Pune

Since Pune is in the state of Maharashtra, most of the residents are Marathis (or Maharashtrians). The city contains the headquarters of the Pune administrative division. Pune has history that stretches back nearly 1600 years. Pataleshwar caves (Near Jangli Maharaj Road) from the 5th century are evidence to Pune’s old settlements.
Pune is a gateway to knowledge about the past with opportunities to learn from the help of forts, monuments, museums and higher-learning institutions. From the medieval Maratha history of King Shivaji to a visit to Aga Khan Palace to learn about Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent freedom struggle, there is much to learn here. If the quote "Freedom is my birthright and I shall have it!" sounds interesting, make a visit to Gayakwadwada museum. If interested in ancient Indian history or Indology, then Deccan college, Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute are the places of research and learning and house their own museums as well.
Pune has been called the "Oxford of the East". It is a university town. There are many colleges and institutes here that offer everything from engineering to fine arts. These establishments boast a large number of foreign students in addition to locals.

Climate

The climate of Pune is quite pleasant. Pune has three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Summers are typically hot with maximum temperatures ranging from 35 to 42°C. The warmest month in Pune is generally April as compared to the rest of the Deccan Plateau where it is May.
Pune does not get very hot. Even during the peak of summer the air is cool and standing under a tree can give respite from the heat. However, as the frequent sunlight can cause sunburn, be sure to carry and use sunscreens (above SPF-30). The nights in Pune are significantly cooler than most other parts in this region due to its high altitude.
The average rainfall is approx 550mm. The city often receives thundershowers with heavy downpours in May, which brings down the temperature. The rainy season can sometimes be gloomy, with cloud cover for many days in a row. In winter, day temperatures can be as low as 24 - 28°C and temperatures at night as low as 5 - 8°C. Winters are generally dry. Normally, the climate in Pune is pleasant during the month of November.

Attitude

Attitudes in Pune are liberal. The city used to be very traditional and conservative, but times have changed. The city is not the conservative small-town of old, but now is a much more open-minded developed city.

Pune is a fairly cosmopolitan city. Although Marathi is the official language of the city and also the most common language spoken on the streets, most people also speak Hindi along with English.

Pune is a major transportation hub for Western Maharashtra. It serves as the gateway for the numerous hill stations in the Sahyadri Hills.

By plane

• Pune AirportPune does not have its own civil airport. All commercial air carriers operate from the military airport in Lohegaon which is around 10 km from the city center. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour to reach, depending on traffic conditions. The airport is served by some domestic carriers but the number of flights is limited since the airport is under the control of the air force. International flights operate only to Dubai (as of February 2019, the Frankfurt flight is not running until a new partner can be found). For arrivals, there is a money exchange stand, a duty-free shop and a pre-paid taxi stall; in airside departures there are snack stalls and a duty-free store. The business lounge is basic. If getting a direct flight proves difficult, then taking a flight to Mumbai and then travelling by taxi or train to Pune is a feasible option. A long-distance private taxi journey should take around three hours and costs about ₹3000.

Flights connecting to Pune:

• Air India: Bangalore, Delhi, Goa and Hyderabad
• Air India Express: Mumbai and Dubai
• Go Air: Bangalore, Chennai and Delhi
• IndiGo: Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Jaipur and Nagpur
• SpiceJet: Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Jaipur
• AirAsia: Bangalore, and Jaipur
• Vistara: Delhi

There are designated spaces for Uber and Ola taxis

By train

Pune has many connections to other Indian cities by rail. Check train availability on the Indian Rail website before you go, as train timings are subject to change. There are mainline routes to Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai

• Pune StationAn above average Indian station, it contains an information booth, an internet café, and a computerized ticket booking office. Trolleys are not available, but porters can be hired to help with luggage. Licensed porters wear a red shirt with a metallic arm-band bearing their serial number. The official rates in Maharashtra are ₹25 for up to 10 kg/3 pieces of luggage (whichever is less); ₹20 per additional 5 kg/piece of luggage (whichever is less); a lightweight briefcase not exceeding 300 cm³ is not included, but carries a ₹5 surcharge.

By car

Pune is served by three national highways (NH) and an expressway.

• NH 4 between Mumbai in the west and Chennai in the south passes through Pune. NH 4, a part of the Golden Quadrilateral of highways connects Pune to Bangalore also. Satara, Kolhapur and Kagal all in Maharashtra are connected to Pune by NH 4. National Highway 4 runs through the villages of Shirwal, Naraspur, Hadapsar, Khadki, Tolegaon, Wadgaon, Lonavala, and Khandala within Pune district.
• NH 9 connects Pune in Maharashtra to Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh. Indapur, Solapur,and Umarga in Maharashtra, followed by Rajeshwar, Homnabad, and Mangalgi in Karnataka, and thereafter Zahirabad, Hyderabad, Suryapeta and Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh are connected by NH 9 to Pune. The villages of Kambhargaon, Bhigvan, Ravangaon, Loni Kaibhor, and Theur within the district of Pune are connected by this highway.
• NH 50 connects Pune to Nasik. The cities of Sangamner, Narayangaon, and Khed all in Maharashtra are connected by this highway. Chakan, Rajgurunagar, Malegaon, Mancharo, Kalamb, Narayangaon, and Aleo are the important locations on this highway between Pune and Nasik.

By bus

It takes about three hours to get from the Mumbai airport to Pune via the Pune-Mumbai Expressway. Private and state-owned companies (MSRTC) operate luxury buses on this route, and run 24 hours service with buses departing every fifteen minutes. MSRTC buses charge approximately ₹200 (Non AC) and ₹420 (AC) for the journey. The MSRTC A/C "Shivneri" buses operate between 5:30AM - midnight. Below are arrival and departure points for buses from cities and villages outside of Pune.

• MSRTC Bus Depot Pune Station

  address: Sanjay Gandhi Rd, Agarkar Nagar
  This bus stand (next to the railway station and also considered to be the main bus stand) mainly serves buses on the Mumbai route. Most services make a stop at Lonavala.

• Shivaji Nagar

  address: Rambhau K Kamble Path
  This bus stand serves buses for Vidarbha, Konkan, Marathwada and Northern Maharshtra. A few services connect with other cities in the neighboring state of Gujarat. Buses run by Gujarat Roadways run to Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Surat, Kandla and Rajkot. The bus station is outside the Shivaji Nagar Railway station.

• Swargate ST Stand

  address: Satara Rd
  This bus stand serves buses covering the Western Maharashtra and Konkan Region.

• KatrajThis is not exactly a bus stand but for most of the Interstate buses this acts as a pick up and drop point.

