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Pune, the culture capital of Maharashtra, pulsates with history, art and music. Pune saw power changing hands several times down the centuries and its magnificent monuments stand testimony to its rich historical past. The Peshwas who made Pune their seat of administration, took it to dizzying heights of prosperity. Pune is also witness to some fierce battles fought on its stunning forts. Enveloped in greenery thanks to the Sahyadri Mountains, Pune has picturesque locales and natural scenic beauty. Pune tourism offers myriad choices to tourists - from ancient temples to lush green hills, from forts which have withstood bloody battles to tranquil lakes, from museums which are a testament to its glorious past to the bustling markets. Here is a list of places to visit in Pune:
Built by Peshwa Bajirao I in 1732, Shaniwar Wada is one of the most popular Pune tourist places. This grand mansion was the residence of the Peshwas. It features Maratha imperial-style architecture and its imposing main gate or Dilli Darwaza with gigantic doors fitted with 72 sharp spikes, is by itself a sight to behold. The walls of Shaniwar Wada have witnessed politics, romance, betrayal and even murder. An absolute must-visit!
The magnificent Aga Khan Palace was built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III. Spread over 19 acres, this majestic building boasts of Italian arches, spacious lawns and 5 halls. The palace has tremendous historical importance thanks to Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturbha Gandhi as well as Sarojini Naidu being imprisoned here. Today this grand monument houses a museum which displays photos of Gandhiji as well as the freedom struggle.
Sinhagad which means ‘Lion’s fort’ is a hill fortress perched atop a cliff in the Sahyadri Ranges. Its immense historical and cultural significance makes it among the top Pune places to visit. It tells numerous stories of valour and is reminiscent of a splendid past. It has seen many fierce battles fought here including the famous Battle of Sinhagad led by Tanaji Malhusare in which he lost his life, but not before he recaptured the fort. A steep cliff leading to the fort was scaled in the dead of night by Tanaji and his men, where they defeated the Mughal army and regained control of the fort.
Khadakwasla Dam is built on River Mutha and creates a reservoir called Khadakwasla Lake which is the main water supply to the city of Pune. Any Pune tourist guide will tell you to visit Khadakwasla Dam because its scenic beauty, verdant surroundings and tranquil landscape make it an attractive picnic spot in all Pune trip packages. The roads around it are very popular among cycling enthusiasts as the routes offer picturesque views.
Parvati Hill towers about 2000 feet over Pune city, offering a sweeping panorama of the city. 103 steps lead to the top of the hill where stands the Parvati temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. The 2nd highest spot in Pune, Parvati Hill also has temples dedicated to Lords Vishnu, Vitthal, Vinayakar and Goddess Rukmini. Make a trip here to enjoy the spectacular views and tranquillity that it offers.
Lal Mahal is an iconic monument of Pune, famous for being Shivaji’s first home till he captured Torna Fort. Though Lal Mahal was razed due to various attacks and reconstructed later, it captures the tourist’s imagination because of all the stories it tells. The most exciting one being about how Shivaji cut off Shaista Khan’s fingers here. Feel history run through your veins as you take a tour of Lal Mahal.
Shinde Chhatri (umbrella) is a memorial dedicated to Mahadji Shinde who was commander-in-chief under the Peshwas in the 18th century. A temple of Lord Shiva built by Shinde stands here. After his death, his last rites were performed here and his samadhi (memorial) was constructed outside the temple’s sanctum. A must-see in your Pune holiday packages, the architecture of this monument designed in Anglo-Rajasthani style boasts of a perfect fusion of two cultures. Its fascinating carvings, paintings, coloured windowpanes and gallery make it a prime tourist spot.
Standing majestic amidst a bustling market, Vishrambagh Mahal or Wada, was built by Bajirao Peshwa II for his relaxation and entertainment. Though only a part of the wada is open to the public it is worth exploring because of its grandeur – witness exquisite entrance with carved pillars, the large dancing hall with intricately carved ceilings, adorned with stunning paintings, artefacts, vases and grand chandeliers belonging to the Peshwas.
