Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is an interesting tourist place with magnificent forts, museums, dams, mountains, nightlife and much more to explore, for tourists of all ages. In this article we list the top tourist places to visit in Pune and things to do.
Pune is a charming city where modernity and tradition co-exist. Pune has a rich culture and a cosmopolitan edge due to its IT industry. The merging of the past and the present adds to the city’s beauty, making it an attractive tourist destination. With several cultural, historical and adventurous places to visit, a trip to Pune has a lot of attractions for families and friends. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Pune.
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Places to visit in Pune: Aga Khan Palace
The Aga Khan Palace was constructed in 1892 under the patronage of Sultan Mohammed Shah, Aga Khan III, on 19 acres of land in the Yerwada area of Pune. The palace, with its stunning architecture, is one of the most famous places to visit in Pune. It is an important landmark in Indian history, instrumental in India’s independence. The palace, also known as the Gandhi National Museum, functioned as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi, his secretary Mahadev Desai and Sarojini Naidu. In 1969, prince Karim al-Husseini, Aga Khan IV, donated the palace to the Indian government, in memory of Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy.
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Famous tourist places in Pune: Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada, a famous tourist place located in the heart of Pune city, was the headquarters of the Peshwas. It was built in 1736 by Bajirao Peshwa, as a residence for the Peshwas. Shaniwar Wada is a stately mansion with intricate carvings and exquisite designs by Maratha artisans. Shaniwar Wada has a 21-ft-tall main door, facing the north. The famous, Dilli Darwaza, or Delhi Gate, is one of the gates of the fort. Another prominent gate is the Mastani Darwaza, believed to have been exclusively used by Bajirao’s second wife, Mastani. A lotus-shaped fountain is an attractive feature of this Wada. In 1827, a fire broke out, burning down the entire palace, except the Mirror Hall. The remnants include a fortification wall with five gates and nine bastions, enclosing the entire complex, platforms and foundations. A light and music show is conducted inside the Shaniwar Wada fort that brings alive the bygone era of the Peshwas.
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Places to visit in Pune: Shivneri Fort
Shivneri Fort is famous as the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha empire. Shivneri Fort in Pune is a well-known historical, military fortification with 400 steps to reach the top. Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood in the Fort and was trained in military combat. The1.6-km-long fort is shaped like an arrow pointing towards the north. The centre of the fort has a small pond – Badami Talav – with statues of Shivaji Maharaj and his mother, Jijabai. The fort also has two freshwater springs – Ganga and Yamuna.
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Tourist place in Pune: National Film Archives Museum
The National Film Archive Museum at Pune has the largest collection of films in Asia and is a must-visit tourist place in Pune for cinema lovers. Set up in 1964, the museum showcases some of the rarest classical movies from across the world. Every year, the library adds new titles that are not available in the open market. The National Film Archive Museum in Pune has the prints of the first films of the world and India. National Film Archive Museum helps research scholars and students of film studies research Indian films and personalities. The museum’s collection includes 14,678 books related to films and the film industry, 14,264 scripts of various films, 10,304 films, 214 regular film periodicals, 5,658 pamphlets, 55,406 photographs, 5,131 wall posters, 1,752 disc records and 31 audio tapes.
Places to visit in Pune: Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
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Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, maintained by the Department of Archaeology, government of Maharashtra, is one of the popular sightseeing places to visit in Pune. Kelkar Museum was established by Baba Dinkar Kelkar in 1962. It has on display nearly 25,000 items from different parts of the world, which were collected by Baba Kelkar. An interesting collection of musical instruments, Mughal lamps, paintings and other antiques, paintings on scenes from the Ramayana, nutcrackers, carved palace doors, terracotta, copper and brassware are some of the items from the 18th and 19th centuries, displayed here. One of the most attractive features of the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is the replica of the Mastani Mahal, originally built in 1734. This room, with its luxurious décor and grand chandeliers, presents a setting similar to the palace.
