Pune is a city of hope and dreams. This city is a hub for educational institutions. It’s is quite a fascinating place with absolute historical episodes turned out to be an ultra-modern city. Filled with colour and vibrant the city remains active 24/7.
Pune is the second-largest city in India which is less than three hours journey from Mumbai. This city is filled with students rather than tourists owing to some famous educational institutions like Fergusson and Pune university. So, as said even I was not a tourist when came to Pune, I too went there looking for opportunities. But soon fell in love with the city.
Today at India Imagine I would list out 10 places that also make the city the best tourist destination.
Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganesh temple
This beautiful temple is one of the well-known landmarks of the city of Pune. Visited by thousands every year Dagaduseth is popular among celebrities and politicians too. It is seen that people come here to pray to fulfill their wishes.
The temple is nearly 125 and more years old, yet stands proudly without losing its charm. The idol of Ganesha is completely adorned with precious diamonds and gold of nearly 40 kgs( All offered by devotees). So when you visit Pune, visit Daguduseth temple and take blessings.
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Shaniwar Wada
Of recent blockbuster movies, BajiraoMastani, most of us know the famous historical landmark, Shaniwar Wada. This magnificent building built in the year 1732 was once a palace to the Peshwas. The building is constructed in a combination of brick and stone and there is a story behind it.
Shaniwar Wada has been through a lot. Death, sacrifice, betrayal and haunting story that remains still in the hearts of people from Pune. Though partially it is just a ruin, Shaniwar Wada is still a proud historical site in the heart of the city.
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Aga khan palace
Aga Khan Palace is an architectural epitome. Built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan is a place declared as nationally important. The palace is a perfect place to get some pictures clicked. Lush greenery and special architecture make the place a main attraction of the city. However, due to excessive photo shoots the authorities have prohibited cameras into the premises.
Shinhagad Fort
Shinhagad Fort is situated at the top of the hill in Pune city. It is said to be 2000 years old with cravings on the Fort temples to the proof. People love to trek through the hill to reach the fort. It takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes to reach the Fort and of course, it depends on the level of fitness you carry. There is a temple on the top called the Kaundinyeshwar temple. On your trip to Pune take time to visit this marvellous fort which means “Lion’s Fort”.
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Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoo or Katraj Zoo is in Katraj, Pune. It is a municipality maintained zoo and wildlife research center. The park is around 130 acres of land. There is an animal orphanage where people protect and care for wildlife that is lost.
Then there is a snake park with various species of snakes including great python and king cobras. Within the zoo, there is a beautiful lake, called Katraj Zoo. The attraction of the animal park is the white Bengal tiger, barking deer and India star tortoises.
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Khadakwasla Dam
Yet another man-made marvel in the city of Pune is Khadakwasla Dam. Standing on the river Mutha this dam is the base of the reservoir which supplies water to all the part of Pune city. The dam is nearly 20 kilometers from the city and its open to visitors from 10 AM to 6 in the evening.
Ohel David Synagogue
Even before I visited this fabulous place, I was fascinated by its look in a Bollywood flick. Ohel David Synagogue, this brick-red building is a center of attraction and is a part of the cultural and religious heritage of India.
It is also one of the largest Synagogue in the entire Asia continent. This fabulous and amazing marvel was constructed in the year 1867. When you go the MG road to shop you will have no choice but to get mesmerised by the beauty of the building.
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Osho Ashram
We all know Osha Ashram which is known for its serenity. A walk through the ashram gives you a sense of awakening and relaxation. Osho Ashram had lured visitors from all over the globe. People love the meditation resort in the ashram and very often people gather here to rejuvenate themselves. The Osho park inside is surrounded by bamboo forests. A walk through the forest reduces the stress levels in you.
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Laxmi Road
Hello ladies, this is absolutely for you. Laxmi Road is a paradise for shoppers particularly Women. The road is on the way to the famous Shaniwar Wada that makes it a more feasible option to visit. The vicinity around this road is full of brightness and vibrant.
From clothes to jewellery you get everything that you need into a household. The place is crowded and you need to peculiar about giving some time here. During festivals, this place is better to avoid if you are in a hurry.
Fergusson College Road
This is undoubtedly one of my favourite places in Pune. I was staying one kilometer from Fergusson Road and that gave me the liberty to go there almost every day. Fergusson Road is one of the happening places in Pune with people particularly youngsters coming into the place.
What makes this road so famous? Shopping, creme crowd, high-end restaurants and eateries, bookshops and the vibrancy of the city. Even if you have nothing to do just walk around the road and feel alive!
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Pune is the 8th largest city in India. The land of Shivaji Maharaj is historically rich that never shy away from modernization when required. Every year youngsters are lured into the city for higher education which makes the city “Oxford of the East” and for you to visit the place and decide for yourself. Till then, Bon Voyage!
