Sacred Journeys: Religious Pilgrimage Sites Near Pune
Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is not just known for its educational institutions and IT hubs—it also serves as a spiritual gateway to several renowned religious pilgrimage destinations. From hilltop shrines to riverside temples, the areas surrounding Pune are rich in history, devotion, and tradition. Whether you’re looking for spiritual solace, cultural exploration, or simply a weekend getaway, these sacred sites promise an unforgettable journey of faith.
Shirdi – Home of Sai Baba
Distance from Pune: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours by road
Shirdi is one of the most visited pilgrimage centers in India. It is the spiritual home of Sai Baba, a revered saint whose teachings of love, compassion, and unity still guide millions today. The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is the main attraction, drawing devotees from across the globe.
Key Attractions:
- Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir
- Dwarkamai (Sai Baba’s mosque)
- Chavadi (where Sai Baba rested)
- Sai Heritage Village
The aura of devotion and discipline here offers a peaceful experience. Weekdays are best for a quieter visit.
Alandi – Sant Dnyaneshwar’s Holy Town
Distance from Pune: 20 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes
Alandi holds immense religious significance as the resting place of Sant Dnyaneshwar, a 13th-century Marathi saint and poet who composed the Dnyaneshwari—a revered commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. Devotees flock to his samadhi temple located on the banks of the Indrayani River.
Highlights:
- Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Samadhi
- Alandi Ghat
- Annual Wari Procession to Pandharpur
This town transforms into a vibrant spiritual hub during the Wari yatra months of June and July.
Dehu – The Land of Sant Tukaram
Distance from Pune: 30 km
Travel Time: Around 1 hour
Dehu is known as the birthplace of Sant Tukaram, a saint-poet of the Bhakti movement whose devotional poems, known as Abhangas, are sung in every corner of Maharashtra. The Tukaram Maharaj Samadhi and Gatha Mandir are prime attractions.
Highlights:
- Tukaram Maharaj Samadhi
- Gatha Mandir
- Indrayani River Ghats
Dehu and Alandi together form two of the most culturally significant spiritual stops near Pune.
Pandharpur – Vitthal-Rukmini Temple
Distance from Pune: Approximately 210 km
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
Known as the spiritual heart of Maharashtra, Pandharpur is home to Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini. It is especially famous for the Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage when lakhs of devotees walk barefoot from Alandi and Dehu to Pandharpur, singing and chanting in devotion.
Key Attractions:
- Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir
- Chandrabhaga River Ghats
- Ashadi and Kartiki Yatras
It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to witness devotional energy at its peak.
Jejuri – Khandoba Temple
Distance from Pune: 50 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Perched on a hill, Jejuri is home to the temple of Lord Khandoba, a popular deity in Maharashtra. The temple is unique for its celebration using turmeric powder, where devotees cover the premises in yellow as a sign of devotion and joy.
Highlights:
- Hilltop Khandoba Temple
- Bhandara Festival (turmeric shower)
- Local vendors selling puja items
Visit during a festival to witness the golden spectacle of thousands throwing turmeric in the air.
Bhuleshwar Temple – A Hidden Shiva Gem
Distance from Pune: 45 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Located near Yavat on a hilltop, the Bhuleshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates back to the 13th century. What makes it stand out is its Islamic-influenced architecture, which is unusual for a Hindu temple.
Key Features:
- Intricate black stone carvings
- Calm surroundings and scenic views
- Photography and meditation-friendly location
It’s an ideal spiritual retreat for those who also appreciate architecture and solitude.
Parvati Hill Temples – Within Pune
Location: Centrally located in Pune
For those seeking a spiritual touch without leaving the city, Parvati Hill offers a group of ancient temples dedicated to deities like Lord Shiva, Ganesh, and Kartikeya. It is one of the oldest heritage structures in Pune.
Main Attractions:
- Shiva and Kartikeya temples
- Peshwa Museum
- Panoramic view of the entire city
Climb the 100+ steps early in the morning for a peaceful start to your day.
Ashtavinayak Yatra – Eight Sacred Ganpati Temples
Distance from Pune (Round trip): Approx. 700 km
Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
The Ashtavinayak Yatra includes eight Ganesha temples scattered across Maharashtra. Starting from Pune, one can visit them all in a well-planned weekend road trip.
The Eight Temples:
- Mayureshwar (Morgaon)
- Siddhivinayak (Siddhatek)
- Ballaleshwar (Pali)
- Varad Vinayak (Mahad)
- Chintamani (Theur)
- Girijatmaj (Lenyadri)
- Vighnahar (Ozar)
- Mahaganapati (Ranjangaon)
Each temple has its own legend and significance, making the pilgrimage deeply enriching—especially when you choose a reliable Pune to Ashtavinayak temples pickup and drop cab service for a hassle-free spiritual journey.
Trimbakeshwar – Jyotirlinga Near Nashik
Distance from Pune: 210 km
Travel Time: Around 5 hours
Trimbakeshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located near the origin of the Godavari River, it is a major center for Hindu rituals, including shraddha and pitru paksha ceremonies.
Highlights:
- Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
- Ancient architecture and rituals
- Close to Nashik’s Panchavati area
Combine your visit with a spiritual walk around the Godavari riverbanks.
Bhimashankar – Forest Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva
Distance from Pune: 110 km
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
Tucked into the lush green Sahyadri hills, Bhimashankar is another Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s perfect for those who seek both devotion and nature. The nearby wildlife sanctuary is home to rare species like the Indian Giant Squirrel.
Main Attractions:
- Bhimashankar Temple (Jyotirlinga)
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Monsoon treks and forest trails
Visit during monsoon or winter for an unforgettable nature-spiritual combination.
Travel Tips for Pilgrimage Tours Around Pune
- Start early in the morning to avoid heat and traffic
- Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends and festival days
- Always carry water, snacks, and a small towel for temple visits
- Dress conservatively and follow temple protocols
- Local guides can enhance your spiritual experience with historical context
Why These Pilgrimage Spots Near Pune Are Worth the Journey
The spiritual heritage around Pune is vast and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re walking alongside Warkaris to Pandharpur, seeking inner peace at Bhimashankar, or simply absorbing the tranquil energy of Parvati Hill, these destinations offer more than rituals—they offer deep connection, cultural richness, and timeless wisdom.
Each temple and sacred site tells a story, invites introspection, and welcomes you into a centuries-old tradition of faith. And with so many holy places just a few hours away, planning a comfortable and convenient trip becomes easier when you book through the best car rental agency in Pune.
So, when you’re ready to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with something divine, these religious places near Pune are just a short journey away.
