Early departure from Pune to beat traffic and enjoy cool morning riding through the ghats; aim for a steady pace and frequent short breaks β pack water, riding kit, and basic tool kit.
Short walk on Asia's second-largest volcanic plateau with broad views of the ghats β great for photos and a quick leg stretch (open sunriseβsunset).
Lunch at a local restaurant in Mahabaleshwar β enjoy simple Maharashtrian thali or vegetable/fish curry to fuel the afternoon ride; most restaurants open 11:00am onwards.
Visit historic Pratapgad Fort for views over the surrounding Western Ghats and a dose of Maratha history; fort is typically open around 8:00amβ6:00pm so plan to arrive in the afternoon.
Ride the Koyna ghats β stop at a viewpoint or dam-side stall for tea and photos; the winding roads are scenic and quieter than NH48 (access may have intermittent mobile signal).
Short walk along Mandavi or Bhatye Beach to unwind after the ride β beaches are accessible all day, but evenings are best for a sea breeze and sunset views.
Enjoy fresh Konkan-style seafood or fish thali at a recommended local restaurant in Ratnagiri β portions are generous and a perfect way to sample the region's cuisine (most coastal restaurants open for dinner ~7:00pmβ10:30pm).
Start with a hearty local breakfast in Ratnagiri β many small eateries open from 7:00am and provide light, carb-rich meals ideal before a day of riding and sightseeing.
Explore the coastal Ratnadurg Fort with its lighthouse views and easy ramparts walk; fort areas generally accessible from early morning until dusk (approx. 6:00amβ6:00pm).
See the historic Thibaw Palace (linked to the exiled Burmese king) and learn a slice of local history; check local opening times ~9:00amβ5:00pm as hours can vary.
Short ride (~30β45 min) to Ganpatipule to visit the famous Ganpati temple and the beautiful beach β temple open long hours (early morning to late evening), perfect for a mid-morning visit.
Head to Jaigad Fort for dramatic sea-cliff views and the nearby lighthouse β fort and lighthouse areas are typically accessible from morning to late afternoon (arrive earlier for best light and safer footing).
Take a tea/snack break at the coastal stalls near Jaigad before the longer ride back to Pune; these stalls operate in the afternoon and provide simple meals and tea.
Start the return ride to Pune via the coastal NH66/connecting state highways β itβs longer but scenic, hugging the coast and moving inland as needed; expect 6β8 hours depending on stops and traffic.
Stop for dinner at a reliable highway restaurant or local dhaba in Chiplun or Khed β typical highway restaurants open until late and provide simple, filling meals before the final stretch to Pune.