Places To See In Pune
1. Aga Khan Palace
Built in the late 19th century by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the palace is a symbol of Indian Freedom Movement. It saw many luminaries in its hey days and is now a memorial to Gandhi.Distance from city center: 8kmBest time to visit: Visit between 9-11am when there is limited rush.Reasonable time to spend: 2 hoursTips: Avoid weekends
2. Shaniwar Wada
Once the seat of the Peshwas, the fort was built in 1732 and was the key spot of anti British aggression. It fell to a fire in 1832. The remains of the fort are a testimony to the resolute Marathas who fought against the British.Distance from city center: Located in the centre of the cityBest time to visit: DawnReasonable time to spend: 30 minsTips: See the Mastani Darwaja, used by King Bajirao’s wife. The story was reintroduced to the Indian conscience by the recent Bollywood film, Bajirao Mastani.
3. Ashram of Osho
A melting pot of International attendees, the Osho Ashram is a 40-acre high-end meditation centre, where focus is on massages, workshops, meditation practices and holistic healing.Distance from city center: 3kmBest time to visit: Early mornings between 6-8amReasonable time to spend: Full dayTips: Sign up for a short meditation course to sample the real spirit of the place
4. Mulshi Dam
To unplug from the city, head west of Pune to Mulshi Dam and its mirror flat waters. Being in the lap of nature works as an antidote to stressful city life.Distance from city center: About 40 kmBest time to visit: SunsetReasonable time to spend: 2 hoursTips: Great for a weekend getaway
5. Chaturshringi Temple
Established during the reign of Maratha King, Shivaji, the temple lies on a low hill and commemorates Goddess Saptashrungi Devi.Distance from city center: About 5kmBest time to visit: DawnReasonable time to spend: 1 hourTips: A trip to the temple is complete when you climb the four hillocks that surround the temple, each with a shrine on top.
6. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Travel back in time to the 8th century rock cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. An intense spiritual vibe surrounds the temple.Distance from city center: About 2 kmBest time to visit: DawnReasonable time to spend: 1 hourTips: Shivaratri is celebrated zealously here.
7. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The Mughal and Maratha period is well highlighted in this museum. 36 galleries sprawl over a large area with well-marked exhibits.Distance from city center: About 2 kmBest time to visit: 12noon-2pmReasonable time to spend: 2 hoursTips: Avoid weekends
8. Bund Garden
Located on the banks of Mula-Mutha River, the gardens were established by Sir Jamshedji. They are known for a rejuvenating tryst with nature smack dab in the middle of the city.Distance from the city center: About 4 kmRight time of the day to visit the place: SunriseReasonable time to spend: 1 hourTips: Entertain children with boat rides.
9. Shinde Chhatri
A well-preserved memorial with intricate architectural aesthetics, the Chhatri commemorates Mahadji Shinde.Distance from the city center: About 40 kmRight time of the day to visit the place: SunsetReasonable time to spend: 1 hourTips: Look out for the distinct Anglo-Rajasthani style of architecture. There is no entry fee.
10. Lohagarh Fort
One of the many fortifications outside Pune, this offers stunning views of the plains and a walk through history during the Peshwa rule.Distance from the city center: About 57 kmRight time of the day to visit the place: SunriseReasonable time to spend: Half dayTips: Great for a weekend getaway
Time Needed To See Places in Pune
Keep at least 4-5 days to see Pune comprehensively. This only includes the in-city places. There are plenty of short weekend getaways from Pune that will need more days.
How To Reach Pune
The Pune International Airport lies close to the city and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad. It’s also easily accessible by train and intra city buses within Maharashtra and adjoining states.
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