Best Places to Visit in Monsoon Near Pune by Car: Scenic Drives You’ll Love
The monsoon totally flips the vibe around Pune. Everything’s more green, lush, and poetic. Your laptop and deadlines can take a backseat. Instead, prepare to enjoy breezy drives, random chai stops, and that cozy feeling of watching clouds float over the hills. This is your season. And you don’t even have to go that far. Pune’s surrounded by some ridiculously pretty spots that come alive in the rain.
Best places to visit in monsoon near Pune
Whether you’re escaping the city for a quiet day, heading out with friends, or just need a solo reset drive, here’s a list of the best places to visit in monsoon near Pune. Think rolling hills, twisty roads, lots of green, and more than a few stops for bhutta and pakoras along the way.
- Tamhini Ghat
- Mulshi
- Lavasa
- Lonavala & Khandala
- Malshej Ghat
- Bhandardara
- Sinhagad Fort
- Panshet
- Mahabaleshwar
1. Tamhini Ghat – The Monsoon Dream
Distance: ~55 km from Pune
Time: Around 2 hours
When the rains arrive, the list of places to visit near Pune in monsoon suddenly becomes a lot more exciting. Tamhini Ghat is a monsoon legend around Pune, and for good reason. There are dense green forests, waterfalls that appear out of nowhere, and a stretch of road that’s best experienced amidst romantic rains.
There’s no “destination” as such here—you go for the journey. Take it slow, stop by the small tea stalls along the way, and just soak it in. If you’re lucky, you’ll drive through clouds. Literally.
2. Mulshi – For That Rainy Day Picnic
Distance: ~50 km
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Mulshi is perfect when you want a little bit of everything—a scenic drive, a beautiful dam, a lake view, and plenty of nature around. Among places to visit near Pune in rainy season, the Mulshi Dam and the reservoir will make your heart sing, and there are lots of spots to sit by the water and just chill.
You can pack a picnic, or stop at one of the resorts or dhabas on the way for a meal with a view. The route via Paud is especially pretty during the rains, with rolling hills and endless greenery.
3. Lavasa – Europe Vibes, Monsoon Mood
Distance: ~60 km
Time: About 2 hours
Yes, Lavasa has had its ups and downs, but hear me out. During monsoon, the drive there—especially the last stretch—is straight-up gorgeous. Think mist-covered roads, waterfalls trickling down cliffs, and cool mountain air that smells like wet earth and fresh leaves.
One of the best places to visit in Pune during monsoon, the town itself gives you those “tiny European village” vibes, and while some parts may feel a bit quiet or even deserted, it’s still a great place for a relaxed drive, coffee by the lake, or even a walk in the rain if you’re feeling poetic.
Distance: ~65 km
Time: Around 2 hours
Lonavala and Khandala might sound cliché, but let’s be honest—we all love them. Especially in the monsoon. Avail an affordable car rental in Pune and hot the road to take in the picturesque scenery, with endless pit stops for chikki and hot vada pav.
Tiger Point, Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Point—they’re all worth checking out during the rains. Just be ready for a little traffic if you’re heading there over the weekend. The drive through the expressway or the old highway is half the fun.
5. Malshej Ghat – Waterfalls Galore
Distance: ~120 km
Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
If you don’t mind a bit of a longer drive, Malshej Ghat is absolutely worth it. With the availability of self-drive cars in Pune, you don’t need to get your own car. Rent a car to explore a place that comes alive in the monsoon. We’re talking dozens of waterfalls, valleys draped in fog, and cliffs that seem to disappear into the clouds.
It’s a great option if you’re up for an adventure and don’t mind getting drenched a little. The road itself is thrilling, with winding curves and panoramic views. And if you’re lucky, you might spot flamingos near the lake on the way (yes, really).
6. Bhandardara – Peace, Lakes, and Misty Mountains
Distance: ~170 km
Time: 4 to 5 hours
Bhandardara is another gem on our curated list of the best places to visit in monsoon near Pune. This one’s a bit of a drive, but if you’re in the mood for an overnight trip, Bhandardara is peaceful, beautiful, and insanely green during the monsoon. Think Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and the majestic Umbrella Falls, all flowing at full force.
It’s less crowded than Lonavala, which means more quiet spots to just sit and take in the view. There are a few camping options too, if you’re feeling adventurous.
7. Sinhagad Fort – Quick Rainy Hike & Drive
Distance: ~35 km
Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours
Some of the most peaceful and picturesque places to visit near Pune in monsoon are just a couple of hours away by car. Sometimes, all you need is a short drive, a bit of a hike, and some spicy kanda bhaji at the top. Sinhagad is perfect for that. The road up is fun during the rains—lush, slightly slippery, and packed with views.
Once you’re up there, the view of the valley with the clouds rolling over is just chef’s kiss. Plus, the fort looks hauntingly beautiful in the mist.
8. Panshet – Dam Drives and Cloudy Skies
Distance: ~45 km
Time: Around 1.5 hours
Panshet is one of those underrated spots that surprises you every time. Just an easy drive from Pune, this dam area is great for a chill day out. You’ll find plenty of open spots by the water to park, relax, or just stare into the grey sky while the rain taps on your windshield.
The drive itself, especially through the Khadakwasla backwaters route, is super scenic. Add a quick stop at the Khadakwasla dam for some street food, and you’re golden. When mulling over places to visit near Pune in rainy season, this is where you need to be.
9. Mahabaleshwar – Classic Hill Station Charm
Distance: ~120 km
Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
Mahabaleshwar in the rains is like something out of a Bollywood movie. The fog, the viewpoints, the winding roads, and the strawberries (yes, still worth trying even if they’re not in peak season). It’s great for a full weekend getaway, with lots of cozy hotels and cafes.
Head to Arthur’s Seat, Lingmala Waterfall, and just keep your windows down (unless it’s pouring) while you drive through the ghats.
Car Rental in Pune
There are tons of smaller villages, offbeat ghats, and surprise waterfalls that are calling your name. If you’ve finally freed up your weekend for a little monsoon trip, renting a car can be a super smart move. It’s often cheaper than booking separate cabs, especially when you split the cost. Revv offers self-drive cars in Pune—from hatchbacks to SUVs—with flexible pricing that fits all budgets. You can rent for a few hours, a day, or even longer, with fuel or without, depending on what works for you.
Cars come with roadside assistance, all-India permits, and are delivered to your doorstep. It’s easy on the pocket and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, rain or shine.
