must-do thing in Mahabaleshwar at the Mapro Gardens. The park can be visited for free and is open from 8 AM to 8 PM. 

Elephant Point

Resembling an Elephant’s head, Elephant’s Point is a scenic viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar. The point provides a 360-degree view of the region and is a must-visit place in Mahabaleshwar for trekking. Elephant’s point is accessible by a short hike through a forested path.

Venna Lakeview Point 

This is an offbeat place to visit in Mahabaleshwar that is perfect if you want a less crowded viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar. Decked by the lake, you can park you car, have some food and take a dip in the lake. 

Pratapgad Fort 

Pratapgad Fort in Mahabaleshwar is a site offering panoramic views of the valley. Steeped in Maharashtra’s history, The fort’s strategic location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Pratapgad Fort is a popular destination in Mahabaleshwar for families.

Lingmala Waterfall

This is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Mahabaleshwar and is visited by many tourists every year. This must-visit place during monsoon in Maharashtra is over 500 ft tall and is surrounded by lush greenery. Lingmala Waterfall in Mahabaleshwar has two perfect viewpoints and is generally safe for swimming. 

Wilson Point

This place in Mahabaleshwar is perfect for enjoying a sunrise and is the highest viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar. Perfect to start your day, it offers a stunning 360-degree view of the Sahyadri range. 

Popular places to eat while travelling from Pune to Mahabaleshwar

Bagicha Corner

This local restaurant in Mahabaleshwar is quite known for its corn patties. Apart from this, enjoying a cup of strawberries and cream at Bagicha Corner is a must do thing in Mahabaleshwar. 

Mapro Garden

A must-visit place in Mahabaleshwar without a doubt, Mapro Garden is famous for all things strawberry. Mapro Garden is one of the perfect places to visit in Mahabaleshwar for families in case you want to enjoy food with relaxed ambiance.

Hotel Rainforest

Beautifully located around the Parsi point in Mahabaleshwar, Rainforest Hotel in Mahabaleshwar lets you enjoy a variety of cuisines with a forest view. A perfect pit stop while travelling from Pune to Mahabaleshwar, there are many snacks to grab on the go at Hotel Rainforest. 

Garden Ice Cream Restaurant

If you’re looking for dessert centric restaurants in Mahabaleshwar, look no further than Garden Ice Cream Restaurant. Owing up to its name, this restaurant in Mahabaleshwar is spread across a garden and offers many tasty treats. 

Vithal Kamat 

Nothing is better than enjoying bhajiyas while travelling from Pune to Mahabaleshwar. Vithal Kamat is a quaint eatery that’s located in the outskirts of Panchgani and offers a good variety of snacks to enjoy on the go. 

Incase you’re travelling from Mumbai, here are places to eat while travelling from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar.

Villas in Mahabaleshwar for Accommodation

The Deck 

Owing up to its name, this is one of the best Mahabaleshwar villa with pool. With a lake view in Mahabaleshwar that goes as far as the eyes can see, The Deck features plethora of corners and nooks that promise a stunning view. The pool of The Deck is a sight to behold as it let’s you enjoy a beautiful view in Mahabaleshwar whilst immersing yourself in serenity

Amoda Villa

Surrounded by endless greenery, this is an ideal bungalow in Mahabaleshwar that embraces nature. Rustic indoors and common spaces that invite cosy luncheons and dinners, Amoda Villa is the perfect villa in Mahabaleshwar for family. Spend some time relaxing by the river, enjoying the soothing sounds of the water and the cool breeze that blows across the surface.

Emilia Villa

The perfect villa in Mahabaleshwar for rent, Emilia Villa is decked with amenities that go beyond luxury. A gym, spacious viewing decks, garden of picnics and a jacuzzi, Emilia Villa is the perfect villa in Mahabaleshwar for families. Enjoy a cosy and luxuries stay at this villa in Mahabaleshwar with jacuzzi.

Beyond the Blue Door

If you’re looking for a romantic stay in Mahabaleshwar, look no further than Beyond the Blue Door. This villa in Mahabaleshwar with jacuzzi is wrapped by greenery and features rustic wooden embellishments. The exteriors of this property play host to a bonfire pit, so you can spend balmy evenings out here until the stars come out.