Are you also one of those who love to visit forts, temples, and thrilling hilltop forts? Do you prefer energetic streets, delicious street food or historical monuments? If your answer is yes, then Pune city is your ideal place of visit! Often referred to as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune has culture rooted deep down and hence it is hub of experiences of all kinds out of which you can decide for yourself which is a must visit place in Pune.
If you are in pune, then at one time you are climbing up a hill on an archeological site of a fort with amazing vistas and at the next you are strolling through a beautiful Japanese garden in the middle of a city. Pune is a city of surprises and the surprises here are so much better than the next one. So, come on, let’s start with the travelling bag and camera to take a look at the mesmerizing must visit places in Pune city to visit. Welcome mates! It’s time to help you plan the perfect adventure in Pune. But as a traveler, don’t let that fool you, for Pune is more than just a city, it is a global heritage site that boasts incredible culture, history and nature. It ranges from the historical places in pune, invulnerable forts speaking volumes about the brave Maratha warriors to the contemporary lively streets of modern city of Pune attracting tourists across the world.
Top 10 Must-Visit Places In Pune
Through this blog, you will be able to follow the major things that need to be done in Pune city so that you can enjoy its best experiences. Every person whether is not travelling alone or with family or friends has something to explore in Pune. Let’s explore! Here’s a curated list of the must visit places in Pune city that showcase its cultural richness and natural beauty:
1. Shaniwar Wada: A Glimpse at Maratha Empire
Originally built in the Maratha style, this brilliant 18th-century fort is one of the most striking pieces of architecture in India and a must visit place in Pune. Visitors may go in through the giant door frames, admire the green landscapes and The classical show by sound and light in the evening talking about its glamorous history.
- Timings:For Palace- 08:00 am to 06:30 pm; For Sound and Light Show – 07:15 pm (Marathi); 08:15 pm (English)
- Entry Fee: For Palace- Rs. 5 and For Sound and Light Show- Rs. 25
- Location: Bajirao Road, Shaniwar Peth, Pune
2. Aga Khan Palace: A Monument of Freedom
Besides the architecture, the place has its importance in history as it was a prison of Mahatma Gandhi. Visit the museum dedicated to the life of Gandhi and wander the lawns which are best for a silent walk.
- Timings: 09:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day
- Location: Gandhi National Memorial Society, Aga Khan Palace Road, Pune
- Entry Fee: For Adults- Rs. 5 and for Children- Rs. 2
3. Sinhagad Fort: A Trekker’s Delight
Sinhagad Fort is surrounded by embedded hills that make it a group of favorites for historians and tourists interested in adventure. Take a pleasant view of the Sahyadri Hills and find out more about its-history. You should also try some ‘pithla bhakri’ which you can find at the stalls. If you are a lover of forts then this place is a must visit place in Pune for you.
- Timings: 05:00 am to 06:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Sinhagad Ghat Road, Pune
4. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple: A Spiritual Retreat
Pune is devoid of visiting this famous temple of Lord Ganesha where one must bow to seek blessings. Ganesh Chaturthi is a joyous occasion, watch the magnificently decorated idol in this video.
- Timings: 5:00 am to 10:30 pm;
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Ganpati Bhavan, Mehunpura, Budhwar Peth, Pune
5. Osho Ashram
The Osho Ashram is in the quiet area of Koregaon Park ideal for people who start to feel combative within. Attend meditation sessions and stay in a quiet environment.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹970 (Day pass for Indian residents) and ₹1,950 (Day pass for international visitors)
- Location: 17, Koregaon Park Rd, Lane 1, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra 411001.
6. Pune Okayama Friendship Garden: A Japanese Gem
This Okayama Friendship Garden is named after Japan’s Okayama Korakuen Garden as it provides a calm atmosphere away from a busy city. Take a leisurely stroll around the koi pond or watch colorful fishes through the picture perfect bridges, or even take a stroll in the beautifully manicured lawns. This is definitely one of the must visit places in Pune city.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 10:30 am and 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm;
- Entry Fee: Rs. 5
- Location: Sinhagad Road, Dattawadi, Pune
7. Saras Baug: A Green Paradise
Saras Baug means much more than a park to families and the lovers of nature as a culture. Explore the Talyatla Ganpati temple, and take a nice walk or go for a barbecue.
- Timings: 06:00 AM to 09:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Saras Baug, Pune
8. Pataleshwar Cave Temple: Ancient Marvels
This is a 8th century temple, which is carved out from a whole rock and it is fortunately not crowded at all. Take a while and just gaze at the plainness of the structure of it and the serenity it gives off. If you want to seek some blessings and feel the spirituality then this is among the Pune city must visit places.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Jangali Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411005.
9. Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill is quite a destination for trekking, adventure and offers splendid views of Pune city once it reaches the top. Finally go to one of the religious temples on the hill and have the pleasure of watching sunset or sunrise. So if you are a trekking enthusiast then for you, this place is definitely a must visit place in Pune.
- Timings: Open 24/7
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Parvati Paytha, Pune
10. FC Road and Laxmi Road: Shopper’s Delight
If you are a shopping freak or a gourmet, you can do shopping in pune, these commercial avenues are the places you should be found and decide whether it is truly a must visit place in Pune or not. From the latest fashion to food, and everything in between, there’s no better place to get that street feel.
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Shops operate within this time)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Near Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, Maharashtra 411004, Laxmi Road, Pune, Maharashtra 411030.
Tips For Exploring Pune
- Start Early: Try to start at an early morning as this allows you to visit as many places as possible and not meet many people.
- Local Cuisine: Pune even has its own specialties one has to taste while he is there; two dishes are vada pav and misal pav, and a special drink called mastani.
- Plan for Treks: These include wearing comfortable shoes and taking along water for those areas such as Sinhagad Fort.
- Weather: The best time to visit Pune is between the months of October and February.
- Respect Culture: Avoid wearing provocative clothes when, for example, going to visit temples or any other archeological landmarks.
Conclusion
Pune is not just the city, it is in fact a feeling which is to be experienced. Being one of India’s oldest cities, Pune has a diverse and proud culture with a beautiful landscape for all. From climbing forts to enjoying gardens or savouring local food this city is sure to give memories that are worth cherishing.
Get ready to be the discoverer of the most popular tourist destinations in Pune with Capture a Trip. Pune is a wonderful destination, and while planning the trip, people often get confused, which is where Capture a Trip can help. Our main core business is working with individual clients in order to create the itinerary that fits your requirements and needs. Let us take the onus of planning so that you can worry less and make awesome memories. This, and much more, can be found in the cultural capital of Maharashtra- Pune is calling- are you ready to answer?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time for tourism in Pune?
The ideal time to visit Pune is from October- February because the weather is congenial for travelling.
2. Are there any places in Pune which are good hangouts for families?
Yes, places like Saras Baug, Okayama Friendship Garden and Aga Khan Palace is also good for families.
3. Is Pune good for trekking?
Absolutely! Sinhagad Fort and Parvati Hill are definitely the best places to go trekking and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the area.
4. Which dishes are worth trying if I am in Pune?
Pune is known for a breakfast dish called vada pav, misal pav or spicy vegetable dish, poha which is flattened rice, and mastani a cold drink.
5. What modes of transport are available to get around Pune city?
One can easily get auto-rickshaws, book cabs through applications or take a private taxi.
