The land that adorns itself with a rich culture, Pune has lived through generations, as old as the 14th Century. The Queen of the Deccan is everything more than ‘just a city.’ A treasure trove of stories cradling its incredible heritage, you will never get enough of exploring this beauty. The people who live here flaunt their culture with admiration and pride, and with good reason. sets itself apart from the rest with the diversity that it exhibits.

On one hand, Pune is an extensive industrial hub with factories producing goods that are distributed throughout the country, while the other stores a magnificent history of the Maratha rule and culture. Before we delve into an ultimate guide that will aid your next weekend getaway, please ensure that you are vaccinated with both doses for a hassle-free travel experience.

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Places to visit in Pune :

Although most people visit Pune for a brief weekend retreat, this city has a number of hidden gems that require a long trip to discover and bundle on. Let us go through a few ones that you can add to your vacation itinerary.

1. Shaniwar Wada Palace

Built in 1732, this gem is considered one of the most attractive tourist spots in Pune. A statuesque monument, it was a throne to the Peshwa Empire from 1732 to 1818. The Shaniwar Wada Palace has a compendium of stories to narrate that no other book or text can equate itself to. One of the key highlights worth watching here is the light and sound show. While the Palace is open to visitors throughout the day from 8:30 AM to 6.00 PM, one must specifically lookout for the show that happens after sunset.

Location: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra.

2. Dagdusheth Halwai Temple:

The Dagdusheth temple, yet another alluring gem, is the epitome of artistic grandeur. It is one of the most sought-after places to visit in the Deccan region. It sets a precedence of the excellent ornate Indian architecture. A major element constituting its establishment is the white marble that resembles a pearl embellished with intricate colorful designs. The massive Ganesha idol is 7.5 feet in height and is adorned with approximately 8 kilograms of gold.

Location: Ganpati Bhavan, 250, Budhvar Peth, Shivaji Road, Pune, Maharashtra.

3. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

If you are a historophile and ancient stories intrigue you, you’ll practically find yourself spending an entire day at this fascinating museum. It possesses a rare collection of artifacts, scriptures, and idols that date back to the 14th century. From gold, silver, and ivory utensils to war weapons, you are in for a cultural excursion!

Location: 1377-78, Natu Baug, Off. Bajirao Road, Shukrawar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra .

4. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

What’s better than a thrilling jungle safari, that makes up for all the exciting adventures you have missed sitting at home in the pandemic? We bet you are still wondering! Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park nestles wildlife ranging from leopards to a white tiger, blackbucks to elephants, and if that is not enough, an entire section is dedicated to unusual reptiles and snakes.

Location: Satara Road, Near Bharati Vidyapeeth, Katraj, Pune, Maharashtra.

5. Mulshi Lake and Dam

One of the most picturesque locations in Pune, Mulshi Lake and Dam are the important gems of the Deccan mainland. Overlooking a crystal lake that lies just a stone’s throw away from the breathtaking Sahyadris, this place guarantees you a much-needed retreat from the hustle of city life.

What to eat in Pune?

Let’s rephrase this question – What to not eat in Pune? And the answer is NOTHING. From a mouth-watering misal pav that will rattle your tastebuds with spice just too hot to handle, to a succulent mawa cake being one of the best in the food business, Pune is a strong contender against other cities for its amazing local food. While we help you with the suggestions of some amazing food corners in Pune, you must start packing your bags already, unless they devise a technology to serve food via your laptop screens!

1. Bedekar Tea Stall & Missal

Who says the best dishes are served at the most expensive restaurants? Well, this casket of food treasure says otherwise! Spice lovers vouch for the delectable food served here along with its special tea that balances the hotness.

2. Kayani Bakery

A delicious Maska and Bun is the best way to your hungry Mann. One of the oldest confectioneries in Pune, Kayani Bakery serves authenticity with its food. On a busy customer day, just like catching a train, the food goes out of stock even before you know it.

3. Independence Brewing Company

Beer enthusiasts would definitely be thrilled by this exciting brewpub. The ambiance is designed taking into consideration the modern interiors and that radiates an aesthetic vibe throughout the place. Spending time here will definitely take you down the memory lane of the spirited college days of sipping beer with friends.

4. Chaitanya Paranthas

Be it Pune, Kerala, or Gujarat, North Indian food always finds its way in every city irrespective of the cultural contrast. That is what makes a butter-soaked Aloo Paratha everyone’s favourite. Filled with potatoes that burst into new flavours each time you take a new bite, Chaitanya Paranthas have been one strong competitor in the food business for a long time now.

Where to stay in Pune?

Now that we have almost designed an itinerary that will enchant you to plan a trip to Pune right away, let us get to the most exciting part. A successful trip is defined by its stay experience and we present to you just the perfect villas in Pune. Finding weekend house rentals can be a tedious task but worry not, we’ve got you sorted!

1. Casa De Spe, Pune

A private pool, a bonfire, an exclusive gazebo, and a barbeque under a starlit sky. Join these pieces of a puzzle to make the perfect holiday home. Or else, just visit one! Casa De Spe, Pune is the ideal staycation villa your gram and your mind demands. Let us fulfill them while you sit back and luxuriate in these facilities to have a ball of a time.

2. Open House, Pune

Practically a modern glass castle, Open House is an enticing home with exclusively designed interiors to satiate your temptations of living life king-size. Each element – from a monochrome color scheme that exudes class to glass windows that facilitate natural lighting, this villa doesn’t need an ornamental introduction, because its excellence speaks for itself.