Pune, Lonavala, Alibaug 4-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Explore Pune
   35 minutes (9.5 miles) from Pune Airport

   Begin your morning by visiting the Shaniwar Wada Palace, an 18th-century fort that was the seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire. Then head to the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to see an impressive collection of artifacts from across India. After lunch, visit Aga Khan Palace, a peaceful monument and museum that played an important role in India's struggle for independence. End your day by seeing the Katraj Snake Park, a zoo with a focus on educating about snakes and their conservation.

2. Day 2: Waterfalls and Caves in Lonavala
   1 hour 30 minutes (41 miles) from Pune

   Take a scenic drive to Lonavala for a day of nature. Start by visiting the magnificent Bhaja Caves, an ancient Buddhist rock-cut temple with stunning architecture and panoramic views. Next, head to the nearby Karla Caves, another impressive rock-cut temple that dates back to the 2nd century BC. After lunch, visit Kune Falls, a beautiful waterfall that drops from a height of 200 meters. End your day by seeing the Ryewood Park and Shivaji Udyan, a sprawling park with lush greenery and a tranquil lake.

3. Day 3: Beaches and Forts in Alibaug
   2 hours 30 minutes (60 miles) from Lonavala

   Drive to Alibaug, a charming coastal town with a rich history. Start by visiting the Kolaba Fort, a historic fort that was built by Maratha ruler Shivaji in 1652. Next, head to the scenic Nagaon Beach, a long stretch of clean sand and clear waters where you can swim and relax. After lunch, visit the impressive Kaneshwar Mandir, a 400-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. End your day by seeing the stunning Murud-Janjira Fort, a 15th-century fort that is still in excellent condition.

4. Day 4: Shopping and Food in Pune
   2 hours 30 minutes (65 miles) from Alibaug

   On your last day, take time to indulge in Pune's shopping and culinary scene. Start at the Laxmi Road, a bustling marketplace with a wide range of clothing, jewelry, and electronics. Next, head to Budhani Wafers, a famous local snack manufacturer, to try their delicious potato chips and other snacks. After lunch, visit the Mahatma Phule Mandai, a historic vegetable and fruit market with a wide variety of fresh produce. Spend your evening at the German Bakery, a popular spot for pastries and coffee. End your trip with a pleasant stroll through the lush Saras Baug, a park with scenic views of the city.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shaniwar Wada Palace (1.5 hours, INR 200)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2 hours, INR 150)
• Aga Khan Palace (2 hours, INR 150)
• Katraj Snake Park (1.5 hours, INR 100)
• Bhaja Caves (2 hours, INR 100)
• Karla Caves (2 hours, INR 100)
• Kune Falls (1.5 hours, INR 50)
• Ryewood Park and Shivaji Udyan (1 hour, INR 0)
• Kolaba Fort (2 hours, INR 50)
• Nagaon Beach (2 hours, INR 0)
• Kaneshwar Mandir (1.5 hours, INR 0)
• Murud-Janjira Fort (2 hours, INR 50)
• Laxmi Road Shopping (2 hours, INR 3000)
• Budhani Wafers (30 minutes, INR 100)
• Mahatma Phule Mandai (1 hour, INR 0)
• German Bakery (1.5 hours, INR 300)
• Saras Baug (1 hour, INR 0)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 4,350

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the Sinhagad Fort, a famous hill fortress with stunning views of Pune. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at the Paasha Restaurant, a rooftop restaurant with live music and city views. If you have less time, consider skipping the shopping and instead visit the National War Museum or the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.