Cycling Routes Around Pune: Explore Nature On Two Wheels 🚴‍♂️

🌄 Introduction

Craving fresh air, beautiful views, and a touch of adventure? Finding Cycling Routes Around Pune!. Pune is a cyclist’s dream come true. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri hills and dotted with scenic trails, the city offers a variety of routes that take you through serene countryside, vibrant farmlands, forest patches, riverside stretches, and challenging hill climbs. Whether you’re an early riser looking for a short morning ride to start your day on a high note or a weekend warrior planning a long-distance escape into nature, Pune and its surroundings cater to every cycling enthusiast’s craving.

Cycling is more than just a fitness activity—it’s a lifestyle that brings together community, sustainability, exploration, and well-being. Pune has also seen a surge in cycling groups, weekend marathons, and events like the Tour de Pune and critical mass rides, creating a thriving community of enthusiasts. Let’s dive into some of the most scenic, popular, and rewarding cycling routes around Pune. These trails are perfect for fitness freaks, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and even families looking to bond over a shared activity.

🛤️ 1. Pashan – Sus Road – NDA Loop

Distance: ~25 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Why Ride? This beginner-friendly loop mixes light urban traffic with stretches of greenery, offering a refreshing start to your cycling journey. The NDA (National Defence Academy) road is well-maintained, relatively traffic-free in the mornings, and shaded with large trees. Along the way, you’ll encounter the scenic backdrop of the Khadakwasla backwaters, especially stunning during monsoons. For those new to the area, consider pausing at the NDA Viewpoint for a photo op or stopping by the small roadside stalls near Sus Gaon for a quick chai and snack. It’s a popular choice for morning riders looking for a quick yet rewarding workout.

🌳 2. Pune – Sinhagad Fort Base

Distance: ~30 km one way
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Why Ride? For history buffs and climbing lovers, this route offers both physical challenge and cultural immersion. The journey passes the famous Khadakwasla Dam and leads you through winding roads, rustic villages, and lush green landscapes. As you approach Sinhagad Fort, expect steep ascents that will test your endurance. The base of the fort makes a great resting spot where you can enjoy local snacks like kanda bhaji and curd. If you’re up for it, park your cycle and trek to the top!

🏞️ 3. Pune – Lavasa

Distance: ~50–60 km one way
Difficulty: Difficult
Why Ride? Considered a rite of passage among Pune’s cycling community, the Lavasa route is a stunning endurance ride that winds through curvy ghats, dense forests, and mist-covered hills. The route begins with gentle slopes but quickly intensifies into steep climbs and sharp hairpin turns. The road conditions are generally good, though occasional patches may be rough. Riders should be cautious during the monsoon season, as the ghats often get foggy and slippery, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents. For the best experience, try this ride during the post-monsoon or winter months (October to February), when the weather is cooler and the views are clear. Once you reach Lavasa city, you’ll be greeted with European-style architecture, lakeside views, and cafés where you can rest and refuel before heading back.

🌾 4. Pune – Mulshi Dam

Distance: ~45–50 km one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Why Ride? This route is ideal for those seeking peace and nature’s embrace. Passing through Pirangut and Paud, the road is lined with farmlands, local markets, and rolling hills. It’s especially beautiful during and after the monsoon season when the landscape turns lush green and the dam’s water level rises. There are several spots en route to stop for chai, snacks, or a quick picnic. This ride strikes a balance between endurance and enjoyment.

🌿 5. Baner – Pashan Lake – Aundh Greenway

Distance: ~10–15 km
Difficulty: Easy
Why Ride? Short on time? This urban loop is ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed weekday ride. Starting from Baner, ride past the scenic Pashan Lake and connect with Aundh’s well-designed greenway. This route is flat, traffic-light during mornings, and shaded in parts. It’s also great for family rides or post-work fitness sessions. Stop at the lakeside promenade for some quiet reflection or bird watching.

🌺 Bonus Route: Pune – Bopdev Ghat – Saswad

Distance: ~35–40 km one way
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Why Ride? Less explored but increasingly popular among seasoned cyclists, this route takes you from the city outskirts to the historical town of Saswad via Bopdev Ghat. Expect sharp climbs followed by a thrilling descent into open plateaus. The panoramic views of surrounding hills and valleys are breathtaking, and the early morning mist makes the ride truly magical. Great for building endurance and experiencing rural Maharashtra’s charm.

🚵 Tips for Safe & Fun Cycling

To make your rides enjoyable and safe, keep these essentials in mind:

🕕 Start early to avoid heat and heavy traffic
🪖 Always wear a certified helmet and visible clothing
💧 Carry a refillable water bottle, energy snacks, and electrolyte tablets
🛠️ Keep a basic tool kit, spare tube, and air pump with you
👥 Ride in groups, especially on long or remote routes
📱 Use a cycling app like Strava or Komoot to track your route
🔦 Equip your cycle with front and rear lights if riding pre-dawn or after dusk
☎️ Let a friend or family member know your planned route
🌦️ Check the weather forecast before heading out and dress appropriately—wear layers in winter and waterproof gear during monsoon to stay comfortable and safe

🌟 Final Thoughts

Cycling around Pune offers a unique blend of adventure, fitness, and connection with nature. The diverse terrain ensures that no two rides are the same—from tranquil lakeside loops to rigorous hill climbs that challenge your stamina and reward you with unforgettable views.

Whether you’re cruising through the Pashan greenways, climbing toward Lavasa, or enjoying a family ride around Pashan Lake, cycling is one of the most eco-friendly, healthy, and immersive ways to explore the region. Plus, with a growing community of cyclists in Pune, you’ll never ride alone for long.

So, pump your tires, wear that helmet with pride, and hit the road. Pune’s cycling trails are calling—one pedal stroke at a time. Share your favorite route or cycling photo with us on social media using #CyclingPune and tag @puneripages to be featured!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a special bike to ride these routes?
No, but it’s recommended to use a hybrid or mountain bike for better handling on uneven roads and ghats. Road bikes work well on smoother, flat trails like the Aundh Greenway.

2. Are these cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Routes like the Pashan-NDA Loop and Baner–Aundh Greenway are great for beginners. Start with easier trails and gradually progress to more challenging ones like Lavasa or Sinhagad.

3. Is it safe to cycle early in the morning or alone?
Early mornings are generally safe and pleasant for cycling. However, for remote or ghat routes, it’s advisable to ride in groups, inform someone of your route, and carry a phone and basic safety gear.

4. When is the best time of year to cycle in and around Pune?
Post-monsoon to early winter (October to February) is ideal due to cooler temperatures and clear views. Avoid peak monsoon season on hilly routes due to slippery roads and low visibility.

5. Are there any cycling communities or clubs in Pune I can join?
Absolutely! Pune has several active cycling groups like Pune Cycle Pratishthan, Cyclop, and local WhatsApp and Strava groups that regularly organize group rides and events.