Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Sinhagad Fort, Osho Ashram, Lal Mahal, Empress Garden, Okayama Friendship Garden, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Vetal Tekdi, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and many more.
You can find a long list that follows and varies as per the choice of the person looking and the one who is recommending. But there is one thing we can agree on, and that is how Pune is the perfect place to spend your time and enjoy it all. Surrounded by many mesmerizing attractions, the city of Pune is no less attractive to many coming from outside, sometimes from even as close Mumbai to enjoy their weekends.
Amongst the most famous of tourist places in Pune, there are some, that just stand out clearly from the rest. Be it the Shaniwar Wada Palace that has seen some of the most intense and prosperous times in the history of the area, or be it the heights of the Parvati and Vetal hills in the region, offering mesmerizing views of the areas around. So the next time you are in Pune for whichever reasons, these are the places you should definitely be hitting.
1.Shaniwar Wada Palace
A prominent historical landmark in Pune is Shaniwarwada which is considered as one of the best pune tourist places. It is a majestic fortification which was built in 1732 and during that time it was the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire and they ruled over there until 1818. After they lost control to the British East India Company, they could not use it longer. But when they were in the reign, Shaniwarwada was the centre of Indian politics in the 18th century and is one of the famous places to visit in pune with friends.
But in 1828, the fort was destroyed by a huge fire and later the remnants were transformed to become a tourist site. Shaniwarwada was a seven-storied capital building of the Peshwas and they wanted the building to be made of stone alone. However, after the completion of the ground floor, the people of Satara insisted that stone monument can be sanctioned and built only by the Shahu King, not the Peshwas.
With respect to it, the Peshwas were asked to continue the construction of the building by using only bricks. But when the British attacked, only the base floor survived while all the other floors were completely destroyed. Earlier, the fort used to accommodate around thousand people. The major buildings inside the fort are Thora Rayancha Diwankhana or the court reception hall of the eldest royal member, Naachacha Diwankhana which is the dance hall, Juna Arsa Mahal that is the Old Mirror Hall and so on. Since all the buildings were destroyed in the fire, only descriptions of the remaining areas are available currently.
The doorways were made of teak arches with ornamental teardrop teak pillars shaped like Suru trunks. Ceilings were beautified by numerous chandeliers and the floors were filled with polished marble adorned with rich Persian rugs. The walls displayed paintings depicting the Hindu epics. The top floor of the building enacted as the residence of the Peshwa and it was called Meghadambari. Among many Pune places to visit, this palace has it's own value and is a must visit location.
Entry Timings: It is open on all days of the week from 08:00 am to 06:30 pm and there is a Light and Sound Show every day and the tickets for the show can be booked every day from 06:30 pm to 08:30 pm.
Entry Fee: For Indian citizens, the entry fee is INR 5 and for foreign nationals, it is INR 125. For the Light and Sound Show, the ticket fee is INR 25 per person.
Location: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030.
2. Aga Khan Palace
Yet another amazing landmark and one of the famous places to visit in Pune with friends is the Aga Khan Palace which was built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in 1892. In the history of India, this palace placed itself on a prominent space as one of the biggest landmarks in India. As an act of charity, the palace existed and the Sultan who built it wanted to help the poor in the region.
The mighty monument is an important part of Pune tourism and is also considered to be a sparkling jewel in Indian history which had a close connection with the Indian freedom movement since it served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his wife, his secretary, and Sarojini Naidu. Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai, the secretary died in this palace.
Archaeological Survey of India declared the palace as a monument of national importance in the year 2003. Aga Khan, the brilliant mind behind the birth of this majestic monument donated the palace to the Indian people as a mark of respect to Gandhi and his philosophy in 1969 and currently, the palace holds itself the vast collection of memories and it is a memorial on Gandhi where his ashes were kept. In the later years, the prominence of the palace started diminishing and the authorities neglected the importance of the monument and thus was becoming unattended as well.
The palace is exactly situated about 2 kilometers away from Bund Garden in Yerwada on Pune Nagar Road. The palace presents Utalian arches and a huge lawn at the front and it houses five falls. The total area in which the palace is situated in 19 acres including the lawn and other spaces.
Aga Khan Palace is one of the important places in Pune to visit which is an important archive as well that showcases the number of photos and portraits of the life of Mahatma Gandhi and other important figures of the Indian freedom struggle. It acts as the headquarters of the Gandhi National Memorial Society.
Entry Timings: You can visit the palace on all days from 09:00 am to 05:30 pm.
Entry Fee: For Indian nationals, the entry fee is INR 5, whereas for foreign nationals it is INR 100.
Location: Pune Nagar Road, Kalyani Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014.
3. Osho Ashram
Osho Ashram is one of the famous tourist places in Pune located in the Koregaon Park. The founder of the ashram was Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain who is famous among the people as Osho Rajneesh. The ashram has got another title as Osho Commune International of Pune and it is spread across 32 acres of land. Those who are eagerly waiting to escape into the laps of peace and tranquillity will fall in love with this ashram which is existing on a land of pure serenity and greenery and it offers the much-awaited break from the hustle and bustle of the city pollution and crowd. Currently, the ashram is perhaps the most visited tourist destination after it achieved fame among the tourists coming to Pune as well.
One of the most peaceful visiting places in Pune with calm surroundings that is the major factor contributing to the exciting crowd pulling the ashram holds. Space is undoubtedly dedicated to yoga and meditation that promise the visitors a rejuvenating experience, letting the body and soul preserve the natural features of being peaceful and calm. The ashram offers a lot of training programmes of different kinds based on the visitor’s choice.
