Historical Sites
Pune, India, is full of beautiful historical sites worth visiting. From temples to forts, there is something for everyone. The famous historical sites include the Aga Khan Palace, built in the late 1800s, and the Shaniwar Wada, a 17th-century fort. These sites are known for their architecture, artwork, and culture.
Let’s explore some of the historical sites in Pune more in-depth in this article:
Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace is an important historical site in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It was built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III. The palace served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and his secretary Mahadev Desai during the Quit India Movement in 1942.
The palace has now been converted into a memorial that pays tribute to the ideals for which Gandhi stood and honored other freedom fighters like Vinoba Bhave and Jawaharlal Nehru, who were also held captive here.
Aga Khan Palace features 23 acres of lush gardens and tranquil walkways. The palace itself is made up of two elegant buildings made out of Italian marble and antique furnishings. Inside the premises is a memorial museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, where visitors can learn more about his life story and legacy.
Other attractions onsite include:
- Shrines are dedicated to the Khoja community.
- Numerous photograph galleries display images from the history book chapters of India’s struggle for independence.
- Monuments that mark essential milestones attained in this struggle.
- Several souvenir shops sell genuine artifacts connected to these struggles.
Visitors can explore this site on their own or with a guide who will be able to provide them with extra information regarding its history and significance to India’s fight against British colonial rule. One can also learn more about how key personalities such as Gandhi shaped modern Indian society through interactive exhibitions at Aga Khan Palace.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada is a historical fortification in the city of Pune. It was built in 1732, and it was the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire until 1818 when a fire destroyed it. The fortification’s ruins are now a tourist attraction and an important historical site in Maharashtra, India.
The construction of Shaniwar Wada began on Saturday (or ‘Shanivar’) hence the name Shaniwar Wada. It was commissioned by Peshwa Bajirao I and completed by his brother Chimaji Appa in 1730. The Wada covered an area of 625 acres, with walls six to51 m high and surrounded by a moat up to 18 m deep. The innermost enclosure was designed as an arsenal, workshops, and barracks for soldiers, while outer chambers housed palace complexes and temples, including the Ganesh shrine (which still exists).
This majestic Maratha-era palace had courtyards, gates, balconies, chambers, and towers that provided spectacular views of Pune. Other vital structures within Shaniwar Wada include:
- Nana Phadanvis Samadhi mandap (memorial)
- Janki Mahal (resting place for Rajmata Jijau)
- Octagonal Tower (known as Tantya Tope)
- Pratap Singh Museum
- Lakshmi Narayan Temple was built around 1922.
Though much ruined now due to neglect over centuries, Shaniwar Wada still stands proud as one of India’s most remarkable historical sites with fascinating tales from the long past!
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is located in Shukrawar Peth of Pune, India. It has one of the most comprehensive collections of artifacts, including numerous examples of Indo-Aryan, Maratha, and Gandharan art. The collections are unique and display artifacts from 18th-century India, including ornaments, vessels made of stone, metal sculptures, jewelry, and paintings.
The museum is named after its collector ‘Raja’ Dinkar Gopalrao Kelkar, who spent his life collecting materials related to Indian arts and crafts from all over India over nearly 50 years. He collected coins from different eras spanning more than three millennia ranging from the 4th century BC to the 20th Century AD; musical instruments; vessels made out of shell, ivory, terracotta, and metal; ancestral portraits by famous painters such as Sawley and various styles such as Khula Khelairi (patriotic painting), Chitra Bhushan, etc.; manuscripts written on palm leaves with golden lettering (Gurmukhi) in Pahari style dating back to 18th century; old postcards sent by king Shivaji’s grandson Rajaram II on his campaigns against Aurangzeb’s forces; Pottery relics – including Chinese porcelain pottery used by Parsis & Gujarat families since their migration to India during Mughal Period, etc.
Each object or artwork at the museum bears an explanation about its history or usage, which makes this place worthwhile for every visitor. A large area outside the museum building is also dedicated to regular exhibitions where various regional artworks can be displayed anytime. The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum provides a fantastic way to understand ancient Indian history through its beautifully displayed artifacts.
Natural Sites
Pune, India, has diverse cultures, history, and nature. In addition, the city has various natural sites, from the Aga Khan Palace to Sinhagad Fort. So whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy nature or looking for an adventure, Pune has something to offer everyone.
