Best Places to Visit in Junnar, Pune, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Places to Visit in Junnar, Pune, Maharashtra

Junnar, located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, is a historic town nestled in the Sahyadri hills, rich in ancient caves, forts, temples, and wildlife experiences. It is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and has deep roots in Maratha and Buddhist history. It’s perfect for weekend getaways, spiritual visits, and offbeat adventures.

Best Places to Visit in Junnar, Maharashtra:

 1. Lenyadri Caves (Ganesh Lena)

• Highlight: 1 of the 8 Ashtavinayak Ganesh temples, inside a Buddhist rock-cut cave

• Why Visit: Combination of religious and archaeological significance

• Features: 283 rock-cut steps, scenic views of the valley

• Best Time: Early morning for cool weather and fewer crowds

 2. Shivneri Fort

• Highlight: Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

• Why Visit: Historic fort with beautiful gates, statues, temples, and a water system

• Trek Level: Easy to moderate

• Must-See: Shivkund (water tank), Shiva temple, and Shivaji Maharaj’s birth spot

 3. Vigneshwara Temple, Ozar (Ashtavinayak)

• Distance: ~10 km from Junnar

• Why Visit: Another Ashtavinayak Ganpati temple on the banks of Kukadi River

• Tip: Visit Ozar and Lenyadri in one trip

 4. Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Center (Junnar Wildlife Division)

• Why Visit: See rescued leopards up close and learn about their conservation

• Great For: Families and wildlife lovers

• Tip: Closed on Wednesdays; combine with a trip to Lenyadri

 5. Naneghat Pass

• Distance: ~30 km from Junnar

• Highlight: Ancient trade route pass with stone inscriptions from the Satavahana era

• Why Visit: Scenic trek, monsoon beauty, historical caves

• Trek Level: Moderate (popular for night trekking too)

 6. Kukadi River & Dam

• Why Visit: Peaceful picnic spot with greenery, perfect for unwinding

• Nearby: Scenic farms and rural drives through the valley

 7. Harishchandragad Fort (via Khireshwar or Pachnai)

• Distance: ~45 km from Junnar

• Highlight: Popular trekking destination with Konkan Kada cliff

• Why Visit: Breathtaking views, caves, temples, and adventure

 8. Malshej Ghat

• Distance: ~30 km from Junnar

• Best Time: Monsoon season (June–Sept)

• Why Visit: Lush green mountains, waterfalls, and flamingo sightings

 Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Monsoon (June–Sept) for waterfalls and trekking

  • Winter (Oct–Feb) for pleasant weather and sightseeing

• What to Try: Local Maharashtrian food – pithla-bhakri, kanda bhaji, missal, and seasonal guavas and grapes

• Getting There:

  • Nearest railhead: Pune (~90 km)

  • Well connected by road from Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik