Pune, Maharashtra’s cultural capital, is a superb illustration of a contemporary Indian city where tradition, culture, and modern-day living coexist in harmony. A journey to Pune will keep you quite occupied because there are so many cultural, historical, and adventurous places to see. Between itineraries and flight tickets, don’t forget to book a room at one of Pune’s hotels, which are popular all year.
1. Visit the National War Museum to pay tribute to war heroes.
The National War Museum, which opened in 1998, is the only museum in the United States that was built entirely using public dollars. The museum is located in a quiet and peaceful section of Pune Cantonment, away from the city’s turmoil.
The MIG 23 BN, which was utilised in the Kargil War, is the museum’s most notable exhibit. A replica of the warship INS Trishul, which was employed during the Portuguese-Indian war, is also a feature. The stone galleries memorialise the lives of great soldiers who fought for the country over the years and display information about numerous wars.
2. Tulsi Baug is a great place to go shopping.
Is a vacation ever complete without a trip to the mall? We don’t believe so! What could be better than spending a day shopping on Tulsi Baug, Pune’s main retail street? The market, which is popular among residents, is flanked on both sides with shops offering brass and copper objects, jewellery, shoes, chappals, and a variety of knickknacks.
A suggestion for you… Because the market is pretty reasonable, don’t be afraid to haggle to your heart’s content!
3. Visit Dagdusheth Halwai Temple for Blessings
The Dagdusheth Halwai Temple is devoted to Lord Ganesha and is one of Pune’s most notable shrines. The temple’s origins are unknown, but the most widely accepted narrative is that it was founded by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai and his wife Lakshmibai after the death of their only son due to the plague pandemic.
During the liberation struggle, Lokmanya Tilak intended to promote a sense of solidarity and patriotism, which led to the creation of the highly recognised Ganpati holiday. You’ll find places like Vaikuntha Smashan Bhumi, Sarovar Farmhouse, and Upvan Lake around. Thousands of people visit the temple every day, and it is a must-see for anybody visiting Pune.
4. Visit Shaniwar Wada Palace for a Light and Sound Show.
The Shaniwar Wada Palace, one of Pune’s most prominent historical sites, was completed in 1732 and served as the Peshwas’ seat until 1818. The monument is an excellent example of Maratha art and architecture. The palace is reported to have been built with teakwood imported from Junnar’s jungles and stone from Chinchwad.
The palace, while being in ruins, has a lot to see and do, including its grand gates, audience rooms, pillars and bastions with beautiful carvings, well-kept gardens, and a lotus-shaped fountain. Be mesmerised by the fascinating lights and sound performance by spending an evening here.
5. Visit Lohagad Fort on a Trekking Trip
Lohagad Fort, around 60 kilometres from Pune, is a favourite trekking site for both residents and visitors. The fort is the perfect blend of nature, architecture, and history, with amazing views of the surrounding area. Lohagad Fort is also a popular destination for beginners who want to try their hand at trekking because the route is much easier than others.
The fort was built in the 18th century. You can also see the ruins of what once was a majestic citadel. The journey to the place is beautiful, and many locals will be riding their bikes there. Since the entire are is engulfed in lush green, the best time to visit this place are monsoons.
6. Tour the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to see the Mastani Mahal.
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a great illustration of how art has varied meanings for different people. This museum, founded by Baba Dinkar Kelkar in 1962, exhibits unique 14th-century antiquities including as coins, sculptures, paintings, terracotta artefacts, and weaponry and ammunition.
The Mastani Mahal, which is a reproduction of the palace with genuine furnishings, is the museum’s showpiece. The museum once housed over 21,000 antiques, but just a small portion of this magnificent collection is on exhibit now.
7. Learn more about the history of the Aga Khan Palace.
Sultan Mohammad Shah Aga Khan built the Aga Khan Palace in 1892, and it is a magnificent white edifice. After the Quit India Movement, Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi, as well as Mahadev Desai, a close colleague, lived there.
Since Kasturba Gandhi spend her last days here, you can see her memorial set in a peaceful garden. The memorial set have both her and Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes.
The Gandhi Memorial Society looks after the palace and keeps track of all events relating to Gandhi’s life. Within the structure, there is a museum hall that houses photographs, letters, books, and other mementos from Gandhi’s life.
8. German Bakery is a must-visit for foodies.
Unfortunately, the catastrophic bomb bombings of 2010 boosted the appeal of the German Bakery in Pune. However, the city’s indomitable spirit has brought this historic eatery back to life. Come here for the wonderful, welcoming atmosphere and the bustling local populace. You should try their fish and chips, keema pao, and cold coffee. Come here in the late afternoon or early evening to get a taste of Pune’s laid-back, chilled-out ambience.
9. Paragliding in Kamshet is a must-do.
If you’re looking for adventure, travel to Kamshet, which is just 50 kilometres from Pune. Paragliding is available in the little hamlet, with levels of difficulty ranging from beginner to expert. The teachers are extremely knowledgeable, making this the perfect spot for novices. You can also enrol in a short course here if you want to learn how to paraglide.
If paragliding isn’t your style, you can instead attempt rock climbing and water activities like rafting under the supervision of an expert. If you want to get the most out of your vacation to Kamshet, set aside a whole day.
10. Go to Osho Ashram for some peace and quiet.
Many attractions are well-known in Pune, but the Osho Ashram stands out, and its fame has gone far and wide. The huge ashram is a shelter for both Westerners and Indians, and it offers an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’ve come to satisfy your curiosity or to find answers to your worldly problems, the ashram welcomes everyone without prejudice. You can visit the lovely gardens, spa, and swimming pool on the property, meditate in the meditation rooms, or enrol in Osho Nadabrahma and Osho Kundalini courses. Because the registration process is lengthy, bring two passport-size pictures and proof of identification.