By taxi

Shared cabs operate on a route from Pune City Station to Dadar, Mumbai. These taxis seat 4 to 5 people, and charge ₹300 per person using a regular car, ₹800 for a Fiat Premier and ₹1000 for an Ambassador. Cool cabs (taxis with air conditioning) are also available which charge higher. Ali Cool Cab, Just Car and Taxi Guru Solution arnav cabs Taxi For Pune provide cool cabs for doorstep pickup and drop for Pune to Mumbai trips. The rates for such doorstep taxi service start from ₹2100 (including toll-tax). Uber intercity also operates between Mumbai and Pune for about ₹2000.

By auto-rickshaws

There is a massive army of three wheeled rickshaws. Some prepaid rickshaw stands can be found at Shivajinagar, Swargate Bus Depot, and Lohegaon Airport. All rickshaws plying in the Municipal Corporation limits are supposed to charge according to the meter.
Drivers will give you endless excuses why they cannot use the meter. Remember that they are required by law to have a working meter and use it, and this will almost always be cheapest for you too. If they still refuse, walk away: there are plenty of other rickshaws on the roads. In fact, drivers of rickshaws that you flag down from the streets (if practical and possible) will often be more agreeable than the those waiting in stands, who demand more fare.
The driver may occasionally stop to ask for directions depending on how familiar he is with the area. Nowadays, many auto rickshaw drivers try to charge extra for long distances or very short distances, or they refuse the fare. Stick to the demand of charging by meter and refuse strongly to pay any extra amount, unless it is past midnight. It is very common for rickshaw drivers plying between 11PM and 6AM to demand 1½ times the normal rates for the journey. You are advised to get this cleared with the driver before boarding the rickshaw.
If they realise you are not from the city, they may try to take longer routes to the destination to charge extra money from you. Thus, outsiders and foreigners, use your own judgement before boarding any auto rickshaw. Autorickshaw drivers may also refuse to travel to quite a few parts of the city as per their convenience; however, this is against the law if their meter reads "on hire" in the upright position. If the sign is turned sideways, the rickshaw driver is not working and can refuse you.
If you have complaints against auto drivers for not accepting short distance rides (or any rides), asking more meter fare, not using a meter, taking other passengers along the way, carrying more passengers than allowed capacity, stopping at bus stands or other similar complaints of serious nature, you can email or call the Road Transport Authorities at 020-22051414 or 020-27492828 (PCMC) or email rtopune@dataone.in. Traffic cops usually come right away to the spot to book a complaint against the driver. Commuters can also send their MMS pictures at +91 9420218338. The complaints should clearly mention all details including the auto’s registration number, the time of taking the rickshaw, details of auto fare, the distance commuted, locations, date, time, nature of complaint. After so many calls complaints, the RTO/police can fine them as heavily as ₹50 for refusal of service.

By bus

City buses in Pune are run by the PMPML. Although the vehicles are crowded and smoke-belching, the network is very extensive. Almost all parts of the city are connected by the PMPML city buses. Major city bus stands include Corporation, Shivaji Nagar, Swargate, Kothrud depot, Nigdi, Hadapsar, Katraj and Deccan. Shivaji Nagar is believed to be the busiest bus stand in the state of Maharashtra. The fare is calculated by distance, and ranges from ₹5 to ₹22. To travel other cities from pune, there are many private bus operators available. You can find from the bus booking sites like Redbus, Abhibus, and Myticketbuddy.

By car

Though there is a lot of traffic in Pune you can't compare it to Cairo or Kolkata. A majority of the vehicles are two wheelers and apart from the peak hours the roads in Pune are sparsely filled. There are quite a few car rental agencies in Pune. Most of them charge around ₹2500 a day for a mid-size car. There are extra charges for distances above 100 km. It is recommended to get a driver if you are not familiar with Indian cities and this also helps remove the problem of finding parking. Even for India the interpretation of traffic conventions is very flexible and not for the inexperienced or faint hearted. There are also taxis available like Uber, OLA who charge fairly as compared to auto rickshaws.
If you are driving a car always be careful, since motorbike riders may overtake you from left or right and cut lanes without warning.

By taxi

Several radio taxi companies operate in Pune. Uber and Ola are easily available throughout the city.

• Ali Cool Cab

  phone: +919767433709
  address: S.No. 59/1A, Shop No. 06, Sulai Complex,, Opp. Desai Hospital, Mohammad Wadi
  Professional cab operator for Pune to outstation trips.

• Taxi Guru Solution

  phone: +91-9763356909
  address: Sr. No. 11/21, Hole Wasti, Behind Premanand Park, Wanowrie

• SuperCabz

  phone: +91-9310-456789

• Just Car

  phone: +91-9527779813
  address: Near Premanand Park, Parmar Nagar
  Pin: 411040. Taxis and car rental.

• CabX

  phone: +91-7778889994
  address: Kondhwa Budruk

• 7mcar

  phone: +91 8087138713
  address: Manish Park NIBM Road

• Wingscabs

  phone: +91 20 40100100

• taxiforpune

  phone: +91 9665703666
  address: radha chowk balewadi

By two-wheelers

This city was once known as the city of bicycles, but now it has turned into the city of motorcycles. Most traffic rules are completely ignored in Pune and there are ten times as many two-wheelers as there are cars. The general attitude towards riding motorbikes in the city is that of total ignorance of any set forth traffic regulations along with complete disregard of one's safety (including not wearing a helmet). Here people ride motorbikes as if they are riding a war horse and will generally try to overtake every vehicle in front. Minor accidents on motorbikes are common; You are advised to be careful even when your signal is green as the traffic flow from other direction generally does not stop immediately. Wearing a helmet is compulsory in Pune. The fine for driving without helmets has been increased from ₹100 to ₹500, which includes both the rider as well as the pillion.
Pune's roads might turn to horrid potholes from smooth tarmac in matter of seconds when it rains. Always be on a lookout. The addition of new bicycle tracks all over has made an improvement on two-wheeler traffic.
If you do want to hire a two wheeler, there are two outfits who rent these vehicles in Pune. A 100cc Bajaj Platina will cost ₹200 a day and an automatic Honda scooter will cost ₹300. If you are planning on day trips from Pune you would be best with the larger wheels and light weight of a motorcycle rather than a scooter. Both outfits will most likely deliver to your accommodation if you ask nicely.

• Mehta Autos

  phone: +91 20 26127864 or +91 9371026288
  address: Mr Mukesh Mehta, 451 Somwar Peth Nr Khadiche Maidan Chowk, Behind Apollo Talkies cinema, Somwar Peth

• Blossoms

  phone: +91 9890829786
  address: Mr Shakeel Shaikh, 15, Bund Garden Rd

By suburban rail

The Pune Suburban Railway connects Pune to Lonavala, a small town en route to Mumbai. There is only one line with seventeen stations; a second monorail line is under consideration by the government. Here is a list of all the stations, east to west. The places of interest are listed in brackets. Italics indicate the various modes of transport available at the destination station.

