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Pune is a city that beautifully blends its rich historical past with a vibrant, modern present. Known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune boasts a legacy dating back centuries, serving as a pivotal centre for the Maratha Empire.

Today, you can explore its historical landmarks, such as the iconic Shaniwar Wada, the serene Aga Khan Palace, and the fascinating Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum. Pune offers a unique glimpse into India's heritage with its mix of ancient and colonial architecture, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Arriving/Departing from Pune

Pune is served by Pune International Airport (PNQ), located approximately 10 km northeast of the city centre. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, connecting you to major cities across India and select international destinations. Air India Express operates several flights to Pune, providing convenient travel options.

For commuting to and from the airport, you can choose from several options, including taxis, app-based ride services, and local buses. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.

Best Places to Visit in Pune

Pune offers a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites that are sure to captivate any traveller. Here are some of the top places you should consider visiting:

• Shaniwar Wada: This fort, built in 1732, was once the seat of the Maratha Empire. As you walk through its majestic gates and watch the light and sound show, imagine the grand assemblies and royal celebrations that once took place here.
• Aga Khan Palace: A stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the Aga Khan Palace holds a significant place in India’s freedom struggle. It served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his associates during the Quit India Movement.
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: Check out an impressive collection of artefacts, including traditional musical instruments, pottery, and textiles that reflect Pune’s vibrant culture and offer insights into the daily lives of people in Maharashtra through the ages.
• Lal Mahal: Built in 1630, Lal Mahal is where the great Maratha emperor, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, spent his childhood. It features stunning paintings depicting crucial moments in Shivaji's life, offering an excellent insight into the warrior's early years.
• Pataleshwar Cave Temple: Carved out of a single rock, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a serene escape from the bustling city. Its intricate carvings and peaceful ambience make it a unique and calming experience.

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• Shinde Chhatri: Completed in 1794, Shinde Chhatri is a memorial to Mahadji Shinde, a prominent Maratha army officer. It’s a blend of Rajasthani and British architectural styles with intricate carvings, stained crystal windows, and magnificent paintings.
• Parvati Hill Temple Complex: Located on a hilltop, the Parvati Hill Temple Complex features four temples, with the main one dedicated to Lord Parvati. Climb the 103 steps to the top and enjoy the serene environment, panoramic views, and historical ambience.
• Mahatma Phule Museum: This museum showcases a variety of artefacts and exhibits related to agriculture, industry, handicrafts, and local history, providing a comprehensive look at the region's cultural and economic development.
• Nana Wada: Nana Wada once served as the residence of Nana Phadnavis, a prominent figure in the Maratha Empire. The building's design reflects the architectural style of the Peshwa era, showcasing intricate woodwork and traditional construction methods.
• Koregaon Park: Known for its lush greenery and quaint lanes, Koregaon Park houses several chic cafes, art galleries, and the famous Osho Ashram. It's a serene neighbourhood that beautifully blends the old with the new.

Best Places to Shop in Pune

Pune offers a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets to modern malls, catering to all tastes and budgets.

• Laxmi Road: Laxmi Road is one of Pune's oldest and most bustling shopping streets, offering a wide array of products, including clothing, jewelry, footwear, and household items. Bargain for the best deals!
• Hong Kong Lane: Located in Deccan Gymkhana, Hong Kong Lane is famous for its trendy clothes, accessories, and footwear. This bustling street market attracts students and young shoppers looking for the latest fashions at budget-friendly rates.
• FC Road: Fergusson College Road, known as FC Road, is a vibrant shopping destination popular among students and young adults. This lively street offers a mix of clothing stores, bookshops, cafes, and street food stalls.
• Amanora Mall: One of Pune's largest shopping malls, Amanora Mall offers a wide range of international and local brands, a multiplex cinema, and a variety of dining options in a modern and spacious environment.
• Phoenix Market City: This sprawling shopping mall features a wide selection of retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities. It’s also known for hosting events, concerts, and seasonal decorations.

