Things To Do
in Pune
Pune is a bustling cultural and educational hub in the Indian state of Maharashtra, blending a rich Maratha heritage with a growing technology and startup scene. The city sits on the Deccan plateau and is a gateway to scenic hill stations such as Lonavala and Khandala. Pune offers a lively food culture, historic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods like Koregaon Park and FC Road, and easy access to outdoor activities and forts.
It’s a city of contrasts — tradition and festivals live alongside nightlife, microbreweries, and a large student population.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You arrive at Pune airport and transfer to your hotel, soaking in the warm breeze of Maharashtra. After check-in, you freshen up and step out for a stroll to acquaint yourself with the neighborhood. You savor a steaming cup of masala chai at a local tea stall as the city hums around you.
Post-lunch at a traditional Maharashtrian eatery known for its thali, you head to the tourist information center to gather maps and advice. You wander through vibrant bazaars where vendors sell spices, textiles, and handicrafts in a riot of color. A quick visit to a historic library or small museum offers a glimpse into Pune’s storied past.
As the sun dips, you meander down Fergusson College Road, enjoying its youthful energy and street performances. You sample popular street snacks like vada pav, pani puri, and sabudana vada from bustling stalls. The night rounds off with dinner at a rooftop café, watching city lights twinkle under the starry sky.
You begin your day at the iconic Shaniwar Wada, guided by stories of Peshwa grandeur and architectural splendor. The morning light illuminates the grand walls and ornate gateways, transporting you to the Maratha Empire. You explore secret passages and hear legends whispered by local guides.
A short drive brings you to Purandar Fort, where you embark on a rewarding hike up stone pathways and rugged terrain. Sweeping views of the Sahyadri range unfold beneath a clear sky as you traverse ancient ramparts. You pause at small shrines and water cisterns, feeling the fort’s historic pulse.
You descend into town and head to Laxmi Road, immersing yourself in a lively market filled with colorful textiles and street vendors. You snack on spicy bhajiya and jalebi as the neon signs flicker to life. Dinner awaits at a nearby eatery specializing in rustic Maharashtrian fare under festoon lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea at a café | $1.5-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi / ride-hail (5–10 km) | $2-6 |
| 🚌Local bus or shared transport | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical sites with easy access to hill stations and forts
- Vibrant food scene, street food and cafes with strong local culinary traditions
- Active nightlife and microbrewery culture, plus a lively arts and music scene
- Good healthcare infrastructure and a large student population that makes the city cosmopolitan
- Traffic congestion and limited public transit coverage in some areas
- Hot summers and heavy monsoon rains can disrupt outdoor plans
- Air pollution can be a concern at times
- Crowded markets and peak-season tourist spots can feel busy
- "Namaste / Namaskar" - Hello / Greetings
- "Dhanyavaad (धन्यवाद)" - Thank you
- "Kripaya (कृपया)" - Please
- "Ho / Nahi (हो / नाही)" - Yes / No
- "Kitne ka hai? (कितने का है?)" - How much is this?
- "Shauchalay kuthe aahe? (शौचालय कुठे आहे?)" - Where is the restroom? (Marathi)
- "Mala madat pahije (मला मदत पाहिजे)" - I need help (Marathi)
Places to Visit in Pune
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic Peshwa-era palace ruins with dramatic gates and evening light; good for architectural and heritage shots.
Large colonial-era building with manicured grounds and historical significance — sunrise and softer afternoon light work well.
Hill fort with panoramic views of the Deccan plateau — ideal for sunrise, wide landscapes and action shots of trekkers.
Hilltop temples and vantage points overlooking the city — great for sunset and cityscape photos.
Tree-lined streets, boutique architecture and the serene Osho Center pond provide atmospheric urban and portrait backdrops.
Vibrant street scenes, colorful stalls and close-up shots of local life and goods.
Food in Pune
Pune Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy sprouted lentil curry topped with farsan and served with pav (bread). Find excellent versions at local eateries and specialty misal stalls around Kasba Peth and FC Road.
Must-Try!
A potato fritter sandwiched in a bun with chutneys — Mumbai/Pune’s ubiquitous quick snack. Try street vendors on FC Road and near bus stations for the classic experience.
