Such a small township that is gaining popularity among the weekend getaways near Pune is Koynanagar – the upcoming most popular hill station near Pune. Located on the Pune-Kolhapur route, Koynanagar is a lake town in the Satara district of Maharashtra, set on the banks of the River Koyna.
The stunningly beautiful range of the Western Ghats – Sahyadri surrounds this place, bordered by the evergreen forests of the Koyna Bio reserve Park and the famous Koyna Dam, which is the largest hydroelectric project of India. The gushing river, enchanting forest belt and the amazing view of the hills and valleys mesmerize the travellers who reach here in search of their best weekend getaway from Mumbai or Pune.
The cosy and cool climate throughout the year attracts tourists throughout the year, which is again an added advantage for Koyna compared to all other common hill stations around the city. The major attractions that lure people to visit this best holiday destination near Pune are the following:
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared as a natural World Heritage site by UNESCO, this sanctuary is an apt choice for families or couples who are looking for the best jungle destination near Pune. Spread across an area of 42355 sq. km, with elevations ranging from 2000 to 3600 ft., the sanctuary is rich in diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species. This area is the northern part of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, the southern portion of which is the Chandoli National Park.
Koyna Dam
Constructed with rubble concrete over the River Koyna, this is the biggest dam in the state of Karnataka. It was mainly built for generating hydroelectricity and to supply irrigation water to the nearby areas. The view of the catchment area of the dam from the Nehru Botanical Park should not be missed by any traveller. Boating, fishing and swimming in River Koyna and Shiv Sagar Lake are some of the best things to do near Pune. As per the rules, the hydroelectric power project can be viewed in detail only with prior approval from the concerned authority, whereas others can enjoy the view from the botanical garden.
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Nehru Botanical Garden
Situated very near the town, this garden is a must-visit place in Koyna due to the popularity of the audiovisual shows about Koyna Dam that are conducted every half an hour. The garden is said to be the house of many medicinal plants and herbs, and also gives the clearest view of the catchment area of the dam. Your best weekend getaway from Pune would remain incomplete in Koyna, without visiting this garden nearby.
Ghatmatha and Ozarde Waterfalls
Just 15 minutes away from town is Ghatmatha – the highest peak in the Sahyadri, which is a mountain pass that connects the Western Ghats and Konkan. People come here to capture the beautiful sky during sunset and relax in the cool breeze. Ozarde Waterfalls can be reached only by trekking through dense forest. But, the sight of the gigantic mass of water falling from a height of 200m is worth the effort, especially if you are reaching this best holiday destination near Pune during monsoon!
Reaching Koynanagar from Mumbai
If you have decided to go for your best weekend getaway from Pune, the most sought option is driving 295 km from Mumbai, watching the Gulmohar trees and mango plantations on either side of the driveway. If you are an adventure travel addict, your best jungle destination near Mumbai take a local train from Mumbai to Chiplun, and then hop on a cab, or choose any of the red bus service that runs between Mumbai and Koyna at regular time intervals. The nearest airport to Koynanagar is Kolhapur, which may be convenient for those reaching from other Indian cities.
Reaching Koynanagar from Pune
Option 1: Start your vacation with an exciting car drive from Pune, rolling through the amazing view of green forests and farm lands that calms your senses, to prepare you for the best forest adventure near Pune.
Option 2: Take an overnight bus from Pune to Koynanagar or go for an overnight train journey from Pune to Chiplun and then continue to Koynanagar in a taxi or bus.
