ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN PUNE

The 18th-century political and cultural heart of the Maratha Empire under the Peshwas, Pune retains a strong Maratha imprint through its forts, historic wadas and temple precincts, alongside some of modern India’s leading educational institutions. Its character - as the cultural capital of Maharashtra - unfolds across atmospheric districts like Shaniwar Peth and newer neighbourhoods alive with cafés and galleries. Surrounded by the Sahyadris, Pune also serves as a gateway to iconic hill forts, monsoon trails and heritage sites.

AGA KHAN PALACE

Built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III to provide employment during a severe famine, Aga Khan Palace is an elegant example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring Italianate arches and expansive verandas. It later served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba and his secretary Mahadev Desai during the 1942 Quit India Movement. Today, the site houses a museum displaying photographs and personal artefacts of Gandhi, along with landscaped gardens and a Khadi outlet.

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SHANIWAR WADA

The former seat of the Peshwas, Shaniwar Wada is an 18th-century fortress-palace that once served as the political centre of the Maratha Empire. Although much of the structure was destroyed in a fire in 1828, its imposing gateways - especially the Delhi Darwaza - along with fortified walls, gardens, the Hazari Karanje (Lotus Fountain) and surviving foundations offer insight into its original scale and design. The site includes the remains of palace complexes such as Ganesh Mahal, Aarsa Mahal and Rang Mahal, and also hosts an evening light and sound show.

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KOREGAON PARK

A neighbourhood that both defines and is shaped by Blue Diamond - IHCL SeleQtions, Koregaon Park is characterised by tree-lined avenues, restored bungalows and a vibrant café and dining culture. Named after the nearby village of Koregaon Bhima—associated with the 1818 battle between the British East India Company and the Peshwas—the area has evolved from a quiet residential enclave into a hub of boutique stores, galleries and wellness spaces, including the internationally known Osho International Meditation Resort.

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SINHAGAD FORT

Standing at 1,312 metres in the Sahyadri range, this legendary hill fort was a key strategic stronghold of the Maratha Empire and is closely associated with the 1670 Battle of Sinhagad, where Tanaji Malusare recaptured the fort from Mughal forces. Long regarded as Pune’s preferred trekking destination, the ascent from the base village of Donje follows a 2.7 km trail of stone steps and rocky sections, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours, and is suitable for beginner to intermediate trekkers.

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SHRIMANT DAGDUSHETH HALWAI GANPATI TEMPLE

Established in 1893 by confectioner Dagdusheth Halwai following a personal tragedy, Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is one of the city’s most revered Ganesha shrines and played an important role in the public celebration of Ganeshotsav popularised by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The temple is known for its richly adorned idol of Lord Ganesha, approximately 7.5 feet tall, decorated with gold ornaments, gemstones and offerings from devotees. During the annual Ganesh festival, it is especially noted for its elaborate thematic displays (dekhāwas) that draw large crowds. Located in the heart of the old city, it attracts significant footfall, particularly during festivals and daily aartis.

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OSHO TEERTH PARK

This landscaped garden was transformed from a former drainage channel into a serene, Zen-inspired space - designed by a Japanese landscape team - featuring small bridges, bamboo groves, shaded pathways and water features with blooming lotuses. Spread across approximately 12 acres, it offers walking trails, quiet meditation spots with stone seating and Buddha sculptures, along with a gently flowing stream and dense greenery.

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