• Pune City (MRSTC, City Bus Stand, Autos, Taxis, PMC)
• Shivaji Nagar (MRSTC, Shivaji Nagar Bus Stand, Autos, PMC)
• Khadki/Kirkee (Ammunition Factory, BDL, Ring Sights India Pvt Ltd)
• Dapodi (CME Museum)
• Kasarwadi (Air Vents & Glass Factory)
• Pimpri (Pimpri Plant, TATA Plant)
• Chinchwad (Bride Industries Ltd)
• Akurdi (Force Motors Plant, Bajaj Tempo)
• Dehu Rd (Army AOC & ASC 512 Base repair Depots)
• Begdewadi (Loco Sheds)
• Ghorawadi
• Talegaon (Muhammad Ali Rd, CRPF)
• Wadgaon (PWD bungalow)
• Kanhe
• Kamshet
• Malwali
• Lonavala

Pune is the cultural capital of Maharashtra. The Marathi film industry is also based here.

Architecture

• Aga Khan Palace

  address: Pune Nagar Road, Kalyani Nagar
  This historical landmark's architecture features Italian arches, salons, suites and spacious lawns. During the 1942 Quit India Movement, the British interned Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi here. The palace belonged to Aga Khan, prince and head of Khoja sect, who later donated the palace to erect a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and his wife. Must see is an exhibition of very rare black-and-white photos and paintings from various epochs in the freedom movement, but descriptions are sparse so it helps if you already have background to the story. Also worth seeing is the Samadhi of Kasturba Gandhi in the backyard.

• Chatushrungi Mata Temple

  address: Senapati Bapat Rd

• Pataleshwar Caves

  address: Revenue Colony, Shivajinaga
  This 8th-century temple is hidden in the heart of the city, nestled between modern high-rise structures and developments. Reminiscent of Ellora, the temple and its massive pillars, a Shiva shrine, and a Nandi bull, have been carved out of a single boulder of massive size. The temple is used by worshippers even today.

• Savitribai Phule Pune UniversityThe site of Poona University was the official residence of the Governor of Mumbai during the monsoon season. The campus features mansions built in Italian-Gothic style. A 300-m-high tower beckons to all these who come here in the pursuit of higher education. It is one of the oldest universities of India.

• Shaniwar Wada

  address: Shaniwar Peth
  This palace was built by the successors of Shivaji, the Peshwas in 1736. A massive fire destroyed the building in 1827. Most of the palace interiors were destroyed and all that remains is the old fortified wall. The brass studded gates and lotus pools have also withstood the ravages of time. This palace is situated in the heart of the city next to Deccan Gymkhana, Shivajinagar, and Laxmi Road. There is a 'Light & Sound Show' in three languages (Marathi, Hindi and English) every evening at the wada. It details the history of the Maratha empire and the significance of the role the Shaniwar played.

• Vishrambaug Wada

  address: RB Kumthekar Rd, Perugate, Sadashiv Peth
  The remains of this palace stand in the heart of the old city. It was built during the 18th century by a descendant of Bajirao Peshwa. It is well known for its elaborate wooden façade.

Culture

• Balgandharva rang mandir

  address: Deccan, shivajinagar
  Theatre and art gallery. The place is maintained by Pune Municipal corporation and has an air-conditioned theatre. Most of the famous Marathi plays are performed here. The theatre is named after famous Marathi artist Bal Gandharv.

• Darshan Museum

  address: HH Prince Aga Khan Rd, Sangamvadi
  This museum is a light and sound show that uses 3D holographic technology. It's a 100-minute show that takes you through the saint Sadhu Vaswani's life story via different sets. It uses probably the only implementation in the country to use a technique called Pepper's Ghost to create realistic 3D. The sets are real but the people who enact the scene are projections of light. The museum also houses a huge spectrum of artwork that's used to build the sets. A place for the entire family, the Darshan Museum is a must visit for anyone visiting the city. It is close to the Pune Railway Station at Sadhu Vaswani Chowk.

• Fortune Art Gallery

  address: 86/1, Erandwana, Deccan Gymkhana

• Mahatma Phule Museum

  address: 10 411004, 1204/10, Ghole Rd, Shivajinagar
  You can see various industrial products, agricultural and handicraft articles in this museum, which was established in 1890.

• Parvati Hill temples and museum

  address: Wagh Jai Rd, Parvati Paytha
  A few temples and a museum are seated on top of this tall hill which offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding area. A steep flight of 108 narrow steps leads to the hill top temple built by Balaji Baji Rao. ‘Nagarkjana’ drum house is the temple of Parvati and Devdeveshwar. This was once the private shrine of the Peshwas. It is also the final resting place of Nana Saheb Peshwa. The Parvati museum houses portraits of Peshwas, old manuscripts, coins, and other artifacts.

• Pune Music Cultural Centre

  address: 459/1, Sadashiv Peth.

• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

  address: 1377-78, Off. Bajirao Rd, Natu Baug, Shukrawar Peth
  The museum is housed in a Rajasthani style building situated close to the hustle and bustle of the busy Bajirao Road. The artifacts in the museum were once part of a personal collection. It is now open to the public and houses over 20,000 objects of which roughly 2,500 are displayed. There are 36 sections to the museum and the objects within range from carved palace and temple doors, 2,000 year old pottery, traditional Indian lamps, and 17th century paintings.

Scenery

Tekdi - is the Marathi word for hill. There are many small scenic hills in the city used for trekking and birdwatching. Notable among are Taljai (Near Parvati), Hanuman & Vetal Tekdi (near Law College Road, Paud Phata).

• Fergusson College

  address: Fergusson College Rd
  Built in 1885, the college has a beautiful tree-lined campus with smooth rolling hills in the background.

• National War Memorial

  address: Prince of Wales Dr Rd, Ghorpuri Lines, Dobarwadi, Ghorpadi
  The National War Memorial is a 8-m (25-foot) stone pillar dedicated to post-Independence war heroes. It is surrounded by a garden and has paved pathways. The memorial was funded entirely by the citizens of Pune, under the sponsorship of the Express Citizens' Forum. The foundation was laid in November 1997 and inaugurated in October 1998.

• Pashan Lake

  address: Sutarwadi Rd.
  An artificial lake, once a source for drinking water has become heavily silted and degraded by pollution. Efforts are underway to rectify these issues. This lake remains to be a bird watchers spot due to the variety of birds found in the area.

• Pu La Deshpande garden

  address: Sinhgad Rd
  One of the largest gardens in Pune, modelled after Okayama's Kōraku-en Garden.

• Saras Baug

  address: 2170 Sadashiv Peth
  A Ganesh Temple stands in the middle of the garden in a lake. It was built by Peshwa Bajirao II. This area has been developed into a park.

