Renowned as the ‘Cultural Capital of Maharashtra’, Pune displays a stunning combination of old and new India. Due to the presence of several distinguished educational institutions here, Pune is often referred as the ‘Oxford of the East’. The beautiful city is located at a distance of 150 kms from Mumbai and houses the prestigious National Defence Academy, Armed Forces Medical College, the University of Pune among others. Pune is adorned with many palaces, which make it a paradise for history enthusiasts.
Built by Sultan Mohammad Shah Aga Khan III in 1892, the historic Aga Khan Palace is one of the top attractions of Pune. The palace is a fine example of architectural beauty. Many freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, his secretary and Sarojini Naidu were imprisoned here in 1942. Now an archive, the palace provides a glimpse of Indian freedom fighters’ life through photographs and portraits, and preserves their personal belongings.
Shivneri Fort is of utmost significance in the history of Maratha Empire for being the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji. The fort is now in ruins and houses a granary, a twin underground water tank dating back to 2,000 years ago, the temple of Shivai Devi and ‘Badami Talav’, a huge circular water tank. Inside the fort, tourists will also find the statue of child Chhatrapati Shivaji and his mother Jijabai. Near the fort is Jivdhan, which offers perfect setting for going on an adventurous trekking expedition.
Another remarkable place is the Fort of Sinhagad which literally means ‘The Lion’s fort’. From Pune, the fort is 30 kms which has been a witness to various significant battles. The fort is believed to be constructed about 1,500-2,000 years ago. It has the ‘samadhi’ of Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj and Tanaji Malusare, Amruteshwar Temple, Kondhaneshwar Temple and Devtake, a stone-carved water cistern. Like Shivneri Fort, it is popular among trekkers.
Once a royal abode of the Peshwas, Shaniwar Wada is sprawled in an area of over 625 acres. It was commissioned by Peshwa Bajirao in 1730 and was completed in 1732. The architecture of the palace carries the influence of Mughal style. A sound and light show by Pune Municipal Corporation can be enjoyed here.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum preserves many sculptures belonging to the 14th century. From ornaments to swords of the Peshwas, musical instruments, antique copper vessels, etc; the museum has got a huge collection of historical objects. Tribal Museum and National Film Archive Museums are also frequented by tourists in Pune.
Pune is a delightful destination for wildlife lovers as well. Spread in 3,600 sq km, Melghat Tiger Reserve is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bear and various species of birds. Katraj Snake Park conserves a wide variety of snakes, reptiles, birds and turtles. Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for housing the endangered gazelle or Chinkaras.
By Air: Pune Airport is 10 km from the city. All major cities are connected to Pune through regular flights.
By Rail: Pune Junction is the main railway station. There are various trains which connect Pune to all metro cities of India.
By Road: Pune is easily accessible by road. State-run and private buses ply regularly from here to all prime destinations of India.
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