Pune,
the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is a striking city set
amidst picturesque locales. Sited about 170 kms from Mumbai, Pune is
known to be the state's second largest city. In the earlier times, the
city had been the residence of Shivaji - the Maratha leader.
Distinguished for its educational institutions, Pune is also called 'The
Oxford of the East'. This beautiful city observes vivacious
nightlife and effervescent ambiance, thanks to the hefty populace of
students. As regards travel and tourism, Pune has always been on the
upper edge in India. Also known as 'The Queen of the Deccan', Pune is the gateway to the popular hill stations of Maharashtra. Its glorious history of years reveals that earlier it was called Punya-Vishaya. Later the British popularized it as Poona and from the past few years, it is called Pune. These days, Pune is becoming the hot-spot for IT and automobile companies. What had been the ruling land of various dynasties is today amongst the modern cities of the country. Accompanied by interesting history, Pune has really good places to visit too.
Tourist Attractions
Pune has some really good museums and hill forts nearby that offer excellent view of the surroundings. Osho Ashram is an important landmark of Pune, which attracts devotees and visitors form various parts of India as well as the world. Another highlight of the city is made by the renowned Shanwarawada Palace, in the presence of manicured gardens and solid ramparts. You can also browse the Raja Dinakar Kelkar Museum, which is famous for its unusual, antique and the artistic collected works.
Check out the miniatures, including musical instruments, antique pottery, betel-nut cutters, brass padlocks etc, which date back to the 17th century. Mahatma Phule Museum sited at Ghole Road, showcases various industrial products, agricultural and handicraft articles. Next to the railway station is the Tribal Museum that showcases the artistic handwork of the Tribals. Gandhi National Memorial, within the limits of Aga Khan Palace, is another major attraction of Pune.
Want to peep into the history when palaces made the homes of the Kings? Visit Shaniwar Waada which is a majestic palace, built by the descendants (the Peshwas) of Shivaji in 1736. Every evening, a 'Light & Sound Show' is conducted here in three languages. Dating back to the 8th century, Pataleshwar Caves are beautiful cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Parvati Hill Temples, perched atop a hill, offer a vertical sight of the glittery city of Pune. Lion Fort, about twenty-five kilometers from Pune, is a lovely place to visit.
Vishram Bagh Waada, another royal palace though in ruins, presents a brilliant sight with its detailed wooden façade. Qamarali Darvesh is a popular Muslim shrine and its popularity lies in the fact that it has a stone which levitates every year. Amidst verdant greenery, Bund Gardens mesmerizes everyone with its beauty. Situated about 12 kms from Pune, Pashan Lake is a delight for ornithologists because it makes favorite location of innumerable migratory and residential birds.
Shopping
Malls, Brand Outlets, Road-side shops etc, you can find anything and everything in Pune. Infact, it's a great place to shop for handicrafts and curios. Apart from Malls and other outlets, markets such as MG Road, Laxmi Road, Tulsi Baug, Fashion Street and Junna Bazaar are the most-preferred markets among the city dwellers. From shoes, clothes, jewelry, accessories, pots, pans, electronics, furniture, leather items to unique paraphernalia, you can find each and every thing in these markets. But brush up you bargaining skills before shopping at local places as shop-keepers quote usually high prices.
Eating Out
Pune is crammed with restaurants and eateries, where you can tickle your taste buds. Almost every cuisine around the world can be availed at the splurge restaurants in the city. However, do not forget to taste the traditional Maharashtrian delicacies which are surely a treat for the senses. You can satisfy your appetite almost at anytime here, as the road-side stalls remain active till late midnight. Moreover, you can also find conventional fast-food joints like Pizza Hut, Dominos, Mc Donalds, Papa Jones etc.
Accommodation
Being an industrial site, Pune is visited by ample of business tourists. Considering the tourists requirements in mind, there are a host of hotels and resting places in the city. From plush five star hotels to executive business class hotels, Pune has got it all. For the tourists who are in search of reasonable accommodation options, there are a number of budget hotels, dotting the city. This concludes that the Oxford of India has no dearth of places to stay, making it a worth visiting spot on the tourist map of Maharashtra.