• Sinhagad Fort

  address: Sinhagad Ghat Rd, Thoptewadi
  This fort is a roughly 29-km drive to the southwest of Pune. It has historical importance dating back to the King Shivaji era. The surroundings are beautiful in the rainy season and on clear days you can see a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

• Vetal HillThe highest hill inside the city limits. The walk up to the Vetal Baba Mandir (temple) provides good views of the city but the best views are obstructed by trees and the radio transmitter building. The trail goes through scrub and forest maintained by local nature volunteers. There is a car park on Gokhalenagar Rd but if you start lower down from Kanchan Galli you will also pass the small temple Hanuman Mandir. There is also a chance of seeing wild Peacocks in the area.

• Bird Watching: Enjoy boating and bird viewing in some of the city parks of Pune. Migratory parks can viewed throughout the year in Pune. At the right time you can see many migrated birds in the parks.

• Gliding Centre Pune

  address: Hadapsar Airport
  Go for a joy ride in a glider and experience flying like a bird. Get an aerial view of Pune at a cost of ₹187. You can also learn to fly gliders at the Gliding Centre, which is India's oldest and till date the most active hub for gliding. It's at Hadapsar on the eastern side of the city. Flying activity is conducted from Sunday through Thursday.

• Horse ridingAnd go out for horse treks with Digvijay Pratishthan.

• Japalouppe Equestrian Center

  phone: +91 9890920183
  address: somatne phata, mumbai pune highway, talegaon Dabhade
  Punes Premier Riding school, Japalouppe is spread out over a picturesque 19 acres, with a team of 60 horses catering to a wide skill set of riders, from basic trotting and school work to advanced jumping and dressage.

• Panshet Water ParkAt a nearby dam, the tourism department has setup a water sports park.

• Paragliding School & Flying ClubA 1-hr drive from Pune at Kamshet. Para-glide lessons with Nirvana India's oldest and largest residential paragliding school. Flying activity is on from October - June.

• Trekking: Bhimashankar wildlife sanctuary in Pune, offers a thrilling and amazing trekking experience for the nature lovers. This wildlife sanctuary has two trekking trails available Seedi Ghat and Ganpati Ghat, out of these two Ganpati Ghat is a longer and less dangerous trekking path.

Festivals

Pune has a full calendar of events, ranging from Classical Music to Rock Concerts. However, Pune's most famous festival is the Pune Festival, which is held during the Ganesha Mahotsav.

• The Chatushrungi Fair is an annual event. It is held overnight on Navratri at Senapati Bapat Road. Giant-wheels are the main attractions but the food sold at the stalls is delicious too.
• The Ganesh Utsav or Ganeshotsav initiated by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, today is celebrated with great enthusiasm, as city interiors almost remain blocked for ten days. This is usually around the month of September and dates vary based on Hindu calendar. Pune has more than 2000 mandals with Dagdusheth Halwai being the biggest and most famous one.
• The Osho Festival is another international crowd puller in Pune. Held in the Osho Aashram in Koregaon Park, disciples and followers of Bhagwaan Rajneesh make it a point to attend this festival.
• The Pune International Film Festival - takes place annually and attracts some splendid films from around the world. This festival which generally takes place in January, lasts for a week and is a treat for film lovers in the city. Passes for single day or for entire duration are available at any of the multiplexes hosting the festival at reasonable rates.
• Sawai Gandharva classical music festival, which started back in the 1960s, has had every Indian and international artist perform and has given rise to a number of budding ones too. It is held in the months of December from dawn to dusk over three days.

A number of college festivals have become very commercialised, but still attract big crowds and a very high degree of competition from colleges all over Pune. Verve organised by Express Youth Forum is the biggest inter-collegiate cultural festival in India while Concepts organized by the Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT) is a very popular engineering (technical) event. The College of Engineering, Pune also organizes a technical festival which attracts participants from all over India.
So all year round, there is enough excitement to keep Puneites and tourists on their toes!

Itinerary - Hill forts

A day trip from Pune
Pune - Bhuleshwar - Purandar - Sinhagad - Pune
This round trip takes in some of the interesting hill forts around Pune. Total distance is about 220 km and will take 6 hours just to drive the loop, with lunch and sightseeing added on. The full trip could take up to 12 hours so leave a full day. It is suggested that this trip is undertaken either by motorcycle or 4WD due to the state of some of the roads that are encountered. It is possible to make the journey in a regular car (and many do - even auto ricks) but it will take longer and there will be a heavy toll on the cars suspension. To be as safe as possible you would also want some experience on driving on broken or unsurfaced roads and dealing with the challenges of driving in India.
Leave Pune on the National Highway 9 (Pune Solapur Highway) which passes the racecourse. This is a toll road and also very busy with cars and trucks. If you have taken a motorcycle be very careful.
The turn off to Bhuleshwar is about 35 km from Pune and shortly after the second toll booth (about 2 km before Yavat village). A concrete bridge crosses a canal and the turn off is to the right just before the bridge. There is no sign in English, but there is a sign to Deccan Industrial Explosives pte. After 5 km or so the road will climb into some ghats, where the road becomes quite broken. Once you reach the top of the ghats you will see the temple and a prominent radio mast to the right. The turn to the temple is the next right, the road becomes quite steep at some points.
After visiting the temple and fort (allow 30 to 40 min), return to the road and turn right where you turned off. This road will take you to Saswad (or Sasvad on some maps). There are several turnoffs, keep heading west, but also plenty of people to ask the way, nearly everyone knows Saswad. The scenery is quite flat though enlivened by scenes of Indian rural life. The road is paved but quite rough. You can take lunch when you reach the town.
Thereafter, ask the way for Purandar itself or Nasrapur which is where the road goes. Many people know it. The road is the Diwale to Narayanpur road. In fact the hill itself is easy to spot as it towers above Narayanpur. After 5 km after the turnoff from you will reach a left fork which is signed (not in English). Take this and follow the twisty road to Purandar. As of October 2009, the majority of the road was totally unsurfaced (awaiting surfacing) so would be muddy during rain and there is also the possibility of dealing with the resurfacing activity. Allow 30 minutes to enjoy the views and look at the abandoned army buildings and another 1½ hours to climb to the top and explore.
It will take about 15 minutes to regain the main road if you have a motorbike. Turn left when you reach it and enjoy the smooth tarmac and twists of the road as you pass between the two hills. Eventually you will reach National Highway 4 (also a toll road), turn right and again pay attention to the road hazards.
Approximately 12 km later at Khed take a left turn towards Shivapur. Pass through towards Kondapur, where you take a right fork, thereafter at the T-junction take the left which leads to Sinhagad Fort.
In terms of time to spend here it is best to gauge your stamina and enthusiasm against the amount of light you have left, as it is better to end the journey in daylight rather than drive at night.
Retrace your steps to NH4 and then follow this back to Pune. You will arrive in the Bibvewadi area in the south of the city.

