What Is Pune Famous For? Top 20 Popular Places & Things

Pune is famous for its stunning wildlife, including rare, endangered, and near-extinct plant and animal species. The city boasts several historical monuments, and its suitable climate is another factor that draws tourists from all over India.

So if you are planning your next trip and wondering what Pune is famous for, find all your answers here.

Here is a list of all the things that Pune is known for:

1. Shaniwar Wada

One of the finest specimens of architecture in the city is Shaniwar Wada, a 286-year-old mansion that was originally the Peshwa capital of Pune. Peshwa Bajirao I himself constructed this mansion to serve as the home of Peshwas.

Although the Wada now spans 625 acres, it nearly engulfed the entire city during its prominence. With many forts, fountains, and the imposing statue of Baji Rao I that welcomes guests at the entry, the location never fails to astound visitors.

2. Aga Khan Palace

Built-in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, the magnificent Aga Khan Palace is located in Pune. At one point, it served as the prison for Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, and Mahadev Desai. The Gandhi National Memorial society's main office is situated in the palace, which is now spread across an area of 19 acres. Khadi manufacturing is still a major activity in this area.

3. Osho Ashram

The Osho Ashram in Koregaon Park, Pune, is a site known for its tranquilly and bizarre meditation and rituals that aim to achieve divinity. People of Pune commonly refer to it as the Osho Meditation Resort, which is a place that combines meditation with the Greek idea of a resort vacation. The Ashram is a serene setting that will help you find your own centre of calm, meditation, and unity. This is where you can also find Osho's ideologies.

4. Katraj Snake Park

The famous Rajiv Gandhi Zoo in Katraj, which is close to the main city of Pune, is India's most popular tourist destination. It is a well-known and opulent zoo run by the Pune Municipal Corporation and spans 130 acres. The park mainly has three sections: the main zoo, an animal orphanage, and the Katraj Snake Park, which is highly popular.

Furthermore, the snake park's collection of snakes, reptiles, birds, and turtles has been successful in introducing thousands of tourists to a wide range of animals.

5. Sinhagad Fort

The historical fortress Sinhagad Fort is situated in the Sahyadri Mountains and is well known for its architectural and historical significance. Formerly known as Kondana, it has seen several engagements, including the famous Battle of Sinhagad in 1670. The name "Sinhagad'' directly translates to "Lion's Fort," denoting the fort's valour and brightness.

Moreover, the building is now the ideal landmark for hikers because of its location in the Sahyadri Mountains at a height of over 750 metres.

6. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple

Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, a divine place of devotion dedicated to Lord Ganapati, is well-known for its religious celebrations. Many devotees visit the temple daily to participate in lord Ganesh's pooja, abhisheka, and arti. Further, the 2.2-meter-tall by 1-metre-wide idol of Lord Ganapati is covered in about 40 kilograms of gold. In addition,  the temple is open from 6 am to 11 pm every day.

7. Mulshi Lake and Dam

Mulshi Dam, which is located about 73km from Pune, is the ideal weekend getaway location for families. Although Mulshi Dam is a year-round tourist destination, monsoon season is when it is at its most magnificent.

Apart from that, Mulshi is an eco-friendly resort where trekking, camping, photography, and bird-watching are all actively pursued.

8. Pune Okayama Friendship Garden

The Pune Okayama Friendship Garden is Asia's largest Japanese garden outside of Japan. It was named in honour of the renowned Marathi writer and humorist Pu La Deshpande, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1990. As it was modelled after the 300-year-old Okayama Korakuen Garden in Japan, this garden displays the relationship between India and Japan.

9. Rajmachi Fort

Amid Maharashtra's Konkan region, in the Sahyadri mountain range, is the little village of Rajmachi. Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, two fortified peaks of Rajmachi's mediaeval citadel, are situated close to the well-known hills of Lonavala and Khandala. The settlement of Udhewadi, also known as Rajmachi, is located at the base of the fort. Trekkers and adventure seekers are well-known for their love of Rajmachi Fort.

10. Panshet Water Park

One of Pune's most visited attractions and a hub for water sports is Panshet Water Park. Panshet Water Park is 910 metres above sea level and is a great weekend retreat.

