Pune is a vibrant city, full of fascinating attractions and activities. From ancient temples to modern malls, it has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, Pune offers plenty of options to explore. With its excellent infrastructure and bustling markets, the city makes for a great holiday destination. Here’s our list of some of the best places to visit in Pune that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable! From historic monuments like Shaniwar Wada and Aga Khan Palace to natural beauty spots like Sinhagad Fort and Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park; from popular shopping destinations such as MG Road and Phoenix Market City Mall to picturesque lakes including Khadakwasla Dam; there’s something here for every taste! So pack your bags now and experience the wonders that this amazing city has in store for you!
- Shaniwar Wada – This 17th century fort is a renowned tourist attraction in Pune and a must visit for history lovers.
- Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple – This beautiful temple is captivating and will leave you in awe of its majesty.
- Sinhagad Fort – Situated at the top of a steep hill, this majestic sight offers stunning views and makes for an ideal weekend getaway from Pune.
- Aga Khan Palace – This iconic palace has been immortalized as Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial after his assassination, making it a must visit in Pune.
- Osho Ashram – Get closer to spirituality with a visit to the Osho Ashram, which offers meditation and yoga workshops for all levels of practitioners.
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum – This museum houses artifacts collected by Dr Dinkar Kelkar, and provides valuable insights into culture and art of Maharashtra through its displays.
- Parvati Hill – Climb up to the top of Parvati Hill to be rewarded with spectacular views of the city below!
- Pataleshwar Cave Temples – Step back in time with a visit to these ancient 8th century cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva!
- National War Museum – Built in memory of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their country, this one-of-a-kind museum is a must-visit spot in Pune!
- Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park – Immerse yourself in the wildlife present here while taking the kids along on your next trip!
- Karla Caves & Bhaja Caves – These beautifully sculpted caves have historical importance and provide insight into Buddhist culture and architecture from centuries ago!
- Lohagad Fort – Explore the ruins of this amazing fort that was built over 1000 years ago situated near Lonavla!
- Chaturshringi Temple – With lush green hills surrounding this temple dedicated to Goddess Ambabai, it truly has an otherworldly charm about it!
- Peshwa Udyan – A sprawling garden that offers breathtaking views and gives great insight into the Maratha Empire’s glorious past!
- Katraj Snake Park & Zoo – Perfect for nature lovers, this park holds more than 150 species of snakes as well as crocodiles, turtles and other animals too!
- Bund Garden – Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over this tranquil lake where boat rides are also available during certain hours of the day!
- Mandai Market – Shopaholics rejoice with a visit to this bustling market where traditional wares are sold at reasonable prices!
- Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railway Trains – If you love railways then pay homage at this unique museum displaying miniature trains from across various eras!
- Kamala Nehru Park & Bird Valley Aviary – One of Pune’s oldest gardens filled with exotic birds that make enjoyable sightings throughout your stay here!
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Botanical Garden – Indulge yourself amidst biodiversity richness at India’s first botanical garden founded solely for research purposes.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada is a renowned tourist attraction in Pune and a must visit for history lovers. Constructed in 1730, this imposing fort was the grand center of political and military power for the Maratha Empire during the Peshwa rule. It is an architectural marvel with its five entrances, massive walls and ornate carvings depicting tales from Hindu mythology. It offers stunning views of Pune cityscape and makes for an ideal weekend getaway from Pune.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is a captivating sight and a must visit in Pune. This temple was built in 1893 by a local businessman and philanthropist as an offering to Lord Ganesha. The temple’s intricate carvings, gold plated roofing, and beautiful sculptures offer insight into Maratha art and culture from centuries ago. It is visited by hundreds of thousands of devotees every year, making it one of the most important temples in India.
Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad Fort is an iconic structure situated around 25 km from Pune. Revered for its historical significance, this fort was the site of various battles during the Maratha rule. Visiting the fort is an amazing experience as you can enjoy breathtaking views of Sahyadri mountains and lush green valleys. The ancient architecture of Sinhagad is still intact, with ruins such as gates, bastions, magazines and more scattered all around. It’s a great place for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Aga Khan Palace
The Agha Khan Palace is situated in Pune and is an important monument of India’s freedom struggle. Built in 1892, this palace was a gift to Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III by the people of Pune and was used as a prison during the Quit India Movement. The Gardens adorning the palace are well-kept and provide a perfect calming atmosphere. You can also find Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial and other historical artifacts here, making it a great place to visit for anyone interested in Indian history.