The programmes are on spiritual living and stress-free lifestyle and they are conducted at regular intervals. The important ones are Osho Nadabrahma, Osho Kundalini meditation, normal meditation, Osho Nataraj, Osho dynamic meditation and so on. The ashram is promised to keep on the legacy portrayed by the great guru Osho and it teaches his concepts and ideologies to the visitors. Osho Multiversity is another part of the ashram that provides extensive methods for personal development.
There you will get knowledge of healing arts, creative arts, martial arts, esoteric sciences, Sufism and much more. Also, on every month, there will be meditation camps are conducted on second Friday that has a duration of three days. Spiritual Disneyland is the name the ashram possesses since hundreds of people come here to rediscover themselves as along with the meditation, it offers a range of multiple facilities like massages, beauty therapies, sauna, swimming pool, tennis etc. Counted as Pune best places, gardens in the Ashram are open to the public every day during morning and evening hours.
Entry Timings: The ashram is open on all days from 06:00 am to 10:30 pm.
Location: 17, Koregaon Park Road, Vasani Nagar, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra 411001.
4. Lal Mahal
Lal Mahal is one of the famous tourist places in Pune which has another name as Red Palace. It is a beautiful monument established in 1630 AD by Shivaji Maharaj’s father Shahaji Bhosale for his wife and son. Shivaji Maharaj lived here for a long time until the time he captured his first fort.
The original one had undergone several destructions and the current one is a reconstructed structure, located at the heart of the city. Shivaji’s wedding with Maharani Saibai took place in this palace.
The original monument was constructed with the aim of rejuvenating the city of Pune when Dadoji Kondev entered the city with Shivaji Maharaj. The history recorded at various places proves the fact that Lal Mahal was used for organising feasts for the Brahmins during the thread ceremony of Sadoba, the son of Chimajiappa.
The original location where the monument was first established is still unknown, perhaps it was known to be located very close to the location of Shaniwarwada. The newly constructed Lal Mahal does not have many features the old one possessed and it is not built in the same fashion as well.
Pune Municipal Corporation was the one who rebuilt the current Lal Mahal and the construction was begun in 1984 and ended in 1988. The Lal Mahal became an important part of the history after an encounter between Shivaji and Shaista Khan when the former cut off the latter’s fingers and he tried to escape from the window of the Lal Mahal. The current palace displays a collection of large sized oil paintings based on the important events happened in the life of Shivaji. There is the Jijamata Garden now recognised as a recreational park for kids.
Entry Timings: It is open on all days from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm and then from 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
Entry Fee: The entry fee to enter the palace is INR 3 per person.
Location: Lal Mahal, Ganesh Rd, Durvankur Society, Kasba Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411002.
5. Empress Garden
A famous garden and one of the surreal places to see in Pune, this place is the Empress Garden managed by the Agri-Horticultural Society of Western India. Since 1880, the Empress Garden was under this society and it has been maintained well with the aim to nurture and protect the rare flora of the region. Sprawling across an area of 39 acres, the garden encompasses many varieties of trees, plants and flowers. Also, there will be flower shows and other similar programmes organised by the Agri-Horticultural Society in order to create an awareness among the people regarding the conservation and preservation of the rare species of flora and it is one of the best places to visit in Pune for kids.
The landscaped garden is a piece of beauty that amuses the visitors well and it displays lush green lawns, different types of flora and fauna collection, a play area attracting kids as well as a snack shack. There is a stream of water flowing throughout the garden which adds more beauty to the garden than we can imagine. The history of the garden says that the ownership of the garden was passed onto the hands of the Government in 1838 and later in 1845, it was further changed and came into the hands of Sir Charles Napier. Then on, the garden bore another name as the Garden of Dr Don. Afterwards, the garden was named as Empress Garden in honour of Queen Victoria when she won the title, Empress of India.
During the colonial period under the British, it was one fo the famous places in Pune for British as many of the British soldiers used to come and visit the garden for recreational purposes. Thus it started known as the Soldier’s Garden. The garden was well protected and still, it amuses the visitors with its non-decayed charm and spell. To penetrate into the much-awaited peace and tranquillity and thus evaporate the boredom of the mundane life, people arrive at the garden on a large scale.
Entry Timings: The garden is open on all days from 09:30 am to 06:30 pm.
Entry Fee: The entry fee is Rs.10 per person above 3 years old.
Location: Near Race Course, Kavade Mala, Ghorpadi, Pune, Maharashtra 411001, India.
6. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
An atypical rock cut cave temple in Pune is the Pataleshwar Cave Temple which is an ancient temple that dates back to the 8th century during the Rashtrakuta period. This temple is one of the famous places to visit in Pune with family. The temple is also known as Panchaleshvara or Bamburde temple. Originally, the temple’s location was outside the town and when the city limits were expanded, the temple is situated now on the downtown Jangli Maharaj Road. It has been declared as a protected monument by the government and it is one of the best sightseeing in Pune.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and it is made of basalt rock which has a cube-shaped sanctum 3-4 meters on each side. It holds a linga which represents the god and there are two smaller cells on each side.
A circular Nandimandapa is placed in front of the cave but its umbrella shaped canopy held by massive square pillars is the main component that makes the temple’s beauty heightened. The Nandimandapa is yet another feature of the temple. The cave is situated at a lower level than the present level of the road.
The main structure of the cave is rectangular in shape with a pillared porch. Along with the main sanctum, there are other three sanctums as well. To circumambulate, there is a path provided inside the temple and the unfinished part of the cave temple can be seen while you rotate it.
