About Pune
Pune, often referred to as Poona, is a city located at the meeting point of the Mula and Mutha rivers in the state of Maharashtra in western India. Pune was the centre of Maratha culture. The city first rose to prominence as the capital of the Bhonsle Marathas in the 17th century. It was also ruled by the British and Mughals. Today, it is a well-liked holiday destination with beautiful weather, historical and religious landmarks, museums, parks, hotels, and cultural attractions.
Places to visit in Pune
- Shaniwar Wada: Shaniwar Wada, a 286-year-old mansion that was once the Peshwa capital of Pune, is one of the best examples of architecture in the city. It is currently one of the most popular tourist spots in Maharashtra. This lavish mansion, which serves as the Peshwas' residence, was created by Peshwa Bajirao I. Despite its current size of 625 acres, the Wada once almost enveloped the entire city. The area never fails to astonish visitors with its various forts, fountains, and the magnificent statue of Baji Rao I that greets guests at the entry to the palace. Even though the majority of the Wada was destroyed by an enigmatic fire in 1828, what is left of it is nonetheless exhilarating and stunning.
- Aga Khan Palace: Built-in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, the magnificent Aga Khan Palace is located in Pune. One of the most significant sites in Indian history, it played a key role in many pivotal moments leading up to India's independence. At one time, it served as the prison for Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, and Mahadev Desai. The Aga Khan Palace is renowned for its outstanding architecture and historical significance. The Gandhi National Memorial society's main office is located in the palace, which is now spread across a large area of 19 acres. Making khadi is still a major activity in this area.
- Katraj Snake Park: The Rajiv Gandhi Zoo in Katraj, India, close to the city of Pune, is the country's most popular and often visited tourist destination. A well-known and opulent zoo, the Rajiv Gandhi Zoo is run by the Pune Municipal Corporation and spans 130 acres. It is separated into three sections: the main zoo, an animal orphanage, and the Katraj Snake Park, which is the most well-known of them all. The snake park's huge collection of snakes, reptiles, birds, and turtles has been successful in introducing thousands of tourists to strange and intriguing animals.
- Osho Ashram: The Osho Ashram in Koregaon Park, Pune, is a site renowned for its tranquilly and meditation and love rituals that aim to achieve divinity. It is commonly referred to as the Osho Meditation Resort and combines meditation with the Greek idea of a resort vacation. The ashram is a serene setting that helps you find your centre of calm, meditation, and unity. This is where you may also find Osho's ideologies. Only members are allowed access to the Osho Ashram, which is shrouded in mystery, reverence, and mystique. To enter the grounds, those who are not members must purchase a one-day pass.
- Sinhagad Fort: The historical fortress known as Sinhagad Fort is situated in the Sahyadri Mountains and is renowned for its architectural and historical significance. It was formerly known as Kondhana and has seen several engagements, including the famous Battle of Sinhagad in 1670. The name "Sinhagad" directly translates to "Lion's Fort," denoting the fort's valour and brightness. The building is now the ideal landmark for hikers because it is situated in the Sahyadri Mountains at a height of more than 750 m. The fort was purposefully constructed in the middle of the row of Maratha forts that had been constructed in the Sahyadris. The Rajgad Fort, Torna Fort, and Purandar Fort are a few of these citadels. It is a popular destination for photographers and environment enthusiasts.
Pune Airport
In the Indian state of Maharashtra, 10 km northeast of Pune's historical centre is where you'll find Pune Airport, a customs airport. The Airports Authority of India manages this civil enclave, which is situated on the western side of the Lohagaon Air Force Station of the Indian Air Force. The airport offers both domestic and international services. In the 2020 fiscal year, the airport handled 8.09 million passengers. It has been named the "Best Airport by Hygiene Measures" in Asia-Pacific for 2020 by Airports Council International. The IATA code for Pune Airport is PNQ.