Things To Do
in Junnar
Junnar is a historic market town in Pune district, Maharashtra, set at the edge of the Western Ghats and surrounded by rolling agricultural hills. It is best known for Shivneri Fort (the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) and a network of ancient rock‑cut Buddhist caves and inscriptions that reveal early trade and monastic activity. The town serves as a quiet base for treks, birdwatching, and rural road rides, with an authentic small‑town Maharashtrian atmosphere.
Visitors come for history, nature and simple village hospitality rather than busy tourist infrastructure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Junnar, where the intricate carvings and architecture will take your breath away. As the sun rises, take a stroll through the vibrant local market, where you can pick up fresh produce and traditional snacks. Engage with local artisans showcasing their crafts and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
In the afternoon, head to the historic Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of the Maratha king Shivaji. Explore the fort's impressive walls and scenic views while enjoying a packed lunch amidst the lush surroundings. Don't forget to visit the museum inside the fort that showcases artifacts from the era.
As the sun sets, return to Junnar and dine at a traditional Maharashtrian restaurant. Savor local specialties like puran poli and bhakri while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the quiet streets to soak in the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Start your day early with a trek to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the important biodiversity hotspots in India. The morning air is fresh and invigorating as you navigate through lush forests that are home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive Indian Giant Squirrel. Keep your camera ready for the myriad of bird species that sing and flit through the treetops.
After a guided nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of the sanctuary. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails, with a chance to spot wildlife like deer and various reptiles. Pause at the Bhimashankar Temple to appreciate its historical significance and spiritual ambiance.
As dusk falls, return to Junnar and relax at a local tea stall, sipping on chai while reflecting on your day's adventures. The evening sky provides a perfect backdrop for a peaceful end to an exciting day. Consider picking up some local handicrafts as souvenirs from your adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Tea / Snack from roadside stall | $0.3-1 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.2-0.6 |
| 🚕Taxi/auto short ride | $1-6 |
| 🏨Mid‑range guesthouse / hotel (night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites (Shivneri Fort and rock‑cut caves)
- Quiet, authentic rural Marathi atmosphere
- Good for trekking, birdwatching and off‑beat photography
- Less crowded than major tourist centres
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few upscale hotels
- Public transport is basic; many attractions need a private vehicle
- Monsoon can make some roads and trails hazardous
- Few nightlife or entertainment options after dark
- "Namaskar / Namaste" - Hello / Respectful greeting
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Krupaya / Krupayaa" - Please
- "Ho / Nahi" - Yes / No
- "Ithun Shivneri kadhi?" - How do I get to Shivneri from here?
- "He veg (shakahari) aahe ka?" - Is this vegetarian?
Places to Visit in Junnar
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic fortifications, stairways and wide views of the surrounding plains make Shivneri a top spot for sunrise and historical portraits.
Weathered facades, carved niches and shaded corridors in the ancient Buddhist cave complexes provide evocative archaeological images — best shot in soft morning light.
Scenic mountain pass with steep gorges, overlooks and curving roads — excellent for landscape and misty monsoon shots.
Rural lanes, seasonal crops, village scenes and early‑morning market activity offer authentic lifestyle photography opportunities.
Small lakes and hilltops around Junnar give sunset reflections and silhouettes of birds and fishermen.
Food in Junnar
Junnar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy curry of sprouted lentils topped with farsan and served with pav — found at small stalls and breakfast shops throughout town.
Must-Try!
A traditional rural Maharashtrian meal: thick gram‑flour curry (pithla) with coarse millet or jowar bhakri — served at local eateries and home‑style restaurants.
Fried potato fritter in a bun with chutneys — an inexpensive, ubiquitous street snack available at roadside carts.
A set meal with rice, roti/bhakri, dal, vegetable dishes and chutney — a good way to try multiple local flavors in one sitting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market and periodic haats are the best places to try fresh snacks, seasonal fruits, local pickles and roadside chaat stalls; arrive in the morning for the freshest produce.
