Pune to Satara Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Pune to Satara? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 115km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Pune to Satara
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 2h 45m | ₹1,098 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹131 – ₹371 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹164 – ₹1,270 |
How to Travel: Pune to Satara
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 115km journey, driving is your best option. The 2h 45m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Pune
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Vada Pav - A popular street food snack consisting of a potato patty in a bun (try it at Garden Vada Pav Centre).
- local_dining Misal Pav - A spicy lentil curry served with bread (try it at Bedekar Misal).
- local_dining Puran Poli - A sweet flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery (try it at a local sweet shop during festivals).
Vaishali • Shivaji Nagar
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Pune to Satara route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Pimpri-Chinchwad
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a charming hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Known as the strawberry capital of India, it offers breathtaking viewpoints, lush green landscapes, and a serene escape from city life.
attractions Top Attractions
Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat is one of the most famous viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Savitri River. It's known for its unique geological formation and the echoing effect.
Venna Lake
Venna Lake is a scenic artificial lake surrounded by lush greenery. It's a popular spot for boating, horse riding, and enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Mapro Garden
Mapro Garden is a popular tourist attraction known for its strawberry products, including jams, syrups, and crushes. It also features a chocolate factory, a restaurant, and a beautiful garden.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Strawberries with Cream - Fresh strawberries served with whipped cream, a Mahabaleshwar specialty (try at Mapro Garden).
Lonavala
Lonavala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghats. Known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and historical forts, it's a favorite weekend escape, especially during the monsoon season.
attractions Top Attractions
Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. These ancient Buddhist caves feature intricate carvings and a large chaityagriha (prayer hall).
Karla Caves
The Karla Caves are one of the largest and best-preserved Buddhist cave complexes in India. The main cave features a massive chaitya hall with intricate carvings and a vaulted ceiling.
Bhushi Dam
Bhushi Dam is a popular attraction where visitors can enjoy the overflowing water during the monsoon season. The dam creates a cascading waterfall effect, making it a fun and refreshing experience.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chikki - a traditional sweet made of nuts and jaggery (try at Maganlal Chikki Mart)
Top Attractions in Satara: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Satara, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Ajinkyatara Fort
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 06:00-18:00 dailyAjinkyatara Fort is a historical fort overlooking Satara city. It was an important strategic location during the Maratha Empire.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better views.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views. Hire a local guide to learn about the fort's history and significance.
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Kaas Plateau (Valley of Flowers)
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹100 per person • 🕐 09:00-18:00 daily (September-October only)The Kaas Plateau, also known as the Valley of Flowers, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a biodiversity hotspot, especially famous for its seasonal wildflowers.
Best Time to Visit: September to October when the flowers are in full bloom.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Carry a good camera to capture the beauty of the flowers.
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Thoseghar Waterfalls
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹30 per person • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyThoseghar Waterfalls is a scenic waterfall cascading down a cliff. It is a popular spot for picnics and nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit: During the monsoon season (July-September) for the most impressive waterfalls.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Combine your visit with a trip to the Kaas Plateau.
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Sajjangad Fort
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:00-21:00 dailySajjangad Fort is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Sant Ramdas Swami, a spiritual guru. It is a peaceful and serene place.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year.
💡 Insider Tip: Attend the morning or evening prayers for a peaceful experience. Try the mahaprasad (community meal) served at the fort.
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Char Bhinti
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursChar Bhinti is a historical monument consisting of four walls. It was built to provide shelter during times of war.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for better lighting and fewer crowds.
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Shri Uttar Chidambaram Temple
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-20:00 dailyShri Uttar Chidambaram Temple is dedicated to Lord Nataraja. It's a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during festivals for a more vibrant experience.
Where to Eat in Satara: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Satara
Don't leave Satara without tasting these local specialties:
- Kandi Pedhe - A local sweet made from milk and sugar (try at local sweet shops).
- Misal Pav - A spicy lentil curry served with bread (try at local restaurants).
- Bharli Vangi - Stuffed eggplant curry (try at Marathi restaurants).
- Pithla Bhakri - A traditional dish made from gram flour and served with flatbread (try at local eateries).
Recommended Restaurants in Satara
Hotel Pooja International
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken, Veg Manchurian
A popular restaurant with a wide variety of dishes. Known for its good service and comfortable atmosphere.
📍 Satara City Center
Hotel Natraj
South Indian • ₹ (₹300-400 for two)
Specialty: Dosa, Idli
A great place for a quick and affordable South Indian meal. The food is fresh and tasty.
📍 Near the bus stand
Hotel Abhiruchi
Maharashtrian • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Thali
Offers authentic Maharashtrian cuisine in a traditional setting. Try the thali for a complete culinary experience.
📍 Near Ajinkyatara Fort Road
Sai Krupa Garden Restaurant
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: Paneer Tikka, Noodles
Offers a pleasant outdoor dining experience. The food is good and the service is friendly.
📍 Near Thoseghar Waterfalls
Where to Stay in Satara: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Preeti Executive
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Satara City Center
A decent budget option with clean rooms and basic amenities. It's conveniently located near the bus stand and railway station.
Hotel Radhika Palace
Price: ₹900-1300/night
Location: Near Ajinkyatara Fort Road
Offers simple rooms and essential facilities. It's a good base for exploring the nearby attractions.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Mahendra Excellency
Price: ₹1500-2500/night
Location: Satara City Center
Offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It has an on-site restaurant and provides good service.
Hotel Nakshatra
Price: ₹1800-2800/night
Location: Near the highway
Features well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and banquet facilities. It's a convenient option for travelers.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Fern Residency Satara
Price: ₹3500+/night
Location: Satara City Center
A luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a multi-cuisine restaurant. Offers excellent service and amenities.
Hotel Lake Paradise
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: Near Kaas Plateau
Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It has luxurious rooms, a restaurant, and a spa.
Best Time to Travel from Pune to Satara
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Satara:
Best Time: September to February
Temperature: 15-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies and comfortable temperatures make it perfect for exploring forts and the Kaas Plateau.
Why Visit: The Kaas Plateau is in full bloom during September and October, creating a vibrant carpet of wildflowers. The weather is also ideal for trekking and exploring historical sites. This is the best time for photography and enjoying the natural beauty.
Important Note: Expect moderate crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.
Shoulder Season: March to May
Temperature: 25-38 degrees C
Weather: Hot and dry weather, with temperatures rising significantly. While not ideal for strenuous outdoor activities, the landscapes are still beautiful.
Why Visit: Fewer crowds compared to the peak season. You can still visit the forts and enjoy the views, but be prepared for the heat. Prices for accommodations might be slightly lower.
Important Note: Carry water and wear light clothing. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
Avoid: June to August
Temperature: 22-28 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The region receives substantial rainfall, making trekking difficult and some roads inaccessible.
Why Visit: The heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. Some attractions might be temporarily closed due to the weather. Visibility can be poor due to fog and mist.
Important Note: If you must visit during this time, check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling. Pack rain gear and be prepared for delays.
Practical Travel Tips for Satara
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are readily available in Satara city.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions. Cards are accepted at larger establishments.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid stomach problems.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.
Common Health Issues: Carry basic medications for common ailments like fever, cold, and diarrhea.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good network coverage. Sim cards are available at local stores with proper identification.
WiFi Availability: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Wear comfortable and breathable clothing, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pune to Satara
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