Bangalore and Pune are two of the most popular cities in India, and a road trip between them is an excellent way to explore the beauty of the country. The Bangalore to Pune road trip is approximately 840 km long and takes around 14 hours to complete. The Bangalore to Pune road trip route is scenic and offers some of the best views of the Western Ghats. In this guide, we will take you through the best stops and things to do on a road trip from Bangalore to Pune.
Whether you’re an experienced road tripper or a first-time adventurer, this journey from Bangalore to Pune offers an enriching experience. Whether you seek historical landmarks, serene landscapes, or vibrant cultural experiences, this route caters to your diverse interests.
Distance and Estimated Time for Bangalore to Pune Road Trip
The distance between Bangalore to Pune road trip is approximately 800 kilometers, typically requiring a driving time of around 12-14 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, and your chosen stops.
| Route | Distance (km) | Estimated Time (hrs) | Suggested Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH 48 Route | 820 | 13 | Devarayana Durga Temple, Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve, Nrupatunga Hill, Unkal Lake, Gokak Falls, Kittur Fort, Panhala Fort, Mahalaxmi Temple |
| NH 44 Route | 780 | 12 | Nandi Hills, Nandidurg Fort, Shivagange Reservoir, Mantralaya Temple, Kote Fort, Sree Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple |
NH 48 Route
Devarayana Durga Temple: This 13th-century temple is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a large population of blackbuck antelopes. Visitors can go on jeep safaris to spot these graceful animals in their natural habitat.
Nrupatunga Hill: This hilltop fort offers panoramic views of the city of Hubli. The fort was built in the 12th century and was once the seat of the Chalukya dynasty.
Unkal Lake: This serene lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing. The lake is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching.
Gokak Falls: This cascading waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Karnataka. The waterfall is especially beautiful during the monsoon season.
Kittur Fort: This 16th-century fort was once the stronghold of the Kittur Rani Chennamma, a legendary warrior queen. The fort is now a museum and is open to visitors.
Panhala Fort: This hilltop fort is one of the largest forts in India. The fort was built in the 12th century and was once the capital of the Maratha Empire.
Mahalaxmi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
NH 44 Route
Nandi Hills: This hill station is a popular weekend getaway from Bangalore. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are home to a number of temples and other attractions.
Nandidurg Fort: This 17th-century fort is one of the largest forts in India. The fort is now in ruins but is still a popular tourist destination.
Shivagange Reservoir: This reservoir is a popular spot for boating and fishing. The reservoir is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching.
Mantralaya Temple: This temple is dedicated to Raghavendra Swamy, a Hindu saint. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Kote Fort: This 17th-century fort was once the stronghold of the Mysore kings. The fort is now in ruins but is still a popular tourist destination.
Sree Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Best Stops: Bangalore to Pune road trip
Hampi
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular stops on the Bangalore to Pune road trip. The place is known for its ancient temples, ruins, and boulders. The place is also famous for its sunrise and sunset views.
Grover Zampa Vineyards
Grover Zampa Vineyards is an excellent place for a weekend getaway or for a get-together. The place is known for its wine tours, tastings, and vineyard walks. The place also has a restaurant that serves delicious food.
Kolhapur
Kolhapur is a beautiful city located on the banks of the Panchganga River. The place is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and forts. The place is also famous for its Kolhapuri chappals, which are a must-buy.
Panchgani
Panchgani is a beautiful hill station located in the Satara district of Maharashtra. The place is known for its scenic views, strawberry farms, and adventure activities. The place is also famous for its boarding schools.
Lonavala
Lonavala is a popular hill station located between Mumbai and Pune. The place is known for its scenic views, waterfalls, and adventure activities. The place is also famous for its chikki, which is a must-try.
Best Things to Do: Bangalore to Pune road trip
As you traverse through the heart of the Deccan Plateau, you’ll discover a captivating tapestry of India’s diverse heritage and natural beauty. Here’s a guide to the best things to do along the way of Bangalore to Pune road trip
1. Devarayana Durga Temple
Nestled atop a hill in Tumkur, this 13th-century temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
2. Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve
Witness the graceful blackbuck antelopes in their natural habitat at this wildlife sanctuary near Tumkur. Go on jeep safaris to spot these elegant creatures grazing in the lush greenery.
