Refreshing 3-Day Nature Getaway Near Pune: Hills and Waterfalls within 7 Hours Drive

Day 1: Hilltop Retreat

Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra on May 2, 2025

12:00pm

Departure from Wakad, Pune

Begin your journey at noon towards Malshej Ghat, a popular hill station known for its waterfalls and pleasant climate, approximately 3.5 to 4 hours drive via NH60.
INR0, 4h

4:00pm

Visit Malshej Waterfalls and Nature Trails

Explore the stunning waterfalls and scenic nature trails surrounded by rugged hills and greenery. Ideal for a family looking for cool weather and freedom in nature.
INR0, 2h

6:00pm

Check-in at local resort (e.g., Misty Hills or Hotel Rajputana)

Relax in a comfortable hill resort offering beautiful views, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings suitable for family stays.
INR5000-9000 for family room/night, Overnight stay

7:30pm

Dinner at resort restaurant

Enjoy wholesome Maharashtrian and North Indian cuisine in a cozy dining setting inside the resort.
INR800-1200 per person, 1h

Day 2: Lakeside Exploration

Bhandardara, Maharashtra on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Resort

Start your day with a fresh and hearty breakfast at the resort, featuring local ingredients and continental options.
Included in stay, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Bhandardara

A scenic 1.5-hour drive takes you to Bhandardara, an untouched serene getaway known for its lake and waterfalls, perfect for cool weather relaxation.
INR0, 1.5h

11:00am

Visit Arthur Lake & Wilson Dam

Enjoy a peaceful walk by the pristine Arthur Lake and see the historic Wilson Dam, both offering stunning natural and engineering marvel views.
INR50 per person, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery, Bhandardara

Relish authentic Maharashtrian cuisine at a popular local restaurant such as Hotel Satkar, known for fresh, hearty meals.
INR400-700 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Trekking to Randha Falls

Go for a moderate trek (about 3 km) to Randha Falls, where you can enjoy cool water sprays and lush greenery, especially refreshing during the hot months.
INR20 per person, 2h

5:00pm

Return and check-in to resort/homestay in Bhandardara

Settle into your overnight stay at a cozy resort or homestay that embraces the natural surroundings and tranquility.
INR6000-10000 for family room/night, Overnight stay

7:30pm

Dinner at resort

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local and continental dishes with fresh, seasonal produce.
INR800-1200 per person, 1h

Day 3: Return via Scenic Route

Igatpuri to Pune, Maharashtra on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Accommodation

Have a peaceful breakfast in the calm environment before check-out and departure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Igatpuri

Travel about 2.5 hours to Igatpuri, a hill station known for its cool climate and scenic viewpoints.
INR0, 2.5h

12:00pm

Visit Vaitarna Dam and Bhatsa River Valley Viewpoint

Enjoy breathtaking views of the dam reservoir and lush valleys, a perfect spot for photos and fresh air.
INR0, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at German Bakery, Igatpuri

Dine at a popular café known for continental breakfast and lunch dishes, including sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
INR500-800 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Depart for Pune

Begin your comfortable drive back to Pune with an estimated journey of around 3 hours, concluding the refreshing nature trip.
INR0, 3h

5:30pm

Arrive at Wakad, Pune

End your trip back home in Pune with fond memories of cool hill stations and waterfalls.
INR0, End