Samruddhi Borge

1. Pawna Lake Camping (Near Lonavala)&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Pawna Dam, 20 km from Lonavala, 55 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>A popular lakeside camping destination, offering panoramic views of the water, hills, and forts like Lohagad, Tikona, and Tung. Pawna is ideal for first-time campers and offers a relaxing weekend with stargazing, bonfires, and water activities like kayaking.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather for outdoor activities). Visit during winter for a clear night sky full of stars.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Easily accessible by car from Pune or Lonavala. o	Trek Difficulty: No trekking required, making it family-friendly.&nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://cdn2.allevents.in/transup/wootick/sites/blog/64/0807ca4e4247b5aad1273e7e56c378/tent-1.jpg" data-origin=",">​2. Sandhan Valley&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Igatpuri, 180 km from Mumbai, 170 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Known as the "Valley of Shadows," Sandhan Valley is a unique camping and trekking experience. The valley offers a thrilling descent into a canyon with rappelling and rock-climbing opportunities. The campsite near the valley provides stunning views of the starry night sky.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool and dry weather ideal for trekking).&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: reach via Igatpuri by road. Local guides available for the trek.&nbsp; ​<img src="https://cdn2.allevents.in/transup/wootick/sites/blog/f0/882a349d624a828496e8b08cb1f462/IMG-20231125-WA0002.jpg" data-origin=",">​​ </li></ul>3.	Panshet Backwaters&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Panshet Dam, 40 km from Pune, 160 km from Mumbai.&nbsp;</li><li>A serene camping destination surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Panshet Dam, offering a peaceful retreat in nature. The lush greenery, calm atmosphere, and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for camping, kayaking, and boating. It’s perfect for families and friends looking to unwind by the water, with opportunities for bonfires and stargazing at night.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: September to March for lush greenery and serene waters.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: A short drive from Pune via well-connected roads.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: None, ideal for families and beginners.4.	Revdanda Beach o	Location: Revdanda, 17 km from Alibaug, 110 km from Mumbai, 150 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>A hidden gem along the Konkan coast, Revdanda Beach offers a peaceful and less crowded camping experience. The soft sandy beach, lined with coconut trees, is perfect for setting up tents and enjoying the coastal breeze. Campers can indulge in activities like beach volleyball, bonfires, and stargazing while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Revdanda’s proximity to Alibaug makes it a great option for a relaxed weekend getaway by the sea.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: October to March for clear skies and beach fun.o	Accessibility: Reach via Alibaug by road or ferry from Mumbai.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: None; enjoy direct beach access.&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn2.allevents.in/transup/wootick/sites/blog/dc/91c7738e1248a1b750b44b15b82629/WhatsApp-Image-2024-11-18-at-11.31.01-PM.jpg" data-origin=",">​​ </li></ul>5.	Bhandardara&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Ahmednagar district, 165 km from Mumbai, 160 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>A tranquil lakeside camping spot by Arthur Lake, surrounded by the Sahyadri mountains. Popular for its natural beauty, it's great for nature walks, boating, and star-gazing, with the nearby Randha and Umbrella Falls adding to the charm.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: Monsoon for waterfalls or winter for starry nights and serene weather.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Well-connected by road from Mumbai and Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: Beginner-friendly for nearby nature trails.&nbsp;</li></ul>6.	Kundalika River&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Kolad, 120 km from Mumbai, 110 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Famous for its river rafting, Kundalika offers riverside camping amidst greenery and adventure. With activities like kayaking, ziplining, and bonfires, it’s a blend of nature and thrill for weekend getaways.