Tired of the city's relentless pace? Sometimes, the best escape is a full tank of fuel and a winding road leading to a vast, tranquil body of water. In Maharashtra, the Sahyadris cradle countless reservoirs, making for perfect weekend drives.
Pawna Lake: The Popular Camper's Retreat
A perennial
favourite for road-trippers from both Mumbai and Pune, Pawna Lake is less a hidden gem and more a celebrated weekend ritual. The drive, especially via the Kamshet route, is a pleasant journey through rural landscapes that open up to the expansive artificial lake formed by the Pawna Dam. The real draw here is the experience that has sprung up around its banks: lakeside camping. Dozens of campsites offer everything from basic tents to 'glamping' setups, allowing visitors to watch the sunset behind the silhouettes of the historic Tung and Tikona forts, enjoy a barbecue under the stars, and wake up to a misty sunrise over the water. For those not keen on camping, the area is also great for a day trip filled with boating or simply finding a quiet spot to soak in the views.
Bhandardara: The Majestic Highland Escape
If you're seeking grandeur and a sense of being away from it all, the road trip to Bhandardara is deeply rewarding. Located in the Ahmednagar district, this destination is a bit further out from Mumbai and Pune but the scenic drive through the Western Ghats makes it worthwhile. The area is dominated by the Wilson Dam, one of the oldest in the country, which impounds the Pravara River to create the serene Arthur Lake. During monsoon, the region comes alive with attractions like the roaring Randha Falls and the Umbrella Falls, which creates a beautiful spectacle when the dam's sluice gates are open. For the adventurous, Bhandardara serves as a base for the trek to Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak. It’s a destination that combines dramatic natural beauty with a touch of history and spirituality at the ancient Amruteshwar Temple.
Mulshi Dam: The Picturesque Pune Favourite
For Punekars, Mulshi is the quintessential quick escape. Just an hour or two's drive from the city, the journey to Mulshi Dam is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. The road winds through lush green hills and valleys, especially vibrant during and after the monsoon. The dam itself, built on the Mula River, has created a sprawling lake that is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The drive doesn't have to end at the dam; it continues into the Tamhini Ghat, one of Maharashtra's most iconic monsoon drives, famous for its countless roadside waterfalls and thick mist. While the area is perfect for a day trip, numerous resorts and farm stays have opened up along the lake, inviting visitors to stay for a weekend of quiet relaxation, birdwatching, and enjoying local food from stalls selling hot bhutta and chai.
Khadakwasla Dam: The Convenient City Outing
Khadakwasla Dam is to Pune what Marine Drive is to Mumbai—a go-to spot for an evening drive and a breath of fresh air. Located just on the outskirts of Pune, it requires minimal planning, making it perfect for a spontaneous outing. The drive along Sinhgad Road leads directly to the large reservoir, which has a bustling atmosphere, especially on weekends. The area around the dam is often called 'Pune’s Chowpatty' due to any numerous street food stalls selling everything from spicy corn on the cob to chaat. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the dam wall, enjoy the sunset over the water, or simply sit and enjoy the cool breeze. Khadakwasla also serves as any gateway to a chain of other dams like Panshet and Varasgaon, and is on any way to any historic Sinhgad Fort, making it a great starting point for any longer day of exploration.
