After the Indian glamour capital of Mumbai, let’s move on to the cultural capital of Maharashtra, none other than PUNE!! Known for its base and rich heritage of Peshwas (prime ministers) of the Maratha Empire, and fascinating hilly regions, Pune proudly stand as a symbol of Maharashtrian traditions and culture.
It’s quite being historical of Pune’s name being rechristened many times from the ancient Indian Rashtrakuta dynasty naming it “Punnaka“, “Punyapur”, Yadava dynasty renaming it as “Punya Vishaya” meaning holy land, again renamed as “Muhiyabad“ by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, becoming “Poona” in British regime to finally becoming “Pune” in 1978.
From historical and sightseeing spots to adventurous activities, one can also find many suitable destinations in Pune.
Don’t fail to check out the notable traditional copper and brass ware work and unique home decor pieces and accessories in Tulsi baug, an old street.
Let us check out some more major interesting places in Pune.
1. Shaniwar Wada Palace
An icononic landmark of Pune, Shaniwar Wada continues to stand as a representative of the great Maratha Empire. It was built in 1732 during the time of Peshwas with being the centre of politics. But in 1828, the fort was destroyed by a fire outbreak and later the remnants were transformed to become a tourist site. Recently, the light and sound revealing the memorable events of history of the Peshwas have also been started at this palace. It is considered as one of the best tourist places.
2. Aga Khan Palace
Yet another beautiful landmark built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in 1892. Aga Khan Palace served as the prison for Mahatma Gandhi along with his wife Kasturba Gandhi and Secretary Mahadev Desai in Pune from 1942 to 1944. The rooms that were used by them now serve as a museum.
3. Dagdusheth Halwai Temple
This majestic Hindu Temple in Pune is dedicated to the God Ganesh which is much similar to God Kangiten in Japanese Buddhism. Legend says that the idol was incepted by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai way back, when they lost their only son due to the plague epidemic. This temple is a must visit during Pune’s Ganeshotsav’s celebrations.
4. Raja Dinkar Museum
Situated in Shukrawaar peth, a minuscule lane lays Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, a rare anthology of Indian artefacts that echo myriad tales of a nostalgic legacy within the majestic archways and corridors. The collection from this Museum reflects the elegance of Indian craftsmanship as well the vivid imagination of the artists especially The Mastani Mahal which has been rebuilt in the museum premises.
5. Khadakwasla Dam
An eminent tourist attraction, Khadakwasla Dam is a pleasant sight to behold. It constructed on River Mutha which is the source of water supply in Pune and its suburban regions. This dam lies on the way to Sinhagad fort, one of the historically prominent places. This is a kind of place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts and also for spending pleasant weekends and getaways.
6. Sinhagad Fort
Most of the history enthusiasts are well aware about this significant and historical site of Sinhagad! Ofcourse its well explained with the recent Bollywood movie (Tanhaji-The unsung warrior). Thus, Sinhagad is valued as a true sightseeing heritage. Along with the historical importance, it is one of the ideal spots for trekking with moderate level of difficulty.
7. Shinde Chhatri
An 18th century memorial dedicated to the Maratha leader Mahadji Shinde who was the commander-in-chief of the Peshwas from 1760 to 1780. The intricate carvings on the walls and the magnificent Iron Gate are delights and take you back to the bygone era. Its building is a spectacular amalgamation of Anglo-Rajasthani architecture. It has been renovated recently to get rid of moss from the porous yellow stone and restore the monument’s historic architectural significance.
8. Pu La Deshpande Udyan
Also known as Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden is inspired by Japanese Korakuen garden style that was developed by Ikeda Royal family in Okayama, Japan. The garden brims with Yin and Yang philosophy and the verdant lawns here give a strong spiritual aura to the place. The park is maintained extremely well and visitors are not allowed to picnic or stroll through the lawn. The biodiversity consisting of flora, fauna are undeniably an exhilarating respite to the sore eyes!
9. National war museum
This is the only war memorial in South Asia which has been erected by citizens' contributions. It is a museum open for all who are interested in knowing the many achievements of the Indian Army and various kinds of armaments. The museum is well maintained by the soldiers and allows civilians to shoot at targets under the guidance of the staff.
10. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
An 8th century old rock-cut cave Lord Shiva temple of Pataleshwar built during Rashtrakuta period is one of the architectural marvels. Also, there’s a lot of open space where tourists can sit, roam around, click pictures or simply relax beneath one of the old trees.
Along with these, there many more lovely places like Parvati Hill, Pashan lake, Saras Baug, Shivneri fort, Chaturshringi Temple, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park etc.
The life in this city is considerably slow as compared to Mumbai, the second largest city of Maharashtra, is loved by everyone for its pleasant weather especially during winter. If you are planning for a cultural tour around Maharashtra, Pune ought to be in your bucket list but at the same time be careful not to face the nasty sarcasm of the folks out there!! Lol
Beautiful.