Various water sports, including kayaking, swimming, water scooters, speed boats, and windsurfing, are available at the water park.

11. Vetal Tekdi

Vetal Tekdi is the more common name for Vetal Hill and is located just 10 km from Pune railway station. It is one of the well-known locations among Pune’s residents. Fitness enthusiasts frequently visit Vetal Hill for an early-morning walk, jog, trek, or to cycle. With a height of 2600 feet, Vetal Hill is one of Maharashtra's highest points.

12. Parvati Hill Temple

Parvati hill, which rises to a height of more than 2,000 feet and was created by the renowned Peshwa emperor Balaji Baji Rao in the 17th century, provides a panoramic view of Pune. Further, the hill itself boasts stunning views away from the bustle of the city and a comfortable environment all year round.

13. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a wonderful illustration of how art can signify different things to different people. This museum, which Baba Dinkar Kelkar founded in 1962, is home to priceless artefacts from the 14th century, including coins, sculptures, paintings, terracotta items, and weapons and ammunition. The museum's main attraction is the Mastani Mahal, a replica of the palace utilising original furnishings.

14. Lal Mahal

Lal Mahal, a historical monument from the 16th century, is located close to Shaniwar Wada in Pune. The palace has interesting tales about being the target of numerous invasions and a brief resurrection. Shahaji Bhosle, the father of Shivaji Maharaj, had it initially renovated in the 1630s so that his family could live there.

Moreover, this red-coloured building, which served as Chhatrapati Shivaji's childhood home, is an architectural wonder that captures the style and craftsmanship of the era.

15. Adlabs Imagica Amusement Park

If you are wondering what Pune is known for when it comes to entertainment, then Adlabs Imagica Amusement Park is an experience you cannot miss. So, if you have a weekend free and are seeking things to do in Pune with friends, then visit this park.

Further, this Theme Park, Water Park, and Snow Park are three distinct parks dedicated to pleasure and adventure in this enchanting land's 130-acre entertainment city. Other attractions include House of Stars, Glowmagica, and Eyelusion in addition to these.

In this list, you can find a list of a few places which are a mix of food, culture and activity which you can find in Pune.

16. River Rafting on the Kundalika River

If you've had your fill of Pune's cultural and historical attractions, consider going river rafting in the nearby town of Kolad. The river Kundalika delivers some exhilarating rapids, though they are not particularly extreme, and is one of the most thrilling activities in Pune for couples. Visit during the monsoons for additional thrills, but even then, the river may provide some remarkable experiences.

17. Empress Garden

Empress Garden, a vast 39-acre expanse of green that bears the name of Empress Victoria, was created around two centuries ago. Further, the park today has more than 150 different tree species, a children's area, and a number of gardens with exotic plants.

This should be your first choice if you're seeking things to do in Pune! Enjoy picnics and leisurely strolls while enjoying the fresh air amidst the verdant surroundings. In addition, there are areas in the park where you may play cricket or football.

18. Tulsi Baug

Is a vacation ever complete without going shopping? Unfortunately, your answer is a no, and what could be better than spending the afternoon at Tulsi Baug, Pune's busiest shopping district. The market, a favourite among residents, is flanked by stores selling a range of trinkets, jewellery, shoes, chappals, and brass and copper wares. You should know that the market is pretty fair, so don't be afraid to haggle to your heart's content!

19. German Bakery

Sadly, the infamous bomb bombings of 2010 contributed to the fame of the German Bakery in Pune. However, the city's enduring spirit has brought back this legendary restaurant. Come here to enjoy the lovely, cosy atmosphere and the lively local crowd. In addition, you must try their keema pav, cold coffee, and fish and chips since they are all fantastic.

Apart from that, visit this place in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy Pune's famed relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.

20. National War Museum

Situated in a quiet and tranquil section of Pune Cantonment, away from the busy city, is the National War Museum. The Museum's construction began in 1998 and is the only edifice which was built with the help of public funds. The MIG 23 BN, which was utilised in the Kargil War, is the museum's most significant exhibit. Another noteworthy feature is the replica of the warship INS Trishul, deployed in the Portuguese-Indian War.