Pune Tourism (2021) - Maharashtra > Top Things To Do, Sightseeing

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Ideal duration: 1-3 days

Best Time: Jul-Mar Read More

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"Oxford of the East"

Pune Tourism

Pune is a bustling metropolis of Maharashtra, ranked number one in India in the ease of living. Often referred to as the Oxford of the East, it is a hub of diverse people and activities and is in rapidly growing into one of the top metropolitan cities in the country. Pune is a city that perfectly blends modernity with tradition sprinkled with colonial-era charm, and it deserves the title of being the cultural capital of Maharashtra.

Behind the modern commercialized façade of Pune lies the roots of ancient Poona, which gave birth to the Maratha Empire and had a very crucial role to play in the history of India’s independence. Pune is globally known for the Osho Ashram which attracts followers from all over the world. Dotted with palaces and temples, the most important of these are the Shaniwar Wada palace and the Aga Khan Palace.

To experience the grandiose of Maratha architecture coupled with stunning views of the Sahyadris, the Singhagad fort is a must-visit tourist attraction. Due to its alluring location on the Bhuleshwar Range of the Sahyadri Mountains, it offers excellent trekking trails to the top of the cliffs.

While Pune has plenty of eating options, ranging from street food to high-class restaurants where one can enjoy all kinds of cuisines, it is renowned for its bakery items. Ranging from a variety of cookies, pastries to even cakes, don’t forget to try out Pune’s mouth-watering desserts.

Shaniwar Wada

Aga Khan Palace

Osho Ashram

Nightlife in Pune

Places To Visit In Pune

Shaniwar Wada

Aga Khan Palace

Osho Ashram

Vetal Tekdi

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

Lal Mahal

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Top Hotels In Pune

5 Resorts in Pune Perfect for a Getaway from Citylife

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20 5 Star Hotels in Pune

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19 Best Resorts Near Pune For A Weekend Getaway

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15 Luxury Hotels In Pune

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27 Pet-Friendly Hotels In Pune

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3 Resorts In Pune For Couples

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Top Food and Dinning Collection in Pune

Top Pune Itineraries

The Bustle of a religious and historic city

Pune is a city full of energy and fun, with not only being a technological hub and centre, it's also a cultural and religious heritage city with lots of beautiful and important places around the city. With more than 200 IT companies and more than 100 destinations to dine and shop, the city also houses more than 50 marvellous temples. Shaniwarwada, laid by Bajirao in 1729, though largely destroyed, is still a thing of beauty and historical importance. The Sinhagad fort is a place of immense natural beauty situated over a mountain, 30 km south-west of Pune would give you a natural view to love and be mesmerised. Many other beautiful places like the Mulshi Dam, Lohagad and Vetal Hill are located around Pune for a quick excursion.

Nightlife In Pune

There are more than 100 pubs and nightclubs in Pune and is among the very few cities of India where pubs open till late, sometimes till 4 a.m.. Go there over the weekend and enjoy the chilled out vibes, dance your tensions away and fill your tired body with some scrumptious food and cocktails.

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History of Pune

The name “Pune” can be traced back to the term “Punaya Vishaya”, used for this city, inscribed on a copper plate which is dated back to 768 A.D. The Rashtrakutas ruled this region around this time. The most prominent period of history can be allotted to the rule of the Marathas, especially the Peshwas who grew extremely important under the aegis of the Marathas. However, in 1818, with the victory of the British in this city, the great Maratha rule came to an end. The education movement which is so strong in Pune right now kicked off with the establishment of the Deccan College in 1851. Ever since the establishment of this institute, more and more opened up, resulting in the the cultural hub that we see today.

Restaurants and Local Food in Pune

Pune is a sparkling city and offers a wide range of cuisines and countless options for food. However the most colourful and vibrant is the local cuisine and the city's specialities. These include Misal Paav, Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, Pithla Bhakri, Vada Paav, Poha, Dabeli and Puran Poli. These items are extremely popular and most have their flavors and fragrances filling the streets of the city as they are staple street food items. Do try Mastani, a rich milkshake garnished with dry fruits, one of the most delicious savouries of the town.

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Suggested Itinerary for Pune

Day 1 - After exploring the Shaniwarwada, you can explore the popular “Bund Garden”. This picturesque place is a popular retreat in the city.

Day 2 - History enthusiasts should head out to explore the Sinhagad Fort and scrumptious dishes that are available at intervals inside this fort.

