Around 45 km away from Pune, in the Maval taluka lie Bedsa Caves that were excavated in the 1st century BC. With two finished and two unfinished Buddhist caves, Bedsa is surely worth a visit, and can be accessed through a series of steps on a slope. You will also come across a few rock-cut cisterns and a memorial stupa, the highlight of the caves. Some striking carvings can be seen at the chaityagriha that has a stone screen, as well as a verandah with engraved pillars, which are 25-foot-tall and support a ribbed roof. Figures of couples riding horses and elephants have been intricately carved into these pillars, thus giving the impression of being sculptures themselves. The roof is also supported by orthogonal pillars.

Nestled in the picturesque Sahyadri range, the beautiful Malshej Waterfall lies near Malshej Ghat. While the surrounding scenic beauty is enchanting, the spot is a great trekking point. The rugged hills with several forts, temples and ancient caves make for an interesting route for explorers. During the monsoon months (from July to September), this waterfall is a marvel of sorts, when it flows in its full glory. Close by is the Pimpalgaon Lake, where visitors can catch a quiet and tranquil moment. A short distance away from the lake, the Lenyadri Caves and Shivneri Fort are located. Given the abundance of tourist attractions here, it is the preferred getaway for the folks of Pune and Mumbai. There are some options for accommodation as well, in case you want to plan a longer stay.

The sanctuary is a haven for those who love spending time amidst nature, and is one of the favourite weekend getaways for the people of Mumbai and Pune. It is covered in deciduous forests and has been identified as an IBA (important bird area) by Bird Life International. The Shekru or giant flying squirrel, Maharashtra’s state animal, is found in this wildlife sanctuary, apart from other flora and fauna. There is also has a library in its Forest Interpretation Centre. The sanctuary is one of the 12 biodiversity hotspots of the world. Located in the Western Ghats, it is also a catchment area that supplies water to the Bhima and Ghod rivers. The best time to visit is from October to February.

Perched at a height of 2,100 ft, Parvati Hill is home to a popular temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Built during the rule of the Peshwas (1674-1818), it is said to be the oldest heritage structure in Pune. One needs to climb 108 steps to reach this place. Parvati Hill is an ideal place for devotees, as there are other temples perched on its slopes, including those dedicated to Lord Devadeshwar, Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini, Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Most of these were built in the 17th century, when Nana Saheb Peshwa was ruling the Marathas. Tourists can also visit Parvati Museum that has portraits of Peshwa bravehearts, manuscripts, weapons and coins. The temple was once used by the Peshwas as a watchtower of sorts, from where they would keep an eye on approaching enemies. Local legend has it that the Peshwa king, Balaji Bajirao, observed the Battle of Kirki from this vantage point, and watched as the British lost and fled. Today, tourists can get breathtaking views of the city from this hill.

The Bhaja Caves comprise 25 Buddhist caves belonging to the Hinayana phase of Buddhism, and are located around 56 km from Pune, near Lonavala. They were all created between the 3rd century BC and the 2nd century AD. One of the oldest rock-cut chaityagrihas (prayer hall with a stupa inside) of the state of Maharashtra is located here; a horseshoe-shaped archway leads to this hall. In fact, it is the only one here. All the other caves are viharas, which are residential caves with independent cells inside them. These caves also hint at the history of the tabla, a percussion instrument; carvings from around 200 BCE show a woman playing the tabla, while others show dance performances. Stupas, said to be the relics of Buddhist monks, can also be found.