Kalyani Nagar is residential suburb of Pune set back from the northern bank of the Mula Mutha River. It’s most famous for a resplendent palace that became the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s imprisonment by British colonists. Complimenting the historical significance of the suburb is a burgeoning business and commercial district. Discover streets lined with fashion outlets, international restaurants and stylish bars on your visit to Kalyani Nagar.
The imposing Aga Khan Palace stands proudly amid a lush wooded parkland. According to legend, Sultan Mohamed Shah Aga Khan III built the palace in 1892 to provide work to impoverished villagers. It astounds with its yellow-beige facade, Italian arches, three-tier loggia and decorative balustrades. From 1942 to 1944, Gandhi, his wife Kasturba and loyal secretary Mahadev Desai were detained here.
Go inside the palace to browse the museum exhibitions of the Gandhi National Memorial Society. Peek into the room where Gandhi stayed and find original personal objects, paintings and photos that highlight significant moments in his life. In the palace garden is a memorial stone that contains some of his ashes. There are also the tombs of his wife and secretary, who both passed away here in solitary confinement.
Experience contemporary and corporate lifestyles while walking along East Avenue. The lavish, mirror-windowed Trump Towers showcase the area’s wealth. Peruse chic boutiques that specialize in clothing and accessories. Dine on traditional Indian, Moroccan and European fare and mingle with the after-work crowd at cocktail bars and craft beer pubs.
For a change of scenery, stroll around the well-maintained gardens of Jogger’s Park. Locals frequent the park to exercise on the jogging track and at the workout station. Children can have fun on the playground and spotting sculptures of wild animals.
Kalyani Nagar is a northern neighborhood of Pune and located about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center. Travel here by auto rickshaw and taxi and then get between the attractions on foot.
