Pune or Pune (as the locals call it) is not only the second largest city in Maharashtra, it is also the tenth most populous city. Pune is a fascinating tourist destination because of its rich history. The importance of the Maratha Empire is established in its history, which focuses on the rule of the Shivaji and Peshwars in the 18th century. Pune made its name after Peshwas and also gained camp victories, educational institutions, places of worship, political centers and unique buildings. So when I came to this beautiful cultural capital, I knew I had to see everything from British era glamour to the pinnacle of spiritualism. If you’re planning a trip to Pune in the near future, check out these five attractions to immerse yourself in this colonial-turned-cosmopolitan city like never before.
Aga Khan Palace
The Aga Khan Palace was the first attraction I chose to visit in Pune. Despite its name Mughlai, this place has made a huge contribution to the history of India. Sultan Aga Khan built the palace in the 18th century to help those in need, however, it was only recognised after he withdrew from the Indian Liberation Movement in 1942.
During the independence movement, Mahatma Gandhi and Kastuba Gandhi, along with other freedom fighters including Mahathir Baid Desai and Sarojini Naidu, were held in the palace. Most notably, Casturba Gandhi died at the Aga Khan Palace, which was later designated as her permanent monument. In addition to its rich history, the Aga Khan Palace has 16 acres of beautiful gardens that are worth exploring.
Registration Fee: INR 25
Best time to visit: 9am to 5:30pm all week
Gandhi National Memorial
While visiting Aga Khan Palace, why not visit Gandhi National Memorial Museum. Luckily, your Aga Khan Palace ticket includes free entry to the museum, which is filled with Gandhiji’s personal belongings and photos of the Quit India movement. When you look at the belongings of the freedom fighters, a strange sense of nationalism takes hold. It was as if someone had channeled a series of national romanticisms steeped in the murky validity of unity.
Shanivar and Da Palace
No trip to Pune is complete without a stop at the Shaniwarwada fort ruins dating back to the 17th century. Built by the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire, the Wada tells a fascinating story to visitors. According to legend, the seven-storey ancient fort was originally supposed to have been built “only” of stone. After the first floor was built, the people of Satara opposed the ruler, claiming that the stele could only be approved and erected by the king, not the Peshwar.
Peshwas subsequently obtained an official statement stating that the remaining buildings would be finished in bricks. Ninety years later, when Hotan was attacked by the British, the six floors above collapsed in an instant, but the teak entrance and the stone foundations of the granite city walls remained intact. The stone base is still available to visit and admire at this time.
Registration Fee: INR 5
Best time to visit: 8am to 6:30pm daily
National War Museum
Military installations and camps in Pune are well known throughout India. That’s why visiting the National War Museum is my top priority. I am so excited to be at the museum as there is no other place in Pune that inspires patriotism like this. The National War Museum in Pune promotes nationalism by reminding visitors of all the Indian martyrs who lost their lives in the Kargil war. This war memorial will not only help you sympathize with the sacrifices of the military, but also help you support Indian military objectives.
Located on Prince of Wales Road in Pune, this stunning war museum showcases its Mig 23 BN and the inactive frigate INS Trishul fighting for independence, both of which served in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan and Portuguese-Indian wars serving in. The museum opened “basically” in 1997 and has been called the best “war memorial” in India. Visit it to pay tribute to the efforts, uniforms, weapons and memorabilia of the Indian Army.
Admission: Free + Free Parking
Best time to visit: 9am to 5:30pm
Queen’s Botanical Garden
Pune is a city that will amaze you. After exploring its historical treasures and rich cultural history museum, I took a detour to learn about the country’s agricultural revolution. Owned and managed by the Pune Agricultural and Horticultural Society, Queen’s Botanic Gardens is an 18th century estate known for its unusual planting, plant and animal life. Spread over 39 acres, this well-preserved botanical garden showcases the power of flowers like no other. Many people should come to this garden for environmental awareness exhibitions and workshops. I especially enjoyed observing the beautiful streams that meander through the park.
Entrance fee: INR 10 per adult
Best time to visit: 9:30am – 6:30pm
Pune is visited by hundreds of people every day, as its academic institutions and commercial centers flourish here, showcasing a perfect blend of ancient and modern. History, art, musical enclaves, spiritualism and laissez-faire abound in the vibrant metropolis of Pune. There are also some great breweries, restaurants and shopping in the area! Pune combines colonial-era beauty and innovation, making it an excellent travel destination.