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: June to September (monsoon for river rafting) or October to March (cool weather).&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Easy drive from Mumbai or Pune.o	Trek Difficulty: None, but activities involve physical fitness.7.	Malshej Ghato	Location: Thane district, 130 km from Mumbai, 120 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Nestled in the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat offers a picturesque camping experience with views of lush valleys, mountain ranges, and waterfalls. During monsoons, the area becomes a haven for trekkers and bird watchers.o	Best Time to Visit: July to September for waterfalls or winter for clear skies and trekking.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Well-connected by road.o	Trek Difficulty: Beginner-friendly hikes around the area.&nbsp;</li></ul>8.	Korigad Fort (Near Lonavala)&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Aamby Valley Road, 20 km from Lonavala, 100 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>This historic fort offers a hilltop camping experience, ideal for trekkers. The climb provides stunning panoramic views of Ambey Valley and the Sahyadri ranges. Tents can be set up near the fort, making it a great adventure spot.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: October to February for trekking in pleasant weather.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Short trek from the base village.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: Easy, suitable for beginners.&nbsp;</li></ul>9.	Rajmachi&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Lonavala, 15 km from Lonavala, 75 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Rajmachi is a historic fort trekking destination that offers a beautiful camping experience amidst lush greenery. The trek is beginner-friendly, and camping near the fort provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Western Ghats.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (lush greenery) or winter (cool temperatures).&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Trek starts from Lonavala; vehicles can reach the base village.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate.&nbsp;</li></ul>10.	Kaas Plateau&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Satara district, 130 km from Pune, 280 km from Mumbai.&nbsp;A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its seasonal bloom of wildflowers, Kaas Plateau offers a unique camping experience amidst vibrant flora. Ideal for nature lovers, the plateau transforms into a carpet of flowers from August to October.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: August to October during the wildflower bloom.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Driveable from Pune or Satara. Well-connected roads to the base.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all age groups.</li></ul>9.	Torna Fort&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Velhe, 60 km from Pune, 215 km from Mumbai.&nbsp;</li><li>Overview: Known as Prachandagad, Torna Fort is one of the highest forts in the Pune district. It's a popular camping and trekking destination for adventure seekers, offering beautiful views of the Sahyadri mountains. Camping at the fort provides an authentic wilderness experience.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: November to February (ideal trekking weather).&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Buses and shared cabs are available from Pune to Base Village - Velhe.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty: Moderate – Steep and long trekking trails, ideal for experienced hikers. Beginners can attempt it with proper guidance.&nbsp;</li></ul>10. Lohagad Fort&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Malavli, 12 km from Lonavala, 66 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Lohagad Fort is a beginner-friendly trekking and camping destination. The fort offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and Pawna Lake. Camping here is peaceful and the historical significance adds to the adventure, especially during the monsoon.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: By Train: Board a local train to Malavli (Base Village) from Pune or Mumbai. From the station, the base village is a short 2 km walk or rickshaw ride. By Road: Drive via NH 48 to Malavli.&nbsp;</li><li>Trek Difficulty Level: Easy - Suitable for beginners, families, and children, with a well-defined trail leading to the fort. ​</li></ul>