• Bhuleshwar-a very beautiful 1100-year-old hill temple near Yavat in the Saswad region. The patterns and beautiful stone statues inside the temple are stunning. This place is around 60 km via Saswad-the closest and most beautiful route. This place and the surrounding areas of Saswad are praised by one British General, the Duke of Welligton as “one of the best peaceful place in the Deccan plateau and the region of beautiful temples”
• Nil Kantheshwar

One of Pune's nicknames is Oxford of the East because of the presence of many renowned educational universities and colleges. Some of the prominent ones are:

• BJ Medical College - Affiliated to University of Pune
• College of Engineering, Pune - Affiliated to University of Pune
• Fergusson College
• Symbiosis International University
• University of Pune

Pune is a city where you will find an excellent range of streetside shops as well as a few outstanding malls. Pune is a good place to pick up some Indian slippers made of rubber. Soft, comfortable Kolhapuri chappals (leather sandals), that are manufactured in the town of Kolhapur, can be found in many of the street shops in Pune.

Budget

All the places listed here are places where you can bargain hard and get some good stuff off the pavement for rock-bottom prices. There are several roads and areas that have clusters of shopping in them.

• Fashion Street. In the Pune Camp Area, near M.G. Road. This market has lots of inexpensive readymade garments, footwear, leather items and fashion accessories. Be sure to bargain to get the best prices.
• Hongkong Lane. In Deccan, near the Garware Bridge. The lane has a blink-and-you-will-miss-it entrance. This small street has large offerings, including bags, clothes, accessories, books and footwear.
• Juna Bazar. Near the Pune Railway Station (enroute to the Pune Municipal Corporation). The market is held every Wednesday and Sunday on the street approx 9AM to 6PM. It is similar to a flea market and you can purchase a variety of interesting objects for throw-away prices including old rare coins, gramophone records, and other such unique paraphernalia.
• Koregaon Park. One of the several boutiques on North Main Road and its by-lanes in Koregaon Park. These are small, exclusive boutiques and have a good collection. Expect to pay more for these clothes, but you may find the occasional great bargain.
• Laxmi Road. A very huge market selling gold jewellery and clothes.
• M.G. Road. Any items such as shoes, clothing, pots, pans, electronics, stationary, furniture, kitchen sinks etc. can be found at Modelina Grant Road, known to locals as M.G. Road.
• Tulshi Baug. On the Bajirao Road, near Maharashtra Bank. It is a must visit and also favourite household items such as crockery, vegetable stands. Very cheap ladies garments, footwear and other items required for daily use are available at low prices.
• Vishram Baug Wada. There is a shop inside Vishram baug wada where you get variety of decorative as well as daily use items. The highlight of this shop is all the goods are created by small groups of women (Mahila Bachat Gata). Most of the items are handmade and exclusive variety. We must support such groups of women who are fighting against all odds to become independent.

Books

Puneites are crazy about books. This shows in the number of excellent bookshops scattered throughout the city. The area known as 'Appa Balwant Chowk' is famous for various big and small book shops. Some of them specialize in subjects like law, management, religion, computer, or music.
Birds of Pune available from Centre for Environment Education and Kalpavriksh

• Ajit Law Book DepotAppa Balwant Chowk.

• Book Space, 593, Ganesh Peth.
• Book World, Basement, Sagar Arcade, FC Road.
• The Crossword chain of bookshops has 8 branches in Pune.

• LandmarkSGS Mall, Molendina Rd.

• Popular Book Shop, Deccan Gymkhana.
• Utkarsh Book Depot, Deccan Gymkhana, Near Garware Bridge.
• The WORD bookshop, Boottee St, Camp.

Electronics

Pune is a technology hub and is home to IT, ITES, and BPO professionals. Pune also has one of the highest densities of Engineers and Management graduates pursuing studies. Sony World, House of Laptops, Croma are electronics chains dishing out the goodies.

Haircut

Being a student town, Pune has a good selection of mid-priced hair salons.

• Lizzes Hairdressers

  phone: +91 20 66044100, +91 20 66044114
  address: E Square Multiplex, The Gordan House Hotel, S No 132/A, 6th Floor, University Road, Ganeshkhind
  English understood well.

Pune is undoubtedly a great place to eat. Fergusson College Road is full of budget eateries serving delicious hot food at nominal charges. Almost all restaurants open and close at similar hours. 10AM-11PM is the usual. Of course, restaurant bars stay open till at least midnight. Misals are a Pune favourite, if you can stomach the spice in them. They are a tasty meal and a visit to Bedekar Misal or Shree Uphar Gruha is a must. They are in the Peth areas and are famous. Shree Uphar Gruha is at Tulsi Baug. Its a small joint but dishes out tasty Misal and fritters.
For variety, head out to Koregaon Park. North Main Road is a lane with more than 50 restaurants. It offers a choice of cuisine including Italian, French, Mexican, Thai, Japanese and a variety of local Indian food; there is a restaurant to fit every taste and mood. ABC farms in Koregaon Park has many restaurants at one place - ideal when you cannot decide before leaving for dinner. Koregaon Park is known as the Restaurant Suburb, and holds a similar status to Pune that Bandra holds to Mumbai.

• Home Delivery

  phone: +91 33006464
  address: Pune
  Online ordering. Food delivery from over 200 restaurants in Pune. Pay online, or cash on delivery.

Budget

• Ande Ka Funda

  address: Paud road
  The only place for eggeterian. Serves 26 egg items.

• Badshahi Lodging and Boarding

  address: Tilak Road
  One of the oldest boarding place in pune its almost a century old place and it serves very nice and authentic Maharashtrian Pure Veg Thali (Brahmani). There thali rate is ₹60 per person. its a nice and clean place.

• Bapat Upahar Gruha

  phone: +91 88550 87888
  address: 1376, Bajirao Road,
  Excellent Maharashtrian Food and very affordable.

• Chaitanya(vegetarian)/Tawas and Tandoors(non-vegetarian)

  address: at F.C. Road
  Serves quite cheap stuffed parathas(layered chapattis), rice.Has combos of chicken/mutton/fish curries and dal(lentils)+parathas;biryanis;tandoor snacks on offer at very reasonable prices.

• Chitale Bandhu MithaiwaleOutlets in the city are also a must go for a variety of sweetmeats and snack items. The Gulabjamun with sprinkled sugar which is a dessert dish and the famous Bakarwadi which is a fried chickpea flour preparation, are something worth trying while visiting Pune.

• Delhi KitchenServes cheap and delightful Punjabi food. Curries available in different serving sizes; a 'quarter' curry being sufficient for one person.

• Godbole's SuswaramVery good Maharashtrian snacks like Khichadi, pohe, vada pav, sheera. Also serves very good lunch.

• Good Luck Cafe

  address: Good Luck Chowk (Square), F.C Road.
  One of the oldest and among the most popular restaurants in Pune, it serves Iranian/Punjabi dishes, but is well known for its tea and butter bread. Mostly frequented by collegians, it's a cool place to hang out.

• JJ Garden Vada Pav

  address: MG Road, Camp
  Serves one of the best Vada Pav with green chutney. A must-have when you are in Pune.

