Pune is a large city in Maharashtra, western India. It was once the headquarters of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire, which ruled from 1674 to 1818. The city is famous for the Aga Khan Palace, built in 1892, which now serves as a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, with his ashes kept in the garden. The 8th-century Pataleshwar Cave Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a key historical site. Saras Baug Park features a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed god. Parvati Hill, with its temple complex and the Peshwa Museum, offers stunning views of the city. Shaniwar Wada, a historic 18th-century palace, was once the seat of the Maratha Peshwas.
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum showcases a unique collection of Indian art and crafts, including lamps, puppets, and hookah pipes. The Darshan Museum shares the story of Sadhu Vaswani, a modern Indian saint, through multimedia displays. Pune is also home to the OSHO International Meditation Resort, a peaceful retreat for meditation.
places to visit in Pune
Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad is a historic hill fortress located about 25 km southwest of Pune. It is believed to have been built around 2000 years ago, making it an important site for history enthusiasts.
Shaniwarwada
Shaniwarwada is a historic fortification in Pune, built in 1732. It was once the residence of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire, until 1818.
Aga Khan Palace
Built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, the Aga Khan Palace is a significant landmark in Pune. It is famous for its historical importance and architectural grandeur.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple
The Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple in Pune is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh. It attracts thousands of devotees annually, making it one of the most visited temples in Maharashtra.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, located in Katraj, Pune, is a popular destination for wildlife lovers. It houses a variety of animals and is a great spot for families and tourists.
Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill is a prominent hill in Pune, rising to 2,100 feet above sea level. At the summit, visitors can find the Parvati Temple, offering scenic views of the city.
Lal Mahal
Lal Mahal, built in 1630 by Shivaji Maharaj’s father Shahaji Bhosale, was the residence of Shivaji Maharaj and his mother Jijabai. It is an iconic monument in Pune with significant historical importance.
Chattushringi Temple
Chattushringi Temple, located on the slope of a hill on Senapati Bapat Road in Pune, is dedicated to Goddess Chattushringi. It is a popular religious site for locals and tourists alike.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple
The Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a rock-cut temple dating back to the 8th century. Carved during the Rashtrakuta period, it is located in the heart of Pune and is an architectural marvel.
Balaji Mandir
Balaji Mandir, situated in Pashan, Pune, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. It is a well-known landmark in the city, built by the Ahobila Mutt.
Best Time to Visit Pune
The best time to visit Pune is from October to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers, from March to June, can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 42°C. May is particularly dry, with high humidity and dusty winds. The monsoon season, from June to October, brings moderate rainfall with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C. Pune receives about 722 mm of annual rainfall, which occurs mainly between June and September. In the winter months of December and January, temperatures range from 5°C to 26°C, making it a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying local street food.
