Pune is one of the most important cities in Maharashtra and India. Pune is the seventh largest city in India by population and the second largest city in the state of Maharashtra. Pune is a city with a rich cultural and educational heritage. The city of Pune is known as the ‘Cultural Capital’ of Maharashtra. Similarly, Pune is considered the home of learning due to the renowned educational institutions in the city. Misal is also the first food of Pune. The city of Pune is located in the western part of Maharashtra on the banks of two rivers Mula and Mutha and is the administrative headquarters of Pune district. After Mumbai in terms of urban amenities and development, Pune is leading in the entire Maharashtra. In this article we are going to see some of the historical places and attractions in Pune, and you should definitely visit this place. Among the many attractions in Pune, this five places that stand out for their importance and beauty: Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, Rajiv Gandhi Zoo and Sinhagad Fort. These places reflect the glorious past of the Maratha Empire, India’s freedom struggle, religious diversity and devotion of the people, wildlife conservation efforts and the natural splendor of the Western Ghats. A visit to these places will give you a glimpse of Pune’s heritage and charm and leave you with unforgettable memories.
1. Shaniwar Wada Pune
Shaniwar Wada is located in Pune district of Maharashtra. The visual importance of Shaniwar Wada is that it is the Bhuikot Fort and there were some subways which are now closed. Shaniwar Wada was built by Bajirao Peshwa. It is a historical fort built in the 18th century. Construction of Shaniwar Wada started in 1730 and Shaniwar Wada was inaugurated in 1732. As both these days were Saturdays, this palace got its name as Shaniwar Wada. Shaniwar Wada is a magnificent fortification that was once the seat of the Peshwas who were the Prime Ministers of the Maratha Empire. The wall of Shaniwar Wada is 21 feet high and the rampart is 950 feet long. Shaniwar Wada has a total of five gates and nine towers. The names of the five gates of Shaniwar Wada are as follows. The first door is the Delhi Door, the second door is the Mastani Door, the third door is the Window Door, the fourth door is the Ganesh Door and the fifth door is the Drama School or Jambhul Door. These doors are still in good condition and can be seen when visiting Shaniwar Wada.
To enter Shaniwar Wada one has to go through the Delhi Gate. Delhi Darwaza is 21 feet high and 14 feet wide. At the Delhi Gate is the Nagarkhana from where you can see the full Shaniwar Wada and part of Pune. The Town Hall is the only surviving part of the British era that is still standing well. The main building of Shaniwar Wada was six storied. In Shaniwar Wada, Ganapati’s Rangamhal, Nana’s Diwankhana, New Arsemhal, Juna Arsemhal, Dadasaheb’s Diwankhana, Thorala Raya’s Diwankhana, Khasha’s Diwankhana, Hastidanti Diwankhana, Narayan Rao’s Diwankhana, Narayan Rao’s Mahal are no longer in existence today. Shaniwar Wada also had many types of Deoghars like Narayan Rao’s Devghar, Raosaheb’s Devghar, Dadasaheb’s Devghar, but they are no longer in existence today. There was a big fire in the palace in 1828 and most of the buildings were burnt down. The fort displays intricate architecture, including an imposing main gate, ramparts and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the light and sound show that tells the fascinating history of the fort.
2. Aga Khan Palace Pune
Aga Khan Palace is located in Pune, Maharashtra. The Aga Khan Palace was built by Sultan Mohammad Shah in AD. Around 1890 he bought a place on the Pune-Nagar road and in AD. Construction started in 1892 and completed in 1897. At that time, when there was a drought in Pune, Sultan Mohammad Shah started the construction of this building to provide employment to the people. Earlier this building was also known as ‘Yerwada Palace’. Twelve lakhs of rupees were spent for it and thousands of people got employment. The Aga Khan Palace is surrounded by well-kept gardens and greenery, a serene environment of this nature that provides tranquillity to the visitors. The sprawling lawns offer a tranquil space to relax, meditate and spend time in introspection. The atmosphere of the palace complex, with its peaceful atmosphere, creates a soothing environment for visitors to relax and reflect.
