Pune is one of the most amazing and affordable city for students in India. It has a maximum number of Universities and Professional course Institutes in the country. People have migrated from different states of the country to here for great job opportunities, soothing weather and quality education. Not just that, the city is surrounded by beautiful hills, splendid forts and serene lakes.
There are few historical places for those who love to explore the history of the city, and those who love doing adventurous activities can also find many suitable destinations for their activities. From sightseeing to picnic spots there are much more in the city for your holiday time.
1. Parvati Hill Temple, Pune
Rising to 2100 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats, Parvati Hill Temple, located at the top of the hillock, is revered as one of the most picturesque places to visit in Pune. It is also among the oldest heritage structure built by the Peshwa dynasty. The hill can actually be called as a consolidation of temples considering the great number of temples that it houses.
2. Aga Khan Palace, Pune
This palace has great historical significance; it depicts the political prowess of Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III who built the palace in 1892 and later served as the president of the League of Nations. It has also played an important role in India’s freedom movement as Gandhiji along with his wife & secretary were imprisoned at this place for about 2 years following the Quit India Movement. The samadhis of both – his wife & secretary are also located in the campus.
3. Shaniwar Wada, Pune
Built way back in the early 18th century, Shaniwar wada once served as the fortified seat of the Peshwa empire until they lost control to the British East India Company in the early 19th century. Post that, there was an unexplained fire here that destroyed large parts of the fort. However, the remnants have been maintained as a tourist site.
4. Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Pune
Dating to the 8th century, Pataleshwar Cave Temple attracts tourists and architecture enthusiasts from far and wide. The temple is carved out from a single rock and houses the God of the Underworld (Patal). The carvings and drawings from more than a millennium ago add splendour to the monolithic creation.
5. Pashan Lake, Pune
This manmade lake is the favourite flocking place for a variety of migratory birds. Some of the exotic birds that you can spot here include white-breasted kingfisher, gray heron, open billed stork, etc.
6. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Pune
With over 20,000 artefacts, this place stands tall as one of the most artistic museums across the country. Built by Baba Dinkar Kelkar in 1962, the museum was later donated to the Maharashtra Government in 1975. The sculptures, musical instruments, paintings, carvings and ornaments exhibited here date back to the 14th century and cover the important art pieces from the Mughal and the Maratha eras. It is a must visit for art lovers to experience the rich taste of the emperors & artists who once lived in the region.
7. Osho Ashram, Pune
Featuring the world’s largest meditation hall, this place is well known as a meditation resort. People from all parts of the world flock here in search of inner peace. Spanning over 32 acres, it has a guest house if you want to stay on campus, a spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, and a tennis court. Various meditation courses such as Nadabrahma, Nataraj, Kundalini, etc. are offered here for different rates. This is a must-visit place for an intense spiritual and peaceful experience.
With all these interesting places in Pune, the city is rightly revered as the Cultural Capital of Maharashtra. Comment down below how many places have you visited in Pune.