Sometimes, all you need to recharge is a quick getaway, and our recent 1-night, 2-day trip from Pune to Junnar was just that. Joined by my husband and our energetic dog Sophie, we embarked on an adventure packed with historic sites, scenic landscapes, and a touch of monsoon magic.
Day 1: From Pune to Junnar with a Flavorful Start
Setting off from Pune early in the morning, we were eager to make the most of our weekend escape. Our first stop was Shivneri Misal in Manchar for a quick breakfast, a cozy roadside eatery that served up a piping hot plate of misal with the perfect balance of spice.


After this energizing break, we headed straight to Junnar’s Tulja Caves. These ancient Buddhist caves, nestled in rugged rock formations, exuded an aura of calm and mystery. Wandering through, we couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate carvings that spoke of an era long past.



By evening, we arrived at Mayurangan Heritage Resort, our stay for the night. Surrounded by lush greenery and exuding a traditional charm, the resort was a perfect retreat.

After settling in and enjoying a cup of tea, we went out for dinner at Samadhaan Pure Veg Hotel, conveniently located next to our resort. Heavy rains poured down, enhancing the evening’s cozy vibe as we enjoyed a warm and satisfying meal.
Day 2: Fort, Temple, and Dam Visits
Our second day began with breakfast at the resort before heading out to Hadsar Fort. We opted for the easy route, which would typically be a straightforward trek. However, recent rains had made the path marshy and challenging, adding a layer of adventure to the experience. We could only complete half of the trek due to the slippery terrain and crowd, but the mist-covered hills and vibrant greenery were well worth the effort.

Returning to Samadhaan for a hearty lunch, we then set out to visit the Kukdeshwar Temple, a centuries-old temple nestled in a tranquil setting. Unfortunately, ongoing restoration work meant we couldn’t go inside, but admiring its architectural beauty from the outside was rewarding.



Our final stop was the serene Manikdoh Dam, a peaceful spot where we took in views of the emerald-green surroundings. Watching the calm waters under a cloudy sky, we felt the quiet beauty of Junnar’s landscape.



With the day winding down, we began our journey back to Pune around 5:00 PM, reaching home in three hours, our hearts full of fond memories.
Final Reflections
This short but sweet getaway to Junnar offered us a perfect blend of history, nature, and cultural charm. Despite the rainy weather and some unexpected obstacles, each stop on our itinerary added something special to our journey, reminding us that the best travel experiences often come from embracing the journey as it unfolds.
Which places in Junnar are NOT suitable to visit with pets?
Lenyadri caves / Lenyadri Ganapati Ashtavinayak
Bhutalinga Buddhist Caves
Amba Ambika Buddhist Caves
Bhimashankar Caves
Where did we eat ?
Mayurangan Resort, Junar
Shivneri Misal, Manchar
Hotel Samadhan pure veg, Junnar
To find out more pet friendly places in Junnar read this post.