A Week of Volunteering in Pune

1. Day 1: Pune Animal Shelter
   15 minutes (4.5 miles) from Pune city center

   Start your volunteer journey at Pune Animal Shelter, where you can spend the morning helping to care for rescued animals. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Pashan Lake, known for its serene beauty. In the evening, visit the bustling FC Road for delicious street food.

2. Day 2: Deep Griha Society
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Pune Animal Shelter

   Morning: Engage in meaningful activities with the underprivileged children at Deep Griha Society. Afternoon: Head to the serene Aga Khan Palace, a historic landmark with beautiful gardens. Evening: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Mula-Mutha River promenade.

3. Day 3: Shelter for Homeless
   20 minutes (6 miles) from Deep Griha Society

   Morning: Contribute to the well-being of homeless individuals at a local shelter. Afternoon: Explore the exquisite Shaniwar Wada, a grand historical fortress. Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife at Koregaon Park, known for its trendy cafes and bars.

4. Day 4: Environmental Conservation Center
   1 hour (15 miles) from Shelter for Homeless

   Morning: Participate in environmental conservation efforts at the center. Afternoon: Visit the picturesque Sinhagad Fort, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Evening: Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian meal at a local restaurant.

5. Day 5: Old Age Home
   40 minutes (11 miles) from Environmental Conservation Center

   Morning: Spend time with elderly residents at an old age home. Afternoon: Explore the vibrant markets of Laxmi Road, a shopper's paradise. Evening: Attend a classical music concert at the iconic Shaniwar Wada.

6. Day 6: Pune NGO Network
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Old Age Home

   Morning: Collaborate with various NGOs at Pune NGO Network. Afternoon: Visit the historic Parvati Hill, offering panoramic views of Pune. Evening: Take a leisurely stroll at the beautiful Empress Garden.

7. Day 7: Rural Development Project
   1 hour 30 minutes (25 miles) from Pune NGO Network

   Morning: Engage in a rural development project, contributing to the welfare of rural communities. Afternoon: Explore the famous Aga Khan Palace Museum, showcasing historical artifacts. Evening: Enjoy a boat ride at Khadakwasla Dam, surrounded by picturesque hills.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to witness an impressive collection of Indian artifacts. For a day trip, explore the historical city of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To maximize your fun, mingle with locals, try regional cuisines, and participate in cultural events.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Pune Animal Shelter (4 hours, free)
• Pashan Lake (2 hours, free)
• Deep Griha Society (4 hours, free)
• Aga Khan Palace (2 hours, INR 100)
• Mula-Mutha River promenade (1 hour, free)
• Shelter for Homeless (4 hours, free)
• Shaniwar Wada (2 hours, INR 200)
• Koregaon Park (2 hours, personal expenses)
• Environmental Conservation Center (4 hours, free)
• Sinhagad Fort (3 hours, INR 50)
• Local restaurant (1 hour, personal expenses)
• Old Age Home (4 hours, free)
• Laxmi Road (2 hours, personal expenses)
• Shaniwar Wada (2 hours, ticket price varies)
• Pune NGO Network (4 hours, free)
• Parvati Hill (2 hours, free)
• Empress Garden (1 hour, free)
• Rural Development Project (4 hours, free)
• Aga Khan Palace Museum (2 hours, INR 100)
• Khadakwasla Dam (2 hours, personal expenses)