Let’s take a look at some of the more popular natural sites in Pune:
Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad Fort is a popular historical destination located near Pune, India. It is built over 2,400 feet and offers stunning countryside and lake views. Formerly known as Kondana, Sinhagad was once the stronghold of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Maratha forces. It is also famous for the pivotal battle between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Sambhaji and General Jai Singh I in 1670.
Sinhagad Fort comprises Kalyan Darwaza on the lower level and Pune Darwaza on the upper level. The fortress offers various activities, including trekking, bird watching, sunset views, and photography opportunities when visiting during daylight hours. In addition to being a natural site, it hosts several religious sites, including temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman. Visitors can also stop by nearby Forts, such as Patas Pass, for further sightseeing options that offer panoramic views of the entire region.
Visitors should know that no amenities are provided at Sinhagad Fort, so bringing bottled water and snacks is essential when planning a trip here.
Rajmachi Point
Rajmachi Point is a popular destination for visitors to the Pune area. Located near the Lonavala Hill Station, it offers breathtaking views of the landscape in the Sahyadri Mountain Range. From this point, visitors can see Rajmachi and Tung fort nearby. This area has many trekking opportunities, with panoramic views of lakes and hillsides.
The Rajmachi Point has become an important pilgrimage site for locals due to its spiritual significance. The site has historically served as a gateway between Shivaji Maharaj’s Maratha Empire and Roman Empire. It is believed that historical monuments like Amruteshwar temple and Ratnagiri fort were built during Shivaji Maharaj’s reign. Apart from this, tourists can also explore various wildlife sanctuaries like Bankot Wildlife Sanctuary, Waki Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, and Bhima River Sanctuary in its vicinity.
The serene atmosphere of Rajmachi Point makes it an ideal spot for spending time with nature while appreciating the natural beauty around you. Tourists can enjoy activities such as bird watching, photography, sightseeing, or simply relaxing in the final lap of big hills surrounded by lush greenery could make it an even much better experience for them. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants where travelers can try delectable local dishes to add taste to their trip!
Mulshi Lake
Mulshi Lake is a scenic natural site located in the district of Pune, India. Mountains, greenery, and exotic flora and fauna surround it. Camping, walking, and exploring the nearby trails offer tourists a delightful adventure among the wildlife of this region. Due to its proximity to the city of Pune and other cities in Maharashtra, Mulshi Lake has become a popular tourist destination over the years.
The lake occupies an area of around 60 sq km with abundant natural beauty. Mulshi Lake also attracts birdwatchers to admire its wide variety of avifauna, including purple martins, red-rumped swallows, and warblers. Several bird sanctuaries have been set up nearby to help protect these creatures from any harm or danger posed by humans.
Unfortunately, overfishing has become abundant in this area due to its commercial importance to locals. Still, several conservation initiatives have been taken to restore the lake’s natural beauty and preserve it for posterity.
For those looking for an immersive experience of nature far away from the hustle and bustle of cities and towns, Mulshi lake should be a top priority on your list!
Religious Sites
Pune, India, is a city full of religious sites and places of worship. From ancient temples to modern churches, Pune has various religious landmarks perfect for sightseeing and exploration. Here, we’ll discuss a few of the most famous sacred sites in Pune and why they’re essential to visit.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a Hindu cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Pune. The Temple is renowned for its unique rock-cut architecture, remarkable sculptures, a Shivalinga inside the inner sanctum, and intricate carvings on walls. The Temple’s approximate age ranges from the 8th to the 9th century deep within the region of Maharashtra.
The Pataleshwar Cave Temple stands in an open courtyard with covered Mantapas and monolithic pillars carved exquisitely with marvelous artwork. There are also storied structures where some of Mahabharata’s scenes have been depicted through sculptures, serving as an exciting reminder for many devotees.
The main shrine has Shivlinga, known as the God itself, an iconic symbol of Indian spiritualism. Other recognizable symbols of Lotus, Jain Deity Neminatha, and Lingams are also present around the temple area, including an idol of Goddess Parvati in contrast to Lord Shiva. Smaller shrines like those dedicated to Lord Ganesh and traces patterned by Tantric sects make it a swarming site among religious tourists.
Pataleshwar serves as a popular tourist attraction around India partially due to its complicated rock-cut architecture & sculptures carved within ancient caves, giving it an underestimated spirit owing true God’s blessings & benevolence towards the ones visiting Him!