A.D. Built in 1892, this grand palace witnessed important events during the Indian independence movement. During the Indian independence movement, the British government used the Aga Khan Palace to incarcerate many freedom fighters including Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and other prominent leaders, so the Aga Khan Palace holds great historical significance. He was kept here during the Quit India Movement in 1942. And there is a memorial that pays tribute to India’s freedom struggle. Today, the Aga Khan Palace is a museum dedicated to Gandhiji’s life, including Gandhiji’s utensils, shoes, clothes, goods, etc. Includes things. Photographs of all important events in Gandhiji’s life are displayed here. The palace holds great historical significance as a witness to the sacrifices made by these brave souls for India’s freedom. Gandhiji’s personal assistant Mahadevbhai Desai died on 15th August 1942 and Kasturba Gandhi died on 22nd February 1944 while in captivity here. Charles Correa built the tombs of both of them here.
The Aga Khan Palace is a grand object measuring 72 meters long and 21 meters wide. The Aga Khan Palace exhibits a blend of Islamic and Italian architectural styles, reflecting a unique blend of cultures. Designed by Aga Khan III, the palace has spacious rooms, elegant corridors and wide lawns. The building materials used include Italian marble, Burma teak and a mixture of Indian and Persian motifs. The grandeur of the palace leaves visitors in awe.
3. Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple Pune
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple located in Pune, Maharashtra is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Established in the late 19th century, the temple is 130 years old. In 2017, this temple celebrated 125 years of its Lord Ganesha. The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Ganesha, about 2.2 meters tall and adorned with gold and precious stones. The eyes of the idol encrusted with diamonds are mesmerizing the main Ganesha idol of the temple is insured for Rs 10 million. More than lakhs of devotees visit the temple every year. Devotees of this temple include many dignitaries and Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, who attend the annual ten-day Ganeshotsav. The temple holds immense spiritual importance and is widely regarded as one of the most sacred places of devotion in the city. Let us know the fascinating details of Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple.
This temple was established in 1893 by Dagdusheth Halwai, a rich sweet merchant. It is said that the son of rich Dagdusheth Halwai died in the plague that hit Pune at that time. By that incident he himself and his wife Mrs. Both Lakshmibai became sad. Meanwhile his guru Shri. Madhavnath Maharaj consoled him and encouraged him and told him to prepare an idol of Datta and an idol of Ganapati and take care of these two deities like his son. In the future these two gods will brighten your name just as your child brightens the name of his parents. Guru Shri. As told by Madhavnath Maharaj, Shetji made a marble idol of Datta and a clay idol of Ganapati. This statue was enshrined by Lokmanya Tilak. This first idol of Lord Ganesha is placed in the Akara Maruti temple in Sukarpete. In the year 1896, the rich Dagdusheth Halwai, another idol of Ganapati was made and her festival started. Later even after the death of Shetji, the tradition of Ganeshotsav was continued.
The idol made in the year 1896 was in a dilapidated state. Therefore, in the year 1967, Shankarappa Shilpi, a famous sculptor and mechanic scholar of Karnataka, was invited. While this idol was being made, there was a solar eclipse and at a certain time of that eclipse, Ganesha Yantra was installed in the idol. Shilpi believed that this would gradually increase the brilliance of the idol and the idol would attain divinity. The present grand temple was built in 2002 after the earlier temple fell into disrepair. All the four arms of the sitting idol are free and the left hand holds modak, while the right hand is Varad meaning blessing. There is a lotus in the other two hands and a crown on the head. The carving on the trunk of the idol is also a masterpiece. The eyes are an important feature of this idol. No matter where you look, the devotees who take darshan get the feeling that Lord Ganesha is looking at them. Devotees are enthralled by the presence of the idol and it is believed that Lord Ganesha fulfills the wishes of those who pray with a pure heart. This Ganesha was installed during the reign of Lokmanya Tilak. At that time the cost of making this idol came to about 1125/- (one thousand one hundred and twenty five rupees).