However, the inside walls of the temple possess grandly some inscriptions and drawings depicting the stories from Indian mythology, especially revolving around Lord Shiva. The cave complex is turned out to be a garden and also, you can see some architectural members which were parts of other old temples nearby. The incomplete Temple is the main tourist attraction as well but the locals come here to celebrate the Shiva Linga Pooja that would be done with ghee and yoghurt.
Entry Timings: 08:00 am to 05:30 pm.
Entry Fee: There is no fee is applicable to enter the temple.
Location: Jangali Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411005.
7. Vetal Tekdi
A prominent hill in the city limits of Pune is Vetal Hill which is the highest point at an elevation of 2600 feet and one of the unforgettable places to see in Pune. Vetala temple is also located on the top of the hill and that is how the hill got its name as Vetal Hill. Adventure seekers come here in plenty to escape from the hustles and bustles of the city and it is a great morning trek location and it is one of the best places to visit in Pune.
Near the temple, there is an observation desk set up by the Indian Forest Department. Vetal Tekdi is the Marathi name and from the hilltop, one can watch the Pune city as a whole on a clear day. The hill is a part of Bhamburda Van Vihar on the western side of Pune Municipal Corporation and an important part of Pune Tourism.
Vetal Tekdi has two spurs named Fergusson College Hill and Chatturshrungi Hill. There is one access road that takes people up the hill from the south. Also, a public parking lot is located along the road but the access to it is restricted to between 08:30 am and 05:30 pm. The area has been undergoing some anthropogenic activities for last some years- plantation of many exotic species, urban development, deforestation etc are a few of the activities that make the hill important.
Currently, Vetal Hill is an area protected by the India Forestry Department and the State Forest Department and Pune Municipal Corporation have done a lot of afforestation programmes on a large scale and thus now the hill accommodates different species of flora and fauna. If you plan to trek to the hill, you will be exploring Pune best places here. However, carry drinking water and snacks on the trek. There are three ways or direction to reach the hill; from Kothrud, Pashan, Chaturshringi.
Entry Timings: There is no particular timing to visit the hill but it is advised to trek up the hill before dawn to enjoy the beautiful sunrise and the unbeatable serenity.
Entry Fee: No entry fee is applicable to trek the hill up.
Location: Pashan, Pune 411038, Maharashtra.
8. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
An atypical rock cut cave temple in Pune is the Pataleshwar Cave Temple which is an ancient temple that dates back to the 8th century during the Rashtrakuta period. This temple is one of the famous places to visit in Pune with family. The temple is also known as Panchaleshvara or Bamburde temple. Originally, the temple’s location was outside the town and when the city limits were expanded, the temple is situated now on the downtown Jangli Maharaj Road. It has been declared as a protected monument by the government and it is one of the best sightseeing in Pune.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and it is made of basalt rock which has a cube-shaped sanctum 3-4 meters on each side. It holds a linga which represents the god and there are two smaller cells on each side.
A circular Nandimandapa is placed in front of the cave but its umbrella shaped canopy held by massive square pillars is the main component that makes the temple’s beauty heightened. The Nandimandapa is yet another feature of the temple. The cave is situated at a lower level than the present level of the road.
The main structure of the cave is rectangular in shape with a pillared porch. Along with the main sanctum, there are other three sanctums as well. To circumambulate, there is a path provided inside the temple and the unfinished part of the cave temple can be seen while you rotate it.
However, the inside walls of the temple possess grandly some inscriptions and drawings depicting the stories from Indian mythology, especially revolving around Lord Shiva. The cave complex is turned out to be a garden and also, you can see some architectural members which were parts of other old temples nearby. The incomplete Temple is the main tourist attraction as well but the locals come here to celebrate the Shiva Linga Pooja that would be done with ghee and yoghurt.
Entry Timings: 08:00 am to 05:30 pm.
Entry Fee: There is no fee is applicable to enter the temple.
Location: Jangali Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411005.
9. Shinde Chhatri
Shinde Chhatri is a memorial dedicated to the 18th-century military leader Mahadji Shinde and it is one of the main attraction and a well-known Pune places to visit . Mahadji Shinde served as the commander in chief of the Maratha army under the rule of Peshwas from 1760 to 1780.
The majestic representative of the Maratha rule houses a hall that marks the spot of Mahadji Shinde’s cremation on 12th February 1794. During 1794, the memorial had only one temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built by Mahadji Shinde himself and in 1965 only, a Samadhi was constructed outside the sanctum of the Shiva temple. Madhavrao Scindia was responsible for the construction of the complex along with the memorial.
The architecture of the building is the main attraction as it resembles the architectural styles used in Rajasthan along with a touch of the Anglo style which is also a reason that it is counted in best Pune tourist places. It shows a picturesque blending of two different cultures.The beauty of the building is heightened due to the presence of fine, alluring carvings. The carvings and the idols of the saints of the Shiva temple are made of yellow stone and the floor of the sanctum sanctorum is constructed using black stone.
The hall inside the structure is decorated beautifully with paintings and photographs of members of Shinde family. But it began to accommodate bad conditions as years passed but currently, its glory being recovered by painting the walls and restoring the old beauty to it. The historical identity and the architectural brilliance played on the walls of the building make it a famous Pune visiting place.
Entry Timings: The building remains open on all days of the week from 06:00 am to 09:00 pm.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the landmark.
Location: Wanowrie, Pune 411001, India.
10. Mulshi Lake and Dam
In the recent years, Mulshi Lake and Dam have been reformed to be one of the major tourist places in Pune and those who love to capture the pleasant pictures of nature at its best flood toward this lake and dam built on the famous Mula River. It is located in the Mulshi Taluka administrative division of the Pune district.
