Pune is a city located in the western state of Maharashtra, India. It is known as the “cultural capital” of Maharashtra and is one of the fastest growing cities in India. Pune has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, when it was a center of the Maratha Empire. The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Pune, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), and the National Defense Academy. This has led to a large student population and a diverse, cosmopolitan culture.
Pune is also known for its vibrant nightlife and a diverse range of dining options. The city has a wide variety of street food, cafes, and restaurants, serving everything from local Maharashtrian cuisine to international dishes. The city is also known for its beautiful gardens and parks, including the famous Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and the Pune Botanical Garden. The city also has a number of historic temples and forts, including the Shaniwar Wada Fort and the Pataleshwar Cave Temple.
Overall, Pune is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an ideal destination for tourists, students, and professionals alike.
In this guide, we have curated a complete list of the best things to do in Pune. So, without further ado let’s dive into this complete guide about the best things to do in Pune.
1. Explore the City’s Historical Monuments
Pune is known for its historical monuments and architecture, and there is no better way to explore the city than to take a tour of its various historical monuments. From ancient forts to architectural marvels, Pune has something for every kind of traveler. If you are looking for a unique way to explore the city, a visit to its historical monuments is going to be one of the best things to do in Pune. So, here are some of the best places to visit in Pune that will give you an insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Shaniwar Wada
The renowned Shaniwar Wada is a former fortification palace situated in the city of Pune, Maharashtra. Built as the seat of power of Chhatrapati (king) Peshwas, this impressive monument was once the centre of political activities during the Maratha Empire. Revered by locals as an important historical site, it houses many notable artifacts and patinas which represent a significant part of Indian history.
Shaniwar Wada stands tall in exceptional architecture and design specific to the 18th century style of construction known as Peshwai Architecture. The exquisite seven storied structure with its powerful bastions, steep staircases and balconies add grandeur to this historic palace. It’s famous nine-way entrances are said to have been built for elephants to pass through! The monument is illuminated with bright lights from 6 pm onwards which increases its magnificence and enhances your experience when you visit at nighttime.
The complex holds many significant structures such as Padukas (foot imprints) of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, fencing pillars, carved wooden ceiling panels and several intricate rock formations that pay homage to various gods. Many secret passageways take you back in time and keep you on edge throughout your exploration journey around the Shaniwar Wada Palace. With tales from local guides about daring ambushes or fledgling courage displayed by limited warriors while defending their beloved country comprise many unique experiences here.
If given one day, it would be absolutely worth visiting this astonishingly restored 400-year-old monument that has been etched into every Pune resident’s heart in more ways than one!
Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace is a historical palace in the city of Pune. The palace was built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in 1892 and served as a prison during the Indian independence struggle when Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and secretary Mahadev Desai were kept captive from August 9, 1942, to May 6, 1944. The palace is now an important monument of national importance and is managed by the Arvind Gandhi Memorial Trust since 2003.
The palace complex has several structures, each with its own distinct style and architecture. There are two memorials inside the complex that commemorate Kasturba Gandhi who passed away during prison in 1944 and Mahadev Desai who died of a heart attack while imprisoned here in 1942. The museums inside the palace house many interesting artifacts that date back to pre-independence times such as pictures, paintings, documents and clothes worn by leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru.
Besides this, tea parties are organized on Sundays for visitors who wish to explore this grand piece of history. For those interested in learning more about its past, guided tours can be taken which covers every aspect from its royal past to its important contributions towards India’s freedom struggle. A visit to Aga Khan Palace is certainly a unique experience which lets one step back into Indian history and understand the proud legacy of freedom fighters from a more personal level.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a Hindu temple located in Pune, Maharashtra. The temple is situated in a cave dating back to the 8th century and was reconstructed by the Peshwa rulers of Pune in 1756.
The temple has an interesting architecture with many carved symbols such as lotuses, rings and peacocks that adorn it from the outside. The main sanctum of the temple includes a Shiva linga (a symbol of Lord Shiva) surrounded by Nandi (the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva). On either side of the sanctum are relief sculptures of Dattatreya and Ganesh images which are around 5000 years old. Inside the sanctum there are inscriptions in Marathi and Sanskrit marking its inception date as 8th century CE.
The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is an excellent example of Indian rock-cut architecture, reflecting the devotion and creativity that went into building this captivating structure over two thousand years ago. Today, it still stands strong, attracting pilgrims from far and wide year-round to experience its spiritual ambiance. Whether you’re looking for architectural marvels or divinely inspired sites, Pataleshwar Cave Temple offers something for everyone.