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is located in Pune, India, and is an iconic landmark of the city. It was built in 1893 by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai and his family; the Temple has been a popular pilgrim site since its establishment over 100 years ago. The Temple is known for its spectacular architecture and cultural significance in the city. It houses a deity of Lord Ganesha, which is believed to be one of the oldest and most prominent temples dedicated to God all over India.
The Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple has become immensely popular for its unique blend of culture, tradition, and modern art. It stands tall in the heart of Pune city as a symbol of religious victory, prosperity, happiness, and success for its devotees who believe that worshipping at this Temple will bring them luck and goodness from Lord Ganesha Himself.
Devotees visiting this sacred site pay obeisance training rangoli before the deity and partake in other festive activities related to Lord Ganesha, like “Ganesh Utsav” or “Ganesh Jayanti,” on which day thousands of devotees from across Maharashtra come to offer their prayers with great zeal. In addition, several prasad stalls inside the premises offer religious items like flowers, puja items & thalis (plates) filled with sweets like laddoos (Indian sweets).
Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill is a temple complex in the center of Pune, India, with a temple dedicated to Parvati and numerous historical monuments situated within its grounds. This religious site is believed to have been built during the 1700s and has remnants of 18th-century architecture, including an impressive tower gate called the Vishrambaug Wada.
The most prominent structure is the hill Temple dedicated to Parvati (the Hindu goddess of fertility and devotion). In addition, shrines are devoted to Lord Ganesh, Saraswati, and Hanuman, as well as smaller temples dedicated to various other deities such as Siddhatek, Kashivishwnath, and Khadakeshwar. There are also several caves located on this hill that feature carvings depicting ancient Hindu mythology.
From Parvati Hill, you can view Pune city from far away on many days if the weather is clear – an impressive site for visitors! In addition, visitors can get an authentic experience by attending unique festivals such as Ekadashi or participating in a daily arti ceremony at 4 pm. The nearby home of Indian nationalist Bal Gangadhar Tilak and two former Peshwas residences are also worth visiting while making your pilgrimage up this religious hill.
Adventure Activities
Pune is known for its beautiful landscape and thrilling activities for adventurers. Many activities and attractions exist, from hot air balloon rides to treks to nearby forts. So whether you’re looking for an exhilarating experience or a tranquil and peaceful one, Pune has something to offer.
Let’s explore what adventure activities Pune has to offer:
Paragliding
Paragliding is an adventurous activity where you fly like a bird, floating high in the sky with some of the best views in the world. This thrilling activity can be enjoyed in many locations around Pune, India. Pune has several paragliding sites at different heights and degrees of difficulty, so it’s a great place to find adventure!
If you are interested in learning how to fly, Pune is a great place to start, as there are experienced pilots here who can take you on a tandem flight and introduce you to the exhilaration of paragliding. With good conditions, almost all year round, this popular activity involves launching oneself from any hill or mountain nationwide, often with thermal updrafts providing lift. Once up in the air, gliders soar up high, banking and turning, providing fantastic views of nature below.
When going on your first paragliding experience, it pays to book an experienced instructor who knows the exact launch spot and, more importantly, exposes you to safety practices, such as landing safely. In addition, all gear should be reputable and checked before being taken up into the air with standard gear for beginners, including:
- Harnesses for body control during takeoff.
- Helmets for head protection during landing.
- Double-skinned gliders with lines running between them for improved stability and support during flight.
So looking for thrills? Make sure your next trip includes participating in this exhilarating form of aerial flight – paragliding in Pune!
Trekking
Trekking is an exciting adventure with breathtaking views and an enriching experience. Pune, India, is an ideal region for trekking, with its many mountains, valleys, and other geographic features. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned vet, there are multiple trekking routes to explore in the region.
A guided tour can offer first-timers peace of mind and helpful advice while allowing more experienced trekkers the freedom to explore by themselves. Many local treks are also relatively short distances from Pune’s city center. Some popular treks include Lohagad Fort, Sinhgad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, and Tikona Peak, all offering varying difficulty levels for explorers of all ages and abilities.
When planning your trekking expedition, be sure to check safety guidelines, including weather patterns in the area you plan to visit, necessary equipment that should be taken on your journey (e.g., compass or GPS), security measures (e.g., informing people where you are going before leaving), as well as ensuring that you aren’t overexerting yourself along your route by taking frequent breaks if needed.