He found solace in the worship of Lord Ganesha and established a temple as a form of devotion to the deity. Since then the temple has become a symbol of faith and hope for devotees who flock here from near and far. After Sukhrup recovered, Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan offered golden ears. The temple comes alive during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and enthusiasm. During the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, the temple is decorated with beautiful flowers, lightings and various decorations and devotees come in large numbers to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The immersion procession known as Visarjan is a grand spectacle as thousands of devotees bid farewell to the deity with joyful processions and music.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple is not only a place of worship but also actively involved in philanthropic activities. The trust associated with the temple runs various charitable activities including educational scholarships, medical aid and social welfare programmes. The temple’s philanthropic efforts have positively impacted the lives of many individuals, making it a beacon of compassion and service. A visit to the temple provides a peaceful and spiritual experience. The aroma of incense, the chanting of devotees and the positive energy of the temple creates an atmosphere of devotion and peace. The temple complex also houses other deities including Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga and Lord Hanuman, offering visitors an opportunity to seek blessings from several divine entities.
4. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park Pune
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is located in Katraj, a suburb of Pune city in Maharashtra. It is a major zoological park and wildlife conservation center. The park was established in 1999 with the aim of protecting wildlife, promoting education and raising environmental awareness. Rajiv Gandhi Zoo is also known as ‘Katraj Zoo’. Spread over a sprawling expanse of about 130 acres, it offers ample space for various animal enclosures, natural habitats and visitor facilities. Pune Municipal Corporation has the task of seeing the arrangements for this. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park has many species of animals and birds but Sudhya is divided into different sections.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoo has a fascinating array of animals from different parts of the world. The park has approximately 366 animals representing more than 57 different species. The zoo has carefully designed enclosures that mimic the animals’ natural habitats. Some of the notable exhibits include the Big Cat Enclosure, Bird Aviary, Primate Park, Reptile House and Deer Park. Each enclosure provides a rich environment for the animals, allowing them to thrive and exhibit natural behaviors.
A highlight of the zoo is the White Tiger Enclosure, which offers a fascinating opportunity to see these majestic big cats up close. Reptile House: Visitors can explore the fascinating world of reptiles including various species of snakes, crocodiles and turtles in a unique reptile house. The park has spacious walk-in aviaries, where visitors can see an array of colorful bird species in a more immersive setting. Rajiv Gandhi Zoo actively contributes to wildlife conservation efforts. The park participates in breeding programs for endangered species such as the Indian gaur and the Indian star tortoise. Additionally, it conducts research projects and conducts awareness programs to educate visitors about the importance of conservation.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoo also has educational signboards and information kiosks throughout the park to provide information about the various species and their conservation status. The zoo also offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience, including a range of custom walkways, seating areas, auditoriums and refreshment stalls. Rajiv Gandhi Zoo organizes educational programs and guided tours for schools and institutions, aimed at instilling environmental awareness and wildlife conservation in students. These programs provide an interactive and informative experience for visitors of all ages. A veterinary hospital equipped with medical and diagnostic facilities has been arranged for the maintenance and care of these animals. Prophylactic measures are taken to protect these animals from various diseases.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoo is easily accessible by road and is well connected to various parts of Pune. Rajiv Gandhi Zoo opens at 9:30 AM and closes by 5:30 PM. This gives tourists enough time to see various wildlife and attractions. Weekly only It is closed on Wednesdays and is open to public throughout the year. Entry fee for children and students is Rs.10. and Rs.25 for adults. is 100 for foreign tourists. This is how much is charged. 50 for photography here. And Rs. 200 for video. is charged. Handicapped and blind tourists are allowed free entry on presentation of valid identity card. About 18 lakh tourists visit here every year. The museum has basic facilities such as seating areas, toilets, drinking water fountains, information boards and wheelchairs for the disabled. Battery-powered cars are also available for tourists to travel around. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park has emerged as an important eco-tourism destination in Pune, attracting tourists and nature lovers from the surrounding area. Its commitment to wildlife conservation, along with its serene surroundings and fascinating exhibits, make it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking a unique and educational experience. By visiting the Rajiv Gandhi Zoo, visitors can witness the wonders of the animal kingdom, learn about wildlife.