• Kohinoor Restaurant

  address: 242, MG Road, Camp

• Laxminarayan Best Chiwda'They are famous for their Rice flakes Chiwda, Cornflakes Chiwda and Potato Chiwda.

• Marzorin

  address: Main Street, Camp
  Famous for sandwiches, cakes and pastries.

• Manmeet Chat Center

  phone: +91 64001088
  On east side of F.C. Road next to Subway and opposite F.C. College Junior wing entrance, near Sant Tukaram Chouk. Delicious chat. 'Popular basket chat' is ₹50 and is a tasty filling meal or great for sharing. The 'extra special' costs ₹5 more.

• Mehendale Garage

  address: Mehendale Garage, Kothrud.
  Clean authentic home-made maharashtrian food with some delicious Bharit-Bhakri (Eggplant dish similar to the Greek Babaganoush served with Jowar or Bajra Bread) or even Kadhi-Khichadi (rice-lentil porridge). Finish up with a glass of Taak (buttermilk) or Solkadhi (Kokum + Coconut Milk).

• Steamy affair

  address: JM Rd
  Serves steam idli, fried idli, veg idli, corn idli, kutti idli, pepper idli and dahi idli among the 15 varieties. The speciality is the varaya idli which is served exclusively on Thursdays and Saturdays for people who observe fast. Another unique type of idli served here is the kadhi idli. Spicy chutneys served along with these sumptuous snacks make the dish even more interesting. All the idlis are ₹12-22.

• Tilak

  address: Tilak road
  Best quality tea and Vadapav; an any time snack and other mouth lingering varieties at most affordable price. No waiter and no tips. Just a service counter based on token system.

• Top in Town

  address: Garvare Bridge
  Amazing non-veg food items. Do not miss fish and Chicken here.

• Vaishali

  address: 1218/1, Shivaji Nagar, Fergusson College Rd
  A popular youth joint serving amazing South Indian dishes. Their Sambhar is arguably the best in the City.

• Vohuman

  address: 34, Sassoon Rd.
  An awesome Iranian place serving delicious omelettes. Good for breakfast. Right next to the Jehangir Hospital. Try the cheese omelettes and bun maska of this place.

• Wadeshwar

  address: Fergusson College Rd.
  Another popular eating place. The best fast food you will get here inlcludes appe, vada-sambhar, and pav bhaji. Another branch of wadeshwar is also there on Bajirao road, Shukrawar peth, which serves very good idlis and uttapa, and alu paratha.worth a try.

Mid-range

• Asha Dining Hall

  address: Apte Road
  Good Marathi thali at a very reasonable price and a clean dining place.

• Blue NileLong running Mughlai cuisine restaurant famous for its Biryani, Prawns Fry and Chelo Kebabs. Runs busy most days, justifiably so.

• Chaitanya (vegetarian), Tawas and Tandoors (non-vegetarian)

  address: F.C. Road
  Serves quite cheap stuffed parathas(layered chapattis), rice. Has combos of chicken/mutton/fish curries and dal (lentils) and parathas; biryanis; tandoor snacks on offer at very reasonable prices.

• Serves cheap and delightful Punjabi food. Curries available in different serving sizes; a 'quarter' curry being sufficient for one person.

• The Green VillaThis is an Arab-themed restaurant quite popular with the youth and foreigners. They serve authentic Mughlai and Lebanese food along with Hookah.

• JanasevaTraditional Maharashtrian Thali, very famous and visited by many Maharashtrians visiting Pune.

• Kayani Bakery

  address: East St.
  Famous for its Shrewsbury biscuits, Walnut Cake and Sponge Cake, many mouth watering bakery items here disappear almost instantly over the counter.

• Manmeet Chat Center

  phone: +91 64001088
  On east side of F.C. Road next to Subway and opposite F.C. College Junior wing entrance, near Sant Tukaram Chouk. Delicious chat. 'Popular basket chat' is ₹50 and is a tasty filling meal or great for sharing. The 'extra special' costs ₹5 more.

• Nisarg Vada PaavThe best Vada Paav in Pune, but the place not at all clean.

• SarangiFamous for North Indian dishes. The food is authentic, economical and very tasty.

• Satguru Punjabi RasoiNorth Indian food, also at Destination Center, Magarpatta City, Hadapsar.

• Sharvaree

  phone: +91 20 25531511
  address: 1199/1A FC Road
  Sharvaree is upstairs and famous for traditional Maharashtrian 'thalipeeth', a savoury multigrain pancake snack. Downstairs is Shabree which is multicuisine but specialises in Maharashtrian thali (₹150). The food is good and the restaurant is very clean and pleasant.

• Shreyas

  address: Apte Road.
  Serves very good local Marathi cuisine thali (all you can eat set menu) at a reasonable price and a clean dining place. Amras and Ukadiche Modak (steamed sweet coconut filled rice dumplings) not to be missed during mango season and Ganesh festival respectively.

• SukantaFamous for Thali. The food is very tasty.

• Vaishali

  address: 1218/1, Shivaji Nagar, Fergusson College Rd.
  A popular youth joint serving amazing South Indian dishes. Their Sambhar is arguably the best in the City.

• Vasu Vada Pav

  address: Bhel Chowk, Pradhikaran
  Serves one of the best Vada Pav. A must-have when you are in Pimpri Chinchwad.

• Vohuman

  address: 34, Sassoon Rd.
  An awesome Iranian place serving delicious omelettes. Good for breakfast. Right next to the Jehangir Hospital.

• Wadeshwar

  address: Fergusson College Rd.
  Another popular eating place. The best fast food you will get here inlcludes appe, vada-sambhar, and pav bhaji. Another branch of wadeshwar is also there on Bajirao road, Shukrawar peth, which serves very good idlis and uttapa, and alu paratha.worth a try.

• The Yogi Tree Cafe

  address: North Main Road, Koregaon Park
  Wholesome pancakes, sandwiches and salads make this the favourite brunch destination of the Osho Ashram crowd ever since German Bakery shut down.

• Copa Cabana

  phone: +91 20 4674 2928
  address: Aundh Wakad Road,Vishal Nagar, Samarth Colony, Pimple Nilak
  Good and wide selection of food with very pleasant covered and garden dining areas away from the hectic main road.

• Curry on the Roof

  phone: +91 20 2546 6793
  address: F.P No. 42B, C.T.S No. 114B, Prabhat Road, Erandwane
  Good choice of India food. Good service

• Mezza9 Lounge

  phone: +91 88 88851818
  address: T Park Phase 1, Hinjewadi
  Good Indian food. Has a nice outside dining area.

Splurge

• Barberque Nation

  address: Kalyani Nagar & Pune Bypass Wakad
  Offers a vast & delicious variety of concept dining menu. Really worth paying for, specially for the unlimited servings of prawns, crabs, chicken, mutton, fish and also equally delicious Veg food. Rotate skewered dishes yourself with grill built into the table. Good 8-10 variety of desserts to finish your meal.

