PUNE
The old world charm of the Marathas and British captivates you all the way up to Pune. Pune is a modern city with a rich historical past. This stunning city is famous for its majestic monuments, renowned temples and valiant forts. The city of Pune is given utmost importance as a historical city as it is said to be the native of the Maratha Legend Shivaji Maharaj.
Proudly called the cultural capital of Maharashtra this vibrant city comes alive with live theatres, arts and craft exhibitions. Its world class universities attract students from far and wide and also its international quality education makes Pune being perfectly called the “Oxford of the Eastern India”. It is also a hub of major commercial and business activities. It also proudly houses some of the prestigious industries and IT companies. Pune also has a great night life with all the restaurants and motels. Tourists can enjoy themselves with drinks and dances.
Among the major attractions are The Osho Ashram which offers various meditation courses. This ashram with calm and cool ambience attracts people even from the west. Pataleswar rock cut temple is a feast for the history buffs. Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Parvati Hill Temples, Bund Garden are some of the prominent attractions.
This beautiful city blessed with salubrious climate is adorned with gorgeous hills, sparkling lakes and rich greenery. The cyclists, rickshaws help in retaining the old charm of Pune. The amalgamation of the modern and the old-world charm makes Pune a perfect place to spend one’s vacation.
Pune is also a hot spot for para-gliding and para-sailing activities.
PLACES TO SEE
Gandhi National Memorial/ Aga Khan palace : This beautiful palace with great artistic brilliance has great historical significance as famous personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Shri Mahadeobhai Desai, Dr. Sarojini Naidu were jailed here during the Quit India Movement way back in 1942. Shri Mahadeobhai Desai and Kasturba Gandhi passed away here. A marble memorial is constructed in their memory. Mahatma Gandhi's items like his bed, writing desk, Kasturba's saree, clothes and her Chappals are well maintained here.
Osho Ashram : Osho ashram is a famous spiritual centre located in the Koregaon park which is spread in the area of around 17 acres. It offers various meditation courses to ease the mind from tension and stress. It attracts people from the western countries. Nulla Park located close by attracts the tourists with its swimming pool, rock gardens and artificial waterfalls.
Shanivar Wada : This beautiful palace was constructed by Baji Rao in 1730. This beautiful structure reminds the visitor of the grandeur of the Maratha period. Most of the parts are damaged only the outer wall remains intact. The massive doors were constructed to hinder the sudden attack of the enemies.
Bund Garden : This beautiful garden which is placed elegantly next to the river was constructed by Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy. This garden is an ideal place to enjoy a long walk and rejuvenate the mind. People can enjoy boating in the calm waters while enjoying the nature’s bounty.
Pataleshwar temple : This beautiful rock-cut cave temple is made up of single rock where Shiva is the main deity. It was constructed in about 8th century.
Parvathi Hills
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
Bhatgar Dam
Vishrambaug Wada
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Pune airport is about 12 kms from the heart of the city. It has regular flights to Delhi and Mumbai. Flights to Chennai and Bangalore are available about 3-4 times in a week.
By Rail: Pune has regular trains to the metropolitan Mumbai. Deccan Queen, Deccan Express, Indrayani, Pragati and Shatabdi are some of the trains.
By bus: The city is well connected by government and private buses. Taxis can also be availed