Small tea shops near bus stands serve strong masala chai, bun maska and quick snacks — great for people‑watching and sampling affordable local food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Namaste' or a nod is common. Remove shoes when entering temples or some homes and dress modestly in religious or rural settings.
Always ask before photographing people, especially women and elders; some households prefer not to be photographed.
Respect temple rules, avoid loud behavior during aarti or puja, and follow any signs about restricted areas at historical sites.
Bargaining is acceptable at local markets and for souvenirs, but do so politely; fixed prices are common in established shops.
Safety
Tipping in Junnar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave 5–10% at restaurants if service is good, round up fares for auto‑rickshaws, and give small tips (₹50–200) to local guides and drivers depending on the service.
Cash (Indian Rupee, INR) is king in Junnar — small shops and street vendors often accept only cash. Larger restaurants and hotels may accept cards and UPI/QR payments; mobile wallets and UPI are increasingly common but carry cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry inland heat with daytime temperatures often 30–40°C; early starts are essential for trekking and outdoor activities. Carry sun protection, water and lightweight breathable clothing; plan strenuous hikes for morning hours.
Lush green landscapes, dramatic waterfalls and good birdlife, but heavy rains can make hill tracks slippery and some roads seasonal. Bring a rain jacket, waterproof footwear and allow extra travel time — avoid risky cliff edges after rain.
Clear skies, pleasant temperatures and excellent visibility — an ideal time for trekking, photography and exploring ruins. Accommodation and roads are accessible and landscapes remain green.
Cool, dry weather with comfortable daytime temperatures (15–25°C) and chilly mornings/evenings — good for sightseeing and camping; bring a warm layer for night.
Junnar at Night
Hiking in Junnar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike to the historic fort with stone steps, ramparts and scenic viewpoints — suitable for half‑day excursions and photography.
A rewarding local hill trek to Ajoba with a temple at the top, panoramic vistas and varied terrain; popular with weekend hikers.
Historic mountain pass trail once used by traders — offers steep ascents, great views and a sense of history; access can be seasonal depending on weather.
Short rural trails around villages and reservoirs ideal for gentle walks, sunrise photography and experiencing agricultural landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Junnar by plane.
The closest major airport (about 80–110 km, depending on route) with domestic and some international connections; reach Junnar by taxi or bus in 2–3 hours by road.
Major international airport (roughly 180–220 km away) with frequent flights; driving or a combination of train/bus can bring you to Junnar in 4–5+ hours.
A regional airport (about 120–160 km depending on route) that may be convenient for some travelers; road travel time varies and connections are less frequent than Pune or Mumbai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority are Marathi speakers involved in agriculture, local trade and government services; Marathi culture and festivals are prominent.
Large numbers of residents work in farming (sugarcane, onions, millet and seasonal crops) and related agri‑businesses.
Smaller hamlets around Junnar include traditional artisans, shopkeepers and service providers who support local markets.
Increasing numbers of young people commute to or migrate for work and education to Pune and other cities, creating a mix of traditional and modern lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across the region — local grounds and street cricket are common and community tournaments take place regularly.
Traditional contact sport popular in rural Maharashtra with local teams and village competitions, especially during festival seasons.
Traditional wrestling akhadas exist in rural areas and towns — a cultural sport with occasional local bouts and training centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Junnar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian diets are easy to manage — many dishes are plant‑based and restaurants commonly offer veg thalis and snacks. Ask for 'shuddh shakahari' (pure vegetarian) if you want to avoid hidden ghee or meat stock.
Vegan options exist but clarify requests: avoid ghee and curd; ask for oil‑based cooking and plain rice/roti with vegetable curries. Pack snacks if you have strict requirements.
Gluten‑free travellers can eat rice, jowar/bajra/bhakri and many curries, but check that street foods are not cross‑contaminated with wheat. Communicate allergies clearly; carry a translation card if needed.