Tourist Traffic from Pune Unstoppable – New Rules Rolled Out for Popular Weekend Spots

Come rain or shine, Punekars just don’t stop exploring. Whether it’s the scorching heat of summer, the cool breeze of winter, or the romantic downpour of the monsoon, the travel bug seems to bite the city’s residents year-round. Especially during the rainy season, picturesque getaways around Pune turn into magnets for travelers from Pune, Mumbai, Thane, and nearby regions. But now, the rising tourist footfall and recent safety concerns have prompted the Pune District Administration to introduce a new set of rules for visiting some of the most loved local destinations.

Why the New Rules?

The changes didn’t come out of the blue. In fact, they follow a tragic incident at Kundmala in Maval taluka, where a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed this past June, claiming the lives of several unsuspecting tourists. This heartbreaking event served as a wake-up call for the administration, highlighting the risks of overcrowding and unsupervised gatherings at nature spots.

In response, officials have moved quickly to bring in regulations aimed at improving tourist safety while also protecting these delicate ecosystems from overuse.

Mandatory Online Booking at Key Destinations

To prevent overcapacity and ensure a safe experience for all, online booking is now mandatory for a growing list of popular destinations. Tourists must pre-book their visit through designated websites or apps — showing up without a valid booking could mean being turned away at the gates.

Limited Entry System in Place

Under the new rules, each location will now follow a limited entry policy. This means only a specific number of visitors will be allowed per time slot. The goal is simple: manage the crowd, reduce risks, and offer a more relaxed experience to everyone.

Here Are the Spots That Now Require Online Booking:

Sinhagad Fort

Andharban Forest Trek

Rajgad Fort

Torna Fort

Kamshet

Shivneri Fort

Madhe Ghat

Tiger Point & Lion Point (Lonavala)

Baneshwar – Nasrapur

Tikona Fort

Kadambanwadi Grasslands

Shirsufal Grasslands

Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary

Tamhini Ghat

Milkybar Waterfall

Naneghat Pass

Bhushi Dam

Kanheri

Mountain routes in the Karjat region

Certain waterfalls in the Lonavala region

Pavana Dam

Visapur Fort

This list includes everything from historic forts and scenic hilltops to waterfalls and bird sanctuaries — basically, all the weekend favorites.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Before you pack your bags and head out, make sure to book your slot online. Entry will be restricted to those with confirmed bookings, and officials are urging people not to make spontaneous plans to these locations without prior registration. The move is not just about control — it’s also about creating a better, safer, and more organized experience for everyone involved.

Nature around Pune is undeniably stunning, and the urge to get out of the city is stronger than ever — especially during monsoons. But safety and sustainability now take center stage. With these new rules in place, tourists can expect a more structured and enjoyable visit, while local authorities can ensure better management and protection of these beloved destinations. So go ahead, keep exploring — just don’t forget to click that “Book Now” button before you hit the road.