The water from the dam is taken to use for irrigation and producing electricity at the Bhira hydroelectric power plant. The power plant is operated by Tata Power. The station is operating six 25 MW Perton turbines and one 150 MW Pumped Storage Unit. An inimitable weekend gateway from Pune to the precious nature filled by the Sahyadri ranges, Koraigadh and Dhangad Fort and other major attractions is the dam and lake.
The lake and dam can be witnessed from a nearby village that is Valanewadi, located about 6 kilometres away from Mulshi. It is also a perfect spot for birding, nature walk, photography and trekking near Pune because of the pristine nature’s influence on the location so well. During monsoon, the lake and dam will be overflowing and the gushing water produces some soothing voices enough to let any perplexed mind to be relaxed. Hence people come to enjoy the beauty of the lake and dam during the heavy rainy season.
Entry Timings: It is open from 09:00 am to 06:00 pm.
Entry Fee: No entry fee is applicable to visit the dam and lake.
Location: Mulshi Taluk, Pune, Maharashtra 412108, India.
Savour a slice and peace and rejuvenation when you visit the Osho Ashram in Pune. If you are seeking a place to get away from the worries of life and discover your inner peace, Osho Ashram is a perfect place for you to visit in Pune. Osho Ashram was founded by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, a popular spiritual leader, and a famous public speaker. The place has been renowned as a meditative retreat where people can appreciate the serene atmosphere and enjoy a peaceful stay with luxury resort facilities. The place boasts of many facilities like a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis courts and a spa. People here can indulge in various meditation activities and therapies and look forward to an exciting visit as there are a number of activities to keep you engaged all the time. Osho Ashram in Pune offers an awesome retreat to channel your inner energies and make a meaning of your life.
Location: 17, Koregaon Park Road, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: It can be visited throughout the year
Entry fee: The entry fees at Osho Ashram is INR 870/ USD per person for a day
Timings: Osho Ashram is best visited between 6:00 am to 10:30 pm
This red colored palace is one of the most prominent attractions in Pune that you must add to your bucket list when you are visiting Pune. The place was built by the father of Shivaji, Shahaji Bhosale with the intention to revive the recently destroyed city of Pune in 1630 CE. However, the original structure was completely demolished in a series of attacks that befell Pune and now the structure that stands was only a part of original Lal Mahal once.
The new Lal Mahal was thus rebuilt in an entirely new way near the Shaniwar Wada in Pune. When visiting the Lal Mahal, tourists can see a great collection of oil paintings that showcase various events in the life of Shivaji Maharaj. There is also a statue of Shivaji’s mother Jijamata and there is a popular place for recreation for kids at Jijamata Garden. Lal Mahal is also famous as the place in history where Shivaji Maharaj cut the fingers of Shaistekhan, the Mughal invader when he was trying to escape from the Lal Mahal.
Location: Lal Mahal, Kasbapeth area, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Best Time to visit: Tourists can plan their trip to Lal Mahal any time throughout the year in Pune.
Entry fee: The cost of entering the place is INR 3/ 0.046 USD Per Person.
Timings: The timings for the mornings are from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and for the evenings, the timing is from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dedicated to the Hindu God Ganesha, Dagdusheth Halwai Temple is one of the most famous Pune Tourist Places if you wish to add some spiritual essence to your vacation. The temple is one of the oldest Ganesh temples in India and was built by a local halwai called Shri Dagdusheth. It is considered that it was his dedication that inspired the construction of the temple and encouraged his friend Lokmanya Tilak celebrating the Ganesh festival. This festival paved to be an important event in India’s history and today celebrated with great fervour and gaiety. The beautiful temple has a humble architecture but resonates greatly with history and culture of this place. Being located in the centre of the city, Dagdusheth Halwai Temple is an important place in Pune to appreciate and take part in various events like music concerts, bhajans, and Atharvasheersh recitation which are held here.
Location: Shivaji Road, Budhwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: The most preferred time to visit this temple is from August to September
Entry fee: There are no entry fees to visit Dagdusheth Halwai Temple
Timings: Tourists can plan their visit here from 6.00 am to 11.00 pm
Tucked away from the bustling city, lies a surreal place in Pune, Pune Okayama Friendship Garden that looks refreshingly green everywhere around as far as your eyes can see! Spread across 10 acres of land, This garden is inspired by a 300-year-old Japanese Korakuen garden that was developed by Ikeda Royal family in Okayama, Japan.
This is the biggest Japanese garden in the world outside Japan and has also been featured in many Bollywood movies. The garden has become a key attraction in Pune and is also referred to as Pu. La. Deshpande Garden, in fond memory of Pu. La. Deshpande, a renowned Marathi writer.
The Japanese believe that "to have something, there also has to be nothing". This Yin and Yang philosophy of having light and darkness, stillness and motion, soft and hard, warm and cold is depicted in the garden through the composition of natural elements like fire, harmony, line, spirit, world, and water. The Japanese consider gardens as spiritual places to meditate and seek one’s inner self and the Pune Okayama Garden stands perfectly in line with this ideology.
The verdant lawns and the soothing ambience revitalizes one’s senses and kindles their spiritual call. One can experience unexplained happiness and contentment just as they step into the garden!
The garden has beautiful natural landscapes and man-made add-ons that make it look so spectacular. The canal running through the garden is filled with colourful fish and the moon bridge over the canal is a great location to spot the bright orange coloured fish swimming around.
The attractions within the garden include a waterfall, a pond, lanterns, artificial hillocks, and a forest. The landscape of the garden is diverse and as one walks through the serene pathways listening to the rumbling sound of the stream and the chirping of the birds, one can witness the change in the garden landscape. There are Pergolas around this huge garden, where one can sit, relax, and enjoy the tranquillity engulfing this place.