Osho Ashram
The Osho Ashram is an oasis of serenity located in Pune. It was founded by spiritual leader Osho and has been around since 1974. The Ashram provides tourists with a unique experience, as it combines meditation, yoga, art and culture into one amazing package. Visitors can take part in various activities such as Zen Meditation, Osho-Active Meditations and Music Healing. They also have a beautiful garden where you can wander and relax under the trees. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is located in Pune and is filled with a captivating collection of artifacts and artworks collected over the lifetime of its founder, Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar. Walking through the museum is akin to exploring the richness and diversity of India’s culture, as it houses sculptures, paintings, musical instruments, utensils and other artifacts from various age-old traditions. The museum also has a section devoted to folk art and toys that are sure to bring joy to visitors. With its large collection of antiques from different eras, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is definitely worth a visit for both children and adults alike!
Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill is a breathtaking hilltop located in the heart of Pune. It offers spectacular views of the city and offers an ideal place for sightseeing and leisure activities. For those looking for a bit of spiritual solace, there are several temples at the top of Parvati Hill that provide peaceful surroundings. Apart from temples, Parvati Hill also has a museum and various other architectural attractions such as pavilions and ponds that can be explored by visitors. Whether you’re looking to take in some stunning sights or just find some quiet time, Parvati Hill is definitely worth a visit!
Pataleshwar Cave Temples
The Pataleshwar Cave Temples are a group of historic rock-cut Hindu shrines located in the city of Pune, India. The temple complex dates back to 8th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is venerated as Pataleshwar. The cave temples feature intricate stone carvings of deities and are a great example of ancient Indian art and architecture. Visitors can take in the grand architecture of these majestic cave temples while admiring its beauty and spiritual atmosphere. A visit to the Pataleshwar Cave Temples is sure to make for an unforgettable experience!
National War Museum
The National War Museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to get an in-depth look at India’s long and fascinating military history. Located in Pune, the museum offers a variety of exhibits that showcase various artifacts, documents, and photographs related to India’s many wars and battles. Visitors can learn about the bravery of Indian soldiers and their numerous contributions to the nation while also exploring weapons, uniforms, and other military paraphernalia used by them over the years. The National War Museum is sure to be an enlightening experience for both adults and kids alike!
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, located in Pune, is a great place to get up close and personal with nature. This sprawling park showcases a variety of wildlife from across India, including tigers, lions, leopards, and birds among many others. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about the different species of animals before heading off for an up-close exploration of the zoo. There’s also an interactive exhibition area where kids can learn more about their favorite animals with fun facts, hands-on activities, and more! A visit to the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Karla Caves & Bhaja Caves
Karla and Bhaja Caves are two of the most iconic Buddhist caves in India. Located close to each other in the Lonavala region of Maharashtra, these ancient structures offer visitors a unique look into the rich history and culture of Buddhism. Karla Caves are especially popular for their intricate carvings, shrines, and sculptures which line their interiors and exteriors alike. Meanwhile, Bhaja Caves are renowned for their outstanding architecture and grand stairways that stretch out about 50 meters high. Both sites make for an amazing day trip worth taking if you’re looking to experience some of India’s ancient heritage!
Lohagad Fort
Located near the popular hill station of Lonavala, Lohagad Fort is an iconic destination in India prized for its majestic architecture and glorious history. Built in the 16th century, the fort has been a witness to many decisive battles between rulers and enemies. The citadel is encircled by large picturesque walls that lead up to several gateways and a deep granite moat. Once inside, visitors are mesmerized by magnificent staircases, reservoirs, barracks and temples carved with intricate designs that are sure to captivate anyone who visits. Lohagad Fort is definitely worth exploring if you’re looking for an adventure!