5.Sinhagad Fort Pune
Situated on a rugged hill on the outskirts of Pune, Maharashtra, Sinhagad Fort stands as a testament to the rich history and valor of the Marathas. 17th century is of historical importance. Visitors can explore the fortifications. Sinhagad Fort has witnessed numerous battles, victories and acts of bravery throughout its existence. Today, it stands as a popular tourist destination for picture taking history buffs, nature lovers and adventure seekers. The Sinhagad fort situated on a hill is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts and history buffs. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and, one can enjoy local delicacies at the hilltop restaurants and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The history of Sinhagad Fort dates back to the 14th century when it was initially known as Kondhana Fort. Earlier this fort was under Adilshahi rule. Dadoji Konddev was appointed as Subhedar by Adilshahi Adilshah. It gained importance during the Maratha Empire under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort changed hands several times with fierce battles between the Mughals and the Marathas for its control. In 1670, Shivaji Maharaj captured the fort during the Battle of Sinhagad during an assault by his trusted chieftain and child friend Tanaji Malusare and his followers. Tanaji died a heroic death in this battle and after conquering the fort at the sacrifice of his life, Shivaji Maharaj uttered the phrase “Gad ala but Singh Gela” and recaptured the fort, renaming it Sinhagad, meaning “lion’s fort”, in memory of Tanaji Malusare.
Sinhagad Fort is a fine example of medieval Indian architecture. The fort is built using locally available stone and has impressive ramparts, bastions, gates and watch towers. Kalyan Darwaza (main gate) is the main entrance to the fort and has two massive towers, known as Delhi Darwaza and Pune Darwaza. The fort also houses other notable structures such as Tanaji Malusare’s Samadhi, memorial pillars and ancient temples dedicated to Goddess Kali and Lord Hanuman. The stone building seen on the right after entering the door is the liquor warehouse. Due to lightning strike on this barn, the house at that time on the fort was destroyed in this accident and all the people in the house died. There is a temple of Shankara on the fort, who was the god of the Yadavas, this temple is called Kondhaneshwar. This temple has a pindi and a samb in the temple and belongs to the Yadav period. A little further from the temple of Kondhaneshwar, on the left is the ancient temple of Sri Amriteshwar Bhairav. Bhairava is the god of spiders. Before the Yadavas, this fort was inhabited by spiders. There are two idols of Bhairav and Bhairavi in the temple. Bhairava has the head of a demon in his hand. One can walk back from the Jhunjar Tower and follow the path along the bank wall to the edge of Tanaji. This edge is to the west of the fort. It is from here that Tanaji climbed up with the mavlas, so this ridge is called Dongiri’s alias Tanaji Kada.
One of the highlights of visiting Sinhagad Fort is the panoramic view. As you climb the fort, you get a breathtaking view of the surrounding Sahyadri mountain ranges, the picturesque valleys below and the city of Pune. The fort is situated on the Bhuleshwar range spread over the eastern branch of the Sahyadri. The part of the moat that looks like two steps and the tower of Doordarshan, it attracts attention from anywhere in Pune. The fort looks especially beautiful and mesmerizing during monsoons when the hills come alive with lush greenery and waterfalls. The combination of historical importance and natural beauty makes Sinhagad Fort a perfect getaway for nature lovers and photographers. For adventure lovers, Sinhagad Fort offers a thrilling trekking experience. The trek to the fort is moderately challenging, with fine markings and beautiful landscapes. As you make your way to Take D, you can see the ruins of ancient fortifications and soak in the serene atmosphere of the surrounding desert. The trek usually takes one to two hours depending on your pace and you get a sense of accomplishment when you reach the top of the fort.
A visit to Sinhagad Fort is incomplete without relishing the delicious local cuisine available at the numerous food stalls and restaurants near the fort. The fort is famous for its mouth-watering Maharashtrian dishes such as rustic jhunka-bhakri (gramen curry with bread), fiery misal pav (spicy curry with bread), and delicious kanda bhaji (onion vegetable). Local vendors also offer refreshing lemonade and buttermilk, perfect for rejuvenating after the trek. In recent times, conscious efforts have been made to preserve the historical significance of Sinhagad Fort. The Archaeological Survey of India has taken steps to conserve the fort’s architecture, so that future generations can appreciate its architectural marvels. Located at a distance of about 30 km from Pune city, this fort is easily accessible. Visitors can reach the base of the fort by road and then trek or opt for the shared taxi service available at the base.