6 Places near Pune which you should not miss

Interested in Indian history?? Then Pune is the perfect place with so many historic places to observe and explore. Pune is a sprawling city and a hub of multifarious activities in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. This is the second largest state of Maharashtra and is rapidly developing into a major cosmopolitan city of India. Pune is considered to be a veritable treasure house of tourist attractions with a tremendous emphasis on education, arts and crafts, music, and theatre. Pune culture is a combination of tradition with modernity. The people, the places and the weather are the factors that influence a tourist to explore all these beautiful attractions.

1. Shaniwar Wada:

This beautiful historical place was the impressive capital building of the Peshwa Empire. This magnificent architectural wonder was made by PeshwaBaji Rao I with an extravagant effort. The fort was built in 1732 and once it was seven floors high. Unfortunately, an unexplained fire destroyed the fort in 1828, leaving behind only the structural remains of the palace. Since then it became like a tourist attraction with grand armored gates, enormous palaces, and a gorgeous fountain. 

2. Aga Khan Palace:

This beautiful palace is evidence of the architectural wonders of an old era. It is often considered as one of the most historic landmarks in Indian history. This spectacular building was built in 1892 and is famous for its Italian curved arches, sprawling green lawns and huge corridors with many interesting events of Gandhi’s life photos and paintings of various freedom fighters. This place is also known as the place where Mahatma Gandhi was detained for years. This palace also comprises of a shop with Khadi and other handloom textiles.

3. Sinhagad Fort:

This is an excellent destination for those people who are interested in the history of the Maratha Empire. This amazing fort is established about 30 kilometers away from Pune and trekking is best due to its significant location on the Bhuleshwar Range. It is one the most popular tourist places in Pune the cool climes. The fort also performs like a training center for National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. It is also famous for Panshet, Khadakwasla, Varasgaon dams, and Torana fort. Monsoon season is the best time to visit this Sinhagad fort.

4. Pataleshwar:

This protected monument is built during the Rashtrakuta dynasty and is an 8th-century rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This historic temple is just a perfect example of ancient Indian architecture. At present, this ancient temple is still prevalent as the local people contribute donations for their love for Lord Shiva. Linga is still blessed with ghee and yogurt. This Pataleshwar temple is one of the famous places to visit near Pune that attracts many students for a peaceful area to study.

5. Chaturshringi Hindu Temple:

This Hindu temple is located on the top of a hill with 90 feet high and 125 feet wide structure on the SenapatiBapat road. Myth has it that Goddess Chaturshringi appeared in the dream of a rich merchant. There are around 100 stairs to reach the main sanctum of the temple. The shrine of the goddess is said to be a symbol of faith and power. This temple also consists of the shrine of the Lord Ganesha, Goddess Durga, and miniature idols of Ashtavinaka that are located on 4 different hillocks. Goddess Chaturshringi is considered to be the reigning goddess of Pune. Hence, became a major tourist hub in the city. Navratri, Holi, ChaitraPadwa, and Ganesh Chaturthi are some of the best festival times to visit that will give a real feel of the local culture.

6. Malshej Ghat:

This beautiful hill station is popular among hikers, trekkers, and nature lovers with numerous lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. This place is an ideal retreat from the chaos of busy city life and is a paradise full of natural beauty. This ghat is a perfect place for nature lovers with several waterfalls, structured dams, and enhanced forts. During monsoons, this place is one of the favorite weekend getaways for teenagers from Mumbai, Pune, and Thane. Among the trekkers, Harishchandragad Fort in this area is very popular. The temples in this area were built in the 16th century AD and are serves great examples of architectural marvel. The spectacular Malshej falls, the lovely Pimpalgaon dam, and AjobaHillfort are some of the other attractions that will be fascinating for any tourist.

Pune is an awesome city that maintains a sense of diversity, versatility, and secularity. Due to Pune’s high altitude, even during the hottest months, the nights are usually cool. It also has several famous beaches in India for a perfect tour. Pune became a hub for several adventure buffs and hikers to participate in different water sports. The lush green environment of hill stations like Mahabaleshwar, Lavasa, and Panchgani should not be missed by the travelers. Pune is blessed with a host of tourist attractions needs yet to be discovered by travel enthusiasts. Just pick up the bag and start exploring this beautiful place.