Places to Visit in Pune

Pune with lot of historical significance and the subsequent largest city in Maharashra is today the hub of reputed institutions. Sprawling city in the state of Maharashtra was once the seat of Peshwas belonging to the Maratha Empire. The city is one of the best choices for majority of the people to live in. Pune is also known for its temples, sumptuous food and several weekend getaways in close proximity. For history buffs, the city has a lot to offer which you can explore on your visit. The town is famous for its rich Maratha traditions. Adventure lovers can indulge in adventurous activities as there are several places destinations for their activities. The weather is very pleasant all through the year but the ideal time to visit is from October to March. For the people who are on a vacation to Pune will have a fun holiday experience.

Sinhagad Fort, Pune

Perched on the top of the Sahyadri Mountains, this is an amazing historical fortress. The ancient structure exhibits brilliant architecture and stands testimony to many battles. Now, Singhbad Fort meaning ‘Lion’s Fort’, is visited by many history buffs, photographers, and nature lovers. It is an ideal venue for trekkers as the fort is positioned at a height of more than 750 meters. This is a perfect weekend getaway situated almost 35 km from Pune where you can relax and unwind amidst scenic surroundings of the verdant hills. There is no entry fee and the fort remain open round the clock.

Aga Khan Palace, Pune

The impressive structure of Aga Khan Palace is nicely placed in the city of Pune and was constructed in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III. This palace is the most visited and a significant landmark in the history of India, which defines the history of India. Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi along with Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadev Desai and Sarojini Naidu were imprisoned in the Aga Khan palace. Known for its structural design and architectural excellence, Aga Khan Palace has a lot of historical significance. Scattered in a vast area of 19 acres, the palace houses a museum with a massive collection of pictures and few personal items of Mahatma Gandhi. Making Khadi in this palace is one of major activities over here.

Shaniwar Wada Palace, Pune

Shanivar Wada Palace is a 286 year old and was a dwelling place of Peshwas at one time. The destination attracts tourists in galore as it displays the finest architecture in Pune. This stately property was constructed by Peshwa Bajirao I and was the official residence of Peshwas. Scattered in an area of approximately 625 acres, the palace with its forts and fountains fascinates all the tourists who come here. The massive figurine of Baji Rao I welcomes all the tourists who come over here. Though the Shanivar Wada Palace is known for the fables of deceitfulness but it is also a living testimony ofvbravery and valour of Peshwa rulers.

Vishrambaug Wada, Pune

Vishrambaug Wada is an impressive mansion with immense historical value. The three-storeyed edifice showcases the amazing Architectural skill of Marathas. The opulent structure boasts of intricate woodwork made in teak, appealing design with beautifully carved balconies cypress-shaped columns, and beautifully decorated ceilings. The outer facade of the mansion is remarkable with delightful monkey-like gargoyles made of wood placed at the balconies looking at the lively street below. It also has a big inner courtyard with grand staircases and appealing wooden shutters. The Durbar Hall with its grand chandeliers is impressive with imposing wooden columns and carved arches. Located at RB Kumthekar Road Perugate Sadashiv Peth, in Pune, it is open from 10:AM to 5; 00 PM every day.

Lal Mahal, Pune

One of the popular monuments located in Pune, Lal Mahal was constructed in 1630 AD by Raje Shahaji Bhosale,who was the father of Shivaji Maharaj. He made this Mahal for his wife Jijabai and his son. It is said that Shivaji Maharaj resided here for several years. This place was renovated as the earlier Lal Mahal turned into remnants. It is found in the center of the city. It has a lot of historical significance associated to it. Lal Mahal is popular owing to the encounter between Shivaji and Shaista Khan and the fable goes that Shivaji cut off his finger when he tried to escape from the window of this Mahal.

Empress Garden, Pune

This popular garden is a dreamlike place to visit in the city of Pune and it is looked after the Western India’s Agri-Horticultural Society. The Empress Garden is well maintained and the chief objective of this society is to protect the unusual flora of this area. Scattered in an area of approximately 40 acres, the garden comprises of rare variety of flowers and trees. Several flower shows are organized here by the Agri-Horticultural Society so that people are aware of the unique species of flora. A stream flows all through the garden, which is an added attraction over here.The garden is wonderfully landscaped and fascinates all the tourists coming here.

