Road trips with our furry companion Sophie are always special, but this one-day adventure along the Pune-Satara road (NH 48) was a delightful blend of history, nature, and pet-friendly experiences. From ancient temples to serene forests and boating adventures, here’s how our day unfolded.
Starting the Day Right
We set out from Pune at 8 AM, Sophie excitedly perched in the backseat, ready for the day ahead. Our first stop was at Kailas Bhel Food Court in Varve for a quick breakfast. This pet-friendly food court is perfect for a bite on the go, with ample open space for pets to stretch their legs.
Temple Trails Begin: Adbalsiddhanatha Mandir and Shri Mandai-Kondai Mandir
Our first exploration was at the Adbalsiddhanatha Mandir, a peaceful spot with ancient roots. Sophie trotted alongside us, her curiosity piqued by the temple’s tranquil atmosphere.
Next, we visited the Shri Mandai-Kondai Mandir, nestled amidst natural beauty. Both temples allowed us to pause and soak in the serenity, with Sophie happily sniffing around the lush surroundings.
Nature and Devotion at Baneshwar Temple
The highlight of the trip was the Baneshwar Temple, a perfect blend of spirituality and nature. The temple grounds are expansive and pet-friendly, making it a great spot for Sophie to explore.
We walked through the Baneshwar Forest, a serene, paved pathway that leads to a hidden gem—the Baneshwar Waterfall. Sophie loved the forest trail, and her excitement was contagious as she explored the natural wonders around us.
A Sacred Stop: Ranjeshwar Temple
Post our forest adventure, we visited the Ranjeshwar Temple, a small yet charming shrine with an aura of peace. Sophie sat quietly as we admired the temple’s architectural beauty, proving that even our four-legged companions can appreciate cultural heritage!
Lunch Break at Kailas Bhel, Shivapur
For lunch, we returned to another branch of Kailas Bhel, this time in Shivapur. The staff was welcoming and accommodating, ensuring Sophie had her space. With delicious food and a relaxed ambiance, it was the perfect midday break.
Evening Delight: Boating at Devadi Dam
As the sun began to dip, we headed to Devadi Dam, where boating awaited. The serene waters and the calming atmosphere made this an unforgettable experience. Sophie, safely tucked into the boat, enjoyed the gentle ripples of the water and the cool breeze brushing through her fur.
Relaxing by the Lake
We ended our day with tea and snacks at Lakeview Resort, located near Devadi Dam. The resort’s open-air seating and proximity to the lake made it a cozy spot for winding down. Sophie lounged comfortably while we enjoyed steaming hot tea and crispy snacks, a fitting end to our adventure.
Heading Home
We started our journey back home as twilight set in, with Sophie curling up contentedly in the backseat. By 7:30 PM, we were back in Pune, carrying memories of a day well spent exploring the spiritual and natural wonders of the Pune-Satara road.
Traveling with Sophie always adds an extra layer of joy to our journeys. If you’re a pet parent looking for a mix of temples, nature, and fun, this route is perfect for a one-day getaway. It’s a trip that leaves tails wagging and hearts full!
Where did we eat ?
Kailas Bhel, Shivapur
Kailas Bhel food court, Varve