Traditional Maharashtrian flatbreads and sweet boondi-like puran poli; many local restaurants and during festivals serve authentic thalis in Camp and Deccan.
Bakeries like Kayani are famous for these classic Pune treats; perfect with cutting chai in the afternoon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stretches with street food stalls serving vada pav, pav bhaji, chaat and cutting chai; lively especially in the evenings when students crowd the area.
Traditional markets where you can sample local snacks, sweets and Marathi specialties, while also shopping for textiles and jewelry.
Cafés, small joints and street food stands catering to students — good for affordable, tasty bites and experimental fusion snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Namaste' (hands together) or 'Namaskar' is customary — a handshake is common in business settings. Use formal greetings with elders.
Remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly and follow any site-specific rules. Photography may be restricted in some places.
Use your right hand for eating, giving and receiving things when possible; the left hand is considered unclean in traditional contexts.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in conservative areas; be respectful of local norms, especially in residential and temple neighborhoods.
Bargaining is common in markets like Laxmi Road and Tulshibaug; haggle politely and expect to settle between the initial and final offer.
Safety
Tipping in Pune
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. In mid-range and upscale restaurants leave 5–10% if service charge is not included; round up taxi fares or leave small change for drivers and hotel staff.
Cards are widely accepted at hotels, malls and many restaurants. UPI-based mobile payments (PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm) are extremely common and convenient. Keep some cash for small vendors, auto-rickshaws and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often 33–40°C (91–104°F); plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and carry sunscreen.
Heavy rains and lush greenery — city becomes cooler and forts/trails can be slippery; travel to hill stations is scenic but expect occasional road disruptions and avoid risky treks during heavy downpours.
Pleasant weather, clear skies and festival season (Diwali) — one of the best times to visit for outdoor sightseeing and cultural events.
Mild, comfortable days and cool nights (10–25°C / 50 –77°F); ideal for trekking, sightseeing and evening walks.
Pune at Night
Hiking in Pune
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular and accessible fort hike near Pune, suitable for half-day trips with panoramic views and vendors at the top.
Historically significant fort with multiple trekking routes and scenic overnight camping options; moderate difficulty.
A well-maintained fort near Lonavala with an easy-to-moderate trek, panoramic views and good monsoon scenery.
Steep climb with a triangular-shaped fort top and excellent views; popular for day treks and short excursions.
Less crowded fort offering a pleasant trek and views of surrounding plateaus and forests; good for nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Pune by plane.
The city's main airport with domestic flights and a growing number of international/seasonal routes; roughly 20–30 minutes from central Pune depending on traffic.
Major international airport (~3–4 hours by road depending on traffic) offering many global connections; often used as an alternative for international travelers.
Regional airport (~3–4 hours drive) useful if combining Pune with visits to the Ajanta and Ellora caves or regional itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population attending universities and colleges, plus young professionals working in IT, startups and education sectors — contributes to a lively, youthful culture.
Hinjewadi and Kharadi host many tech parks and multinational companies, drawing a cosmopolitan workforce from across India.
Long-established Marathi-speaking families and traditions are central to Pune’s identity, festivals and cuisine.
A sizable population from other Indian states who work in services, construction and manufacturing, adding to the city's cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Pune and across India; local grounds host matches and many locals follow national and IPL teams passionately.
Growing interest with local clubs and community leagues; played in schools and neighborhoods.
Traditional sports and kabaddi are played and watched in local competitions and festivals.
Fitness culture is strong — regular cycling groups, running clubs and organized marathons are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pune.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant — many restaurants are fully vegetarian and thali restaurants are plentiful. Ask if dishes contain ghee or hidden meat stock if strict vegetarianism is required.
Vegan options are available but require asking (many items use ghee, butter or yogurt). Cafés and modern restaurants can accommodate vegan requests; specify 'no dairy' or ask for vegetable preparations.
Rice-based dishes and many curries are gluten-free, but breads like pav and roti contain wheat. Inform restaurants about gluten sensitivity and avoid fried street snacks that may be cross-contaminated.
Many eateries understand Jain dietary preferences — request 'no onion, no garlic' and they will usually adapt meals accordingly.