Punekars consider themselves lucky in myriad ways. One of them is the proximity to the beautiful countryside.
If you are in Pune, a one hour drive in any direction will transport you away from the maddening crowd and commotion to a world of tranquillity.
Come monsoon, Punekars head to some favourite spots or are in search of some lesser-known destinations.
Unfortunately, 2020 ruined the annual ‘getting drenched under the waterfall and hogging on kanda bhaji plans’ as we find ourselves stuck at home, avoiding unnecessary travel at all costs.
Though the Maharashtra government has lifted restrictions on inter-district travel, many citizens have decided to stay home.
So we decided to bring some famous and some offbeat places on your screen to cure your monsoon wanderlust.
Clicked in the interiors of Kamshet, the roads are as beautiful as ever, just empty this year.
Virtual Picnic Tip (cos this is our life now): Grab some kanda bhaji or your favourite monsoon snack, stare at the photo, turn the fan on high, spray some water on yourself, and voila you are on a lakeside picnic!
How magical are mountains?
Raise your hand if you want a house here just to get up to this view and foggy mornings.
Can you imagine waking up to this view everyday? I could totally get used to it.
Well, if it wasn’t for the COVID-19 pandemic, you would’ve seen less of the waterfall and more of people cramming in.
The sound of the water flowing is music to my ears!
Staring at this dreamy landscape while sipping on hot cutting chai.
Rice fields, Panshet backwaters and Sahyadri.
Where around Pune is this you ask? Well, you need to taken the road unknown.
Pune does not have a beach but we have Khadakwasla and it is peak pride.
Though this pandemic brought us together as a race, I hope us and our future generations do not have to face the a calamity of any level ever again. The need and desperation to travel is greater than ever. Though I urge everyone to travel to help support the local economy, specially the vendors and hawkers at tourist spots, I also request you to be sensitive towards the ecological impact of mass tourism and overcrowding.
Stay Safe. Stay Home. (really!)
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Pictures clicked by @sanjay17jadhav and @nupurpradhan
Tugging My Luggage 
What an enchanting visual journey through the monsoon-draped landscapes of Pune! Your photo story brilliantly captures the essence and allure of this city during the rainy season. Each image seems to tell a story of its own, portraying the rich tapestry of Pune’s charm amidst the downpour.
The lush greenery accentuated by the rain is truly a sight to behold. Your adept use of photography vividly portrays the beauty of Pune’s natural landscapes – from the verdant hills to the glistening water bodies, each frame encapsulates the serene and rejuvenating ambiance of this vibrant city.
The monsoon in Pune indeed brings out its unique allure, transforming every nook and corner into a canvas of picturesque beauty. Your narrative, accompanied by these stunning visuals, beautifully encapsulates the city’s essence, beckoning one to immerse oneself in Pune’s monsoon magic.
I particularly loved how your lens captured the essence of daily life against the backdrop of rain-soaked streets and the vibrant hues of umbrellas. It’s evident how the monsoon doesn’t deter the spirit of the city but rather adds a poetic charm to its existence.
Your photo essay has inspired a longing to experience Pune during the monsoon firsthand. It’s a testament to your storytelling through imagery, evoking emotions and wanderlust simultaneously.
Thank you for sharing this captivating visual odyssey; it has left me mesmerized and yearning for a monsoon escapade to Pune, ready to embrace its ethereal beauty and vibrant energy.
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The pictures are fab. It inspires me to visit the outskirts of Pune and explore the mountains during the monsoon.
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What a nice blogpost Sanjay. I love how you described the atmosphere and the pictures are stunning. I can’t wait to experience monsoon there.
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Thanks Hubi.. we will go hiking to all these places when you come to India.. meanwhile I am looking forward to hike with you soon in Austria and Switzerland.
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Absolutely lovely! I love going to Kamshet, especially to visit Khandi.
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Beautiful photos, really amazing how green everything are 🙂
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Beautiful pics! Traveling in monsoon is an amazing experience.
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Thank you! Yes, it is! Its the best time to travel.
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Made me yearn for a trip!
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Get well soon and we’ll go!
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