Day 3 - If you are looking forward to enjoying some time with nature, head out to the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which lies 70 Kilometers away from Pune. You can also undertake a bike trip to this sanctuary. To cover it, you will have to keep a separate day in your itinerary

Day 4 - Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, and trekking across the beautiful Parvati Hill temples, which has around 108 steps, and offers an aerial view of the city, both require a full day dedicated to them. So, if you have more days to spare, go and explore all of these destinations!

Best Time to Visit Pune

Commuting within Pune

Pune Photos

Shaniwar Wada - Historical Fortification, Pune

Pune, Aga Khan Palace Built in the Year 1892

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FAQs on Pune

What is famous about Pune?

An IT hub with everything you can imagine in a modern city. Good nightlife. Scenic places to visit in and around the city with religious and historical buildings.

What is not so good about Pune?

Being a major city and a neighbour to Mumbai, the city suffers from traffic jams and crowd in most of the tourist places. There aren't a lot of touristy things to do within the city.

Who should visit Pune?

For people who wish to experience a good mix of modern city with a lot of heritage in a pleasant weather. Pune is also good for people looking for shopping and good food with fresh beer. Pune also acts as the central hub for a lot of nearby trekking spots, hill-stations and adventure towns nearby.

What is the best time to visit Pune?

Pune is spellbinding in both Monsoons and Winters, hence the months from July to February is the best time to visit this sprawling city of Maharashtra. The weather remains cool and pleasurably calm. The months of December is a festive time when the city hosts the famous Sawai Gandharva Sangeeth Mahotsav which attracts Indian classical music lovers from all over the country. However, it's best to avoid summers as the weather is torrid and could hinder your travel plans.

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What is the local food in Pune?

What is the best way to reach Pune?

Pune has an airport and connected very nicely to the rest of the cities of India by air. Pune railway station is also well connected to the rest of the India. Regular buses are also available from nearby towns in Maharashtra and cities like Bangalore, Surat and Ahmedabad.
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What are the top hotels in Pune?

There are 565 in Pune which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Pune are Andharban Home Stay, C 17 SOBA SAHWAS KARVENAGAR, teak trail, Cozy Living, Designer Home Stay in Kharadi, Pune, Well-Equipped 1BR Stay in Hinjawadi, Pune. You can see all the hotels in Pune here

What are the things to do in Pune?

The top things to do in Pune are Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Osho Ashram, Vetal Tekdi, Lal Mahal. You can see all the places to visit in Pune here

What are the places near Pune?

The top places near to Pune are Lonavala which is 54 km from Pune, Lavasa which is located 38 km from Pune, Mahabaleshwar which is located 69 km from Pune, Jejuri which is located 39 km from Pune, Kamshet which is located 42 km from Pune

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Pune Reviews

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Ajay Warat

5 months ago

Good place for bird lovers. I visited 19 January 2021 But not see flemingos. Ride through ujani dam is very good. Guide are very helpful and knowledgeable. Many other migratory birds we saw. Also tas (Read More)ty fish food at bhigwan must taste everyone.

GK ki Pathshala

2 years ago

This place is just magical located near Pune named as Nisargshala. Every person should experience this love of mother nature. There was everything Barbique,Gvran food, Adventures, NightFire, Breakfas (Read More)t and Every thing is served in the glance of Nature. Please guys atleast once get out of the congested fuss and experience the nature

Surbhi Parashar Parashar

3 years ago

Known by a number of connotations like 'the cultural hub of Maharashtra', or the 'Oxford of the East', or 'The Queen of the Deccan', Pune stands true to all of these. While it has a rich historical p (Read More)ast, the present culture in the city makes it one of the most exciting places in the great state of Maharashtra. With the number of colleges and institutes getting established in and around this city, Pune happens to be buzzing with a very fresh young vibe. So while the historical aspect of this city makes it well worth a trip, so do the new nightclubs and cafes! Pune showcases the perfect amalgamation of the new and old India. The very place where Chhatrapati Shivaji was raised, Pune has a rich history and many maharajas had built their palaces here. Pune with its plethora of history is also called the cultural hub of the state. It is one of the fastest growing cities of India and is becoming the next IT hub. Pune is also famous for a lot of educational institutes established here and you would find the city brimming with students. No wonder, it is also called the 'Oxford of the east'. Pune is also very close to the hill-stations of Matheran, Lonavla, Khandala, Kamshet, etc.

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Pune

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