The park is maintained extremely well and visitors are not allowed to picnic or stroll through the lawn. The tall, thick trees and the numerous varieties of flowering plants at Pune Okayama Garden are undeniably an exhilarating respite to the sore eyes!
One of the fascinating sightseeing places in Pune, Pataleshwar Cave Temple is an important temple in Pune dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar who is the God of the Underworld. Dating back to the 8th century, Pataleshwar Cave Temple is renowned for being carved out of a single rock and been announced by the government as a protected monument in Pune. Along with its architectural brilliance, Pataleshwar Cave Temple is also known for its unique sound of bells.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple offers an interesting glimpse of rock-cut architecture in India and dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi. At the main shrine of the temple, pilgrims pay their respect to the imposing Shiva lingam which is built there. One of the astounding features of Pataleshvar Cave Temple is that its construction was never completed and thus one can witness that there is no specific entrance to the temple. Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a great visit both for spiritual reasons and appreciating the art and culture the region.
Location: Jangali Maharaj Road, Revenue Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: The best time to visit here is from the month of June to February
Entry fee: You are not needed to pay any entrance fees at Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Timings: The timings at this temple are from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Vetal Hill is popularly known as Vetal Tekdi. It is one of the most famous places amongst the locals residing in Pune. Fitness freaks frequent Vetal Hill quite often for either an early morning walk, jog, trek or to cycle. Situated just 10km from Pune railway station, it is easily accessible by road. Vetal Hill is one of the highest points in Maharashtra at an elevation of 2600ft. This is a perfect place for a family picnic, photography, birding or just an outing along with friends on a weekend.
The forest officials have constructed a deck at the top of the hill which offers a spell-bounding landscape of mother nature. Vetal Hill is a popular tourist destination which has a rich flora and fauna along with small lakes, colourful birds, green in every shade and a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
The hill is dotted with chirping birds, peacock, rabbits, falcons and colourful butterflies. Apart from the famous Vetal temple the Chaturshringi temple too finds its place here.
One has to scale close to 100 steps to offer prayers to goddess Chaturshringi along with other gods and goddesses. Birders frequent this place to spot colourful birds like robin, francolin, minivet, bulbuls and many more. Spend a weekend with friends and family at the gorgeous Vetal hills surrounded by fluttering butterflies, chirping birds and distant echo from nearby villages.
An early morning trek to Vetal Hill is highly recommended to witness the gorgeous sunrise. Vetal Hill has a temple at the top of the hill dedicated to the goddess Vetala. Thus the mountain has been named after the temple worshipping the goddess.
Go for an amazing outing with your friends and family to Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park when you are in the city of Pune. The famous park is known for having a snake park, an animal orphanage and a zoo that makes it totally worth a visit for lovers of wildlife and nature. Whether you are an adult or a kid, a visit to Rajiv Gandhi zoological park is an exciting trip to learn more about snakes and reptiles and come back with more knowledge about these elusive creatures.
Amongst the most famous ‘tekdis’ and hillocks in the town of Pune, Maharashtra, Parvati Hill offers visitors gorgeous and stunning views of the surrounding valley. With a history dating back to almost 250 years, Parvati Hill is famous for its temples and museums, in addition to being one of the oldest structures in Pune.
Built in the early mid-17th century, the Parvati Hill Temple Complex can be found on Parvati Hill. The temple is located at the top of the hill and enshrines the idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, Lord Vishnu, Lord Karthikeya as well as Devateshwar. It is also said to have served as the sole place of worship of the Peshwa rulers in the bygone eras.
Situated at an elevation of almost 640 metres above sea level, it is also one of the most beautiful locations in the whole city of Pune and offers a great view of the entire city. One can reach the top of the hill simply by climbing 103 steps which are marked by specialised stone architectural works of the Maratha style.
Moreover, the hillock also has the Parvati Museum, which boasts of age-old manuscripts, rare weaponry and one-of-a-kind coins. Located near the museum are the Sati Monument and Vetal Chabutra. Additionally, the museum complex also houses the Samadhi Sthan of Shrimant Nanasaheb Peshwa.
The Parvati Hill Temple Complex is one of the oldest heritage structures in the city, still serving as a gentle yet magnificent reminder of the rule of the Peshwas in the region. Many old legends suggest that Balaji Bajirao, the Peshwa ruler, used to watch the Battle of Kirkee and the subsequent defeat of the British from this hill.
A resonating reminder of Pune’s rich cultural heritage, Vishrambaug Wada was built in 1807 as a mansion for Peshwa Bajirao of Pune. It boasts of its majestic design and architecture with cypress-shaped columns, decorated ceilings and imposing verandahs. The place can be visited during a heritage walk in Pune that is organised every Sunday and offers an entertaining musical performance to the public.
The place is replete with its historical charm and leaves a lasting impression on everyone’s mind. It is one of the most interesting Pune tourist places that will take you back to the times of Peshwa rule in the erstwhile Maratha kingdom. The place has been undergoing constant renovations and houses a post office and some other offices of Pune Municipal Corporation.
Location: RB Kumthekar Rd, Perugate, Sadashiv Peth, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: Anytime throughout the year is great for planning a trip to Vishrambaug Wada
Entry fee: The entry fee at Vishrambaug Wada is INR 5/ USD 0.07 Per Person
Timings: Vishrambaug Wada can be visited by the tourists from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Situated in Katraj, Maharashtra, this place is an exciting outing for lovers of nature and wildlife. It is one of the most famous Pune tourist attractions and offers an excellent tour of fascinating wildlife spotting various snakes, reptiles, birds and turtles. Katraj Snake Park is home to more than 22 species of snakes and garners interest from both children and adults.