Parvati Hill, Pune

It came into existence in the 17th century and is built by Balaji Baji Rao, the great Peshwa monarch. It is found 2,000 feet above sea level and Parvati hill presents an all-encompassing scenic view of Pune. The hill is away from the din and bustle of the city life and the climate is pleasant all over the year. The shrine is devoted to God Shiva and Goddess Parvati though there are idols of other God and Goddesses as well. The tourists coming here has to climb nearly 100 steps to reach the hill. On the top of the hill there is a black structure of stone. Parvati Hills is the uppermost point in Pune.

Okayama Friendship Garden, Pune

It is a very popular Japanese Garden in the city of Pune. It is unique and one of the biggest Japanese Garden outside Japan in the continent of Asia. The garden very finely exhibits Indo-Japanese relationship and it is motivated by nearly 300-year old garden in Japan famous by the name of Okayama Korakuen Garden. Situated in Dattawadi, this garden is an extraordinary amalgamation of concrete and natural beauty. In the garden there is a natural canal that goes across the garden whereas the ponds and waterfalls present here are man made. From the lush green garden to attractive flowers, wonderful landscapes and colourful sitting place, Okayama Friendship Garden will spin your soul and make your five senses work overtime.

Vetal Hill, Pune

Vetal Hill is a wonderful zone for avid walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Placed at an elevation of almost 2600 ft it is the highest point of Pune city. The scenic place is surrounded by lush greenery and has a lot of old trees. It is a paradise for bird watchers as it is home to a lot of migratory birds. Click beautiful pictures on a clear morning as you can witness the beautiful sight of Pune from the top and see exotic varieties of plants on the hilltop. There is also an Observation Deck that children love to explore. Small water tanks are also built here for watering the plants. There is an ancient Vetal Temple visited by lots of people.

Bund Garden, Pune

The Bund Garden located in Pune is one of the most well planned and maintained gardens of the city. One of the most preffered park by joggers and all the people who want to spend some time in the open away from the chaotic city life. Bund Garden with natural flora is a well manicured park in the city. The garden is crowded during the morning and evening hours. The Fitzgerald Bridge present here is equally popular with the tourists. People with their family and friends come here and the place is enjoyed by both elderly and children alike. An additional reason why people love coming here are the eateries present here that serve quality food and that too at affordable rates.

Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune

One of the entertaining and popular tourist attraction, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is spread in an area of nearly130 acres. It is nicely placed on the edge of the Katraj Lake, which makes it a desirable destination for people who want to get away from the city life. The animal and nature lovers come in hordes to enjoy Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park. This zoo is also an educational attraction as the tourists coming here and learn about the animals in a recreational way. The animals here get an open environment which is very close to nature. There are more then 360 animals that includes the endangered species and 100 people are appointed to take care of these animals.

Sentosa Water Park, Pune

Situated just a km away from Ravet, Pune, Sentosa water Park is one of the most popular parks in Pune. The most updated technology has been incorporated to create the slides and wave pool. You feel the positive vibes once you enter this park. You can feel the adventure on the meandering and twisting slides as you experience the splatter directly into the pool. The highlight of this park is the rain dance where the foot tapping numbers are played by the DJs to offer you a lifetime thrill. The wave pool too is an aqua-bonanza for adults and children alike.

Amanora Mall, Pune

One of the prime Malls in Pune, Amanora Shopping Mall is one of the popular hangout for the locals and tourists with family and friends. From branded clothes, different accessories to electronics everything is available here. The contemporary architecture of this mall is appreciated a lot as it is done up on a low format and there are no higher floors. It appears as if you are walking in a street. To satiate your hunger pangs there is a huge food court. An open space in the middle of the mall that is decorated colourfully and with live bands performing occasionally is a highlight of this place. The mall is designed by Walker Group Architects of New Zealand. With facilities like rainwater-harvesting, waste management recycling, it is an eco-friendly mall.

Atmosphere 6, Pune

One of the most happening place in Viman Nagar, Sky Max Mall, Atmosphere 6 serves variety of drinks in a wonderful environment. The resto-pub serves North Indian and Continental dishes. The highlight of this place is an open area, which gives a wonderful view of the city. The dance floor with foot-tapping numbers makes the place very lively and vibrant. Some of the signature dishes Of Atmosphere 6 are Pasta , Chicken Tikka, Biryani, Murg Platter and Pinacolado. The service is quick and prompt and the hospitality extended by the staff is simply awesome. Table booking is recommended as it really gets crowded on Weekends.

