Al fresco meal, garden party, clambake, or fete champetre - a picnic is known around the world with many names. But the outdoorsy fun, food and games of a leisurely picnic day remain the same everywhere. So on this picnic day plan your own "fete champetre" in the best spots in Pune. And do not forget to take all the essentials needed to make this day perfect.
Okayama Friendship Garden-
Also known as the Pu La Deshpande Udyan, this garden is a replica of Japan's Koraku-en Garden. This spot is a perfect place for a recreation with it's naturally flowing canal, a small bridge and a beautiful green coverage that spreads across the whole garden. A Mughal garden inspired foliage has also been added, giving the visitors an experience of two different landscapes at once.
Empress Botanical Garden-
This is a place which has everything for a big family picnic. For the older members, there is a Nana-Nani Park which is apt for a leisurely walk. While for the little ones there are all kinds of fun starting from horse-riding to trampoline and toy train ride around the park. And as a keepsake for the memorable day you spent in the garden, you can also take some plants and gardening tools from their shop.
In January, the Empress Botanical Garden arranges their annual flower show with displays of many unique blooms.
Shantivan-
Located on the banks of Khadkwasla lake, Shantivan is a perfect spot for a one day picnic, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Pune city. With view of the lake right in front of you, this place is filled with both cozy and fun activities. Their rope climbing and ropeway bridge are some of the fun activities that can add quite a thrill to your picnic day.
Apart from picnics, Shantivan is also a quite popular destination for festivities such as birthday, school outings, anniversaries and even marriages.
Kamshet-
Kamshet is located in the Pune countryside, and is known as the 'Paragliding capital India'- this says it all about one of the most favorite picnic spot of Punekars. With green hills that touch clouds, Kamshet is one of the best places to spend monsoon picnic day. Surrounded by the gorgeous Western Ghats, this place is a go-to destination for both nature and adventure lovers.
Kamshet is quite near to Lonavala, so you could plan a picnic day in Kamshet and then go for trekking in Lonavala.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park-
A park with abundance plant and wild-life, it offers a picnic grounded in the beauty of the nature. Along with it's beautiful green coverage, the park's white tiger and Asiatic lions are a fan favorite attraction for sure. Apart from that, it is also a great place for a picnic play date with kids, since they also have educational programs on wild-life conservation.
To make a picnic successful, the important things are: a beautiful view and all the essentials you will need to spend a comfortable day outside.
And the these essentials include-
- Use and throw utensils like paper plates, cups, spoons and forks.
- A trash bag to stow away these utensils once used and other wrappers, to avoid littering these beautiful places of nature.
- Bugs and mosquito repellent body lotion, cream or sprays to not attract the creepy crawlies.
- A first aid box, in case of injuries.
- Pack the food in proper containers to avoid any potential spoilage.
- Sunscreen to slather on your skin and protect yourself from the harsh Sun.
- Water and beverages to hydrate throughout the day.
- Board games and also outdoor games are a must for picnic
- A picnic blanket to sit on.
- A change of clothes if there are water bodies nearby and you want to go for a swim.
- A big picnic basket or bag to carry all these essentials in.
Pune is a place that is blessed with nature and beautiful landscapes. So, take advantage of your opportunity and spend a picnic date in this green lush city, surrounded by flora and fauna.
And also let us know in the comments about your personal favorite picnic spot.
Monsoon making you want to go trekking? Here are the best trekking spots in Pune.