Serviced Apartments in Pune

Facts About Pune

Also known as the Oxford of the East, Pune is one of the popular cities to live in since colonial times. The city has a great history and culture, however, with time the city has emerged as one of the most modern and vibrant cities in India. A few interesting facts about Pune are: 

• The name Pune came from Punya, which means conflux of two rivers, Muthi and Mula.
• The second-largest city in Maharashtra, Pune is also the ninth-largest city in India in terms of population.
• Pune was the headquarters during the Peshwas of the Maratha empire. 
• Pune has the first military academy in the world where three forces of defense, Army, Navy, and Air Force are trained together. 

Cost of Living in Pune

Being a tech and educational hub, this modern vibrant metropolis in India is not cheap at all. However, if you compare with other metro cities of India, like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, Pune is on the affordable side in terms of the cost of living. Consumer prices in Pune are 75.9% lower in comparison to New York. 

Tips for Visiting Pune

Pune is a city where you will find the old fort, temples and modern educational institutions, tech hubs, and ultra-luxurious high-rises. Here are some tips for visiting Pune: 

• The best time to visit Pune is from September to June. 
• Pune receives a good amount of rainfall during the monsoon months; however, this is the best time to visit Lonavala and Khandala, which are nearby tourist destinations from Pune. 
• If you are traveling by auto-rickshaws in Pune, pay the auto-rickshaws by the meter card only.

Things to Do in Pune

There are so many things to see and do in Pune that a small weekend trip won’t suffice. Pune is surrounded by hills lakes and forest, which makes this a great vacation destination. 

Q1. What are the most popular things to do in Pune?

Here are some of the most popular things to do in Pune: 

• Visit Peshawar Shaniwar Wada fort
• Explore Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum 
• Visit Parvati Hill
• Explore Malshej Ghat
• Visit Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Q2. What are some free things to do in Pune?

Here are some of the free things to do in Pune: 

• Jog at Bund Garden 
• Go for a stroll at Koregaon Park
• Visit the Osho Ashram 
• Climb up Parvati Hill 
• Visit Pune University 

Q3. Does Pune have many romantic attractions?

Here are some of the romantic places to visit in Pune: 

• Lohagad Fort
• Mulshi Dam
• Empress Garden
• Lonavala
• Lavasa 

Q4. What are the most family-friendly things to do in Pune?

Here are some of the family-friendly things to do in Pune: 

• Visit Sinhagad Fort
• Explore the Okayama Friendship Garden 
• Visit Rajgad Fort 
• Visit National War Museum 
• Visit Mulshi Dam

Q5. What are the more unusual things to do in Pune?

Here are some of the unusual things to do in Pune: 

• Explore the local cuisine 
• Explore the bazaars of Pune 
• Visit Osho Ashram 
• Visit Appu Ghar Amusement Park 
• Visit Mulshi Dam

Places to Visit in Pune

Pune is one of the most picturesque travel destinations in western India. Though most of the time, it is clubbed with Mumbai, there are so many things to see in the city and neighborhood that you might need a few days to explore fully. 

A few of the best tourist attractions in and around Pune are: 

1. Shaniwar Wada: This historical landmark of Pune was built in 1732 and used to be the seat of Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. This fort was destroyed in 1828 and later rebuilt as a tourist attraction.

2. Bund Garden: Bund Garden, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Udyan is a huge park in the middle of the bustling Pune city. You can go for a morning job or click some pictures during the winter afternoons.

3. Aga Khan Palace: One of the major historical attractions in Pune, this palace is a must-visit. Built in 1892 by Sultan Aga Khan, this palace was later used to imprison several famous freedom fighters including Mahatma Gandhi.

4. Osho Ashram: Located in Koregaon Park, the Osho Ashram is an oasis of peace and serenity. Spread across 32 acres, this Ashram is dedicated to yoga and meditation and attracts lots of local and global travelers. 