3. Nrupatunga Hill
Enjoy panoramic views of the city of Hubli from this hilltop fort. Built in the 12th century, the fort was once the seat of the Chalukya dynasty and now stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.
4. Unkal Lake
Take a relaxing boat ride on this serene lake amidst lush greenery near Hubli. The lake is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.
5. Gokak Falls
Marvel at the cascading waters of this magnificent waterfall near Hubli. Especially beautiful during the monsoon season, the waterfall is a natural wonder that draws visitors from afar.
8. Mahalaxmi Temple
Pay homage to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity, at this revered temple in Kolhapur. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its intricate architecture and serene ambiance.
9. Aga Khan Palace
Admire the architectural brilliance of this majestic palace in Pune. Built in the 20th century, the palace is a blend of Indian and Italian architectural styles and is home to a collection of artifacts and artworks.
10. Shaniwar Wada
Step back in time at this 17th-century fort in Pune. Once the seat of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire, Shaniwar Wada now stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
These are just a few of the many incredible things to see and do on a Bangalore to Pune road trip. With its diverse landscapes, cultural gems, and historical treasures, this journey is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
Best Hotels and Resorts – Accommodation in Pune
| Hotel/Resort Name | Location | Price Range (INR) | Contact Information | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VITS Hotel | Koregaon Park | 1,500 – 3,000 | +91 20 2660 5000 | http://vits.pune-hotels.com/en/ |
| Ginger Pune – Wakad | Wakad | 2,000 – 4,000 | +91 83297 67890 | https://www.gingerhotels.com/ginger-pune-wakad |
| The Corinthians Resort & Club | Hadapsar | 3,000 – 5,000 | +91 20 2666 4444 | https://www.thecorinthianspune.com/ |
| Holiday Inn Express Pune Hinjewadi | Hinjewadi | 2,500 – 4,500 | +91 20 6728 6000 | https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/maharashtra/mhzph/hoteldetail |
| Hotel Dreamland | Shivajinagar | 1,000 – 2,000 | +91 20 2445 6556 | https://www.hoteldreamland.co.in/ |
| St Laurn – Koregaon Park | Koregaon Park | 4,000 – 6,000 | +91 20 6630 1234 | https://www.stlaurnhotels.com/ |
| The Orchid Hotel, Hinjewadi, Pune | Hinjewadi | 3,500 – 5,500 | +91 20 6680 2222 | https://www.orchidhotel.com/pune/gallery.html |
| Four Points By Sheraton Hotel And Serviced Apartments | Viman Nagar | 4,500 – 6,500 | +91 20 6663 4444 | https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pnqfp-four-points-hotel-and-serviced-apartments-pune/overview/ |
| Ibis Pune Hinjewadi – An Accor Brand | Hinjewadi | 3,000 – 4,000 | +91 20 6720 5555 | https://all.accor.com/hotel/7253/index.en.shtml |
Concluding my Bangalore to Pune road trip, I feel a sense of accomplishment and contentment. This journey has been an incredible immersion into India’s rich cultural tapestry, its breathtaking landscapes, and its historical treasures. From the serene beauty of Unkal Lake to the architectural grandeur of the Aga Khan Palace, each stop has unveiled a unique facet of this vibrant region.
As I reflect on the experiences I’ve gathered along the way, I am struck by the diversity of India’s heritage – the ancient temples standing as testaments to a glorious past, the bustling cities showcasing the energy of the present, and the serene landscapes reflecting the tranquility of nature. The journey has been a testament to India’s ability to seamlessly blend the ancient and the modern, the traditional and the contemporary.
The Bangalore to Pune road trip has also been a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the Indian people. From the friendly smiles of the locals to the eagerness of the guides to share their knowledge, I have been consistently touched by the genuine kindness and generosity of the people I’ve encountered.
As I bid farewell to Pune, I carry with me a treasure trove of memories – the cascading waters of Gokak Falls, the intricate carvings of the Panhala Fort, the bustling streets of Kolhapur, and the serene ambiance of the Mahalaxmi Temple. These memories will forever be etched in my mind, a reminder of the captivating beauty and rich heritage of India.
The Bangalore to Pune road trip has been a journey of discovery, a voyage through the heart of India’s cultural and historical landscape. It is a journey I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking an enriching and unforgettable experience.
