Plan Your Travel To Pune
Places To Visit In Pune
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwarwada, once the seat of the Peshwa governance in Pune is a 286-year-old mansion and is one of the finest examples of architecture in the city. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra. This grand mansion was built by the Peshwa Bajirao I himself as the residence of the Peshwas. Although the Wada currently covers an area of 625 acres, in its heyday it covered almost the entire area of the city itself. The place never fails to amaze the visitor with its various forts and fountain, and the majestic statue of Baji Rao I that greets the visitor at the entrance of the palace. Although most of the Wada was destroyed by an unexplained fire in 1828, what remains of it is equally thrilling and majestic.
The Shaniwar Wada, although ridden with tales of treachery and deceit, is one of the last standing testimonies to the grandeur, valour, and the just rule of the Peshwas. The entire old part of the city of Pune is laid out in a chaotic yet ironically, orderly fashion all around this historical structure. It is around Shaniwar Wada that you will find the oldest markets of Pune including Laxmi Road, Tulshibaug, Ravivar Peth etc. It is said that on a full moon night the fort is haunted by the ghost of a former Peshwa king Narayanrao as he was murdered in the palace by his aunt and uncle - Anandi and Raghunathrao. However, there is not a shred of evidence to support such claims. So, you can get a glimpse of history and some drama as well! This was after all the site of the famed romance between Peshwa Bajirao and Mastani Sahiba. In fact, one of the gates has also been named after her!
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Shinde Chhatri
Located in Wanwadi in Pune, Shinde Chhatri is a memorial dedicated to the 18th century military leader Shri Mahadji Shinde who served as commander-in-chief under the Peshwas from 1760s to the 1780s.. Flanked by Bhairoba stream on the right, the imposing monument stands tall as a memoir and reminiscent of the gala Maratha period. The memorial aka the ‘chhatri’ meaning umbrella, is situated right next to an ancient Shiva temple and boasts of Anglo- Rajasthani architecture with carvings on black and yellow stone. The central hall is the cremation point of the Mahadji Shinde who was cremated here on the 12th of February, 1794 CE.
The main section is enclosed in 15 feet tall sturdy fortifications and boasts of intricate architecture. Till 1794 CE, the complex only consisted of a temple enshrined by Lord Shiva that was constructed by Mahadji Shinde himself in the same year that he passed away. In 1965, a memorial i.e. a samadhi was constructed for the commander-in-chief by the descendents and successors of Mahadji Shinde- Shrimant Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia of Gwalior and Daulat Rao Scindia of Gwalior. The chhatri was constructed following the Vaasthu rules. Today, the monument is managed by Shinde Devasthan Trust, Gwalior and it still boasts of exuberant architecture, elaborate coloured window panels, pillared halls and carved ceilings etc.
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Shivneri Fort
Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of the founder of the Maratha Empire, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was built in the 16th century and was recognised as a military fortification. The place is also famous for being the place where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was trained. Its proximity from Pune, atop a hill with Junnar at its base, makes Shivneri Fort a good picnic spot for the locals. Its sheer magnificence draws a considerable number of visitors each year. Plus, there are some more attractions nearby which can be covered along with the fort in a day.
Those who are always looking for a quiet and quick escape into nature can head to Shivneri. Its terrain makes it a good trekking route too. Having said that, several history lovers are also drawn to the attraction for its historical significance. An English Traveller, Fraze, who visited Shivneri Fort in the late 17th century noticed that the fort was so well managed that it has enough supplies to feed thousands of families for about 6 to 7 years. The ancient architecture and its massive built is also worth a visit to Shivneri Fort.
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Shunyo Park
Situated in the Koregaon Park premises of Pune, Shunyo Park is one of the most popular parks of the city. Replete with lush greenery and several trees, the park is the ideal place to relax and rewind amidst bounteous nature away from the chaos and din of the city.
Sinhagad Fort
Located in the Sahyadri Mountains, Sinhagad Fort is an ancient fortress known for its historical significance and architecture. It was once known as Kondhana and has witnessed a number of battles; one notable battle being the 1670 Battle of Sinhagad. The name, “Sinhagad”, literally means Lion’s Fort signifying its strength and brilliance. Today, the structure is a perfect landmark for trekkers as it is located at a height of over 750 metres in the Sahyadri Mountains. In fact, the fort is strategically built right in the centre of the line of Maratha forts built in the Sahyadris. Some of these citadels are the Rajgad Fort, Torna Fort and the Purandar Fort. The place is also famous among photographers and nature lovers.
Sinhagad Fort and its surroundings mostly provide a good environment for a quick getaway. People living nearby often head to the attraction over the weekend. Back in the time, renowned personalities like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi have also visited the fort for meetings and holidays. The mountain also serves as a great location for training of the National Defence Academy Students. They hike up the hill till the fort in complete battle gear. Due to its historical and cultural significance, there are restrictions on partying, cooking/ consuming non-vegetarian food, alcohol etc. Nonetheless, one is bound to have a great time if they avoid these activities and soak in the dilapidated yet striking structure and the scenic surroundings.
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Splash Mountain Water Park
Splash Mountain Water Park is situated in Lohegaon near Pune and is laced with fun and adevture activities. The water park has a number of thrilling rides separately designed for adults and kids. Besides, there are a plethora of fun activities and games, clover huts and outdoor games for an entertainment packed day.
Sri Balaji Mandir
Sri Balaji Mandir of Pune is a close replica of the renowned Venkateshwara temple at Tirumala, Tirupati. Not only the architecture and the look of the sanctum deity, the temple follows its influencer in rituals and religious activities as well. With beautiful, lush green surroundings, free meal and a calm environment, Sri Balaji Mandir is a great alternative for those who cannot make the journey to the original.
St. Mary's Church Pune
St. Mary's Church was built in 1825 and is one of the oldest churches in the city. Its foundation was laid down by Bishop Heber. It was built as a place where the officers and soldiers belonging to the British time would worship. The church has a mixture of British as well as Indian architectural style in addition to the Gothic architecture. It is a beautiful place to be visited and enjoyed with your family. It is a perfect place to rejuvenate and go sightseeing. Stained glass was fitted at the altar in 1874 in the loving memory of Lieutenant Trotter. In addition to this stained glass, the church also consists of regimental flags. The church is worshipped on a daily basis with the help of pipe organs which are 130 years old.
Every Sunday, a group of around 1500 members sings carols in the church and carries out the prayer. It also houses the remains of Sir Robert Grant who was the most honourable councillors of the Queen and was also the Governor of Bombay. The church also has the remains of Sir Edward West who was the chief justice of Supreme Court at Bombay. The church also houses the remains of some British soldiers who served in various wars.
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Succath Shelomo Synagogue
Situated very close to the David Synagogue, Succath Shelomo Synagogue is located in Rasta Peth in Pune and is still operational with a small active congregation. It was consecrated in 1921 and has a porte cochere leading to a painted brick and stone arched entrance pavilion.
Taljai Hills
Located in the heart of the city of Pune, Taljai Hills or Taljai Tekadi is one of the most popular trekking and picnic spots that attracts a lot of locals as well as tourist influx. The spot is basically a hilltop that has been named after the temple that is situated at the entrance of the forest leading to the hill. It is presided over by the local deity Taljai. The place is especially popular among avid bird watchers as you can find a lot of peacocks, and other migratory birds. Taljai Hills look extra ravishing and lively during the monsoons when a lot of people come here to visit.
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