Pune derives its name from Punya-Nagari, meaning the blessed city. It is the second largest city of Maharashtra and is known as the “Oxford of the East” and cultural capital of Maharashtra. Today, Pune is an IT hub and soon will be a metropolitan city. The locals in Pune are often referred to as “Puneites” and they are very friendly and warm, which you will experience while you’re on your wonderful tour. This city is a melting pot of cultures, which includes a large population of foreign students as well as Indian students. If you are in Pune, then you will have many options of things to do such as shopping, dining, sightseeing, partying, and trekking.
Let’s have a look at some of the best things and places that you can enjoy:
1. Shaniwar Wada
Every city has different historical monuments that define it, and Pune’s historical building is Shaniwar Wada. Shaniwar Wada is a palace fort from the Maratha Dynasty, which is situated in the heart of Pune City. This historic building was constructed in 1732 as the seat of the Peshwa and remained the political capital of the empire until its annihilation. The palace boasts five gateways, nine bastions, lattice work, and fine wooden pillars. A story say that Bajirao saw a rabbit chasing a dog here and then decided that this is the best place to build a palace that would never face defeat.
Shaniwar Wada
Address: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra
Traveler's tips
The romantic location of Shanivar Vada, which translates to Saturday Fort, is perfect for a family trip. You can even enjoy a brief picnic here with your loved ones. The fee is minimal, around INR 25. The best time to visit this historic fort is during the weekdays if you want to enjoy this location with minimal crowd. You can visit during the weekend, too, but be prepared for throngs of people who love this place and its lush grounds for a quick getaway!
2. Osho Ashram
Osho Ashram is altogether a different experience. It is a unique place where you will feel at one with your body, mind, and soul. Osho Ashram was founded by Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain on Koregaon Park Road in Pune. The ashram is the place where one can explore oneself and one’s sexuality. It is more of a way of living. It covers 40-acre (16 hectare) meditation resort, where meditation, workshops, massages, theaters, and other events take place. It is an ordinary place to relax in Pune.
Osho Ashram
Address: 17, Koregaon Park Rd, Vasani Nagar, Koregaon Park, Pune
Website: Osho Ashram
3. Sinhagad Fort
Reminders of the historic battles of Marathas follow you when you stumble across the windswept ruins of the Sinhagad Fort. The Majestic Sinhagad Fort is situated on one of the isolated cliffs of Bhulaswar Range of the Sahyadris. This fort is significant for the memorials of Tanaji Malusare and Chhatrapati Rajaram. You will also find Bungalow of Lokmanya Tilak, one of the earliest progressive freedom fighters of India on Sinhagad. They said that if you look carefully, you will find old coins scattered from the wealthier days of Sinhagad. You can take a cab to reach this place as other visitors are doing, or travel the way trekking lovers do. No matter what, you will be bewitched by the pristine aura of this place.
Sinhagad Fort
Address: Sinhagad Ghat Road, Thoptewadi, Pune, Maharashtra
Website: Sinhagad Fort
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4. Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati
The Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Temple is located in the heart of Pune and amidst heavy traffic and bustling peths (districts). This temple has a story to tell. Dagdsheth Halwai was a famous sweet trader, but he lost his son in the outbreak of plague. Then Guruji, Shri Madhavnath Maharaj consoled him and advise him to make two idols of Shri Datta and Shri Ganpati. He asked him to take care of the idols like he would take care of his son. Dagdusheth Halwai did as he was told, and the idols were later placed in Aakara Maruti Temple. The temple is also notable for popularizing the Ganeshotsav.
Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati
Address: Ganpati Bhavan, 250, Budhvar Peth, Shivaji Road, Pune, Maharashtra
5. Parvati Hill
An important place of interest located in Pune is Parvati Hill. This temple is located on a small hillock where many of Pune’s population starts their day by bowing down to Lord Shiva. Parvati has a close association with the Maratha dynasty and is a page out of the Peshwa rule. If you wish to reach this temple, then you have to climb 108 unpaved stone steps, which will surely add an adventure to your trip. The Parvati Museum located here is a replica of ancient paintings and manuscripts.
Parvati Hill
Address: Pune, Maharashtra, India
6. Bund Garden
Bund Garden named after the Bund (mini dam) built across the Mula-Mutha Rivers. Nature lovers will love this place as there are few places in Pune that are blessed with nature. Bund Garden is popular for joggers and morning walk enthusiasts. You can also go boating in the garden’s riverside area. Choose the right season, and you’ll get to view some few migratory birds as well.
Bund Garden
Address: Sangamvadi, Pune, Maharashtra
7. Mulsi Dam
The size and beauty of this dam on the river Mula will mesmerize you. Especially in the rainy season, Mulsi Dam is a must visit place in Pune. The area around the dam has been developed into a tourist destination. Along with a relaxing escape from hectic life, you can also enjoy small, rugged Vadapau and shacks. This place is also famous for the Mulshi Satyagraha led by Senapati Pandhurang Bapat to protect farmers who lost their lands during the construction of this dam.
Mulsi Dam
Address: Pune District, Maharashtra
8. Lohagarh Fort
Lohagarh Fort is located 57 km (35 mi) from Pune on Pune-Lonavala road. The fort has a rich history with rulers of several kingdoms. Lohagarh Fort is another spectacular example of the golden Peshwa rule. The fort is in ruin now, but still, it has a charm that no one can deny, and you will be amazed by its beauty. Lohagarh Fort overlooks the Pavana Reservoir and makes an excellent point for photography.
Lohagarh Fort
Address: Pune District, Maharashtra
Website: Lohagarh Fort
9. Bike ride to Lavasa
Okay! The most important USP (unique selling point) of a trip to Pune is actually located 57 km (35.4 mi) from Pune. The city is set amidst an emerald green valley and is surrounded by rolling hills. The journey between Pune and Lavasa is simply awesome, with the winding path on one side with mountains and other with dense forest. The roads are just wide enough for two-way traffic. This is probably one bike trip in Pune that will stick in your mind.
Bike ride to Lavasa
Address: pune-lonavala highway maharashtra.
10. Koregaon Park
Koregaon Park is where the action takes place in Pune. If you want to chill and relax, then this will be the best place for you. The best time of the day to visit is the evening and people come here to chill out with friends and to serve visitors, many restaurants and cafes have opened recently. One can have a chance to try a variety of foods here. It is also the best place for street shopping.
Koregaon Park
Address: Mula-mutha river, Pune, Maharashtra
An amazing time in Pune...
So you have seen that there are many places located in Pune where you can relax, chill, and enjoy yourself with your beloved family and friends. I hope the list here was of some help to you. Apart from this, there are many places where you can walk around. You will also find many big companies headquarters situated here.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Contributed by Content Creator, Rohit Singh
Source: Rohit Singh
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Pune opened to tourists in February 2017. It’s located on the hills of Ambegaon and is one of the best places to visit in Pune. Temples dedicated to Shri Swaminarayan are major attractions in many cities across India.
While here, you can spend time exploring the peaceful surroundings with the whole family and worshipping Shri Swaminarayan.
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