Travelling to Forest Hills from Pune
Gift your self with an adventure of a road trip from Pune to Forest Hills at Tala, offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Located in the lush greenery of Raigad district, Forest Hills at Tala is the perfect getaway during the monsoon from the busy city life of Pune. This guide aims to provide you with all the information you need to make your journey enjoyable and smooth. From different route options to things to do along the way, this blog covers it all, ensuring you have the best travel experience.
Planning a vacation near Pune?
Look no further than Forest Hills at Tala, a serene and Luxurious adventure resort that promises a memorable escape. Just a few hours drive from Pune, this resort is situated in the heart of nature, surrounded by dense forests, hills, and Agardanda Creek. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the journey from Pune to Forest Hills at Tala, is an adventure in itself, offering numerous attractions and scenic spots along the way.
Forest Hills at Tala | One of the Top Resort Near Pune for a Vacation
Forest Hills at Tala, is renowned for its luxury, comfort, and eco-friendly environment. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to luxurious tents, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy in a variety of activities such as nature walks, bird watching, cycling, and horse riding, or simply relax by the poolside and enjoy the breathtaking views.
What sets Forest Hills Tala Resort apart is its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism. The resort employs eco-friendly practices, ensuring that your stay has a minimal environmental impact. The staff are warm and hospitable, providing personalized service to make your stay memorable.
Different Routes from Pune to Tala, Raigad
When planning a road trip from Pune to Tala, Raigad, travelers have several scenic routes to choose from. Each route offers unique experiences, landmarks, and attractions. Here’s a detailed information about the three main routes you can take:
Route 1: Pune to Tala via Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66)
This route is popular for its well-maintained roads and scenic landscapes, making it a favorite among travelers.
Route Description:
Pune to Lonavala: Start your journey from Pune and head towards Lonavala via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This section of the route is smooth and offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
Lonavala to Khandala: After Lonavala, you’ll quickly reach Khandala. These twin hill stations are known for their lush greenery, misty mountains, and cool climate.
Khandala to Mangaon: Continue on the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66). This part of the journey takes you through several small towns and villages, providing a glimpse into rural Maharashtra.
Mangaon to Tala: From Mangaon, follow the directions to Tala. The final stretch is scenic, with secluded roads and dense forests leading to the peaceful nature of Forest Hills Tala Resort.
Key Landmarks and Towns:
- Lonavala: Famous for its chikki, scenic viewpoints like Tiger’s Leap, and the serene Bhushi Dam.
- Khandala: Known for its scenic valleys, waterfalls, and trekking spots.
- Mangaon: A simple town where you can experience local culture and traditional Maharashtrian cuisine.
Route 2: Pune to Tala via Tamhini Ghat
This route is perfect for those who love winding roads, lush greenery, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is especially popular during the monsoon season.
Route Description:
Pune to Paud and Mulshi: Begin your journey from Pune and drive towards Paud and then Mulshi. The drive along Mulshi Lake offers stunning views of the water and surrounding hills.
Mulshi to Tamhini Ghat: Continue towards Tamhini Ghat. This section is the highlight of the route, with its numerous waterfalls, dense forests, and panoramic vistas.
Tamhini Ghat to Kolad: After enjoying the natural beauty of Tamhini Ghat, drive down to Kolad. This small town is known for its adventure sports, particularly river rafting on the Kundalika River.
Kolad to Tala: From Kolad, it’s a short drive to Tala. This final leg takes you through scenic countryside and small villages, culminating in the serene environment of Forest Hills.
Key Landmarks and Towns:
Tamhini Ghat: Renowned for its waterfalls, dense forests, and lush greenery. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Kolad: Famous for river rafting and other adventure activities on the Kundalika River. The riverside cafes and local food joints are also worth a visit.
Route 3: Pune to Tala via Pune-Kolad Road
This route is slightly longer but offers a different perspective and less-traveled paths.
Route Description:
Pune to Chandni Chowk: Start from Pune and head towards Chandni Chowk. This initial stretch is familiar and relatively easy to navigate.
Chandni Chowk to Mulshi: From Chandni Chowk, drive towards Mulshi. The road passes through beautiful landscapes and offers great views of the Mulshi Lake.
Mulshi to Kolad: Continue from Mulshi to Kolad. This part of the journey is serene, with fewer vehicles and more opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Kolad to Tala: From Kolad, follow the route to Tala. The drive is pleasant and takes you through small villages and green fields.
Key Landmarks and Towns:
Chandni Chowk: A popular junction in Pune, known for its eateries and a market place.
Mulshi: Known for its dam and beautiful lake, a great spot for a picnic or a quick break.
Kolad: Offers adventure activities and a tranquil riverside experience.
Best Route from Pune to Tala, Raigad
Route 2 via Tamhini Ghat is considered the best route for several reasons: Click here to get directions
- Scenic Beauty: This route is incredibly beautiful, especially during the monsoon season. The Tamhini Ghat section is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
- Less Traffic: Compared to the Mumbai-Goa Highway, this route experiences less traffic, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable drive.
- Good Road Conditions: The roads are generally well-maintained, providing a smooth driving experience.
- Attractions: The journey is enriched with numerous attractions like Mulshi Lake, Tamhini Ghat waterfalls, and adventure activities in Kolad.
- Overall, Route 2 offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility, making it the ideal choice for travelers heading to Forest Hills, Tala.
Embark on this journey, and you’ll find that the drive itself is as rewarding as the destination. Whether you prefer the well-trodden paths of NH66 or the scenic, winding roads of Tamhini Ghat, each route promises an unforgettable experience. Safe travels!