This temple dedicated to Goddess Chattushringi is built on the slopes of a hill during the reign of the Peshwas. ‘Chattushringi’ means a mountain with four peaks and as the name suggests, in order to reach the shrine, you have to climb 170 steps. There are also smaller temples of Goddess Durga, Lord Ganesha and Ashtavinayak. This sacred temple set in the midst of nature should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Pune.
Over 125 years old, Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai is a revered Ganpati temple that is an absolute must-visit in Pune packages. The construction of the temple is so exquisite that you can see the magnificent deity adorned with about 40 kgs of gold, and all the proceedings of the sanctum from the road outside. Ganeshotsav celebrations are legendary here and visited by celebrities and Chief Ministers of Maharashtra. Lakhs of devotees flock to this temple every year to seek the Lord’s blessings. Explore your spiritual side here.
The Pataleshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and lies in the heart of Pune city. This fascinating temple, Pune’s oldest monument, has been carved out of a single basalt rock in the 8th century during the Rashtrakuta period. The beautifully crafted pillars, carvings on the black temple rocks, the massive giant stones and the Nandi Mandapa all add to its architectural brilliance. A tour of Pataleshwar Temple and its museum is a must, where you can also see a tiny grain of rice with 5000 letters inscribed on it.
Pashan Lake is a man-made lake in the Pashan suburb of Pune. The tranquil setting of Pashan Lake makes it an attractive place to visit. The walking trails are beautiful in the midst of lush greenery. A variety of trees like gulmohur, bamboo, neem and several others surround the lake. Pashan Lake is also a great place for bird spotting as storks, herons, purple moorhens, kingfishers etc are seen here frequently. Enjoy the serenity of nature at this peaceful and picturesque lake.
Your Pune tour is incomplete without a trip to Osho Teerth Park where you can discover the beauty and serenity of nature. The unique feature about this park is that this beautiful garden has been designed over a former wasteland. A barren patch of land with a drain running through it was transformed into a mini forest with lush trees and a stream flowing through it. Take a stroll, meditate or feel one with nature – the choice is yours!
Mulshi Dam is a top tourist attraction in Pune trip packages. Situated in the midst of the Sahyadri Ranges with a 360-degree view of the mountains, this dam on the River Mula is 35 kms away from Pune. It’s a perfect getaway to experience the tranquillity of nature. Camp by the lakeside or rent a cottage to make the most of this trip. This place becomes even more breath-taking in the monsoons as the alluring lake gets surrounded by verdant greenery.
Mahatma Phule Museum, founded in 1890, encompasses a world of history. It brings the past alive with its varied collection from geology, engineering, handicrafts, agriculture, industry and so much more. This old museum makes for a fascinating visit through science models, pictures, charts and an armoury displaying weapons of the Mughal and Maratha period. Do not forget to check out the impressive taxidermy collection of different species of birds, animals, snakes, and fishes.
In the lap of nature and yet bang in the heart of the city lies the beautiful Taljai Hills. Named after the Hindu Goddess Taljai whose temple stands on top of the hill, the Taljai Hills provide a respite from the concrete jungle that has become an inseparable part of our life. Visit Taljai Hills in the early morning hours or in the evening, take a walk through the trails and rejuvenate your senses. You may be lucky and spot some peacocks too.
Panshet Dam is nestled in the midst of the massive Sahyadri Hills, 50 kms from Pune. The spectacular views of the natural beauty, lush greenery and the beautiful waterfalls with the backdrop of the high mountains is not only a treat for the eyes but also has a calming effect on the soul. Away from the chaos of urban life, Panshet Dam is a popular picnic spot and an ideal place for trekking. If you are an adventure enthusiast this is a perfect place for you as there are water sports which will give you your dose of adventure.
Get a taste of village life at the Sanjay Gandhi Mahadeo Nimahan. This theme park gives visitors a real-life experience of rural life, culture and traditions. A village has been set up which recreates scenes of everyday rural life – farming, religious programme in a temple, village market, even a panchayat which resolves a dispute. A total of 555 statues like barber, cobbler, blacksmith and so on give us a glimpse of these occupations in rural Maharashtra. An experience you just can’t miss!