One of the most favourite attraction for the tourists at Katraj Snake Park is 13 feet long King Cobra. A park is an intriguing place where people are educated about snakes by clarifying their doubts and allaying their fears about snakes. Katraj Snake Park has been known for hosting a number of snake festivals, one of the most famous beings during the Nag Panchami. A visit to Katraj Snake Park is an educational experience where you can have fun and enjoyment with your family and friends with a bit of adventure.
Location: Pune-Satara Road, Opp. Katraj Dairy, Katraj, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: One should plan a visit here in the rainy season from the months of July to September
Entry fee: The entry fee at Katraj Snake Park is INR 3/ USD 0.05
Timings: It is open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm for the tourists. Tourists should avoid Wednesday as it remains closed on that day
One of the most scenic attractions in Pune, Saras Baug is a great place to plan a visit with your friends and family. This place is popular its beautiful 25-acre park and the famous Talyatla Ganpati temple. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple attracts a number of devotees who come here to pay their respects and seek God’s blessings. It is one of the ideal Pune tourist places if you are visiting with children or looking for a relaxed spot for picnicking in the city.
Saras Baug offers a refreshing experience as you are surrounded by a lush green landscape and indulge in various rides like giant wheels to bring out the kid in you. Another attraction of this place is the presence of a wide array of eateries which are just a delight for foodies in Pune. One can look forward to enjoying some lip-smacking dishes outside Saras Baug like pav bhaji, bhelpuri, panipuri etc.
Location: Saras Baug is located within a radius of one kilometre from Swargate bus station and 3.6 km from Pune Railway Station.
Best Time to visit: Anytime throughout the year is great for visiting Saras Baug in Pune.
Entry fee: There are no entry charges to enter Saras Baug in Pune.
Timings: The garden remains open for tourists from 9 am to 6 pm every day.
Dedicated to the Maratha leader Mahadji Shinde, this place is a popular tourist attraction in Pune. Being an important reminder of the Maratha rule in India’s history, this place is hailed as a significant landmark. There is a memorial devoted to the great ruler Shinde and the place also houses a temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and built by Shinde himself.
It boasts of an interesting architecture replete with intricate carvings and beautifully aligns Rajasthani design with Anglo style. The splendid designs have withstood the passage of time and still considered to be one of the gorgeous pieces of architecture in Pune. The place was constructed following the Vaastu Hara rules and represent a fine amalgamation of two beautiful cultures. Shinde Chhatri is now maintained by Shinde Devasthan Trust, Gwalior and attracts many lovers of art and history in Pune.
Location: Shinde Chhatri is located in Wanawadi in Pune
Best Time to visit: The months from July to February are the most preferred time to visit here
Entry fee: The entry fees at Shinde Chhatri is INR 5/ USD 0.07
Timings: The timings to visit here from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
Originally a dam used for irrigation and hydroelectricity generation, Mulshi Lake and Dam is now one of the most notable attractions in Pune. The place attracts a number of visitors who wish to relax in the serene ambience of nature and rejuvenate their soul away from all the hubbub of city life. Mul shi Lake and Dam gets its picturesque landscape as it is nestled beautifully between two hills and verdant forests.
Shivneri Fort is the home of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who was the founder of the Maratha Empire. Situated on a hilltop with steep cliffs and seven fortified gates, it was built as a strategic military fort in the 16th century.
Inside, you can see statues of Jijabai and young Shivaji, the serene Badami Talav, and two perennial water springs of Ganga and Yamuna. With its well-preserved architecture, quiet trekking routes, and deep historical importance, the fort offers a reflective escape into Maratha history. English traveller Fraze once noted Shivneri’s preparedness to sustain thousands, which is an enduring symbol of strength and resilience in Indian history.
Gear up to be fascinated by an amazing collection of Indian artefacts at Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum in Pune. The museum boasts of having more than 20,000 artefacts which Baba Kelkar collected during his lifetime to leave behind a legacy for the future generations. One can see various paintings, handicrafts, musical instruments and a number of other objects of art collected from all over the world.
A must visit for all the tourists in Pune, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum showcases various items that will leave you spellbound. One can see anything and everything here from door frames to musical instruments. For lovers of history, there are many artefacts which date back to the 18th and 19th century and makes for a wonderful revisit down the lanes of past.
Location: Bajirao Road, near Abhinav Kala Mandir, Pune, Maharashtra.
Best time to visit: The museum is great for visiting throughout the year.
Entry fee: The ticket fees to enter here are INR 15/ USD 0.23
Timings: Raj Dinakar Kelkar Museum can be visited any day of the week from 9 am to 6 pm
With an imposing statue of Sant Tukaram Maharaj, Dehu Gatha is known for being one of the biggest temples in Pune. The wonderful statue greets the visitors at the entrance of the temple and this place makes for a memorable visit in Pune. One of the most notable sights at Dehu Gatha is the various carvings from all the Gathas on Sant Tukaram embellished on the walls of this temple. It is often said that tourists who visit the temple must read at least 3 Gathas.
Dehu Gatha draws in pilgrims from far and wide and its spiritual ambience is totally tranquillizing. Built in 1723, this temple is believed to be the place where Sant Tukaram resided during his life. The most preferred time to visit Dehu Gatha is during palakhi in the month of ashadh which is held every year.
Location: Dehu, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: The best time to visit this place is during monsoon and winter season.