Places to visit in Pune: Sinhagad Fort
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Sinhagad means Lion’s Fort. One of the most famous places to visit, Sinhagad is situated on a hill among the Sahyadri Mountains. Parts of this magnificent fort are in ruins but the fort still attracts trekking enthusiasts. Also famous as the Kondana Fort, it has witnessed several battles, including the 1670 Battle of Sinhagad. About 25 kms from Pune, on a clear day, the forts of Torna, Rajgad and Purandar are visible from Sinhagad Fort. The fortress includes a display of several monoliths of the most efficient safe-keepers, such as Tanaji Malusare of the Shivaji Maharaj era. Near the Sinhagad Fort, trekkers also go bird-watching at the stream. Crested treeswifts, serpent eagle, sunbirds and several other species of birds, can be spotted here.
Places to visit in Pune: Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati temple is an iconic landmark in Pune, famous for ‘ichhapurti Ganesh’, i.e., one who fulfils wishes. The temple was built 125 years ago by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai (a sweet maker) and his wife, Lakshmibai. The huge Ganesh idol is visible right from the outside. It is 7.5 ft tall, 4 ft wide and is adorned with nearly 8 kilos of gold and is a glittering sight to behold. According to the trust’s 2017-18 audit report, the total property is valued at Rs 66.91 crores.
Places to visit in Pune: The National War Museum
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Pune has an army base. So, for tourists interested in the history of Indian defence, the National War Memorial Southern Command in Pune is a must-visit. It commemorates the stories and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. The Memorial was built under the Express Citizen Forum, which established the War Memorial Fund. Situated in Pune Cantonment, the museum was built in 1997. The most important display here is the MIG 23 BN, which was used in the Kargil War. Also worth seeing is the replica of the INS Trishul warship that was used during the Portuguese-Indian war. There are various galleries, displaying the details of battles and commemorating the lives of soldiers who fought for the country.
Places to visit in the Pune: Mulshi Dam
Tourists who wish to enjoy picturesque nature, must visit Mulshi Dam in Pune. Surrounded by the deep forests of the Sahyadri ranges, Mulshi Dam is among the most visited places in Pune, especially during the monsoon. The lake has different activities like camping, bird-watching and trekking. The dam’s water is used for irrigation and hydroelectric power.
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Famous place in Pune to visit: Lal Mahal
Built in 1630 AD by Shri Shahaji Bhosale, father of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Lal Mahal is one of the most famous places in Pune. Shivaji spent a significant part of his childhood here and later, had the famous encounter with Shaista Khan where the Maratha leader cut off the latter’s finger when he was trying to escape. The palace serves as a memorial to Shivaji and has several paintings depicting various episodes of his life.
Tourist places to visit near Pune
- A tourist can visit many popular places near Pune for their scenic beauty and green lands. Lonavala, Khandala and Lavasa are popular among tourists who prefer hill stations.
- At a distance of 54 kms from Pune, Rajgad is an ancient hill fort that is a top tourist place in Pune and a popular place for trekking in Maharashtra.
Karla Caves
Bhaja Caves
- Another place to visit near Pune is Karla, which has waterfalls, monasteries, beautiful temples and magnificent hills. Bhaja and Karla Cave are worth visiting. The Bhaja caves are believed to date back to the Hinaya Phase of Buddhism, between the 2nd to 1st century BC. The Karla caves are said to be the largest Hinayana Buddhist chaitya (temple) in India. Karla caves are one of the most famous Buddhist rock-cut cave sites in India with only 15 caves inside.
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- For adventure-loving tourists, Kamshet is a must-visit place for paragliding. There are several paragliding schools for beginners to learn the sport.
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Top things to do in Pune
A tourist can enjoy various exciting activities such as trekking, camping or having a picnic in the garden, besides visiting cafés, restaurants and pubs.