• CAD-B Ice-cream Magic

  address: Near Karishma Society, Kothrud, Pune or Opp. Kamala Nehru Park, Bhadarkar Road, Pune.ice cream magic,e-square food court level 2
  A must-have when in Pune. For chocolate lovers.

• La Dolce Vita

  address: City Point, Dhole Patil Rd.
  Serves authentic cuisine from Tuscany, Italy. The menu has an extensive list of Italian wines.

• Flags

  address: INOX Multiplex, Bund Garden Rd, Camp
  Has a very interesting menu.

• Kabab FactoryPackage comes in both veg and non-veg formats costing ₹325 and ₹375 + taxes, respectively. Package include unlimited delicious kababs (6-7 different types), Roti, Dal, Biryani and desserts (4-5 different types to choose from) every item listed is unlimited.

• Kangan

  address: Plot no 36/3B, Mundhawa Road, Ghorpadi
  Indian restaurant (dinner)

• La Pizzeria

  phone: +91 20 26133535
  address: 361/5, Bund Garden Rd, Camp
  Has amazing Italian cuisine, pizzas and garlic bread, and it is run by an Italian. Has a fine-dining ambience.

• Mahesh Lunch HomeHands down wins the top spot for Pune's best seafood.

• Malaka Spice

  address: Koregaon Park
  Lip smacking Thai and continental food.

• Mastani

  phone: +91 20-24474641
  address: Sujata Mastani, Nimbalkar Talim Chowk, 1260, Sadashiv Peth
  A must have when in Pune. For ice cream lovers. It's like milkshake with icecream.

• Nisarg

  address: Nal Stop Junction
  Erandwane serves excellent Malvan/Goan style Sea Food specially crabs & lobsters.

• Oh Calcutta

  address: City Point, Dhole Patil Rd.
  A fantastic spread of Bengali cuisine.

• The Orient

  address: Sun n Sand, NH 4.
  Serves authentic Chinese food in a laid-back atmosphere with soft music in the background. Quite similar to the Whispering Bamboo in the Taj.

• le plasir

  address: Shop No.4 B, Lane 6 Intersection, Bhandarkar Road, Deccan Gymkhana
  A small French bistro, where you can get very delicious pastas and salads. Macroons and eclairs of this place are must to try

• Prego

  address: at 36/3-B, Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhawa Road, Ghorpadi

• Seasonal Tastes

  address: at The Westin Pune Koregaon Park
  for buffet and Sunday brunch

• Shangrila

  address: 14th Lane, Prabhat Road
  Spicy Kolhapuri veg. and non-veg. cuisine. The mutton pickle is worth a try.

• Sigree

  address: City Point, Dhole Patil Rd
  delicious North Indian food.

• Spice Islandserves North Indian cuisine and is ideal for fine dining. There is a live band in the evenings.

• Spice Kitchen

  phone: +91 66833333
  address: Pune Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre

• Taj Blue Diamond

  address: 11, Koregaon Rd, Koregaon Park
  This Taj hotel has three restaurants and a bar. Classy and reliable.

• Terttulia

  address: South Main Road, Koregaon Park
  Impeccable continental fare including pizzas, pastas and steaks served with cocktails in a European-style outdoor cafe.

• The Yellow Chilli

  phone: +91 20 41285454, +91 20 41285757
  address: Sanskriti Lifestyle Complex, Lane No. 7, Koregaon Park
  Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor dishes up a wide variety of interpretations of Maharashtrian and northern Indian cuisines. Choose between the outside veranda with a bar-b-q buffet, or venture into the stylish modern interior for à la carte. The choc chip kulfi is listed as a must try - this is no exaggeration!

• The Place - Touche the Sizzler

  address: 7 Clover Center, Moledina Road, Camp Area
  The Place is an old stalwart among the sizzler outlets in Pune. Reasonably priced with an old school ambience, they are known for Chicken Sizzlers. Garlic Chicken Strips and Sopa De Catolena are recommended frequently.

Refreshing Indian drinks such as Jal Jeera (a cumin seed drink) and Nimbu Pani (lemon water/soda) are sold on the sidewalk for around ₹5 per glass.
Alcohol is easily available all over town, though most of the bars are in Koregaon Park and upmarket areas. Most bars open in the afternoon and close an hour or two after midnight.

• Doolally's The 1st brewhouse

• Hard Rock Cafe

  phone: +91 20-4015-8888
  address: Plot No. 81/82, East Main Road, Koregaon Park Extension, Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa

• Shailaja

  phone: +91 20 2553 3754
  address: 1325, Jangali Maharaj Road, Shivaji Nagar,
  Wonderful food like Surmai and crab. Place for serious drinkers. Place has been around for 50 years.

• Ten Downing Street

  address: City Point Complex, City Bay Building 101&102, Street No 17, Boat Club Road, Sangamvadi

• Thousand Oaks

  phone: +91 20 2634 3194
  address: 2417, East St, Camp.

• Toons

  phone: +91 98231 23073
  address: 26, Wonderland Basement, 7 MG Road, Camp Area

• The Flying Saucer Sky Bar

  phone: +91 90215 45468
  address: 9th Floor, Sky Vista Building, New Airport Rd, Viman Nagar

• WTF Bar and Pub

  phone: +91 77387 33358
  address: 209, 2nd Floor, Phoenix Market City Mall, East Block, Viman Nagar

• Irish Village Brewery

  phone: +91 20 3016 2282
  address: Mundhwa Road, Opp Raga Lawns, Koregaon Park

• Euriska

  phone: +91 90491 59911
  address: N Main Rd, Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa

• Kiva Brew Pub

  phone: +91 90146 32125

Also check out the major hotel bars such as at the Sheraton Grand, Sagar Plaza, JW Marriott, Deccan Rendezvous and The Westin (see below sleep section).

• Independence Brewing Company

  address: 79/1, Zero One Complex, Pingale Vasti, Near Passport Seva Kendra, Mundhwa, Pune, Maharashtra 411036

Tea and coffee

There is no lack of coffee shops in the city. Some of the restaurants listed above serve good coffee, or head to a branch of the Barista or Cafe Coffee Day chains, both of which have numerous locations around town. The FC Road and MG Road branches of Barista are wi-fi hotspots.

• Cafe Good Luck

  phone: +91 20 2567 6893
  address: End of FC Road
  Oldest Iranian restaurant. Famous for bread items and Mutton Kheema.

• Coffee House

  address: M.G. Rd.
  Enjoy their Channa Bhathura.

• Coffee StopEnjoy cold coffee here

• Dorabji

  address: FC road
  Famous for coffee and its products. Don't forget to enjoy bun-maska (bread with butter) with Irani tea

• Durga

  address: Paud Road
  A popular joint for coffee.

