Pune

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to February
Weather: Pleasant winters, hot summers, moderate monsoons
Budget: ₹2,000–₹10,000/day
Speciality: Oxford of the East

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport, ~10 km from city center
By Train: Pune Junction and Shivajinagar Railway Station connect to major cities
By Road: Well-connected via NH48 and NH60; buses and cabs available from neighboring states

Where to Stay?

Koregaon Park and Kalyani Nagar – upscale cafes, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife
Shivajinagar and Camp – old Pune charm, close to historical sites, and authentic food

Packing List

Light cotton clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Umbrella or raincoat (especially during monsoon)
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Reusable water bottle

Top Places to Visit

Shaniwar Wada

An 18th-century fortification that was the seat of the Peshwa rulers, showcasing Maratha architecture.

Aga Khan Palace

A majestic palace with historical significance, where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned during the Quit India movement.

Sinhagad Fort

A hilltop fortress offering panoramic views, trekking opportunities, and rich Maratha history.

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

One of Maharashtra’s most famous temples, dedicated to Lord Ganesha with an idol adorned in gold.

Pataleshwar Cave Temple

An 8th-century rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing ancient architectural brilliance.

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

A museum housing an extensive collection of Indian artifacts, musical instruments, and decorative arts.

Osho International Meditation Resort

A spiritual retreat offering meditation sessions and peaceful gardens in the heart of Koregaon Park.

Pune Okayama Friendship Garden

The largest Japanese garden outside Japan in Asia, featuring traditional landscaping and serene atmosphere.

Must-Try Experiences

Street Food Tour on FC Road

Explore vibrant food stalls serving misal pav, vada pav, and other local delicacies.

Trek to Sinhagad Fort

Experience an adventurous hike with stunning views and enjoy pithla bhakri at the top.

Café Hopping in Koregaon Park

Discover trendy cafes offering everything from artisanal coffee to international cuisines.

Attend Classical Music Performances

Experience the Sawai Gandharva Music Festival in December, celebrating Indian classical music.

Shop at Local Markets

Visit Laxmi Road, Tulsi Baug, and Hong Kong Lane for traditional clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

Local Cuisine

Breakfast: Misal pav, poha, bun maska with Irani chai
Lunch: Maharashtrian thali, pithla bhakri, varan bhaat
Snacks: Vada pav, bhakarwadi, kanda bhaji, mastani

Culture & Local Life

Pune is known as the “Oxford of the East” due to its prestigious educational institutions. The city is a major IT and automobile manufacturing hub, hosting companies like Infosys, TCS, and Tata Motors. Pune celebrates the Ganesh Festival with great enthusiasm, featuring elaborate processions and cultural performances. The Sawai Gandharva Music Festival in December attracts classical music enthusiasts from across the country. Local markets like Tulsi Baug and Laxmi Road offer glimpses into daily Maharashtrian life, while areas like Koregaon Park showcase the city’s cosmopolitan character.

Local Insights

Languages: Marathi (official), Hindi, English widely spoken

Getting Around: Metro, PMPML buses, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber

Safety Tips: Stay alert in crowded areas, avoid isolated places at night, and keep valuables secure

Enjoy Your Yatra!