Your Pune Bucket List | Fort JadhavGADH - A Heritage Resort near Pune

Pune: A Bucket List

Forest covered mountains with pink sky

Nestled in between the Western Ghats and the Sahyadri Mountain Range, lies a sprawling city and the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune. This city, formerly known as Poona welcomes a diverse set of visitors because of its bustling business districts, youthful educational hubs and mesmerizing scenic hot spots. With numerous breathtaking locations, extravagant forts, cascading waterfalls, amusing theme parks, splendid museums, vast lakes and enormous dams, the list of tourist attractions at Pune is virtually endless. But worry not, because we have curated it down to the undeniably best.

Palaces & Forts

old stone structure
Aga Khan Palace in Pune

Shaniwarwada Fort

Shaniwarwada was built in 1732 as the seven-storey capital building of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. This historical fortification of Pune cost a total of Rs. 16,110, which was an enormous amount at the time. The Shaniwarwada Fort mesmerizes its visitors with its incredible architecture and significant cultural history.

Aga Khan Palace

The Aga Khan Palace was built by the spiritual leader of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, for the poor people in the neighbouring areas of Pune that were hit by famine. This magnificent structure served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi during the Indian freedom movement.

Lal Mahal

Built in 1630, Lal Mahal was home to Shivaji till he captured the Torna Fort in 1645. It was also the venue for Shivaji’s first marriage to Saibai. Towards the end of the 17th century, it was destroyed as a result of various attacks on the city. It is historically famous for the guerilla attack on the Mughal Army that was camped in Pune, where Shivaji cut off Shaista Khan’s finger and escaped through a window of the Lal Mahal.

Sinhagad Fort

The Sinhagad Fort is perched on an isolated cliff, about 1312 metres above sea level, on the Bhuleswar Range in the Sahyadri Mountains. Built over 2000 years ago, the fort was tactically positioned at the centre of a string of other forts by the Maratha Empire. It was initially known as “Kondhana”, after Kaundinya the sage. Later, it was the stage for the Battle of Sinhagad, where the steep cliff was scaled in the night with the help of a tamed monitor lizard.

Sacred Sites

white stone temple
stone structure surrounded by mountains
lord ganesha idol

Parvati Hill Temple

Parvati Hills, a hillock that rises to 640 metres above sea level, is home to five temples. Right at the top is Parvati Temple, that boasts one of the most picturesque locations in Pune. The temple, made of black stone was completed under Balaji Baji Rao in 1749. The spiritual influence, beautiful architecture and panoramic views make it a splendid spot.

Pataleshwar Cave Temple

The Pataleshwar Cave Temple, also known by the names - Bamburde or Panchaleshvara, is a rock-cut cave temple carved out by Kannadiga Kings in the 8th century. Dedicated to Shiva, made of basalt rocks, this temple houses an intricately carved out Nandi Shrine, in the massive courtyard of the cave. The temple was left incomplete upon discovering the fault line at the back of the sanctum sanctorum and the cave was converted into a garden.

Lakes

lake with mountains in background
forest with sunlight peircing through trees
pond with trees on the side

Bund Garden

Enjoy some quiet time amidst emerald green gardens of Bund Gardens for a truly relaxing and tranquil experience. Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Udyan, this spot is popular among locals as the go-to place for some peace and quiet. The garden was built by Jamsetjee Jejeebhoy, a Parsi businessman and philanthropist, right beside the Fitzgerald Bridge and the Mula River, as a source of irrigation water for the underprivileged.

Pashan Lake

Pashan Lake is an artificial lake built during the British era to satisfy the water requirement of the region. This 40 sq. km. lake is fed by a small river called Ramnadi, and serves as a source of water for the village of Pashan. The shimmering waters of the lake and the surrounding greenery make it a popular attraction with astounding views.

Mulshi Lake

Indulge in some natural serenity at Mulshi Lake, a popular tourist destination that has developed over recent years. It is a clean and eco-friendly area that is a great spot for trekking, photography and bird watching. It features stunning views of the Sahyadri Mountain Range that encompass the dam, dotted with local flora and fauna.

Pavana Lake

Located in close proximity to Lonavala Hill Station, Pavana Lake is a reservoir turned artificial lake formed by the dam that stretches across Pavana River. The Pavana Dam was built in 1973, giving way to the formation of backwaters, that later became a lake. The spectacular views of the backwaters and surrounding greenery make it a great spot for nature photography.

Museums

stone sculptures on pillars
antique jewerly box

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a three-storey building that features a compendium of door frames, vessels, ornaments, weapons of war, musical instruments, paintings and carvings, dating back to the 14th century. It contains the entirety of Dr Dinkar G Kelkar’s collection that was dedicated to his only son.

Darshan Museum

Darshan isn’t just a museum in the conventional sense of the word. It features 3D holographics and life-like statues, portraying modern methods of storytelling. Visitors literally walk onto the scene and the past is re-enacted right in front of their eyes. It is the first of its kind in India, where characters appear out of thin air to tell the story of Sadhu T L Vaswani, a visionary, educator and poet.

National War Memorial

Dedicated to post-independence war martyrs, the National War Memorial Southern Command is the only war memorial in Southern Asia that has been constructed by citizens’ contributions. The memorial was unveiled on Independence Day, 1998 and features a MiG-23BN used in the Kargil War and a decommissioned frigate - the INS Trishul on display.

Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways

This one is for the locomotive and train enthusiasts out there! Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways, founded by Mr. B. S. Joshi, who was obsessed with collecting train models from childhood, is the only one of its kind in India. The model trains on exhibit run through a miniature city with signals, fences, lamp posts, bridges, etc. The meticulous eye for detail and the simulation of the train movement is simply staggering.

Theme Parks

giant wheels decorated with lights
two deers in a forest
water rides in a park

Panshet Water Park

Panshet Water park isn’t just an amusement park, but also a water sports centre. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri Mountains, offering delightful views, the park features everything from water slides and rides to kayaking, speedboating and windsurfing. It is a delightful spot for a getaway with your friends and family.

Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

Commonly referred to as the Katraj Zoo, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is a 135-acre zoo that has a collection of reptiles, mammals and birds. The showstoppers of the zoo are a white tiger and a Bengal tiger. A visit to the zoo lets you gaze at the majesty of these animals, inclusive of blackbucks, elephants, cobras, vipers, peafowls, Indian Star tortoise and more.

Wet N Joy Water Park

Take a day off to completely unwind and rejuvenate your energy levels at the Wet N Joy Water Park. Boasting various thrilling rides, a house of horrors, a mirror maze and other joyful activities, this water park gives you the relaxing getaway you desire.

Imagicaa Theme Park

Imagicaa is a themed entertainment destination that is the perfect attraction for friends and family to escape the bustle of everyday life. The park features roller coasters, indoor and outdoor rides, 5 themed restaurants, and entertaining performances.

Food

fritters being cooked
chairs and table in dining area

Street Food

One cannot miss out on the lip-smacking delicacies that the streets of Pune have to offer. The streets of Pune are lined with street carts, stalls and tiny shops that serve the authentic flavours of the region. Yes, Pune is a foodie haven that allures you with culinary treats.

Le Plaisir

Le Plaisir is a delightful restaurant with a classy ambience and comfortable seating that serves European, Italian and Continental delicacies. The expert chefs and professional waiting staff take special care to treat you to the culinary experience that you desire.

Atmosphere 6

Located in Viman Nagar, Pune, Atmosphere 6 is a contemporary restaurant with outdoor seating that boasts incredible views from the rooftop terrace. Specializing in North Indian, Continental, Chinese and Italian delicacies, this restaurant guarantees a flavour-filled meal to deal with your hunger pangs.

Payatha

Payatha is a charming fine dining restaurant. As the name suggests - the restaurant is located at the foothills in Fort JadhavGadh Hotel, that is perched on a hillock. This warm and vibrant restaurant serves up scrumptious traditional Maharashtrian dishes that is sure to win you over.

Shopping

colourful lanterns in market
flee market with decorations
wall decorations in a shop

Koregaon Park Road

Street shopping Koregaon Park Road is an exciting experience, where you can go on a spree, picking up everything that catches your eye. Koregaon Park is a happening metropolitan area that is dotted with shops and restaurants. The stalls and shops on the street sell juttis, earrings, rings, anklets, purses and more.

Tulsi Baug

Tulsi Baug, located in the heart of Pune is famous for ready-made garments. Often compared to Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, Tulsi Baug is one of the oldest markets in Pune popular for the great deals you can get.

Hong Kong Lane

Hong Kong Lane on Deccan Road is complete solace for shopaholics. Regardless of your shopping needs, Hong Kong Lane is the place to be for an enjoyable shopping spree. Whether it’s books, bags, mobile accessories, sunglasses, caps, wallets, or footwear, you will get them all at this incredible shopping location.

Juna Bazar

If you are looking to buy antiques, jewellery or cosmetics, Juna Bazar has got you covered. Also known as Old Market or Chor Bazar, this flea market is a great spot to get great deals on the items that take your fancy. This street market has artefacts, antiques, paintings, brass statues and more on display.

Nightlife

people partying in colourful lights
drinks glasses with a party

Area 51

Area 51 is one of the best spots in Pune to experience the city’s nightlife. With a vibrant ambience, quirky lighting, delicious cocktails and a dance floor, Area 51 treats you to the excitement that you are looking for.

Swig

Swig is a marvellous lounge where you can indulge in a night of fun with incredible music, dance and drinks. Swig is a favourite among musicians, dancers and painters for its artsy vibe, charming decor and cosy seating.

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe is Pune’s all-time favourite Rock and Roll pub. The energetic vibe of the pub along with signature drinks and delectable dishes makes it a must-visit spot. The Pub offers up a variety of mouth-watering dishes from Asian, American and Mexican cuisines that you can gorge on while listening to old school rock classics.

High Spirits

High Spirits is a lively and zestful pub that serves delicious cocktails and appetizing food. The high energy vibe of the pub, expert mixologists, professional staff and a line-up of great artists makes it a simply spectacular place to be to claim the night.

sunset sky with buildings

Pune is undeniably the cultural hub of Maharashtra. Travellers can find a plethora of things to do to keep themselves entertained and stimulated. Explore the hidden gems in Pune with a comfortable stay at our luxurious hotel, Fort JadhavGadh. Our resort pampers you with opulent decor, exquisite views and warm hospitality so that you can experience the very best of Pune.