Shisha Jazz Cafe, Pune

A cool café with a distinctive Feel in Pune offers fun and frolic to young guests. The ambiance is classy and the surrounding setup is simply amazing. The café is a hot spot for shisha lovers as they enjoy foot-tapping live music, jazz bar, and outdoor comfortable seating with couches. The eclectic menu offers multiple-choice in varied cuisines including North Indian, Iranian, Lebanese, and European cuisine. It is a must-visit café offering delectable food even in Vegetarian and Vegan Options. Located at ABC Farms, Mundhwa Road in Koregaon Park, The cafe remains open from 11:00 AM to 12.30 AM

Pagdandi Books Chai Cafe, Pune

Nicely placed at Baner, Pune, Pagdandi Books Chai Café is one of the most admired places in the town. Beautiful ambiance with cozy sitting that comprises of sofas, floor cushions and books. The décor is very stylish and the seating is very comfortable. The café is normally crowded as people really like the concept of books in a café and where they can spend quality time. It serves breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. It has both indoor and outdoor sitting. The average cost for two is barely INR 400. It is a vegetarian restaurant and has a separate smoking area. The vibes, comfort and coziness makes this place very popular in Pune.

High Spirits, Pune

Funky place to hang around in Pune, High Spirits is nicely placed in close proximity to Westin, Koregaon, Pune. For live Bands, DJs and foot tapping numbers, High Spirits is lively and vibrant in the evenings. It has both indoor and outdoor sitting. It serves variety of liquors, Finger Food, Italian, North Indian and exceptional Mexican Food. Some of the signature items served here Sangria, Mojito, Pasta, Pizza, Nachos and Burgers. The staff has highly courteous and friendly and the service is very prompt. The average cost for two is 1500 INR and a pint of Beer costs approximately 140 INR.

Swig Koregaon Park Bar, Pune

It is one of the most famous eateries in the city for ardent music lovers. This is top rated hangout spots for gen-next in Koregaon Park, Pune. The ambiance is beautiful with an appealing outdoor area surrounded by greens and decorated in lovely hues of blue and white. The indoor seating arrangement is classy in wooden tones. Glaring and colorful psychedelic lights at the dance floor create a wonderful aura for gyrating. It also offers a wonderful platform for local young singers to exhibit their talent and also hosts noted players. Do not miss their mouthwatering fusion food served with drinks from a fully loaded bar. It remains open from 12 noon to 11:30 PM on all days.

Independence Brewing Company, Pune

Independence Brewig Company is a casual dining restaurant and has a well stocked bar. The ambiance is simple and fresh brews are served here. The place is neat and always well sanitized. Situated in Zero One Complex, Mundhwa, Pune, it serves excellent North Indian, Continental, Malwani and Fast Food. Some of the top dishes that are served here are variety of Mocktails, Beef Burger, Corn Chaat, Haryali Paneer Tikka and Chocolate Mousse. Meal for two with liquor costs around INR 2,400. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and separate smoking area. Live sports screening also takes place during IPL, Cricket and Football matches. Staff is polite and courteous. Both Cash and Credit Cards are accepted for payment.

Shinde Chhatri, Pune

Shinde Chhatri is a monument devoted to the 18th century commandant Shri Mahadji Shinde. He served the Peshwas in the late 18th century. It is located in Wanwadi area of Pune. It is found close to the old Shiva Temple that is done up in Anglo- Rajasthani design with carvings on yellow and black stone. The center of the hall is the cremation ground of the Mahadji Shinde, who was cremated in 1794 CE. The cheif segment is sheltered in a 15 feet high strong fortifications and has intricate structural design. The Shinde chhatri was built keeping the Vaasthu principles in mind.

National Defence Academy, Pune

NDA or the National Defence Academy is situated approximately 22 Kms from the city of Pune. It has been created for the three Indian armed services ie Army, Navy and the Indian Air Force. All the three forces are trained here till they are sent for their separate tasks and training. The huge campus area is approximately 7000 acres. The chief reason why this was chosen this as a campus because it is situated in close vicinity to the Khadakwasla lake. This academy is an exceptional blend of excellence and valour. Therefore, any person who has a desire to join defence, must visit this place and be a spectator to the true patriotic spirit.