Rain & Revelry: Top 5 Things to Do in Pune During Monsoon

Pune, 2nd June 2025: The monsoon has made a breezy comeback in Pune, drenching the city in misty mornings, sudden downpours, and earthy petrichor. While traffic snarls and waterlogging may steal the headlines, for Punekars, the rains also unlock a charming, adventurous side to the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are the top five things you must experience in Pune this rainy season.

1. Trek Through the Mist at Sinhagad Fort

Nothing beats the magic of a monsoon trek, and Sinhagad Fort is the crown jewel. Just 30 km from the city, the fort is enveloped in clouds during this season, offering panoramic valley views, gushing waterfalls, and a cooling breeze.

🗣 “It feels like you’re walking through the sky,” says Rahul Patil, a frequent trekker. “Don’t miss the kanda bhaji and matka dahi at the top — that’s a tradition.”

⚠️ Tip: Start early and wear sturdy shoes. Weekends get crowded, so aim for weekday treks for a peaceful experience.

2. Sip Cutting Chai by the Streets of FC Road, JM Road

There’s something nostalgic about watching the rain from under a tea stall shade. JM Road and Fergusson College Road, lined with cafés and local vendors, is a favourite haunt.

🗣 “We sell almost double the tea in monsoons,” grins Shankar, who runs a tapri. “People come here just for the vibe.”

Pair your tea with hot bhajiya or vada pav and lose yourself in the rhythm of raindrops and honking rickshaws.

3. Chase Waterfalls Near Mulshi or Tamhini Ghat

An hour’s drive from Pune, Tamhini Ghat and Mulshi become a green paradise in the rains, complete with waterfalls, misty forests, and picture-perfect viewpoints. It’s ideal for a quick road trip or a weekend picnic.

🗣 “It’s our go-to spot for monsoon bike rides,” says software engineer Sneha Kulkarni. “But be careful — roads can get slippery.”

⚠️ Avoid late evenings and be cautious around fast-flowing streams.

4. Binge on Monsoon Street Food

Monsoon in Pune is a culinary carnival. Head to Katraj, Camp or Deccan for steaming momos, spicy misal pav, buttery bhutta (corn), or a plate of hot sabudana vada.

🗣 “Rain makes you crave fried food — it’s science!” laughs food blogger Ameya Shinde. “Pune’s stalls are underrated gems during this time.”

Pair it with masala chai or filter coffee at Vaishali, Vohuman Café, or any local joint for the ultimate comfort meal.

5. Bookstore + Coffee = Perfect Rainy Day

When the roads are too flooded or the skies too moody, Pune’s indie cafés and bookstores provide the perfect indoor escape. Pagdandi Books Chai Café in Baner and Waari Book Café in Kothrud offer warmth, great reads, and the unmistakable smell of wet pages and espresso.

Bonus: Don’t Forget to Carry…

• A compact umbrella or raincoat
• Dry snacks and a water bottle
• Power bank
• An extra pair of socks

Pune’s monsoon is more than just a season — it’s a sensory experience. So go ahead: embrace the wet shoes, the foggy lenses, and the joy of getting a little lost in nature’s theatre.

Tag @PunekarNews in your monsoon adventures. Who knows? We might feature your story next!