2. Visit the Museums
Pune is a city full of culture and history, making it the perfect destination for those looking to go on a cultural adventure and explore some of India’s finest museums. From the famous Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to the Tribal Museum and Pune City Museum, there is something for everyone to explore in the city! In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best museums in Pune and what they have to offer.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a museum of antiques in Pune, India. Located in the Shukrawar Peth area, it houses almost 20,000 unique artifacts displaying the range of culture and history of India from the 17th century to the 19th century. The collection includes artifacts that tell the story of Indian household life from the past centuries. It has an impressive array of items collected by Dr. Dileep Babasaheb Kadam and given as a gift to Dinkar Gopal Kelkar. The museum was named after Dr. Dileep Babasaheb’s guru – Raja Dinkar Rao Kelkar and was opened to public on 18th August 1962.
The museum exhibits utensils and objects related to various aspects of everyday life such as musical instruments, musical boxes, paintings, one-stringed insect caller with glass sticks (during monsoon season when insects were active), kitchenware made up mainly of copper, silver artifacts like thalis with decorations etc., hunting equipments including guns and dozens of mannequins dressed in traditional costumes among many others.
One may also see hundreds of locks used for security purposes in homes during olden days; an instrument for grooming eyebrows made up entirely out of wood; crorepathi (telescope) with lenses to view stars at night; betel nut box combining art and utility; ‘dummu kanikan’ a virtual room fused into one single structure et al make it an incomparable workmanship defining brilliance at its best.
Also on display are beautifully crafted wooden war chariots used by maharajas during historical times and Toranas or entrance gates depict excellent artistry required special skills to construct them thus acting as great sources reminding us about age-old tradition that once existed in the Maratha kingdom.
It offers a wide variety of traditional knowledge which gives us insight into our vibrant cultural heritage. It also serves as a research center facilitating study projects related to folklore and colleting rare artifacts across India adding wealth to its extensive collection while making available online information related activities involved therein making it a great source for researchers from all over the globe.
National War Museum
The National War Museum is a great place to visit for those travelers interested in exploring the history of Pune and India. Established in 2017, it houses exhibits and artifacts from Indian wars as well as information related to India’s involvement in World War II. It also includes several paintings, headdresses and epaulettes, plus a unique display of weaponry ranging from cannons and rockets to bayonets and muskets.
Visitors can observe the arms, ammunition and paraphernalia used by various forces over the years. Audio guides are available at the museum in multiple languages helping to explore various sections. The interactive museum makes learning about Indian history fun for children too. The museum is open all days of the week, excluding national holidays and comes with an on-site cafe that serves food and beverages. While entrance to this museum is free of cost, donations are welcomed with gratitude.
Tribal Museum
The Tribal Museum in Pune showcases the culture and heritage of many of the local tribes that inhabit India. It is a wonderful place to learn more about their customs, language and religion. The museum features a variety of exhibitions that highlight traditional attire, jewelry and weaponry, as well as tools used by the various tribes. Displays also show off some of the region’s unique artisanship as well as its vibrant music, dance and craft forms.
With more than 1000 artifacts ranging from pottery to weapons and jewelry, this exciting museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Pune. As an added bonus, there’s often live traditional performances in front of the museum taking place which make for an even more unique experience.
3. Enjoy the City’s Nightlife
Pune is a great city to explore and experience, especially when it comes to its vibrant nightlife. This city offers many entertaining and exciting activities for you to explore, whether you like to party or prefer a more relaxed evening. Here is a list of five great ways to enjoy the city’s nightlife and make the most of your time in Pune.
High Spirits Cafe
If you are looking for a night out with your friends in Pune, High Spirits Cafe is definitely the place to be. This popular pub and restaurant are located in Koregaon Park and provides an amazing atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. With its outdoor seating area and two levels of indoor seating, this is the perfect place to get away from it all and have a great time.
The cafe also offers some of the most sought-after cocktails in town, along with great food served across its various dining areas like a live grill kitchen, an al fresco area with jungle vibes, a sushi bar and an international cuisine bar against the backdrop of soothing music. Catch all the live sports action on their big screens, dance your heart out at their in-house DJ nights or play some fun board games — High Spirits Cafe has it all.
The Irish House
Located in the buzzing Koregaon Park area of the city, The Irish House is a lively and vibrant spot for locals and travelers alike. The restaurant boasts an extensive food menu featuring some tantalizing dishes from across the world, and drinks are served alongside live sports screenings. On Fridays, it’s all about kicking off the weekend with DJs spinning commercial house hits and well-known Bollywood numbers – perfect for starting your night off with a bang.
They also offer an array of beer pong tables so you can indulge in some fun games with friends while enjoying delicious beers on tap. So, if you’re looking to enjoy Pune’s nightlife in style, visiting The Irish House is definitely recommended.
