Main Info
“Oxford of the East”.
The city of Pune is one of the most lively places in India, it is considered to be one of the fastest growing cities. It is a place that hosts diverse people and culture.
One of the most fascinating thing about this city is its calm and relaxed atmosphere still, it gives a lively young energy that will make even the old feel young again. The city of Pune has a lot more than the youthfulness it showcases. The roots of ancient Poona that was the birth of Maratha Empire which had an important role in India’s independence history is found behind the city of Pune. Pune city is often called Maharashtra cultural capital because if has a fusion of tradition and modernity.
The Shaniwar Wada Palace is located in Pune as well as the Aga Khan palace, aside from the two mentioned palaces, there are several others which is one of the heritage of the ancient city.
The Shaniwar Wada Palace once was a significance of power for the Peshwa rulers at the time of the Maratha Empire.
The Shaniwar Wada Palace was built by Peshwa Rao Baji during his post Anglo Maratha (3rd) triumph. The palace consists of five gateways, nine bastions, an exquisite mountain and an entangled lattice work, it is a true finesse of architecture.
Another palace strode with history is the Aga Khan Palace. The palace was constructed by Muhammed Aga Khan Shah the third, the palace has seen several historical events of the Indian independence war and also saw the captivity of the renowned freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi and several others. The Aga Khan Palace defines beauty at its peak, it features beautiful green grass carefully trimmed to form a beautiful lawn. The entrance of the palace also has a beautiful Italian styled arches. The palace also has very big passage that showcases different freedom fighters and their lives. If you are a lover of history, then the Aga Khan Palace is is a place to visit.
Another notable tourist destination that no one should miss outbound is The Singhagad Fort which is located at the Bhuleshwar area of Sahyadri Mountains. The area is good for trekking to reach the cliff. Although a huge part of the fort is in a wreck, it is not without the fact that it was once a miniature military base back in the reign of Maratha. The fort is a dwindling remains of its past glory. If you are keen on basking in the magnificent architecture of Maratha and the impressive Sahyadris views, then you must pay a visit to this wonderful tourist destination.
Amongst the numerous temples scattered in the city of Pune, there are some notable ones that you should make sure to visit. Some of the notable temples are: the Chaturshringi Temple, the DagadusethHalwai Ganpati Temple, and the Pataleshwar Cave Temple. Apart from the numerous temples that Pune is renowned for, it is also very popular for its diverse confectioneries. As a matter of fact, there are several food options available for everyone. If you are keen on street food or you want a taste of those exquisite restaurants that ooze class, Pune has it all. Remember to have a taste of Pune foods and most importantly, the diverse confectioneries while you are visiting.
Extra Information on Pune
Pune is an energetic City filled with so many beautiful places to visit and beautiful people to meet. The locals in Pune are very friendly and receptive towards visitors, they depict an always-ready-to-help attitude with a smile. The city is a mix of religion and history, the city is also the centre of technology. If you are looking for a fusion of both religion and culture in one city, then Pune is the place for you.
Pune is a city with well over 50 temples that will leave you in awe, it also has over 200 companies in the IT sector, various shops and restaurants of about 100 in the figure. Shaniwar Wada, which is an ancient fortification located In Pune was built by Bajirao in the year 1729. Although most of it was damaged, it is still an epitome of beauty and of great historical symbol and importance.
The fort of Sinhagad which is located over a mountain is the definition of raw beauty. If you want a view of nature’s raw beauty, then head 30 KM south-west of Pune to enjoy a beauty that will leave you in awe. Apart from the above mentioned, there are other very wonderful places that you should tour Like the: Lohagad, Vetal Hill and the Mulshi Dam.
Pune History
Two words “PunayaVishaya” is said to be what formed the name “Pune”. The origin can be said to be traced as far back as 768 A.D, when it was written on a copper plate. Although the Rashtrakutas rule during that time, the Marathas had the most prominent of rule according to history. The Peshwas became very important under the auspices of the Marathas.
The rule of the Maratha ended when the British triumph over the city in the year 1818. Education in Pune started in the year 1851 when the Deccan College was established amidst the current powerful education movement that has gripped the city.
With the coming of the Deccan College, there has been an influx of more institutions which has given the city it’s cultural center as witnessed in social current.
Pune at Night
Pune gives a whole different look when it’s night time. The city features over 100 nightclubs and bars where you can be out as long as 4 AM the wee hours of the morning. You’ll hardly find plenty cities in India that will be awake by 4 AM. Visit the pub during the weekend to have fun and relax after having a stressful weekday. You can enjoy dancing and eating while you have some drinks to make your weekend a fulfilled one.
Food Options in Pune
When it comes to food, Pune has a lot to offer, different cuisines available for everyone. Although there are several options ranging from local to continental, the top favourites still remain the local dishes like: Pac Bhaji, MisalPaav, Poha, PithlaBhakri, PuranPoli, Dabeli and Poha. These are items that are very famous and have very sweet fragrances and flavors that engulfs the street of Pune due to the fact that they are staple street food. One very nice drink to try is a milkshake made from dry fruits, it is also one of the sweetest in the whole of Pune.
How to Plan Your Day
First Day – Your first stop should be the Shaniwarwada. After that, take a trip to the famous “Bund Garden” which is one of the most visited places in Pune.
Second Day– if you love history, then take off to explore the popular Sinhagad Fort and enjoy delicious cuisines which can be found in the fort.
Third Day – if you are a nature enthusiast and you want to enjoy the beauty of nature, take a trip to the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated about 43.496 miles from Pune. A bike journey to the sanctuary is also advisable but you’ll have to male a day separately for it.
Fourth Day – head out to experience the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and then take the 108 steps that crosses the lovely Parvati Hill Temples. You will also experience an overview of the beautiful city. Pune is a beautiful city that you.cannot get enough of, if you have extra days then you can explore all the other tourist attractions that await you.