Trip to Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill, at 2100 ft, is the highest point in Pune. It offers a breath-taking, panoramic view of the city. Getting to the hilltop requires a 103-step climb. It also has the ancient Devdeveshwar Temple, which is over 250 years old. At the top of the hill, you can also get a taste of history in the Peshwa Museum or offer prayers at the Parvati Temple.
Kalsubai trekking
The Kalsubai trek involves the highest peak in Maharashtra, famous for its natural habitat and spellbinding views. While you enjoy the Kalsubai sunrise trek, you can also visit the Kalsubai temple, which is surrounded by greenery.
Water sports at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake, located on the old Mumbai-Pune Highway, is a must-visit camping place near Pune. This artificial lake was created from the waters of the Pawna Dam. Here, you can enjoy water sports like kayaking, boating and rafting.
Relax at Okayama Friendship Garden
Okayama Friendship Garden is the largest Japanese garden in India, spread over an area of 10 acres. It has exotic flowers, ponds, artificial hills, lawns and forests and a meandering stream. This Japanese garden was named after Pu La Deshpande, a well-known Marathi writer. This is an ideal relaxing place in Pune, which attracts tourists and locals.
Meditation at Osho Ashram
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The Osho International Meditation Resort is a meditation centre in northern Pune. It attracts a large number of meditators from all across the globe. The Osho Ashram is open only to its members. You need to buy a one-day pass, if you are not a member, to visit the premises. The ashram is one of the most serene places to visit in Pune and offers a variety of meditation programs that focus on spiritual living and a stress-free lifestyle.
Enjoy the nightlife in Pune
Pune has emerged as one of the best cities to live in. With a young population of students, Pune has spots that are active and vibrant in the after-hours. It has pubs and clubs to enjoy the nightlife of the city. From high-end bars and classy breweries to vibrant nightclubs, the city has everything.
Shopping in Pune
Pune is a paradise for shopaholics. Tourists can shop for Paithani sarees, Maharashtrian nose rings, Kolhapuri chappals, silver, brassware and many more things. There are several malls, as well as street-side shops in Pune.
One of the most famous and always crowded markets, is the Hong Kong Lane market with several small shops and stores selling imported items. You can get affordable clothes, fashion jewellery, perfumes, footwear and cosmetics. Indulge in shopping at Koregaon Park, which has several shops for show gowns and chappals. Other street shopping areas are Fashion Street, Tulsi Bauga and Fergusson College Road market. Phoenix Market City, Pune Seasons Mall and Pune Central Mall are worth visiting.
Must-have food in Pune
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Despite its modernisation, Pune’s culinary scene retains the old taste and flavour. Pune has a variety of cuisines for tourists but Maharashtrian food is a must-have here. Do not miss the spicy missal pav (sprouts curry topped with onion and farsan), dabheli, vada pav and sabudana khichdi. Also, enjoy crunchy Shrewsbury biscuits of Pune made with loads of butter and sugar. Take back some traditional bhakarwadi, puran poli and varieties of chiwda and chikki for friends and family.
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FAQs
What is the best time to visit Pune?
A tourist can visit Pune in monsoons and winters. The months from July to February are ideal, when the weather remains cool and pleasant in this sprawling city of Maharashtra.
Which is the place to visit in Pune with friends?
Pune has cafés, nightclubs, bars, amusement parks, water parks, popular tourist attractions such as Aga Khan Palace and various forts for those who love trekking with friends.
How can I commute within Pune?
Auto-rickshaws are the most popular option in Pune. Buses, local transport and private transport are also easily available.
Purnima Goswami Sharma is a freelance writer based in Mumbai, who has been contributing to various newspapers, magazines and portals for the last two decades. Besides being a research writer for various TV shows, she has been a visiting faculty at SNDT for Communication Skills. She hold a master’s degree in English Literature from Mumbai University and a diploma in Communications and Journalism. She writes on diverse subjects like real estate, interiors, education, lifestyle, health, entertainment and environment.
Email: [email protected]
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