Hard Rock Cafe
Famous as one of the most happening spots in town, Hard Rock Cafe is sure to have you swaying to the beat all night. Apart from the fantastic live music, this place also offers a great selection of gastronomical delights. The cafe serves lip-smacking small plates with items such as nachos, taco platters, chicken wings and sliders. Enjoy great drinks with signature cocktails and shots while tapping your foot to live music. This upbeat spot is definitely an ideal place to enjoy quality time with friends, family or colleagues during your stay in Pune.
4. Explore Local Markets
Pune’s vibrant markets are great places to explore and experience the culture of the city. Whether you’re looking for local produce, souvenirs, or just want to take in the sights and sounds of the city, Pune’s diverse markets are the perfect places to start. From the crowded bazaars of FC Road to the quirky flea markets in Kothrud and Koregaon, there is something for everyone to explore. Let’s take a look at the five best things to do in the markets of Pune.
Laxmi Road
Located in the middle of Pune, Laxmi Road is one of the most popular and bustling markets of India. It is known for its colorful and vibrant atmosphere that attracts locals as well as tourists from all over the world. Laxmi Road is always bustling with activity, selling some of the best products at extremely low prices. The hustle and bustle of this road is captivating, with vendors yelling out promotions while customers search for great deals.
At Laxmi Road, it’s possible to find any type of product imaginable — clothing, shoes, jewelry items, household goods, bags and cases for all occasions, electronics, appliances and even furniture! One can also find food ranging from traditional Punjabi Street snacks to sausages from across India. You can also find the best chutneys and masalas here in big containers or packed into smaller sachets. If you are looking for something unique yet affordable then Laxmi Road is worth visiting.
Apart from great offers on everyday items, you can also get some beautifully handcrafted pieces here like semi-precious decorative stones made into earrings or beautiful pottery items or a variety of ethnic home furnishings such as door hangings made out of patchwork fabric or wooden elephants adorned with tassels. There are many small stalls that sell traditional jewelry items such as bangles made out of cloth which will remind you of your grandmothers’ days.
This place has it all — if you take time to explore it properly then surely you will end up with several great souvenirs to take back home. All in all, a trip to this bazaar must not be missed if one ever comes to Pune.
Fashion Street
Fashion Street is an outdoor market in Pune, Maharashtra that offers a unique blend of local culture, street styles, and fashion trends. The vendors here offer a wide range of apparel, accessories, and handmade items from across India. It is known for its quality merchandise and reasonable prices.
This vibrant marketplace features numerous small independent stores selling handmade clothing, bags, jewelry, art pieces and much more. You can find rare antiques as well as vintage items such as textiles, carpets and furniture in the markets around Fashion Street. In addition to these traditional items are modern touches with high-end boutiques located throughout the area showcasing established brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
Despite its name “Fashion Street” this is more than just a shopping destination; it serves as an excellent source of entertainment too. The stalls are constantly playing afternoon music sets while visiting vendors showcase their skills with performances of regional theatre throughout the week. From haggling over your favorite garments to watching talented performers show off their talents – there is something for everyone at Fashion Street.
If you ever find yourself in Pune or nearby areas looking for something unique to do, then consider visiting Fashion Street – you won’t be disappointed.
Juna Bazaar
Juna Bazaar, located in the city center of Pune, is one of the most popular and traditional markets in India. The vast market is scattered with stalls selling a variety of items including spices, fruits, and vegetables as well as antiques and handicrafts.
The market was originally built by Nanasaheb Peshwa in 1760 AD and has remained a hot spot for tourists and locals alike over the centuries. The best time to visit Juna Bazaar is between 9am-9pm every day as that’s usually when the highest number of vendors open up their shops. It’s great to explore everything that Pune offers, and Juna Bazaar is an important part of it.
When visiting Juna Bazaar be sure to explore different shops specialized in selling each item such as the ones selling only spices, leather goods or artworks. You can also pick up some ethnic jewelry or fashion accessories for yourself or your friends at pocket friendly prices from different shops around the market. There are even some stalls where you can find unique handcrafted items which depict Indian culture from around different parts of India. Whether you want home decoratives or souvenirs for friends abroad Juna Bazaar should be your ultimate destination.
5.Visit the Nature Parks
Pune is blessed with some extraordinarily beautiful natural parks, full of vibrant colors, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife. For those who are looking for a nature escape, visiting the nature parks in Pune is a must. These parks offer a great opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also a great spot where you can spend quality time with your family or friends. Keep reading for a guide to the five best nature parks in Pune.
Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad Fort is located to the southwest of Pune. The fort stands tall at a height of 1312m and gives panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape. Despite being relatively small in size, the Sinhagad fort holds a crucial place in history as it has been captured and recaptured numerous times since 1671. It was given its name, which translates to ‘Lion’s Fort’, by Shivaji Maharaj.
One of Sinhagad Fort’s main attractions is a large wall built from solid rock that runs almost all the way around it, separating it from the cities below. This wall stands tall at an impressive height and offers spectacular views of the cityscape below once you make your way up to it. You will also notice several ancient ruins scattered across its grounds including monasteries, temples and tombs dating back over centuries.
The fabled fort also houses numerous species of flora and fauna that inhabit its lush landscape making it a great spot for nature lovers looking to catch a glimpse of some wealth wildlife. There are several leisure activities like camping and trekking available for those looking for some adventure as well. So, if you’re ever visiting Pune, be sure to add Sinhagad Fort onto your itinerary for a memorable experience.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, locally known as Katraj Zoo, is one of the well-known nature parks in the city of Pune. Located near the Katraj Lake, this zoological park covers a vast area of 130 hectares and houses both Indian and exotic species of animals and birds. It features a wide variety of mammals and aquatic animals such as tigers, wolves, blackbucks, deer, panthers, lions, monkeys, macaques, crocodiles as well as star tortoises. As far as avian population is concerned; various species like Myna birds can also be spotted in the Zoological Park.
The Katraj Lake adds an extra charm to the entire ambiance while various activities offered by the park make it a great family destination. Apart from visiting the striking animal enclosures or admiring aquatic life at an artificial lake onsite; visitors may also relish typical Maharashtrian cuisine served at food outlets located near main ticket counter or enjoy boat rides. A mini zoo inside the premises houses smaller mammals like rabbits which children can enjoy petting too.
Furthermore, bird watching platforms located within make it more fun for visitors who wish to spot feathered friends from close quarters. The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park also provides disability facility for those comfort and convenience including wheelchair service for restricted movement guests on prior request at nominal charges along with guided tours that are organized for learning about exotic species found here in an interactive way.
Mulshi Lake and Dam
Mulshi Lake and Dam, located near Tamhini Ghat in the Mulshi taluka of Pune district, is one of the popular tourist destinations. The lake is a scenic spot and is surrounded by greenery on all parts; the Sahyadri mountain range and dam further add to its beauty. One can enjoy a boat ride at the lake or take a long bike ride around it; trekking along with access to adventure activities makes it an ideal spot for thrill seekers.
The nearby Tamhini Ghat drive is equally enthralling with views of lush green fields and multiple water streams along the way, while the backwater trail provides stunning clicks of your journey as you pass over stones across streams fed by rain-fed rivers descending from Sahyadri mountains. For visitors looking for some peace and solitude, meditation sessions in small temples located around Mulshi Lake are something that should not be missed.
Apart from Mulshi Lake and Dam, tourists visiting this place can also visit other attractions like Bhushi Dam, Tikona Fort, Lohgad fort, Pavana Lake & Dam, Taljai Hills and Peacock Bay Resort for an enjoyable stay amidst nature’s lap. Special permission needs to be obtained for engaging in water sports activities at these places. However, such activities can be enjoyed only during non-monsoon months when the water levels are low enough to guarantee complete safety during any kind of sports activity. Do make sure to carry light snacks with you as there might not be shops available at these places.
The city is also known for its street food, which includes a variety of local delicacies. These street foods are popular among locals and tourists alike and can be found at street food vendors and street-side stalls throughout Pune. Some popular street foods in Pune include:
- Vada Pav: A popular street food consisting of a deep-fried potato patty (vada) served in a bread bun (pav) with various chutneys and spices. Here,is a follow up link for you to check out some of the best places to have vada pav in Pune.
- Pani Puri: A popular street food consisting of small, round fried dough balls (puri) filled with a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices, and served with a tangy water (pani) made from tamarind and mint.
- Misal Pav: A popular street food dish consisting of a spicy curry made from sprouted lentils and served with bread (pav) and farsaan.
- Kothimbir Vadi: A popular street food dish made from coriander and chickpea flour.
- Bhel Puri: A popular street food dish made from puffed rice, vegetables, and chutneys.
- Dosa: A popular street food made from fermented batter consisting of rice and lentils, and it’s served with different chutneys and sambar.
- Biryani: It is a type of rice dish that is typically made with meat (such as chicken, lamb, or goat), spices, and vegetables. The biryani in Pune tends to be spicier than the biryani in some other parts of India. Biryani is commonly served with Raita, a yogurt-based dish to balance the spiciness. Check out some of the most popular places to try biryani in Pune.
