Winter Destinations Near Pune: Best Places to Visit in December–January for Trips, Treks and Weekend Stays

By Harleena Jain
Pune, 1st December 2025: With the winter chill setting in across Maharashtra, travel enthusiasts in Pune are already planning their next holiday. December and January are perfect for road trips, short getaways and adventure treks around Pune. From “Mini Kashmir” vibes in Tapola to peaceful hill escapes like Panchgani and Matheran, here are the best winter destinations near Pune for 2–3 day vacations and one-day trips.

A) Best 2–3 Day Winter Getaways Near Pune

Tapola
Often called the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra, Tapola offers serene lakeside views, thick forests and adventure sports around the Shivsagar Lake — formed by the Koyna Dam backwaters.
• Things to do: Kayaking, boating, lakeside camping and the scenic

Vasota Fort trek.
• Distance: 145 km from Pune. Drive via Mahabaleshwar or take a bus to Mahabaleshwar and continue by car/cab.

Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar enjoys crisp 8–12°C winter temperatures and is at its best during strawberry season.
• Things to do: Watch sunrise at Wilson Point, explore Arthur Seat and Kate’s Point, Venna Lake boating, Lingmala Waterfall, Pratapgad Fort trek and strawberry farm visits.
• Distance: 130 km from Pune via Pune → NH48 → Wai → Mahabaleshwar. Best travelled by car, though buses are frequent.

Lonavala – Khandala
These twin hill stations are classic favourites with foggy valleys, cool winds and scenic drives in winter.
• Things to do: Tiger Point, Rajmachi Point, Bhushi Dam, Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum, Lohagad and Rajmachi treks, and shopping for chikki in the market.
• Distance: 65 km from Pune via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Trains and buses also available frequently.

Panchgani
Quieter than Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani offers fresh winter air, lush valleys and family-friendly sightseeing.
• Things to do: Table Land, Parsi Point, Sydney Point, strawberry farms, Mapro Garden and horse riding.
• Distance: Around 100 km from Pune via NH48 and Wai. Direct buses available from Swargate.

Matheran
India’s eco-sensitive hill station has no cars — making it a peaceful, pollution-free retreat. Winter enhances the charm of its red pathways and misty viewpoints.
• Things to do: Trek to Panorama Point, Echo Point, Louisa Point and visit Charlotte Lake. Neral–Matheran toy train ride is a highlight (seasonal).
• Distance: 120 km from Pune. Drive till Dasturi Naka and walk/ride a horse; or take a train to Neral followed by toy train/taxi.

B) Best One-Day Winter Treks and Short Trips Near Pune

Sinhagad Fort
Pune’s most loved trekking spot, especially during winter sunrise.
• Things to do: Sunrise trek, enjoy kanda bhaji, pithla-bhakri at local stalls.
• Distance: Only 30 km from Pune — ideal for a quick morning outing.

Rajgad Fort
Known as the capital fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rajgad is a popular winter trek with breathtaking ridge walks.
• Things to do: Trek to Balekilla, explore fort structures and viewpoints.
• Stay: Homestays in Gunjavane are available; most return the same day.

Visapur – Lohagad Forts
Popular twin forts near Lonavala with well-defined trails — perfect for beginners in winter.
• Things to do: Explore both forts and visit nearby Bhaja Caves.
• Stay: Lonavala has ample budget hotels and hostels.

Mulshi Dam & Tamhini Ghat
A scenic winter drive with calm lakeside surroundings and occasional fog.
• Things to do: Visit Mulshi Lake, photograph misty hills along Tamhini Ghat.
• Stay: Lakeside homestays are available but a one-day trip is enough.

Devkund Waterfall
A hidden gem with a forest trail leading to a clear plunge pool — winter ensures better visibility and safety.
• Things to do: Devkund waterfall trek, explore Bhira village.
• Stay: Basic homestays available near the base.

Kamshet
A haven for paragliding lovers, offering clear skies and cool winds in December–January.
• Things to do: Paragliding at Shinde Wadi Hills and lakeside outings near
Pawna.
• Stay: Camps and hostels available; day trip possible.

Lavasa
A planned hill town that turns misty and charming in winter, ideal for relaxed photography and lakeside strolls.
• Things to do: Promenade walk, cycling, short hikes, cafés and viewpoints.
• Stay: Resorts and homestays available; also fits a day-trip plan.