Chaturshringi Temple
Chaturshringi Temple is a beautiful example of Maratha culture located in the heart of Pune. Dedicated to the goddess Chaturshringi, it is a vibrant and sacred Hindu temple that attracts thousands of visitors each day. The temple complex features beautifully carved pillars, ornate ceilings, and an impressive array of idols and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the shrines dedicated to various other deities like Lord Ganesha, Mahalaxmi, and Lord Shiva inside the temple complex. Chaturshringi Temple is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for an enchanting cultural experience!
Peshwa Udyan
Peshwa Udyan, also known as Saras Baug, is a lush and tranquil space located in the heart of Pune. This historic park was once the home to the Peshwa rulers and was a witness to some of the great battles of history. The expansive grounds are flanked by trees and adorned with colorful flowers that create an inviting atmosphere for visitors looking for relaxation. Inside, one can find marvellous statues of historical personalities along with monuments dedicated to the Peshwas. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from everyday life, a visit to Peshwa Udyan is definitely worth your time!
Katraj Snake Park & Zoo
Katraj Snake Park & Zoo is a fascinating animal sanctuary located in the western outskirts of Pune. The park provides a safe haven for over 80 species of reptiles, birds, and mammals. One of the main attractions at Katraj Snake Park & Zoo are the large number of snakes found in the facility including cobras, vipers and pythons! Visitors can also get up close with some of their favourite animals such as tigers, elephants, foxes, and monkeys. A visit to Katraj Snake Park & Zoo is sure to be an exciting adventure for all ages!
Bund Garden
Bund Garden is a beautiful and serene public garden in the city of Pune. Originally built by the British during their occupation of India, this picturesque spot serves as a wonderful venue for recreation. With lush greenery, wide open lawns, and lots of recreational activities to choose from such as boating, cycling, and jogging paths – Bund Garden is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking to take a peaceful stroll or enjoy some exciting outdoor adventure – Bund Garden has something for everyone!
Mandai Market
Mandai Market is a vibrant bazaar situated in the heart of Pune. This colourful marketplace is the ideal place to pick up some unique souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. From handmade puppets and clothes to jewellery, spices, and much more – Mandai Market has it all! With plenty of street-food stalls to sample, Mandai Market is an exciting destination for anyone looking for an authentic shopping – experience. Browse through the fascinating wares at this historical market and uncover something truly unique!
Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railway Trains
Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railway Trains is a fascinating collection of model railways located in Pune. This small museum displays an impressive variety of miniature trains dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore an amazing array of locomotives, carriages, and stations, as well as peruse vintage photographs and interactive exhibits. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking for something fun to do – Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railway Trains provides an unforgettable experience for all ages!
Kamala Nehru Park & Bird Valley Aviary
Kamala Nehru Park & Bird Valley Aviary is a picturesque nature reserve in Pune, India. This tranquil park is home to a variety of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and parakeets among many others. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes which are dotted with pagodas and pools, as well as stroll through the aviary to get up close and personal with some beautiful feathered friends. Recharge in this beautiful sanctuary while taking in stunning views of distant hills – Kamala Nehru Park & Bird Valley Aviary will provide an enchanting day out for all!
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Botanical Garden
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Botanical Garden is an oasis of beauty in Pune, India. This sprawling botanical garden is home to thousands of exotic and rare plants, trees, and shrubs from around the world. Explore a diverse range of flora as you wander through the peaceful pathways and discover secret gardens hidden within. Stop at one of the many gazebos for a restful break and admire the extraordinary flora – Raja Dinkar Kelkar Botanical Garden will provide a magical escape from everyday life!
Pune has plenty of attractions to offer, from bustling markets and beautiful parks to historical monuments and cultural sights. Whatever your preference, there is something for everyone within this city. The top 20 places to visit in Pune provide a fantastic opportunity for tourists to experience the culture and history of this exciting Indian city. From a colourful vista of the Sinhagad Fort overlooking the gorgeous city skyline, to vibrant Maratha culture celebrated in the Shaniwarwada palace, you’re sure to find something worth exploring in one of India’s oldest cities!