Best Camping Spots near Pune and Mumbai

Maharashtra, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, hides several offbeat destinations that promise unique experiences away from the bustling crowds. From serene beaches to picturesque hills and hidden gems, these spots are perfect for explorers seeking something different. Let’s take a journey through some of Maharashtra's most alluring yet lesser-known destinations.
________________________________________&nbsp;1. Sula vineyards&nbsp; Nashik&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Sula Vineyards, 180 km from Mumbai, 65 km from Pune, Nashik district.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom. The grape harvest season in January to February offers a special charm.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Easily reachable by road, just a 3-hour drive from Mumbai and 1.5 hours from Pune. Nashik is well-connected by rail, and taxis or private vehicles can take you directly to the vineyards.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Sula is a haven for wine lovers. Apart from wine-tasting sessions, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the vineyards and nearby hills. The experience is enriched with wine tours, gourmet food, and an occasional live music concert. Zostel Bhor offers a cozy stay nearby, making it a perfect base for exploring Nashik. </li></ul>________________________________________&nbsp;2. Tarkarli, Sindhudurg<ul><li>Location: Tarkarli Beach, Sindhudurg district, 490 km from Mumbai, 450 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal for Tarkarli, as the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for water sports and beach activities.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: The place is a 9-hour drive from Mumbai and about 8 hours from Pune. The nearest railway station is Kudal, about 6 km away. A road trip or taxi ride is the best way to reach Tarkarli.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Tarkarli is famous for its pristine beaches and clear waters, offering the opportunity to indulge in snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat rides to the Sindhudurg Fort. The calm and less crowded atmosphere make it an ideal escape from the usual tourist destinations. Zostel Goa, though far, offers a serene environment for nature lovers looking to combine the beach with some trekking adventure.</li></ul>&nbsp;________________________________________&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Pattan Kodoli&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Pattan Kodoli, Kolhapur district, 380 km from Mumbai, 225 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: September to March, with the peak of the Vittal Birdev Yatra festival in February adding an unforgettable cultural experience.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: The place is easily accessible by road, located just 6 km from Kolhapur. The drive from Mumbai takes around 8 hours, and from Pune, it's about a 5-hour drive.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Pattan Kodoli is famous for the Vittal Birdev Yatra Festival, where you can witness the local traditions, vibrant processions, and cultural celebrations that bring the region to life. The peaceful surroundings, along with the temple complex, offer an authentic rural experience. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions, including ancient temples and scenic landscapes.</li></ul>&nbsp;________________________________________&nbsp;4. Chikhaldara&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Chikhaldara, Amravati district, 300 km from Nagpur, 650 km from Mumbai, 500 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: October to February is the best time to visit when the weather is cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: The hill station is accessible via a 13-hour road trip from Mumbai and a 10-hour drive from Pune. The nearest railway station is in Morshi, 30 km away.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Located in the Satpura Range, Chikhaldara is the only hill station in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, offering an idyllic escape with panoramic views of valleys and dense forests. Known for its cool weather, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, it’s ideal for nature walks, trekking, and bird-watching. Visitors can enjoy the quietude of nature, with some opting for stays at scenic locations like Zostel Kolad.
________________________________________&nbsp;</li></ul>5. Velas&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Velas Beach, Ratnagiri district, 220 km from Mumbai, 200 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: November to February is the best time to experience the beach and witness the annual Olive Ridley turtle nesting season in March to April.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Velas is easily reachable by road, taking about 5 hours from Mumbai and 4 hours from Pune. The nearest railway station is in Ratnagiri, around 20 km away.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Velas is known for its turtle festival, where Olive Ridley turtles hatch every year. Camping on the beach during this festival is a rare and extraordinary experience. Outside the festival season, Velas remains a serene and untouched beach destination, perfect for relaxing by the sea.&nbsp;</li></ul>________________________________________&nbsp;6. Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary<ul><li>Location: Radhanagri Wildlife Sanctuary, Kolhapur district, 425 km from Mumbai, 350 km from Pune.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is October to March when the weather is cool, ideal for wildlife sightings and nature treks.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Radhanagri is a 7-hour drive from Mumbai and 5 hours from Pune. The nearest railway station is in Kolhapur, about 45 km away.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Radhanagri is home to diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and various bird species, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The sanctuary offers a unique experience of exploring dense forests, waterfalls, and tranquil lakes while being surrounded by untouched natural beauty.</li></ul>&nbsp;________________________________________7. Pench Sillari&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Sillari Village, Pench National Park, Nagpur district, 90 km from Nagpur.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to March, especially during the winter months when wildlife is more active.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Sillari is well-connected by road and rail, with Nagpur being the nearest city, approximately a 2-hour drive. The Pench National Park's Sillari entrance is the most convenient for visitors.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Pench Sillari offers a safari experience through Pench National Park, which inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is home to tigers, leopards, and various species of flora and fauna. A stay in Sillari allows you to connect with nature in its most pristine form, making it an unforgettable wildlife experience.</li></ul>&nbsp;________________________________________&nbsp;8. Bhor - Pune&nbsp;<ul><li>Location: Bhor, located 52 km south of Pune, nestled in the Sahyadri ranges.&nbsp;</li><li>Best Time to Visit: November to February is the best time to explore the village and surrounding areas.&nbsp;</li><li>Accessibility: Bhor is easily accessible by road from Pune, making it a perfect weekend getaway.&nbsp;</li><li>Unique Experience: Known for its rustic charm and picturesque surroundings, Bhor offers nature trails, historical sites like the Bhatghar Dam, and tranquil landscapes. One can unwind and experience the calmness of the Western Ghats, enjoy peaceful treks through the Sahyadri ranges, and experience the local village life. For those looking for a more immersive stay, Zostel Bhor offers a perfect base to relax and unwind, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.&nbsp;</li></ul>________________________________________&nbsp;Conclusion
Maharashtra is home to many offbeat destinations that offer a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you're sipping wine in Nashik, witnessing turtle hatching in Velas, or trekking through Radhanagri's jungles, each location presents something unique. For those looking to explore these hidden gems further, places like Zostel Properties offer a great base to embark on your adventures. So, pack your bags, and get ready for your next offbeat journey in Maharashtra!

Samruddhi Borge

Posts by Samruddhi Borge

Offbeat Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Best Camping Spots near Pune and Mumbai