Pune: A Small Jewel Of The Indian Travel Scene
There are very few places, which can truly claim to embody a beautiful blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you are looking for vibrant nightlife or want to explore some historical wonders, Pune is the perfect place to be.
In recent years, Pune has emerged as one of India’s top places to stay in and visit. In addition to ample career opportunities, the weather of Pune has drawn many working professionals as well as students. The city boasts of having some of the top corporate parks as well as educational institutions.
Pune is well connected with almost all metropolitan cities of India. You have train, bus, and flight connectivity from all major cities. There are direct flights from Kolkata to Pune, Bengaluru to Pune, and Delhi to Pune offered by all major carriers.
In this article, we are going to look at the five top places that every tourist must visit in Pune.
Top Tourist Destinations of Pune: The List
1. Shivneri Fort:
If you are a history buff, you will enjoy the legacy of this centuries-old fort. The Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of the great Maratha ruler, Shivaji. The structure of the Fort had been designed in such a way that it offers complete protection in case of an attack.
The Fort offers stunning views of the entire Pune landscape. Situated on a small hillock, it overlooks the city from afar. If you are someone who loves nature, you will see the vast expanse of greenery surrounding the fort on all sides.
2. Sinhagad Fort:
Very few people know how Pune was once the citadel of the Maratha Empire. Sinhagad is located approximately twenty-five kilometers from the main city of Pune. The famous battle of Sinhagad in which Shivaji wrested control of the Fort from AdilShahi is one of the great war stories of all time.
The hill of Sinhagad offers arresting views of the surrounding areas. If you stand at one particular part of the fort, you can catch beautiful views of the Western Ghats in all its glory. In this part of the region, the Western Ghats have been called ‘Sahyadri’.
3. National War Museum:
India’s famous National War Museum is located in Ghorpadi, Pune. It celebrates the sacrifice of all the martyrs in the Defence Forces of the country. A perfect place for people to understand more about India’s military history, the museum boasts of some of the most interesting war memorabilia of all time.
India’s celebrated warplane- the MIG 23 Bison is on display in all its glory. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of a replica of the Indian Navy’s INS Trishul. War items from India’s wars with other countries including Pakistan are also housed for display in the Museum.
4. Osho Ashram:
International tourists who come to India for its spiritual and mystical attractions make a must visit the Osho Ashram. Osho was one of the most followed and revered spiritual leaders in the world. His cult and following have kept growing even post his demise.
Located bang in the heart of Pune at Koregaon Park, the Osho Ashram is a haven of spirituality and nature. If you are visiting Pune, a visit to the Ashram should figure right on top of your list.
5. Koregaon Park:
If you thought we were going to fill this article with only historical places of visit, then you would be quite wrong. Koregaon Park is the nerve center of Pune. You are going to catch all the trendiest restaurants and nightlife in this small, yet happening stretch of road in Pune.
Frequented by youngsters and families, Koregaon Park is a foodie’s paradise. You are also going to find some of the best shopping joints in Koregaon Park. Overall, you will need to spend a complete day at Koregaon Park, just to soak in all the food and the shopping experiences.
Pune After Dark
After a day of discovering this small town in Maharastra, I am sure you will want to unwind. And what better way to do that than exploring the nightlife of this city? Here is a small list of some of the best pubs and bars that you need to check out before you head on to other places. Let us dive right in.
SWIG
- Location: Koregaon Park
- Hours: 12:00 pm to 11.30 pm; every day
- Cost for Two: ₹ 1400 (approx. with alcohol)
- Happy Hours: 12:00 pm to 09:00 pm
- Must-try Items: Sangria, Mocktails, Chicken Slider, Cocktails
An amazing chic bar that will surely sweep you off your feet as soon as you walk in. A perfect place to dust off the day that has booze, food and music. 8 out of 10.
HARD ROCK CAFÉ
- Location: Koregaon Park
- Hours: 12:00 pm to 12.30 am; Sun – Thu
- 12:00 pm to 01.00 am; Friday
- 12:00 pm to 01.30; Saturday
- Cost for Two: ₹ 2500 (approx. with alcohol)
- Happy Hours: 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm
- Must-try Items: Beef Burger, Legendary Burger, Mocktails, Cocktails, Long Island Iced Tea.
If you need good food and mindless fun, then Hard Rock Cafe is the perfect place that you can visit. The bar features karaoke night from time to time and also features some of the best DJs in this country. A perfect place for you and your friends to visit.
1000 OAKS
- Location: East Street
- Cost for Two: ₹ 1300 (approx. with alcohol)
- Hours: 12:30 pm to 12.00 am; Sun– Thu
- 12:30 pm to 12.30 am; Fri – Sat
- Must-try Items: Barman’s Pitcher, Long Island Iced Tea, Butter Chicken, Cocktails
One of the finest party places in town. According to several locals, this bar was probably the first bar they tasted alcohol. A staple pub for all ages that has an old-school vibe along with a rustic charm. The bar has a very strong Jim Hopper painting vibe that sets this bar apart from others in this list.
Conclusion:
Pune is one of India’s top cities to not only visit but also call home. The diversity and opportunities, along with the great weather, make it an attractive proposition for many individuals and families in India. It is connected well on all sides and offers great weekend getaways.
Do let us know what are some of your favorite must-visit places in the city of Pune in the comments section.
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