Pune or Pune (called by locals) is not only the second largest city in Maharashtra, but also the tenth most populous city. Pune is a fascinating tourist destination due to its rich history. The importance of the Maratha Empire is confirmed in its history, with its focus on the rule of Shiva Ji and Peshwas in the 18th century. Pune got its name after the victory of Peshwas and camps, educational institutions, religious sites, political centers and unique buildings. Therefore, when I go to this beautiful cultural capital, I know that I must see everything from the charm of the British era to the peak of idealism. If you plan to travel to Pune soon, please visit these five attractions to immerse you in the atmosphere that has transformed from a colonial era to an international metropolis in an unprecedented way.
Aga Khan Palace
The Aga Khan Palace was the first attraction I chose in Pune. Although its name is Mughlai, this place has made a great contribution to the history of India. Sultan Aga Khan built this palace in the 18th century to help those in need, but it was not recognized until 1942 after he withdrew from the Indian Liberation Movement.
During the independence movement, Mahatma Gandhi and Kastub Gandhi, as well as other freedom fighters, including Mahadeobhai Desai and Sarojini Naidu, were imprisoned in the palace. Most notably, Kasturba Gandhi died at the Aga Khan Palace and was appointed as her permanent monument. In addition to its long history, the Aga Khan Palace also has 16 acres of beautiful gardens that are worth exploring.
Entrance fee: 25 Indian rupees
Best time to visit: 9 am to 5:30 pm throughout the week
Gandhi National Memorial
You may wish to visit the Gandhi National Memorial Museum while visiting the Aga Khan Palace. Fortunately, your Aga Khan Palace ticket includes free entry to the museum, which is filled with Gandhiji’s personal belongings and photos of the withdrawal from India. When you see the freedom fighter’s belongings, a strange nationalist mood prevails. It is as if someone has mastered a series of national romanticism steeped in the shadowy effectiveness of the unity.
Shanivar and Tian Palace
A trip to Pune would not be complete without stopping at the site of the Shaniwarwada fortress that dates back to the 17th century. Hotan, built by the Peshwa people of the Maratha Empire, tells a fascinating story to tourists. According to legend, this seven-story ancient fortress was originally built “only” with stones. 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 Peshwas.
Subsequently, Peshwas obtained an official statement stating that the remaining buildings will be made of bricks. Ninety years later, when Hotan was attacked by the British, the six-story building above collapsed instantly, but the stone base with teak entrance and granite city walls remained intact. Shiji can still be visited and appreciated at this time.
Entrance fee: 5 Indian rupees
Best time to visit: 8 am to 6:30 pm every day
National War Museum
The military installations and camp complexes in Pune are world-famous in India. This is why visiting the National War Museum is my top priority. I am very happy that I came to the museum because there is no other place in Pune that can inspire patriotism like this. The Pune National War Museum promotes nationalism by reminding visitors of all the Indian martyrs who died in the Kargil War. This war memorial can not only help you sympathize with the sacrifices of the army, but also help you support India’s military goals.
Located on the Prince of Wales Road in Pune, this stunning war museum depicts the war for independence with its Mig 23 BN and the inactive frigate INS Trishul, both of which were used in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War and Portugal -Served in the Indian War. The museum was “essentially” completed in 1997 and is known as the best “war memorial” in India. Through the visit, pay tribute to the efforts, uniforms, weapons and souvenirs of the Indian army.
Entrance fee: free + free parking
Best time to visit: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Queens Botanic Garden
Pune is a city that will surprise you. After exploring its historical treasures and rich cultural and historical museums, I took a detour to learn more about the country’s agricultural revolution. Queen Botanical Garden is owned and managed by the Pune Agricultural Horticultural Association. It is an 18th century manor and is famous for its unusual plants, flora and animal life. This well-preserved botanical garden covers an area of 39 acres and demonstrates the power of flowers unlike any other. There should be many people coming to this garden to participate in environmental awareness exhibitions and seminars. I especially like observing the beautiful creeks winding through the park.
Entrance fee: INR 10 per adult
Best time to visit: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Hundreds of people visit Pune every day because it has a thriving academic institution and a commercial center that showcases the perfect blend of ancient and modern. History, art, musical enclaves, spiritualism and laissez-faire abound in this vibrant metropolis of Pune. There are also some great breweries, restaurants and shopping malls in the area! Pune combines the beauty of the colonial era with innovation, making it an excellent tourist destination.