Entry fee: There are no entry fees for the visitors at Dehu Gatha
Timings: The timings are from 6:30 am to 10:30 am in the mornings and then from 5:30 am to 8:30 pm in the evenings. For Saturdays, pilgrims can enjoy their darshan at Sant Tukaram temple up till 9 pm
Known as one of the most renowned places for group outings in Pune, Khadakwasla Dam offers a relaxing getaway. It draws in a number of tourists who wish to indulge in some adventurous activities or just relax and unwind in the company of nature. The place boasts of great vibes and always packed with crowds. It is built across the Mutha river and one of the integral sources of water supplied to the city of Pune. Some of the other famous attractions near Khadakwasla Dam are Kudje Village, Peacock Bay and Neelkanteshwar Hill.
People here come with their loved ones to enjoy the natural scenery and indulge in some gastronomy with the help of food chowpaty serving lip-smacking bhelpuri and bhutta here. The monsoons offer the best experience at Khadakwasla Dam as it makes the landscape look mesmerising. The place boasts of many interesting activities and keeps the tourists abuzz with its exuberant ambience.
Location: Khadakwasla Dam, near Khadakwasla Village, off Sinhagad Road, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: Monsoon season is the best time to visit the dam.
Entry fee: No entry fees are required to visit here
Timings: The timings for tourists at Khadakwasla Dam is from 6 am to 6 pm
Offering an astounding getaway to commemorate the memory of brave Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the line of fire, National War Museum is one of the most amazing Pune tourist places. Engulfed by a blanket of greenery, National War Museum is the only war memorial in South Asia that was built by the contributions of common citizenry.
National War Museum is an interesting visit to appreciate the efforts of citizens in Pune in acknowledging the valour of Indian soldiers. One who visits here can get a chance to get a glimpse of a MiG-23BN which was used in the Kargil war. Another fascinating thing on display here is the replica of INS Trishul which offered its services in the India-Pakistan War of 1971 and Liberation of Goa. National War Museum offers a great trip for students and people interested in Indian defence history.
Location: Prince Of Wales Drive, Ghorpuri Lines, Dobarvadi, Ghorpadi, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: July to March are the best months of the year for seeing this place on a trip to Pune
Entry fee: There are no entrance fees to visit here
Timings: National War Museum can be visited any day of the week from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Also famous as Tanaji Sagar Dam, Panshet Dam is one of the top places to visit in Pune for adventure enthusiasts. Perched beautifully in the Sahyadri Ranges, Panshet Dam is a visual delight with a surreal landscape that offers a soothing retreat. Panshet Dam is encompassed by luxuriant hills and a number of thundering waterfalls that makes it a perfect place for nature lovers too.
Maharashtra is blessed with a number of picturesque travel destinations that has a magnetic pull to nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Whether it is the verdant hills or dense forests, monsoon adds a mystical charm to these places when they look rejuvenated and green.
Taljai Hills is a popular weekend getaway in the city of Pune, which is a favourite of tourists for its abounding natural beauty and exotic fauna. Tucked in the Western Ghats with a pleasant climate virtually round the year, the place has a number of attractions for environmentalists and shutterbugs. The open forest area provides a relaxing haven for morning and evening walks.
Taljai Hills is popular among the Punekars for the famous temple of Taljai Mata Devi located atop the hill. The road to the temple is a zigzag bituminous trail along the forest area which you have to hike as no vehicles reach up to the summit of the hill. Since the forest is not dense, you have a good opportunity to explore the place as you hike up to the temple.
During your trip you can spot number of migratory birds, rare species of butterflies, peacocks and rabbits in their natural habitat. The temple area is well maintained with paved sitting area where travellers can sit and rest for a while. En route the Taljai Mata temple you will come across a pond where you can see ducks swimming in playful moods.
It is a rare sight to delight! Taljai Hills is a perfect spot for outdoor picnic and excursions where you can be one with nature and unwind your fetters for some time. From the temple top, you can enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view of the Pune city at the backdrop of the emerald green Western Ghats.
Founded in the year 1890, Mahatma Phule Museum is one of the must-visit Pune tourist attractions for history buffs. Earlier established as Lord Ray Museum, the museum was renamed as Mahatma Phule Museum in the year 1968. The museum makes for an interesting trip as one can see various collections of industrial products, agricultural items and handicraft pieces in this museum.
Although the place has been about 118 years old now, it presents the old-world charm in the most amazing way to the tourists. If you wish to know more about the unique culture and rich heritage of India, Mahatma Phule Museum is a very educational experience for the tourists. Other notable and interesting collections which one can see here include brassware, stone carvings, marble statues, oil painting, textiles, body samples of animals from seals to elephants and so on.
Location: 1204/10, Ghole Road, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: The museum can be visited by the tourists throughout the year.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee to visit the museum
Timings: The timings are from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. The museum remains closed on Wednesdays.
If you’re fascinated by the defense forces of our country, the National Defence Academy is one of the most unmissable places to visit in Pune. It is a joint training institute for the members of Indian Navy, Indian Airforce, and Indian Army. A visit to National Defence Academy offers an interesting glimpse into the lives of valiant men who receive their training here. The place has been famous for producing for some of the finest military personnel who have gone on to champion in various fields like sports, arts, Olympics etc.
A visit to National Defence Academy is an unforgettable experience for children who can learn more from the place where future Indian soldiers are made. The place is also popular for its magnificent architecture, the largest inter-service museum in the country and the Weapon Technology Park that are great places for tourists.
Location: National Defence Academy is situated in Khadakvasla which is around 15 km from Pune
Best Time to visit: It can be visited throughout the year as per your convenience
Entry fee: There are no entrance fees, however, one has to take prior permission 48 hours before visiting.
Timings: It can be visited only on Sundays between 10:00 am and 12:30 pm by the tourists.
