Extended Refreshing Nature Escape from Pune: Malshej, Bhandardara & Lonavala with Multiple Activity Choices

Day 1: Hill & Waterfall Options

Option A: Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra / Option B: Vajrai Waterfall, Satara on May 2, 2025

12:00pm

Departure from Wakad, Pune

Start your trip around noon heading either towards Malshej Ghat (3.5-4 hrs drive) or Vajrai Waterfall near Satara (approx 4-4.5 hrs drive) for cool hill station experiences.
INR0, 4h

4:00pm

Option A: Explore Malshej Waterfalls & Nature Trails

Walk through the popular scenic trails and enjoy multiple waterfalls in Malshej, surrounded by green hills, ideal for cooling off during summer.
INR0, 2h

4:00pm

Option B: Visit Vajrai Waterfall and Nearby Nature Spots

Experience Vajrai, one of Maharashtra’s tallest waterfalls, and enjoy the serene nature atmosphere. Option to explore nearby forts like Sajjangad.
INR20-50 per person, 2h

6:30pm

Check-in at Local Stay

Choose between Malshej resorts such as Misty Hills or Satara homestays close to Vajrai Waterfall, for a comfortable overnight stay amidst nature.
INR5000-9000 per family room, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner Options

At Malshej, dine at resort restaurants for Maharashtrian and North Indian fare; near Vajrai, try local eateries serving traditional Satara cuisine.
INR700-1200 per person, 1h

Day 2: Lakes & Hill Stations

Option A: Bhandardara, Maharashtra / Option B: Lonavala, Maharashtra on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring local and continental dishes before setting out.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Option A: Drive to Bhandardara (From Malshej or Satara)

Bhandardara is known for its serene lake and waterfalls, approximately 1.5-2 hour drive from Malshej or 3 hours from Satara area.
INR0, 1.5-3h

9:30am

Option B: Drive to Lonavala (From Malshej)

Lonavala is a favorite hill station, just 2-2.5 hours from Malshej with options like Tiger’s Leap, Bushi Dam, and Rajmachi Fort to explore.
INR0, 2h

11:00am

Option A: Explore Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam & Randha Falls

Walk along the beautiful lakeside, take photos at Wilson Dam, and trek to Randha Falls for a refreshing nature experience.
INR20-50 per person, 2h

11:00am

Option B: Visit Tiger’s Leap and Bushi Dam

Visit these Lonavala viewpoints and waterfalls known for panoramic valley views and enjoyable short treks.
INR0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch Options

In Bhandardara, try Hotel Satkar for authentic Maharashtrian meals; in Lonavala, try local favorite 'Cream Centre' or 'German Bakery' for varied cuisines.
INR400-800 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Option A: Trek to The Randha Falls

Enjoy a moderate trek with cool water sprays and pristine nature.
INR20 per person, 2h

2:30pm

Option B: Visit Rajmachi Fort or Duke’s Nose viewpoint

Explore historical forts or enjoy thrilling viewpoints in the Lonavala hills with minimal trekking involved.
INR50 per person, 2h

5:00pm

Check-in Accommodation

Settle into a resort or homestay; Bhandardara offers calm lakeside resorts, whereas Lonavala has several comfortable hotels like Fariyas or Della Resort.
INR6000-10000 per family room, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Accommodation

Choose from local Maharashtrian cuisine or continental dishes prepared fresh at the resort’s restaurant.
INR800-1200 per person, 1h

Day 3: Scenic Return Options

Option A: Igatpuri / Option B: Pawna Lake - Pune, Maharashtra on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before setting out for your return journey with final sightseeing options.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Option A: Drive to Igatpuri

About 2.5 hours from Lonavala or Bhandardara, Igatpuri offers cool weather with popular spots like Vaitarna Dam and Bhatsa River Valley.
INR0, 2.5h

9:30am

Option B: Visit Pawna Lake near Lonavala

Famous for camping and scenic views, Pawna Lake offers a peaceful experience perfect before heading back to Pune.
INR0-200 per person for camping fees, 2h

11:30am

Option A: Sightseeing at Vaitarna Dam & Bhatsa River View

Explore beautiful dam area and viewpoints for landscape photography and fresh air.
INR0, 1h

11:30am

Option B: Enjoy Lakefront Walk and Light Hiking at Pawna

Take a leisurely walk or short hike around the lake to soak in nature’s calmness.
INR0, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch Options

In Igatpuri, dine at the German Bakery or local cafés serving continental and Indian dishes; near Pawna, try local dhabas or café options in Lonavala.
INR500-800 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Depart for Pune

Drive back to Pune, approx 2-3 hours via NH48, concluding a refreshing and scenic nature trip.
INR0, 3h

5:30pm

Arrive at Wakad, Pune

Reach home comfortably with pleasant memories of cool hill stations and waterfall adventures.
INR0, End