An immersive experience awaits those who set out on this compelling journey; a chance to view India’s lush landscape with a newfound appreciation!
Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing is a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors and explore yourself and your limits. Pune, India, has become an incredible rock climbing destination with many crags, cliffs, and mountains. Rock climbing can be divided into two categories: traditional and sport.
Traditional rock climbing involves natural environmental elements, such as rocks, cliffs, or boulders that one climbs from the bottom-up with the help of safety equipment like lead ropes, quickdraws, and protection devices mounted on solid points called ‘belays’ or anchors. Sport or free climbing involves using pre-installed bolts for the climber’s safety which cannot be moved or shifted.
The most popular destinations in Pune for Rock Climbing include Prabalgad Fort, Sinhagad Fort, and Kamshet Cliff Top Village. Whether you are a beginner looking to get into the basics of rock climbing or an experienced pro tackling brand-new routes, Pune offers something for everyone!
Shopping
Pune, India, is an exciting place to explore and shop. From local markets to modern shopping malls, there is something for everyone. Shopping in Pune is a great way to enjoy the city, experience the local culture and find unique gifts.
In this section, we will look at the best places to shop in Pune and some tips for a great shopping experience:
Fergusson College Road
Fergusson College Road starts from the Golibar Maidan and ends at Shivaji Nagar Bus Terminus. It is adjacent to the main Western Railway Station in the southwestern part of Pune city. This famous shopping area is filled with stores that offer everything from furniture items, jewelry, gadgets, and accessories to one-stop shops for apparel items. The various stores here offer clothes at wholesale prices and custom-made dresses. You can also find interesting books in the bookshops near the University of Pune campus.
Besides regular shops and local stalls, many arcades offer clothes, shoes, bags, and other accessories at discounts or fixed prices. So whether it’s street shopping or you’re looking to splurge, Fergusson College Road has something for all shoppers!
Laxmi Road
When discussing shopping in Pune, Laxmi Road is the first place that comes to mind for most locals and visitors alike. It is located in the old city, and this bustling market is home to an array of vendors and stores offering anything from veggies to flashy jewelry.
For traditional Indian clothing, many shops and stalls with sarees and salwar kameez are available at lower prices than in a branded store. There’s also a wide selection of footwear ranging from fashionable stilettoes (jootis) to comfortable sandals.
For souvenirs and gifts, Laxmi Road is dotted with small stores selling handmade leather goods, paintings, traditional masks, and colorful silk hangings. If you’re into books, there’s an entire lane filled with stalls of second-hand books at discounted rates.
And finally, if you’re looking for decent Indian cuisine or offbeat street food – this area has it all! From piping hot kebabs to crispy vada pavs – take some time out from your shopping spree to soak in the atmosphere of Laxmi road and taste some authentic delicacies!
Junglee Maharaj Road
Junglee Maharaj Road is one of Pune’s most vibrant shopping districts. It is located in the old city center. These bustling street house stores sell everything from traditional handicrafts to modern-day necessities. With its juxtaposition of cultural heritage and modernity, Junglee Maharaj Road has something to offer every tourist and local looking to indulge in an authentic Indian shopping experience.
Traditional hand-embroidered clothing and jewelry, made from the finest metals and gemstones, can be found at the many kalanis on both sides of the street. Ethnic footwear is also widely available in various styles – Dandiya chappal for men, jooti for women, and Baniyans for children – keep your eye out for the most stylish shops! From antique furnishings to exclusive home décor showrooms showcasing top brands such as Fabindia and The Good Life Experience – Junglee Maharaj Road has you covered?
The street has curious doorways leading into narrow alleys with independent boutiques offering more contemporary clothing designs. Many stalls here offer monogramming services allowing customers to customize their purchases with their name or initials. Tailors are available nearby if you prefer tailored clothing from specially designed fabrics such as Chanderi silk or paithani cotton-silk blend weaves! There is also a great selection of affordable luxury sarees, including shimmery Banarasis, flowing Kanchivaram’s, and beautiful Jamdani’s – perfect for special occasions!
Those wishing to take some souvenirs from their travels should head over to the multiple gift shops located on Junglee Maharaj Road, offering everything from miniature brass statues and intricately carved wooden animal meenakari boxes too. Moreover, small snack stalls serve fresh paan, while restaurants serve delicious dosas and family meals that satisfy even the most enormous appetites!