Top 5 Pune Attractions
City: Pune
State: Maharashtra
Country: India
As the 2nd largest city in the state of Maharashtra, India, the city of Pune (pronounced 'Pu Na'), is known for its automobile manufacturing and information technology industries. Pune is also considered a major cultural site, with a vibrant atmosphere and many tourists attractions, in particular its surrounding hills, which offer panoramic views.
Here are the Top 5 Tourist Attractions to visit in Pune, all of which hold important cultural or historical significance. All these are permanent locations which can be visited and viewed at any time throughout the year.
1. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
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In a city considered the cultural capital of Maharashtra, West India, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum stands out in Pune for being among the finest. Curated by the late Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar, the museum houses over 20,000 artifacts, of which about 2,500 are on display. These consist mainly of pan Indian objects from the 18th and 19th century, including paintings, textiles, handicrafts, musical instruments, toys, kitchen utensils, weapons, and more. The highlight here is the Mastnai Mahal, a recreation of a luxurious 18th century palace.
2. Shaniwar Wada
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The Shaniwar Wada is an 18th century fortress in Maharashtra, West India, built by the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire in Pune. The still standing fortification walls, bastions, and gates are an imposing sight, and within stands an intricate lotus shaped fountain and garden complex. Every evening, there is a spectacular light and sound show here, tracing its history against the backdrop of the fortress walls.
3. Parvati Hill
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Pune is renowned in Maharashtra for its surrounding hills and temperate climate. The best example would be Parvati Hill, rising 640 metres above sea level, offering beautiful panoramic views of the city below. Located here are 5 heritage temples, including the oldest heritage structure, the Parvati Temple, where visitors have to climb 103 black quarry stone steps to reach the top. The Peshwa Museum is also located here, housing rare artifacts from the ancient Maratha empire in India.
4. Pimpri Chinchwad Science Centre
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Located on the outskirts of Pune city in Maharashtra is the Pimpri Chinchwad Science Centre. The 28th Science Centre built in India, the sprawling grounds feature 4 permanent galleries (Automobile, Fun Science, Energy, Ecological Park), 2 temporary exhibition halls (Dino Park, Climate Change), an inflatable dome planetarium, a science demonstration area, and even a 3D science show facility. With over 250 exhibits on display, both children and adults will find it an eye-opening experience.
5. Aga Khan Palace
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Considered among the greatest marvels in India, and a major landmark of Maharashtra, the Aga Khan Palace was was built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in 1892 in Pune. Closely linked to the freedom movement in India, it houses memorials to Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi, as well as other significant Indian freedom fighters. The magnificent Italian style architecture of the building with its 5 halls and manicured lawns are very picturesque.
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