Start your trip with a visit to the historical Shaniwar Wada fort. The palace was built in 1732 and was the residence of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. The structure was destroyed in 1828, but the remains of the fort still have a charming atmosphere. To get a feel for the majesty of the fort, walk amongst the ruins and enjoy the beautiful green lawns.
Next stop on our family-friendly itinerary is the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum. The museum is home to over 20,000 artifacts, including musical instruments, paintings, and sculptures. There are also many historical items such as household items, weapons, and textiles. Rent an audio guide, which will provide an excellent overview of the history and cultural significance of the artifacts.
The Aga Khan Palace is a stunning historical building, which was constructed in 1892. It is best known as a prison, where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and other freedom fighters were imprisoned during the Quit India Movement in 1942. Today, the palace has a museum dedicated to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi and a picture gallery containing some of his personal belongings and historic photos.
Start your second day in Pune with a visit to the tranquil Pashan Lake, a popular spot for bird watching and nature photographers. The lake is surrounded by hills and contains a variety of bird species, including grebes, cormorants, and storks. Opt to explore the nearby bird sanctuary or take a walk in the surrounding forest.
Shinde Chhatri is a memorial dedicated to the Maratha leader Mahadji Shinde, which is a beautiful example of Maharashtrian architecture. The place contains numerous paintings, sculptures, and portraits of the Maratha kings and Peshwas. The site is not only a memorial, but also a temple with several shrines dedicated to various gods.
Finally, end your trip with a trip to The Darshan Museum, a modern museum showcasing the life and times of the spiritual teacher, Sadhu T.L Vaswani, who gave teachings on love, forgiveness, and kindness. It is a multi-sensory experience suitable for all ages, with special effects and a 3D light and sound show.
If you have an extra day, explore the hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala. For foodies, Pune has a famous street-food scene, including Vada Pav, Pani Puri, Bhel, and many more treats.