Introduction

The Sahyadris, foggy ghats, ancient forts, and tranquil beaches encircle Pune, Maharashtra’s cultural center. In essence, the ideal starting point for amazing road trips to Pune. Nothing compares to the freedom of driving a self-drive car on the open road, whether you’re a Punekar tired of the bustle of the city or a travel enthusiast looking for your next getaway.

Why follow a schedule or fight over the aux cable with a stranger driver when you can cruise at your own pace, make those unplanned tea halts, and blast your playlist with no judgment? It’s not just about where you’re headed — it’s about the ride, the detours, the dhabas, and the stories you pick up along the way.

This blog gives you the ultimate list of road trips from Pune that are scenic, chill, and ideal for your next weekend drive (or week-long escape — we won’t judge). These are hands-down some of the best road trips from Pune, and you’re gonna want to bookmark this.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Car?

Honestly, once you do it, you never go back. Here’s why self-drive slaps:

• Freedom to Detour: Take that random forest route or stop at a dhaba with “world’s best vada pav” painted on the wall.
• Zero awkward vibes: No cabbie third-wheeling your car karaoke.
• At your own speed: Take a moment to enjoy drone footage, sunsets, or simply the atmosphere.
• Unfiltered travel: All of the sky gazing, roadside selfies, and chai breaks are entirely up to you.
• FTW on privacy: Particularly if it’s a weekend of ranting with your best friend or a romantic retreat.

Whether you’re planning a quick road trip from Pune or multiple weekend hops, a self-drive car gives you full control of the narrative. It turns a trip into a vibe, a memory-maker, and a freedom fest.

Quick Glance: Best Road Trips from Pune

Destination	Distance (Approx.)	Ideal Drive Time	Best Time to Visit
Lonavala & Khandala	~65 km	1.5-2 hrs	June – Feb
Mahabaleshwar	~120 km	3.5-4 hrs	Oct – Mar
Alibaug	~140 km	3.5-4.5 hrs	Nov – Feb
Lavasa	~60 km	2 hrs	Sept – Mar
Nashik	~210 km	4.5-5 hrs	Oct – Mar
Malshej Ghat	~120 km	3-4 hrs	July – Sept
Goa	~450 km	8-10 hrs	Oct – Feb
Bhandardara	~170 km	4 hrs	Aug – Feb
Kolad	~115 km	3-3.5 hrs	June – Feb
Ajanta-Ellora Caves	~260 km	5.5-6 hrs	Oct – Feb

Here’s a deeper dive into each of these road trips from Pune:

1. Lonavala & Khandala

Route: Pune → Lonavala via NH48
Why Go: The classic monsoon escape that every Punekar has done — but it never gets old. Lush green valleys, Bhushi Dam, Tiger Point, and misty hilltop vibes. One of the best road trips from Pune if you want something easy, scenic, and instantly refreshing.
Don’t miss: Chikki, Maganlal’s fudge, and clicking foggy selfies on the ghat roads.

2. Mahabaleshwar Route: Pune to Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar

Why Go: Mahabaleshwar, one of Pune’s top long-distance destinations, offers breathtaking sunset views at Wilson Point, boating at Venna Lake, and a strawberry atmosphere all around. For twice as much fun at the hill station, include Panchgani in the itinerary.

Ideal for: Content producers, lovers of strawberry milkshakes, and couples.

3. Alibaug Route: Pune to Khopoli to Alibaug

Why Go: An enjoyable beach vacation! One of the greatest road trips from Pune for views of the fort, sun, sand, and seafood. This coastal beauty is powerful whether you’re exploring the fort or just relaxing on the beach.

Pro tip: Spend the night to avoid traffic and take a stroll along the beach during the golden hour.

4. Lavasa Route: Pune to Pirangut to Lavasa

Why Go: If you need a change of scenery but are pressed for time, this is the best long drive places in Pune. Imagine Lakeside cafés, Instagram-worthy streets, and a European feel that somehow manages to be Maharashtra.

Early morning strolls around the lake while the fog is still clinging to the hills are a hidden treasure.

