Pune is a thriving cultural and educational hub, with a rich historic legacy, scenic nature, busy markets, and gastronomic delights. Here's an itinerary to help you explore Pune with your family in a day.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Shaniwar Wada Palace. Built-in 1732, it was once the seat of Maratha Empire and the centre of politics. The palace has gone through many battles, fires, and destruction, and only the fortified walls remain now. The architecture has Mughal and Maratha influence, and the palace has water fountains, gardens, a temple, and a statue of Bajirao I. The lush greenery and serene environment make for a pleasant morning stroll. (Free entry, 1-2 hours)
Head to Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to experience the visual delight of Indian art and artefacts collected by the dedicated lover Dinkar Kelkar. The museum holds more than 20,000 fascinating objects, including jewellery, paintings, pottery, textiles, sculptures, and musical instruments. The sculptures include wood and ivory carvings and stone divinities, showcasing the diversity and richness of India's artistic heritage. (Entry fee INR 50, 1-2 hours)
Fuel up your hunger at the legendary Vohuman Cafe, which has been serving the best Iranian and Parsi food in Pune since the 1970s. The cafe is famous for its soft and buttery bun maska, mutton samosas, and berry pulav. The menu has a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and the portions are generous. The laid-back atmosphere and excellent service make the dining experience even more special. (INR 500 for two, 1 hour)
Visit Aga Khan Palace, an architectural marvel that carries a significant historical legacy. The palace was built-in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III to create employment opportunities for the locals who were hit by famine. The palace became a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and other nationalist leaders during the Quit India movement in 1942, and Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai died here. The palace has a beautiful garden, a museum, and a meditation centre. (INR 50 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners, 1-2 hours)
End your Pune Day trip on a peaceful note by visiting Pune Okayama Friendship Garden, a Zen-inspired garden that symbolises the bond between India and Japan. The garden has a Japanese-style architecture, a serene pond, a waterfall, and a lush green landscape. The garden has a calm and soothing vibe, making it an ideal place to meditate. You can also enjoy hot tea and snacks at the tea-house, which has a vibrant ambience. (Entry fee INR 10, 1 hour)
You can extend your Pune Day trip by visiting the following places:
If you have less time, you can skip Vohuman Cafe or Okayama Friendship Garden. If you have more time, you can add a heritage walk in Pune's old city, visit the Parvati Hill Temple, or go shopping at FC Road or Laxmi Road.