Boasting of one of the biggest idols of Lord Ganesha in the city of Pune, Birla Ganpati Temple is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pune. For all those who seek a spiritual retreat away from the hustle and bustle, Birla Ganpati should be on your wish list. Encompassed by natural beauty and greenery, this temple attracts a number of devotees who come here to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha.
One of the most striking features of this temple is that is not very much commercialized and offers tourists the peace of mind they are looking for. The imposing statue is one of the most beautiful idols of Lord Ganesha you’ll see in the region and tourists can be enthralled to see the glorious view from the top. The views can be best enjoyed when you go to the temple by climbing the steps and witness the spellbinding landscape filled with a blanket of greenery and gorgeous flowers.
Location: Birla Mandir, Revdanda-Murud Rd, Salav, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: Tourists can visit Birla Ganpati Temple anytime throughout the year
Entry fee: There are no entry fees for entering this temple in Pune
Timings: The timings for visiting Birla Ganpati Temple is from 5 am to 10:30 pm every day
One of the finest places in Pune, Kamala Nehru Park is the place to go for enjoying the company of nature. The park has been frequented by locals and tourists who want to enjoy some peaceful moments. One can spot many people jogging and doing yoga in the mornings here. The park also boasts of having a children’s playground, a fountain and two laws.
The star attraction of Kamala Nehru Park is the military jet which tourists can see in one of the lawns. The place is filled with green trees and offers a pleasant weekend outing with friends and families. When visiting here, tourists can also explore the temple of Lord Dutta which is located next to the park. The presence of various food stalls and eateries makes it a lively place for enjoying a nice evening in Pune.
Location: Babulnath, Dadi Sheth Wadi, Malabar Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: Winter is the best season to visit this place when the climate is cool and ideal for sightseeing.
Entry fee: There are no entry fees for going to Kamala Nehru Park
Timings: The timings at Kamala Nehru Park is from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm
Enthrall yourself with an eventful day at Diamond Water Park the next time you are visiting Pune. It is one of the main attractions in Pune where you can be assured of a wonderful day and jam-packed enjoyment for kids. Diamond Water Park is visited by the people for a refreshing retreat with water sports and other fun activities. It boasts of having more than 7 swimming pools and more than 32 international water rides and attractions.
Some popular attractions at Diamond Water Park are kiddies pool, family play station, wet bubble, Tortuga Falls etc. the fun rides offer a thrilling experience to all the tourists and there is also an unlimited lunch which you can enjoy at Diamond Water Park.
Location: Water Park Road, Lohegaon, Pune City, Maharashtra.
Best Time to visit: Diamond Water Park is a great place to visit in Pune throughout the year
Entry fee: The entry ticket for the weekdays is INR 600/ USD 9.25 and for the weekends & public holidays is INR 700/ USD 10
Timings: Tourists can visit Diamond Water Park from 10 am to 5:30 pm every day
Located near the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Kataj Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the city of Pune. Developed and maintained by the Pune Municipal Corporation, the lake is a must visit for all the nature lovers who are on a vacation in Pune. It is an artificial reservoir and has a pleasant jogging track around it drawing in a number of fitness enthusiasts. Offering a relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Katraj Lake has been hailed for its beautiful surroundings. One of the prominent attractions of this lake is the incredible statue of Shivaji Maharaj that is in the middle of the lake. Katraj Lake is a treat to the eyes where you can enjoy the spectacular views of Sahyadri Mountain ranges and also spot some beautiful birds. The beauty of the lake is best enjoyed at the time of sunset which makes it a postcard-perfect setting to be captured by your cameras.
Location: Katraj Vasahat, Katraj, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to visit: The best time to visit this place is during the monsoon season.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee for visiting Katraj Lake in Pune
Timings: Katraj Lake can be visited between 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
Enjoy a surreal evening at Pashan Lake in Pune away from the clamor of city life. It is a man-made lake and one of the most picturesque places to visit in Pune. Dating back to the British times, this lake was built as a water reservoir to meet the needs of water in the neighborhood. The place can be visited for a picnic to enjoy the natural scenery and the cool breezes. Boating and fishing are other popular activities that one can enjoy at Pashan Lake
Pashan lake boasts of hosting many beautiful migratory birds and has become a popular spot for bird watching in Pune. One can see many rare and exotic birds here like a gray heron, little egret, white-breasted kingfisher, open billed stork etc. With the great landscape replete with greenery and natural surroundings, Pashan Lake is a wonderful bird sanctuary which you can visit in Pune.
Location: Pashan Lake is located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Pune city center
Best Time to visit: The months from December to February are the best for visiting Pashan Lake
Entry fee: No tickets are required to enter Pashan Lake
Timings: The timings are 8:00 am to 11:30 pm
Peacock Bay is a spectacular place to visit in Pune when you are touring National Defence Academy. It is adjacent to the lake at Khadakvasla Dam and owned by the National Defence Academy. With a large number of peacocks which could be spotted in the area, Peacock Bay got its well-deserved name. Along with the peacocks, the place has been known for offering glimpses of various flora and fauna like deer, Lion-tailed monkeys, and civets.
Peacock Bay has been famous for hosting a number of challenging competitions and activities of NDA. The place has many facilities which range from sailing boats, windsurfers to different whalers and dinghies. Peacock Bay offers a surreal ambiance and offers a wonderful visit distinct from many other places to visit in Pune.
Location: Peacock Bay is located at National Defence Academy in Pune
Best Time to visit: The ideal time to visit Peacock Bay is from the month of July to February
Entry fee: Tourists are not required to pay any entrance fees for visiting Peacock Bay
Timings: Although there is no specific time to visit this place, it is advisable to plan your visit in the morning or evening.