5. Nashik

Route: Pune → Sangamner → Nashik
Why Go: Sula Vineyards, ancient temples, and chill mountain views. Nashik is wine country with culture — making it one of the best places for a long drive from Pune if you’re into classy yet casual trips.
Weekend plan: Vineyard tour + temple trail = chef’s kiss itinerary.

6. Malshej Ghat

Route: Pune → Narayangaon → Malshej
Why Go: A monsoon wonderland and definitely one of the best road trips from Pune for mist, mountain views, and waterfalls. Don’t forget your camera — this one’s got main character energy.
Don’t miss: Flamingo spotting and clicking fog-kissed landscapes.

7. Goa 

Route: Pune → Kolhapur → Goa 

Why Go: The best road trip from Pune. Fish thalis, beach parties, shacks, and flea markets are all timeless. If you have the team and time, this is a must-do.

Playlist tip: Goa needs beachy lo-fi, retro rock, and that one song that everyone cries out in the car.

8. Bhandardara 

Route: Pune → Sangamner → Bhandardara 

Why Go? This is for you if you enjoy camping, stargazing, or simply need some quiet. Bhandardara, one of the greatest locations for a long drive from Pune, provides peace and unparalleled stargazing.

Monsoon through winter is the best time of year because the lake is full, the sky is clear, and the atmosphere is perfect.

9. Kolad

• Path: Pune to Mulshi to Kolad
• Why Go: Kolad offers excitement and relaxation and is well-known for its white water rafting on the Kundalika River. Unquestionably one of the greatest road trips from Pune for thrill-seekers and campers along rivers.
• Try This: Raft in the morning and spend the evening relaxing at the homestay by the river.
• 10. Ajanta-Ellora Caves (Aurangabad) Travel itinerary: Pune to Ahmednagar to 

10. Aurangabad

• Why Travel? A cultural journey is on the way. These UNESCO World Heritage caves are breathtaking. Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort make this one of the most historic road trips from Pune.
• Fun Fact: One rock was used to carve the Kailasa temple in Ellora. Crazy, huh? 🗺 

Bonus: Undiscovered Treasures Valuable for the Detour

• Mulshi Dam is 45 kilometers away from Pune. Quiet, picturesque, and ideal for a coffee in the morning.
• Torna Fort: Great for beginner treks and a solid historical throwback.
• Thoseghar Waterfalls: A little farther out, but totally worth the long drive.
  These might not be the usual suspects, but they’re low-key some of the best long drive places in Pune’s orbit.

Planning Your Road Trip with Zoomcar

• Choose the proper wheels: SUVs for ghats and hatchbacks for quick escapes
• Make reservations in advance: Especially on long weekends
• Utilize FastTag: Don’t be a fool and skip the toll booths.
• Pack like a pro: Water, snacks, sunglasses, chargers, offline maps, and a first aid kit
• It is safer to drive during the day than to embark on nighttime adventures on unfamiliar roads. 🌄 

Conclusion: 

Road Trips in Pune = An Entire Mood

With each kilometer, these best road trips from Pune reveal new tales, from misty hilltops to windswept beaches and historic cave temples. It’s not just about where you go – it’s about how you feel while getting there. Every drive is a playlist, a memory, and a break from the noise.

So, what are you waiting for? Open that map. Book your ride. Let the journey write itself.

You plan. You drive. You vibe.

Zoomcar gives you the freedom to take off whenever you want.

Book your self-drive car from Pune now and explore the best road trips from Pune the way they’re meant to be done – on your own terms.

FAQs:

1. Which is the best weekend road trip from Pune?
   
   Lonavala and Lavasa are top picks. Easy, quick, and perfect for weekend breaks — no overthinking needed.
2. Which are the most scenic road trips from Pune?
   
   Malshej Ghat (especially during monsoon) and Mahabaleshwar easily win for lush views.
   
3. Is the drive from Pune to Goa worth it?
   
   Absolutely. It’s the OG road trip from Pune – 100% vibes, 0 regrets.
   
4. Is it safe to take a self-drive trip from Pune?
   
   Yep. Most highways and ghats are safe, just avoid late-night drives on unfamiliar routes.
   
5. What are the best places for a long drive from Pune?
   
   Bhandardara, Nashik, and Mahabaleshwar make the list of best places for a long drive from Pune for sure.