A Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary to Explore Pune in July 2023

1. Day 1: Shaniwar Wada Fort
   15 minutes (3.5 km) from Pune Junction Railway Station

   Start your morning at the Shaniwar Wada Fort that showcases the grandeur of the Maratha Empire. You can witness the 18th-century architecture that has survived the test of time. Afternoon can be spent at Aga Khan Palace which is a beautiful garden with the palace at the center. The palace has a lot of history and has been home to many Indian freedom fighters. In the evening, visit Sinhagad Fort, a hill fortress which is a popular trekking spot for nature enthusiasts.

2. Day 2: Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
   25 minutes (10 km) from Sinhagad Fort

   Start your day by visiting Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which has a vast collection of artifacts depicting the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra. Afternoon can be spent at the Osho Ashram, a meditation center which is open for visitors and provides a tranquil atmosphere in the heart of the city. Evening can be spent at the Pataleshwar cave temple that dates back to the 8th century and boasts of rock-cut architecture.

3. Day 3: Saras Baug
   20 minutes (6 km) from Pataleshwar Cave Temple

   Start your day by visiting the beautiful Saras Baug, also known as Talyatla Ganpati, a popular recreational spot with lush green gardens and a temple in the center. Later in the afternoon, visit the famous Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and has a rich history. In the evening, visit the beautiful Khadakwasla Dam and enjoy authentic Maharashtrian snacks at the nearby stalls.

4. Day 4: Shinde Chhatri
   30 minutes (11 km) from Khadakwasla Dam

   Start your day by visiting Shinde Chhatri, a memorial dedicated to the Maratha nobleman Mahadji Shinde. Afternoon can be spent at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, a beautiful park with a vast collection of flora and fauna. In the evening head to the Pune Okayama Friendship Garden, a beautiful garden with Japanese-style landscaping and a serene pond.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, visit the Empress Botanical Gardens, a serene garden with vast lawns and a peaceful atmosphere. A one-day trip to the nearby hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala can also be considered. Make sure to savor the local Maharashtrian cuisine at famous restaurants like Shabree, Vaishali, and Maratha Samrat. For maximizing your fun, take a guided bicycle tour of the city to explore some of the off-beat locations and enjoy Pune's vibrant nightlife.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shaniwar Wada (2 hours, INR 25)
• Aga Khan Palace (2 hours, INR 20)
• Sinhagad Fort (4 hours, INR 50)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2 hours, INR 50)
• Osho Ashram (2 hours, INR 100)
• Pataleshwar Cave Temple (1 hour, free entry)
• Saras Baug (2 hours, free entry)
• Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple (1 hour, free entry)
• Khadakwasla Dam (2 hours, free entry)
• Shinde Chhatri (2 hours, INR 20)
• Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park (3 hours, INR 50)
• Pune Okayama Friendship Garden (1 hour, free entry)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 335 per person

Check out hotel and flight prices on https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo