Visit Central Pune to explore a fascinating collection of attractions that showcase ancient, colonial and contemporary India. Find landmarks bequeathed by past empires and British rulers in Central Pune. Breathe in exotic culinary flavors, relax in attractive gardens and attend extravagant religious festivals.
Pune was once the seat of the Peshwa leaders of the Maratha Empire, and palaces stand as reminders of their power. Learn about the empire’s history and rulers via a sound and light show at Shaniwar Wada. Nana Wada and Vishrambaug Wada are other one-time palaces of the Peshwas. Gain a deeper insight into this mighty empire at the Peshwe Museum, set within one of the temples of the Parvati Hills.
Stay on the museum trail at Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which has a 20,000-plus exhibition of everything from bronze deities to pipes, toys and writing instruments. The Darshan Museum celebrates the life of spiritual leader Sadhu T.L. Vaswani via multimedia exhibits and 3-D holographic imagery.
Between late August and early September the Budhwar Peth area is the focal point for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Thousands of devotees hit the streets to honor the beloved Hindu elephant god Ganesh. Head to temples, such as Dagduseth Ganpati, Kasba Ganpati and Tambdi Jogeshwari Mandir, for some of the best parades and parties. Witness the city’s multiple faiths at the Gothic-style Ohel David Synagogue and British-built Church of the Holy Name.
Experience the atmosphere created by hundreds of fruit, vegetable and spice traders at Mahatma Phule Market. Cricket fans will enjoy watching a match at Nehru Stadium and browsing memorabilia at the Blades of Glory Cricket Museum. Play sports, set up a picnic and make a wish at a temple at Saras Baug park.
Public buses and auto rickshaws can be found on the streets of Central Pune, making it easy to travel between the sights. With guesthouses, hotels and hostels that cater to many budgets, in Central Pune you’ll be able to stay within a short walk of all the action.
