Best Picnic Spots Near Pune for Large Groups
Got a big group and no idea where to take them for a day out? Pune makes this easy. Hills, lakes, old forts and that too, all within a couple hours' drive. Here are five spots that actually work well for large groups, not just couples or small families.
Khadakwasla Dam: It is located 20 km away from Pune. The view from the dam wall is worth the short drive alone. Most groups just lay out mats near the open ground, get a game of cricket going, and grab chai from one of the stalls around. Nothing fancy needed, which is exactly why people keep coming back.
Sinhagad Fort: This one's for groups that don't mind a bit of a climb. Old stone steps, cool air even when the city's sweating, and a view at the top that makes the walk worth it. Pithla bhakri with curd at one of the small eateries near the summit has turned into a bit of a ritual for visitors. Works almost any season too.
Panshet Dam: If your group leans toward water sports, this is probably the pick. Boating, jet skis, and then a lazy lunch on the grounds nearby. Weekends get packed though, so if you can swing a weekday trip, do it. Office groups especially seem to prefer that.
Mulshi Lake: Quieter than the rest, and the drive there might actually be the highlight. Green valleys stretch out on either side the whole way. Good pick for groups who'd rather sit by the water and talk than run around playing games. Evening light here is something else.
Lavasa: Wide roads, cafes right by the lake, walking paths that don't feel cramped even with a big group. It's also one of the rare spots where a large bus can actually move around without getting stuck. A bus on rent in Pune handles this route well; the town was practically built for bigger vehicles to get around without trouble. Cycling and boating are there too if anyone gets restless.
