A Pet-Friendly Day Trip to Bhigwan: Exploring Temples and Forts with Sophie
Last weekend, my husband, our adventurous dog Sophie, and I decided to spend a day exploring Bhigwan and its nearby attractions. This was our chance to dive into the rich history of Maharashtra, visit serene temples, and enjoy scenic spots—all with our furry friend in tow! Here’s a look at our pet-friendly journey and the memorable places we explored.
Morning Start and Brunch at Vitthal Kamat, Yavat
We set out from Pune early in the morning, aiming to make the most of our day. Bhigwan is about 125 km away, a 2.5-hour drive, so the journey was perfect for a relaxed road trip with Sophie. Our go-to spot for brunch on the Pune-Solapur route is Hotel Vitthal Kamat in Yavat. They always allow pets on request, and the staff is incredibly welcoming. Sophie enjoyed her break while we savored some Maharashtrian specialties, and soon we were back on the road, energized and excited!
Boat Ride to Palasnath Temple
Our first destination was the Palasnath Temple on the banks of Ujani Dam. Reaching this temple is an adventure in itself since it’s accessible only by boat, adding a unique thrill to the trip. During monsoon, the temple is submerged by the dam’s waters, reemerging in the dry seasons of summer and winter, making our visit feel even more special. Sophie, a natural water lover, seemed thrilled by the boat ride, and it was a peaceful moment for all of us, surrounded by the calm of Ujani Dam.
Exploring Parwadi Fort
After a serene temple visit, we set off to Parwadi Fort. This fort, rich in history and nestled in the Bhigwan landscape, offered great views and quiet spots for rest. Sophie loved exploring the grounds, while we soaked in the sights and learned a bit about the fort’s past. The open, expansive spaces were ideal for Sophie, who seemed to enjoy every sniff and stroll.
A Visit to Shri Shirsai Temple, Shrisuphal
Our next stop was Shri Shirsai Temple in Shrisuphal. This temple is a beautiful, calm spot, perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the day so far. By this time, Sophie was getting accustomed to our temple-hopping adventure, and it was lovely to have her by our side as we visited these spiritual places.
Wrapping Up at Bhuikot Fort, Supe
As the day wore on, we headed to Bhuikot Fort in Supe. With the sun setting, this fort provided a perfect place to end our explorations. The fort’s tranquil surroundings made it an ideal spot to relax and take in the evening breeze. We spent some time here, resting and reminiscing on the day’s highlights before starting our journey back.
Evening Hi-Tea at Shree Leela World Veg Cuisine
On our way back to Pune, we stopped at Shree Leela World Veg Cuisine for a quick hi-tea. This is another of our favorite spots when returning from trips, as they always welcome Sophie warmly. We enjoyed some tea and snacks, winding down from the eventful day.
Final Thoughts
This day trip to Bhigwan was an excellent mix of history, nature, and spirituality, and every spot we visited had something unique to offer. Having Sophie with us made it all the more memorable, proving once again that travel with pets is entirely possible with a little planning.
This road trip to Bhigwan is a must for anyone looking for a pet-friendly adventure near Pune!
Where did we eat ?
Shree Leela World veg cuisine, Uruli Kanchan
Hotel Vitthal Kamat, Yavat