5. National War Museum: Built in 1997, this museum in Pune is known for the 25 feet tall architecture. If you are interested to know more about the Indian army this is a must-visit. There is a MIG 2 BN for display which was used during the Kargil War. 

6. Pashan Lake: This beautiful artificial lake is an ideal place for your weekend getaways. Built by the British to compensate for the water shortage in the area, this is now a tourist destination maintained by Pune Municipal Corporation. 

7. Shinde Chhatri: This palace displays a blend of British and Rajasthani architecture. Built in memory of Mahadaji Shinde, this palace is a great place to click some nice pictures. 

8. Parvati Hill: Located 2100 feet above sea level, this is a popular tourist attraction in Pune. The temple situated at the top of the hill attracts a lot of devotees every day.

Places to Eat in Pune 

Pune has a great history and cultural significance, which reflect in the local cuisines as well. While you are in Pune, exploring some of the famous local dishes of Pune is a must-do. You will also find global cuisine here at many places as the metropolis is a growing tech hub and attracts people from all around the world. 

Some of the best restaurants in Pune are: 

1. Durvankur Dining Hall: This place has a signature dish which is Pune Thali that consists of all local popular dishes on a platter. This restaurant also serves some of the unusual and vegetarian delicious curated from all parts of Maharastra. 
2. Wah Marathi: Serving traditional Maharashtrian dishes with contemporary elements, this is one of the popular places to eat in Pune. Try their Thalipeeth, Alani Chicken Rassa, and Prawn Khichdi if you are visiting this place. 
3. SP Biryani House: This place serves one of the best lip-smacking biriyanis you can get in Pune. Though they specialized in different types of Biriyani, you should also try their chicken and fish dishes. 
4. Kayani Bakery: This is a must-visit when you are in Pune. Established in 1955, this bakery is kind of a tourist spot in Pune. You should try their Shrewsbury Biscuits when you visit Pune. 
5. Malaka Spice: This restaurant serves Thai, Burmese, and Chinese cuisine which is carefully developed by Southeast Asia and taking the best elements from each region. 
6. Terttulia: Serving the best continental food in town, this cafe-style restaurant is quite a popular place among locals and tourists. The cafe is known for its English breakfast. 
7. Shizusan: Located in Phoenix Market City Mall, Pune, this Asian pop bistro is a gastronomical delight. The restaurant offers authentic Japanese cuisine. 
8. Effingut: A beer enthusiast’s delight, this place has some of the best brews of Pune that include Strawberry Cider, Melomel, Mango Chilli Cider, and the Indian Brown Ale. Try Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf as accompaniment. 

Street Food in Pune 

You can find mouth-watering local Marathi street food in all corners of the city. From Puran Poli to Misal Pav to Mastani milkshake and Pune Thali, there are many economical yet tasty street foods that the city has to offer. A few of them are: 

• Goodluck Cafe for keema pav
• East Street for a chicken jumbo burger
• Sujata Mastani for mastani milkshake
• Kayani Bakery for mawa cake
• Garden Vada Pav Center for jambo bada pav
• Vohuman Cafe for a cheese omelet 

Shopping in Pune 

Pune has multiple shopping malls and street markets; however, the best place to shop for souvenirs could be Juna Bazaar, Tulsi Baug, or Phule Market. You should have bargaining skills to grab some great products at an affordable price. There are also upmarket places like Fashion Street or Laxmi road where you can buy accessories and clothing in various boutiques. 

Transportation in Pune 

Pune has a bus network that connects all parts of the city. This is an affordable option to go for; however, this can be crowded and frustrating during peak hours. You can also opt for an auto rickshaw or cab to roam around the city. There are also daily cab rentals available at an affordable rate. 

Weather in Pune

Pune has a mild climate which is another reason that people like to move or travel to this city. You can visit Pune almost any time of the year, however, it is suggested to avoid traveling in the months of May and June as the heat can be intense and August as the monsoon is in full flow then.