List of things to do along the way from Pune to Forest Hills at Tala resort
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Laal Mahal | Reconstructed 17th-century Red Palace |
| Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum | Personal collection of diverse artifacts |
| Shaniwar Wada | 18th-century Peshwa fort with a large gate |
| Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railways | Live shows featuring model trains |
| Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir | Hindu temple with large gold Ganesh idol |
| Butterfly Trampoline Park – Hinjawadi | Trampolines, climbing walls & foam pits |
| Della Adventure Park, Lonavala | Park with over 50 adventure activities |
| Karla Caves | Rock caves with ornate Buddhist shrines |
| Lonavala Wax Museum | Wax museum with various exhibits |
| Mulshi Dam View Point | Pit stop for dramatic valley views |
| Devkund Waterfall Trek | Trekking spot with scenic waterfalls |
| Tamhini Ghat Waterfall | Series of cascades streaming down cliffs |
| Mulshi Dam Beach | Scenic spot along Tamhini Ghat Rd |
| Kundalika Valley | Deep river gorge surrounded by forest |
| Random Viewpoint, Tamhini Ghat Rd | Scenic viewpoint |
Going on a road trip from Pune to Forest Hills at Tala, is not just about reaching the destination but also about enjoying the journey. There are several exciting activities and breathtaking sights along the way. Here’s an in-depth look at what you can do along the route:
Lonavala and Khandala Sightseeing:
Bhushi Dam:
This is one of the most popular spots in Lonavala, especially during the monsoon season. The dam creates a serene environment with water flowing over the steps, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Families and friends often gather here to enjoy the cool waters and scenic surroundings.
Tiger’s Leap:
Also known as Tiger’s Point, this cliff-top offers panoramic views of the lush valleys below. The point gets its name because the cliff resembles a leaping tiger. It’s an ideal spot for photography and soaking in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
Adventure: Trekking at Rajmachi Fort:
The trek to Rajmachi Fort is a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. The trail passes through dense forests, streams, and waterfalls, offering trekkers a thrilling experience. Once at the top, the fort provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making the trek well worth the effort.
Camping at Duke’s Nose:
Duke’s Nose, named after the Duke of Wellington, resembles a pointed nose and is a popular spot for rock climbing, rappelling, and camping. The campsite offers a tranquil environment and spectacular views of the Sahyadri mountains, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls:
Explore Waterfalls: Tamhini Ghat is known for its numerous waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season. The area comes alive with huge waterfalls that create a mesmerizing sight. Popular ones include the Tamhini Waterfall and the Mulshi Waterfall. These spots are perfect for a refreshing break and a dip in the cool waters.
Photography: Capture Stunning Landscapes:
The journey through Tamhini Ghat offers endless opportunities for photography. The lush green valleys, mist-covered mountains, and vibrant nature create a perfect ambiance. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, Tamhini Ghat’s natural beauty provides the perfect location for stunning shots.
Kolad River Rafting:
Thrilling River Rafting on the Kundalika River: Kolad is famous for its river rafting adventures on the Kundalika River. The river, fed by the excess water from the nearby dams, offers excellent rapids that cater to both beginners and experienced rafters. The thrill of navigating through the turbulent waters amidst the serene surroundings makes for an unforgettable experience.
Water Sports: Kayaking and Zip-lining:
Besides river rafting, Kolad offers a variety of water sports and adventure activities. Kayaking on the calm sections of the river is a peaceful experience, allowing you to paddle at your own pace and take in the natural beauty. For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining across the river, which offers a unique perspective and a thrilling ride.
Mangaon Local Markets:
Discover Local Handicrafts: Mangaon is a small town that offers a glimpse into traditional Maharashtrian life. The local markets here are a treasure trove of handicrafts, including handmade pottery, textiles, and other artisanal products. Exploring these markets is a great way to support local artisans and take home unique souvenirs.
Cultural Experiences:
Visit Local Temples: Mangaon is home to several ancient temples that offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience the local culture. The temples are not only places of worship but also architectural marvels that reflect the rich heritage of the region.
Engage with Friendly Villagers: The villagers in Mangaon are known for their hospitality. Engaging with them provides a deeper understanding of their way of life, traditions, and customs. Whether it’s participating in a local festival or simply having a chat, the cultural exchange is enriching and memorable.
The route from Pune to Forest Hills, Tala, is dotted with exciting activities and beautiful sights that make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or someone interested in cultural experiences, this route offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, plan your stops, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip filled with scenic beauty and thrilling adventures.
List of CNG stations on the route
Finding CNG stations during your road trip can be hectic. Here is a list of CNG stations along the route that will help you plan your journey efficiently.
| Name | Location |
|---|---|
| IndianOil | Ground Floor, near Post Office |
| Bharati Madhyawarti Co-Op | # 685/3, Anant Vashant, Bibewadi Corner, Bibwewadi |
| Bharat Petroleum, Petrol Pump – Shree Sadguru Service Station | JANGLI MAHARAJ ROAD PUNE |
| Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited | S No 1160, Plot, No 535, Ganeshkhind Rd |
| Shlok Gas Agency | Shop, Street Number 1 |
| Sarshi Petroleum | Gat no 197, Bhukum, Tal. Mulshi Poud Rd |
| HP petrol pump | C948+GXH |
| AgroGas BioCNG Station, Primove Engineering Pvt. Ltd. | Grampanchayat number 924, Gat No. 271, Paud Road, Lavale Phata |
| IndianOil | Survey No 519520/5, 520/6 |
| Laxmi Petroleum & Online CNG Gas Station | At.Post Maan, Rakshe Vasti, Tal. Mulshi |
| Essar Petrol Pump | 75WG+2MH, Tala – Indapur Rd |