Junnar is a charming offbeat weekend getaway located just about 90 km from Pune, making it an easy drive for a quick escape. It’s also roughly 200 km from Mumbai and Nashik, and around 120 km from Ahmednagar, providing a convenient option for travelers seeking a serene retreat from these bustling cities. Its accessible location and scenic beauty make Junnar an ideal spot for a refreshing break.
In this article, we highlight 8 offbeat places in Junnar where you and your pet can enjoy adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable moments amidst nature’s beauty.
Shivneri Fort

The fort, renowned as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, offers a rich insight into Maratha heritage. The trek to the top is moderate, set amidst beautiful scenery, with lush greenery particularly vibrant during the monsoon. From the fort, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The well-preserved architecture, along with key landmarks like temples and water cisterns, evoke the historical significance of the site. Shivneri Fort is well-maintained, though it lacks dedicated parking, requiring visitors to park along the fort’s road. At the base, there are several food shops. The trek is relatively easy, taking about 45 minutes, with most steps newly constructed. At the summit, you’ll find Shivaji Maharaj’s birthplace, a temple for Maharaj and Jijau Mata, Kadelot point, a lake, palace ruins, and stunning views of the landscape.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/ATKNNm9HuYn1zFop8
Habashi Mahal

Habashi Mahal, constructed in 1590 by Malik Ambar, the chieftain of Nizamshah, showcases Mughal architecture with its stone and brick structure. Visitors can park near a bungalow at the entrance, where an entry fee of Rs. 40 per person is charged. The palace is just a short 2-minute walk from this point. A signboard indicates that the property is privately owned, with specific rules for visitors. Currently under renovation, the site is more frequently used for pre-wedding photoshoots and videography than for historical tourism. There are no food or water facilities available.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/8dK5i9bcemvYFMhJ9
Haabshi ghumat

Haabshi Ghumat, located about 3 km from the Junnar bus stand in Aagar Vittalwadi, Hapusbaug, is a large and sturdy historical structure. There is another unnamed tomb with pointed roof right next to the Haabshi Gumbad. Both tombs are seldom visited by tourists. It’s worth visiting, as Gol Ghumat and Habashi Mahal are just 5 minutes apart on the same road.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/aRfvB5Xgia3yLMLc7
Tulja Buddhist caves

Reaching the Tulja Buddhist cave site takes about 10 to 15 minutes. There are around 12 to 14 caves, though some are incomplete. The location, near Shivneri Fort, is serene and scenic, with a beautiful waterfall, birds, and natural surroundings. Shivneri Fort is only 3 to 4 kilometers away. There are no security guards, restrooms, tickets, or designated parking. Visitors can park near the huts at the end of the road.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/X9TDvH6Z63tGo6nk7
Manikdoh Dam

Manikdoh Dam, located about 13 to 15 km from Junnar on the Kukadi River, is a picturesque and serene spot, especially during the early monsoon. It’s an ideal destination for tourists, trekkers, and campers. Trekkers visiting Naneghat, Jivdhan, Chavand, and Hadsar often camp here. From the dam, you can enjoy a view of Chavand Fort, with the sunset offering a particularly stunning sight. Nearby holy sites like Ozar and Lenyadri add to the appeal. The viewpoint provides beautiful vistas of both Hadsar and Chavand forts, and birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of birds spotted here. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit, making it a great spot for a day or two of camping with family.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/ac2dcFgMEvYxCv6G7
Kukdeshwar Shiva Temple

Kukdeshwar Shiva Temple, located 20 km from Junnar, is a peaceful sanctuary tucked away in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. With its serene atmosphere, detailed architecture, and historical importance, it offers a special spiritual experience. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple provides a calming retreat for both travelers and devotees. Encircled by verdant hills and forests, it’s a place where time feels slower, allowing visitors to connect with nature and find comfort in the ancient rituals.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/DCBAEuC8FNxia8wZ9
Trimurti Waterfalls Borhadewadi

Trimurti Waterfalls, situated in Borhadewadi, is 38 km from Junnar. After reaching the base village, you can ask the locals for directions to the waterfall. It’s just a short 10-15 minute walk from there. The area is well-maintained and clean, largely because the spot is not well-known to many tourists.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/JvBMU3R5TGWfwnnw8
Fofsandi caves & waterfall

Fofsandi Caves, located 60 km from Junnar, are in a remote tribal village in Akole taluka. The area offers a scenic and serene environment, providing a unique sense of heavenly bliss. Currently, locals reside in the caves, using them to shelter their village cows on the mountain during the rainy season. They stay for about six months, returning to their native village when water becomes scarce. The area is known for its stunning waterfalls of various shapes cascading from the high mountains, accompanied by refreshing winds.
Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/WH2EyF87JJEZ5G9f6