What Is There to Do in Pune?

Pune is a vibrant city in India, located to the south of Mumbai. Known as the “Oxford of India”, Pune houses some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country and has a population of over seven million. Not only is it home to several universities, it is also a major hub for IT and automobile industries, making it a popular tourist destination. With so much to do and see in the city, what are some of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Pune?

One popular activity for tourists visiting Pune is sightseeing in the old city. Historic sites such as the Shaniwar Wada Palace, Sinhagaon Palace, and Aga Khan Palace are just some of the sights to be seen here. Other places in the old city include the Teja Ram Gandhi Garden, Dashabhuja Temple, and the Pataleshwar Cave Temple. Many sightseeing tours are available to help visitors explore this beautiful area.

Another activity to explore while in Pune is its many shopping experiences. Tourists can take the time to explore markets such as the Appa Balwant Chowk and Tulsi Baug which offer local products and food. Camp and Nal Stop are popular spots for tourists looking for luxury shopping experiences. Pune has also established itself as one of India’s leading fashion hubs, with popular shopping centres like Phoenix MarketCity and Westside at Inorbit Mall.

For those looking for a cultural experience, Pune offers plenty of options. The city is home to numerous theatres, music venues and art galleries, such as Theatre Corner, Balgandharva Rangmandir, Jehangir Art Gallery and The Abbey. There are also numerous festivals throughout the year, such as Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi and Laxmi Pomani Puja.

Sports enthusiasts will enjoy their time in the city, as there are several sporting facilities such as MCA Stadium, Karvenagar Swimming Pool, Balewadi High Performance Centre, and Camping and Trekking in India which sports activities like football, cricket, baseball, volleyball, tennis, golf and badminton. The city is also home to several fitness centres and yoga schools.

Of course, no visit to Pune would be complete without sampling its famously delicious food. Traditional foods such as sabudana vada, sabudana Khichadi and thalipeeth can be found at many of the local eateries. If that’s not enough, there are plenty of seafood restaurants where visitors can sample dishes like balchao, kombdi vade and pomfret fry. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in local sweet treats like anarse, pooran poli and puran poli. Other popular places to dine include Singh Dynasty and Kookie Jar Bakery & Café.

Pune has something for everyone – from sightseeing tours in its old city to shopping excursions at luxury malls and delicious street food. There are plenty of activities to choose from if you’re looking for a fun experience here. To really make the most of your trip to Pune, visit TripToMundo for more information on what to see and do in the city.

An Insider’s Guide to Pune, India

Located in the Western Indian state of Maharashtra, Pune is a sprawling city that has grown from its humble beginnings as a village to a bustling metropolis. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, numerous monuments, mouth-watering cuisine, fantastic nightlife, and well-planned landscape, Pune is a city that easily captures the heart of every traveler. In this Insider’s guide, we will explore the city’s top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path spots for adventurous travelers.

Attractions

Pune’s rich cultural heritage is evident in the city’s numerous historical monuments, museums and botanical gardens. Here are some of the significant attractions that you should not miss.

– Shaniwar Wada: Once the seat of the Maratha Empire, this imposing fort is now a popular tourist attraction. With its impressive architecture, elaborate gardens, and impressive fountains, Shaniwar Wada offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

– Aga Khan Palace: This elegant palace is a national monument and is famous for being the location where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned during India’s struggle for independence. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing the Indian independence movement.

– Sinhagad Fort: Located atop a hill, Sinhagad Fort is a historical landmark and offers breathtaking views of the city below.

– Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: This museum is home to a stunning collection of Indian art, textiles, and artifacts, including carved doors, coins, and musical instruments.

Dining Spots

Pune has a vast array of dining spots, ranging from street food vendors to high-end restaurants. Here are some of the best spots to grab a bite while in town:

– Vohuman Cafe: This iconic cafe has been in business for over 60 years and is famous for its freshly baked bread and delicious Iranian chai.

– Dorabjee and Sons: This 140-year-old eatery is a favorite among locals and is famous for its traditional Parsi cuisine.

– Goodluck Cafe: This cafe has been in business for over 80 years and is known for its famous bun maska (bun and butter) and chai.

– Shabree Restaurant: This vegetarian restaurant is famous for its thali (all-you-can-eat) meal and traditional Maharashtrian cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Pune is well known for its diverse cultural experiences, and here are some of the most exciting ones to explore.

– Visit the Osho International Meditation Resort: This spiritual center offers courses in meditation and self-discovery and is a popular destination among spiritual seekers from around the world.

– Enjoy classical Indian music at Shaniwar Wada: From February to July, every year, the Shaniwar Wada hosts classical Indian music performances by well-known artists.

– Witness Lavani, a traditional Maharashtrian dance form: This vibrant folk dance is known for its expressive movements and lively music.

Local History

Pune has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to visit when in town. Here are some of the best places to learn more about Pune’s fascinating past:

– Aga Khan Palace: As mentioned earlier, this palace was once the prison of Mahatma Gandhi and now serves as a museum of the Indian independence movement.

– Shaniwar Wada: Once the seat of the Peshwas, the ruling dynasty of the Maratha Empire, this impressive fort offers a glimpse into Indian cultural heritage.

– Pataleshwar Cave Temple: This ancient temple, dating back to the 8th century, is carved out of solid rock and is a must-see for history buffs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

For adventurous travelers, Pune has many off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best:

– Trek to Sinhagad Fort: This exhilarating trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and is a favorite among adventure lovers.

– Explore the Katraj Snake Park: This park is home to a vast collection of snakes and reptiles, and a visit here is a unique experience.

– Visit the Panshet Dam: This scenic dam is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

In conclusion, Pune is a vibrant city with something to offer every traveler. From its rich cultural heritage to its diverse cuisine and exciting cultural experiences, Pune is a city that will undoubtedly make your stay memorable. With its friendly locals and lively atmosphere, Pune is a city that will steal your heart and leave you wanting more.