Historical Places in Pune For A Heritage Journey

Aga Khan Palace is well known both for its architectural excellence as well as a significant historical place in Pune. Spread over a vast land of 19 acres, the palace is now the headquarters of the Gandhi National memorial society. Here, making khadi is still one of the prime activities.

Standing tall in its full glory, Shaniwar Wada was once a stately mansion. Built as a dwelling for the Peshwas, its foundation was laid by Bajirao I in the year 1730 AD. Today it gives a chance to peak into its great past. The historical place in Pune never fails to amaze the visitor with its various forts and fountain, and the majestic statue of Baji Rao I that greets the visitor at the entrance of the palace.

The Sinhagad and Khadakwasala fort is a historical place in Pune located on a hill at a height of 1380 m above the sea level. Khadakwasala also has a dam which is absolutely worth a visit during the monsoons.

Lal Mahal located near Shaniwar Wada in Pune is a historic landmark of the 16th century. Subject to innumerable attacks and initial revival, the palace has significant stories to tell. It was first restored by Shivaji’s father Shahaji Bhosle for his family to stay in the 1630s. From being a childhood home for Shivaji to taking Shaistekhan head-on, this red coloured structure is an architectural marvel depicting craftsmanship and culture of that time.

Built in the memory of the Maratha Nobel, Shri Mahadju Shinde, the Chatri is situated in Wanowri near Pune. It is a tribute to the legacy of Maratha heritage and culture.

Rasalgad is a fort that will reintroduce to the lost charms and intrigues of an era long forgotten. The trek is pretty simple and requires no past experience, although the mesmerizing views and historical structures will captivate you like no other. This is a destination that will keep you coming back for more.

Dehu Gatha temple is one of the largest temples and is located near Pune. At the entrance of the temple lies the statue of Sant Tukaram Maharaj. What attracts people the most are the carvings of all Gathas of Sant Tukaram on the walls of the temple which are very easy to read. It is said that one must read at least 3 Gathas on visiting the temple. The temple is located on Indrayani River's bank. Also, there is a place on the river where these Gathas floats which should not be missed out.

The cave temple is rock-cut temple dating back to the 8th century. Dedicated to Shiva, the temple has a Shivalingam, a circular Nandi Mandapa and a passage with stone pillars inside.

Once the private shrine of the Peshwas, the temple was built in the 17th century by Balaji Baji Rao. 108 steep flights above, is the temple on a hillock from where one can behold some of the most beautiful views of the city.

The synagogue was build by David Sasoon. Its a marvelous piece of architectural work and includes a prayer hall for ladies. Many foreigners visit this place for its religious & architectural marvel.

The Bund Garden is one of the best garden attraction for pune city. Located near the Pune junction, it is one of the locals' favorite and because of the eateries in its surrounding gather a good amount of visitors every day. If you have an hour to spend, you might want to turn towards the garden.

Showcasing the culture and livelihoods of tribal communities through paintings, weapons & artifacts is the Tribal Museum of the town.

The museum owes its existence to the efforts and contributions of countless people from all walk of life. It has hence, become a popular attraction for the town, that celebrates and creates increasing awareness and knowledge about Indian army and its soldiers

You can see various industrial products, agricultural and handicraft articles in this museum, established in 1890.

Known for its beautiful wooden facades, only the remains and ruins of the beautiful palace can be seen today. This incomplete instances too, give you a fair idea about the ancient Marathi culture and its elements.

The museum is built in Rajasthani style and is a worth a visit, while in the city. It adorns artifacts from D.G. Kelkar and other paintings of Lord Ganesha & some fine specimens of ancient pottery and paintings.

Build by a Peshwa, it has a temple of Lord Ganesha and tends to be perfect for evening walks with friends & family.

Karla caves, carved from a rocky hillside, are among the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India. It is located on the Pune-Mumbai highway at Karla, and if sources are to be believed, these are only a few among scores of other caves unearthed in Sahyadri Hills. Carved out almost 2000 years ago, this place constitutes an extensive collection of beautiful Chaityas (halls) and Viharas (monasteries) reflecting upon a journey of the past, narrating some amusing stories. A temple made of pillars from the Buddhist period has also been built recently at the entrance of the caves. One has to climb almost 150 stairs to reach the cave. Also known as Veluraka in the olden times, the caves house a humongous 15 - meter pillar along with a temple dedicated to Goddess Ekveera.

The Karla and Bhaja caves are among the oldest caves in India and date back all the way to 160 B.C. and are situated near Lonavala in Maharashtra. The Bhaja caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves which are believed to have existed from the times of Hinayana phase of Buddhism, which is of 2nd to 1st century BC. Karla Cave is the largest Hinayana Buddhist chaitya (temple) in India Travel back in time on this trip to ancient Indian rock-cut caves with the best rock-cut architecture of all times. The ancient caves are protected as Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Fortresses have been speaking of the grandeur of our country for several years. Situated near Pune, Rajgad fort is surrounded by Torna, Sinhgad and Purandar forts. It is symbolic of the victories and battles fought by the Maratha army and stands to glorify the feats of- famous Indian ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji. The fort was built during the reign of Maratha rule and was earlier called Murumbdev. It was only when Chhatrapati Shivaji shifted his capital to Rajgad that he renovated and named this fort. Located approximately 60 km to the south-west of Pune, it is a magnificent monument. For all those who admire history, the Rajgad Fort is a must visit. It is also a popular trekking destination and is often combined with Torna Fort.

Sarasbaug Ganapati Temple is a shrine for Siddhi Vinakayak Ganesh, as established by the Maratha ruler Shrimant Sawai Madhavrao Peshwa, in 1784. The temple derives its name from the island where it is situated, called Sarasbaug, named by its creator, Madhavrao's predecessor, Nanasaheb Peshwa. Located at the foot of Parvati Hills, the lake around the temple is said to be the venue of secret meetings held by the Peshwas during boat rides.

A divine place of worship devoted to Lord Ganapati, Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati temple is extremely famous for its religious festivities and is located in Pune, Maharashtra. The temple receives a considerable crowd of devotees every day who come to attend the daily pooja, abhisheka and the Arti of Lord Ganesh. The idol of Lord Ganapati is 2.2 meters high and 1 meter wide and is adorned with almost 40 kilos of gold. The temple receives offerings of gold and money from Lord Ganapati’s devotees every day which goes into the temple’s trust. The temple is open daily from 6 am to 11 pm.

Tulsi Bag is in the heart of Pune and a haven for street shopping. Super famous for ready-made garments, you will find rows of shops available for your customised fittings here. This is one of the oldest markets for shopping in Pune equivalent to Delhi's Chandni Chowk. The shopping atmosphere starts at Alka Talkies square and ends near the cantonment area.