Once known as a retirees paradise, Pune exudes a charm on its residents like none other. From several historical sightseeing options to the new-age malls and nightlife, there is so much Pune has to offer to all those who visit it.
It is no wonder that there are several one day trips and short vacay options you can take in Pune. As one of the leading tourist destinations of Maharashtra, Pune can crank up the volume and let you enjoy the weather and the lush green escapades it proudly showcases. The cultural soirees that beckon a traveller to the omnipresent Maratha influence, Pune city, can be everything you imagine.
If you are passing by and want to explore a few tourist spots of Pune, let us help you with options. Let us look at a few places to visit in Pune in one day.
- Pune Places to visit in 1 Day - Option 1: Aga Khan Palace - Shaniwar Wada - Kelkar Museum - Dagdusheth Ganpati - Okayama Friendship Park - Parvati hill - Saras baug
- Pune Places to visit in 1 Day - Option 2: Sinhagad fort - Khadakwasla dam - Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park - MG Road Camp
- Pune Places to visit in 1 Day - Option 3: Vishrambaug - Birla Ganpati - Pataleshwar Cave Temple - Chaturshrungi temple - Walk down Deccan and FC Road
Pune never ceases to amaze every tourist visiting her, and with several tourist spots ruling the roost, there is a ton to explore here. Let's take a quick dive at a brief of each of these tourist spots and how you can thoroughly enjoy your trip to Pune.
1. Aga Khan Palace
One of the most iconic structures of Pune, Aga Khan Palace has a special place in every Punekars heart. Constructed by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III in 1892, it has stood the test of time and wars. It has seen several defining moments in Indian history, such as the imprisonment of Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, and Mahadev Desai.
Spread over 19 acres of pure goodness, the area boasts evergreen trees, lush lawns, exquisite architecture, and a well-maintained museum. It transcends you to the corridors of history, showcasing its wonderful culture that still breathes through the walls.
It is the headquarters of the Gandhi National Memorial Society, and it holds the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi buried in the ground.
2. Khadakwasla Dam
The dam and reservoir that provides Pune city with its share of water are among the coolest and most popular tourist destinations of Pune. People often come here to click beautiful pictures of the dam with an amazing backdrop of the mountains and a full waterbed.
Enjoy snacking on crispy fritters (pakodas), Maggi, and roasted corn cobs (bhutta) while you are here. It is around 25 kms from the main city centre and is spread over 22000 sq. kms.
3. Kelkar Museum
One of the most famous museums in Pune, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, is one of its kind. It is a museum built by one man displaying his collections from all over the world under one roof. A three-storied structure containing over 20,000 curios, around 2,500 items are on display for public viewing.
Some interesting artefacts in the museum include different ornaments, Mughal lamps, war weapons, hookah pipes, and vessels that date back to the 14th century. It also houses a replica of the Mastani Mahal with gorgeous chandeliers and exquisite paintings.
You can visit the place anytime from 10 am to 5:30 pm. The entry fee for Indians is ₹10 for kids and ₹50 for adults respectively. For foreigners, the ticket price is ₹50 and ₹200 respectively for kids and adults.
4. Dagdusheth Ganapati
One of the most iconic Ganapati temples of the state, Dagdusheth Ganapati, is revered by every ardent Lord Ganesha devotee. Located near Appa Balwant Chowk, near Laxmi road in Pune, it is one of the oldest Lord Ganesha temples in the country.
Built by Shri Dagdusheth Halwai (sweet maker), it is a must visit for all touring Pune. You can walk in anytime and offer your prayers or view the Lord from the glass wall that divides the road and the temple.
5. Okayama Japanese Friendship Garden
Also known as the Pu La Deshpande Garden, this garden is designed in traditional Japanese style and is inspired by the 300-year old Japanese Korakuen Garden. Ten acres of goodness and refreshing beauty fills your senses with the gorgeous bushes, trees, and a small bridge built over the canal. It holds gorgeous waterfalls, ponds, artificial hillocks, lanterns gracing the landscape.
#Trivia: It is one of the largest Japanese gardens in the world outside Japan.
6. Parvati Hill
It is one of the most famous tekdis or hillocks of Pune, covered with verdant greenery and scenic views. With a 250-year old history, Parvati hill is famous for its temple and museum. You can reach the top of the hill by climbing stone steps that are built-in typical Maratha-style architecture.
The museum houses some of the most iconic artefacts and idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Karthikeya, and Lord Vishnu. It is a visitor's delight in the truest sense.
7. Saras Baug
Named after the famous 'Sarus' (crane) bird, Saras Baug is a favourite picnic spot for all Punekars. It houses gorgeous lawns spread over several acres and is one of the most revered Ganesha temples in the city. The sloping gardens and the lip-smacking Maharashtrian food make it a delight to visit.
8. Shaniwar Wada
An excellent example of Maratha-style architecture, Shaniwar Wada was built by the Peshwas of Pune in the 17th and 18th centuries. It is a massive fort-like structure showcasing scenes from Mahabharata and Ramayana painted at various spots.
Some iconic spaces to note inside the structure include the massive wooden door, Delhi Darwaza, gorgeous gardens, well-laid-out fountains, solid boundary wall, and excellent light and sound show that happens every day.
9. Sinhagad Fort
A trekkers paradise, Sinhagad Fort, was once the stronghold of the Maratha army. Located around 30kms from Pune, it attracts several locals and tourists. The cool breeze, the sunset point, and the several small tapris or snack centres located within the open fort premises delight your taste buds. Enjoy the typical Bhakri with Pitla (a local delicacy) and hot bhajjis or onion fritters while roaming around Sinhagad fort.
10. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
A great place to enjoy with kids, the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Katraj is home to several animals. You can see a leopard, white tiger, elephants, blackbucks, sambar deers, etc. It also houses the famous snake park, home to a 13 ft. cobra. The entry fees are ₹5 and ₹15 for kids and adults, respectively.
11. Pataleshwar Temple
Carved out of one single rock, the Pataleshwar temple was built in the 8th century and is dedicated to the Lord of the Underworld. Several stones are spread across the length and breadth of the temple dating back to 700 to 800 BC. It also holds a Guinness Book of World Records for housing a single grain of rice with 5000 characters. From the massive pillars to the uneven surfaces, this temple is a tourist delight.
Other famous attractions include Vishrambaug, Chaturshrungi temple, Lal Deval or the Synagogue, shopping and eating joints on MG Road, and Deccan and FC road.
You can enjoy visiting several options from the ones mentioned above and complete a day tour of Pune. Every structure and tourist spot in Pune holds a significance that is best felt only once you visit it. You can travel from any major metro or tier 2 and 3 cities of India and take a tour of Pune all year round.
The cool weather accompanies you from July through February, ensuring you have the time of your life exploring the corners of Pune in luxury. Also, checkout the list of places to visit in Pune in 2 days and 3 days if you are planning to extend your stay. You can also book any of our all-inclusive Pune tour packages for a relaxed vacation in this beautiful city.