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• Tulsi Baug: Tulsi Baug is a traditional market known for its affordable clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. This market is popular among locals for festive shopping, especially during Diwali.
• ABC (Appa Balwant Chowk): A haven for book enthusiasts, this place boasts numerous bookstores that are stocked with academic texts, novels, and rare publications, reflecting Pune's educational heritage.
• Mahatma Phule Mandai: As Pune's largest and oldest vegetable market, it offers fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies, providing a sensory delight for visitors.
• Juna Bazaar: Held every Wednesday and Sunday near the Pune Railway Station, this flea market is a treasure trove for antique lovers, offering vintage coins, artefacts, and curios at bargain prices.

Best Places to Eat in Pune

Pune's culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, offering a wide range of dining experiences from traditional Maharashtrian cuisine to international flavours.

• Kayani Bakery: Established in 1955 on East Street, this legendary bakery is famed for its Shrewsbury biscuits and mawa cakes, often drawing long queues of loyal patrons.
• Vohuman Cafe: A quintessential Irani cafe exuding an old-world charm, Vohuman is renowned for its buttery cheese omelettes, bun maska, and chai, making it an affordable breakfast spot.
• Malaka Spice: Located in Koregaon Park, this restaurant specialises in Southeast Asian cuisine, offering dishes inspired by street food from Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, like chicken murtabak. chicken thigh thai, and green pepper mushrooms.
• Shabree: Situated on FC Road, Shabree serves authentic Maharashtrian thalis featuring traditional dishes like puran poli, bhakri, and zunka, in a warm and rustic setting.
• Vaishali: An iconic eatery on FC Road, Vaishali is synonymous with South Indian snacks. Its piping hot dosa, flavourful chutneys, and bustling atmosphere attract everyone, from students to families.

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• German Bakery: This spot is perfect for baked goods and cafe fare. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere and offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and beverages. Must-try dishes include the apple pie, their special salad, mango/red velvet cheesecake, and kheema pav.
• Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale: Renowned for its quality and authentic flavours, this shop offers a wide array of traditional Maharashtrian sweets and snacks, including the famous Bhakarwadi.
• Blue Nile: This restaurant serves multi-cuisine dishes but is best known for its Irani-style biryani. Established in the early 1960s, it has carved a legacy of its own in the city.
• Anna Idli: This eatery serves authentic South Indian dishes, with the idli being a standout favourite.

Best Getaways Around Pune

Pune's strategic location makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and historical sites. Here are some of the top getaways from the city:

• Lonavala and Khandala: Just 65 km from Pune, these twin hill stations are famous for their misty hills, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints like Tiger’s Leap and Lion’s Point. Monsoon is the best time to visit for lush greenery and pleasant weather.
• Mahabaleshwar: About 120 km away, Mahabaleshwar is known for its strawberry farms, panoramic viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, and serene Venna Lake. Visit during winter or early summer to enjoy its cool climate and vibrant markets.
• Lavasa: A picturesque, planned city around 60 km from Pune, Lavasa is built around a lake with vibrant promenades, water sports, and cafes. Its European-style architecture and pleasant weather make it ideal for a relaxing weekend.
• Sinhagad Fort: Located 30 km from Pune, this historic fort is a popular trekking spot with panoramic views of the Sahyadris. Visit early in the morning for a refreshing hike and local snacks, like kanda bhaji and buttermilk, at the summit.
• Alibaug: Situated around 140 km from Pune, Alibaug is a coastal town known for its clean beaches, seafood, and historic forts. It’s perfect for a weekend beach escape, with options for water sports and ferry rides to Mumbai.

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• Kaas Plateau: A UNESCO World Heritage site around 140 km from Pune, Kaas is known as Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers. Visit between August and October to witness the blooming of vibrant wildflowers across its vast meadows.
• Tamhini Ghat: Just 50 km from Pune, Tamhini Ghat is known for its misty valleys, waterfalls, and scenic mountain views. Monsoon is the best time to visit for its lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls.
• Bhandardara: Located about 170 km from Pune, Bhandardara is a serene hill station with attractions like Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and the famous Wilson Dam. It’s an ideal destination for stargazing and trekking to Mount Kalsubai.