• Juice World

  address: M.G. Rd/ East St.
  Serves wonderful parathas and pav bhaji.

Budget

• Living Beautifully

  phone: +91 9326030310
  address: Koregaon Park
  Accommodation exclusively for people visiting the Osho International Meditation Resort.

• Sumangal Youth Hostel

  phone: +91 9822010217
  address: Jambhulwadi road 60/1 plot 2
  Clean three-star facilities nice lake view.

• Suyash Lodge

  address: Tilak Road
  Very cheap, but almost basic facilities.

• Trimurti Lodge

  address: Fergusson College Rd.
  It's not particularly clean.

• Yatri Lodge

  phone: +91 20 2543 7197
  address: Plot No. 68, Sr. No. 41/4A/1, Paud Phata, Karve Road, Erandawane, Kothrud
  Clean but basic facilities.

Mid-range

• Alcove Service Apartments

  phone: +91 9900578231
  address: Gera’s Greenville, Villa no Carnation 57, Kharadi
  Single room, or independent 3 BHK apartments, AC bedrooms with double beds and independent bathrooms, TV with cable & DVD player, furnished kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffeemaker, mixer grinder and gas stove, utility with fully automatic washing machine, iron and ironing board, a large swimming pool with children's area, sun deck, a swim up bar & Jacuzzi, club house with gym, lounge/party room, steam sauna & massage room, 24-hr security, power backup, basketball & badminton court, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi.

• Deccan Rendezvous

  phone: +91 20-2561 2345
  address: 202/3 Apte Rd, Shivaji Nagar, Shivajinagar
  A small 3-star business hotel, which tries to lure business travellers away from the larger chains with 24-hour check out (e.g., check in at 7PM, leave at 7PM), complimentary stay for accompanying spouse, free airport transfers & free high speed internet connectivity. Has a small pool and basic gym, a restaurant and bar and helpful staff. Soul Purpose bar:extremely subdued lighting would make this a good place for an illicit rendezvous. Clientele are a mix of business travellers and dining guests.

• Hotel Mandakini Ambience

  phone: +91 9810068858, +91 9235605005
  address: Survey No. 208/3/2, Kalewadi Chowk, Above Good Home Stores, Wakad
  4-star hotel with 60 Executive Suites. Multi-cuisine restaurant, with Indian, south Indian, Chinese, Continental and Thai cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Business Center with secretarial assistance, travel desk, cab on call. All rooms are centrally air conditioned, carpeted, running hot and cold water, satellite TV, mini bar, direct dial calling. The hotel also has a travel service, currency exchange, doctor on call, fridge, iron box, hot & cold water, gym and internet.

• Living Waters Hospitality Pvt. Ltd.

  phone: +91 9890693819
  address: 41 / 4, Hermes Paras, Kalyani Nagar
  luxury accommodation in your budget, service apartment for rent, apartment for living, apartment for property management, bedroom suite, bungalow, corporate apartments, flats, furnished apartment for rent, holiday accommodation. 24hrs security, Power Back up, Basket ball & Badminton court, complimentary breakfast, free Wi Fi internet

• Courtyard Pune Hinjewadi

  phone: +91 20 4212 2222
  address: S. No 19 & 20, P4, Phase 1, Hinjewadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi
  Rooms and service much higher quality than in US Courtyards, including better shower plumbing and air-conditioning. Reasonable restaurant. Driver service to nearby locations.Refrigerator and safe in room but not much space for cloths storage.

• Holiday Inn Pune Hinjewadi

  phone: +91 20 6686 2200
  address: Hinjewadi Pune Bangalore Highway, Mahalunge
  Quality, reasonable sized rooms with fridge and safe. Small restaurant and bar. Pool and fitness room. Although close to stadium no other facilities nearby but hotel can provide car and driver to nearby locations.

• Hotel Satkar

  phone: +91 20 25538196
  address: Opp shivajinagar bus stand, shivajinagar pune 411005
  reasonably priced ,clean rooms available with 24 hours hot water, tv in each room and close to the station

Splurge

Pune has a small but good range of top-end hotels. Prices are generally more than those in the US. A double room tends to be priced at USD 200-400 per night. During the lean season, good discounts are available.

• Corporate Stay

  phone: +91 98224 33282
  address: No.9, Sahyadri Farms, Baner Road, Lalit Estate, Baner

• Four Points By Sheraton, Pune

  phone: +91 20 3940 6699
  address: 5th Mile Stone, Opp Inorbit Mall Pune, Nagar Rd, Tulaja Bhawani Nagar, Kharad

• Hotel Aashirwad

  address: 16, Connaught Road, Agarkar Nagar

• Hotel Brookside

  phone: +91 98601 00730
  address: Plot No.7A, Viman Nagar Rd, Clover Park, Viman Naga

• Hotel Sagar Plaza

  phone: +91 20 2620 5000
  address: 1, Road Next to S.G.S. Mall, Wellesley Rd

• St Laurn Hotel Koregaon Park

  phone: +91 20 4000 8000
  address: 5/A, Koregaon Park Rd, Vasani Nagar, Koregaon Park

• St Laurn Business Hotel

  phone: +91 20 4021 8000
  address: 220, Phase I, Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjewadi, Phase 1, Hinjewadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawad

• Hotel Sayaji

  phone: +91 20 4212 1212
  address: 135/136, Mumbai-Bangalore Bypass Highway, Wakad

• Hyatt Regency Pune

  phone: +91 20 6645 1234
  address: Weikfield IT Park, Nagar Road

• JW Marriott Hotel

  phone: +91 20 6683 3333
  address: Senapati Bapat Road, 30, Shivajinagar

• Sheraton Grand Pune

  phone: +91 20 6641 1111
  address: Raja Bahadur Mill Road
  Including the popular: Entresol Bar, Roof Top Bar and a number of restaurants.

• Marriott Suites Pune

  phone: +91 20 6725 7777
  address: 81 Mundhwa, Koregaon Park Annex

• The O Hotel

  phone: +91 20 4001 1000
  address: N Main Rd, Ragvilas Society, Koregaon Park

• The Pride Hotel

  phone: +91 20 6647 1471
  address: 5 University Road, Shivajinagar, Narveer Tanaji Wadi, Shivajinagar

• Royal Orchid Central

  phone: +91 20 4000 3000
  address: Kalyani Nagar, Marisoft Annexe Building

• Sun n Sand

  phone: +91 20 2616 7777
  address: 262, Bund Garden Rd, Bund Garden, Sangamvadi

• Taj Blue Diamond

  phone: +91 20 6602 5555
  address: 11 Koregaon Road, Vasani Nagar, Koregaon Park

• The Westin Pune Koregaon Park

  phone: +91 20 6721 0000
  address: 36/3-B Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa Road, Ghorpadi

• Hotel Studio Estique

  phone: +91 20-40188444
  address: Amar Avinash Corporate Plaza, Bund Garden Rd
  Offers five categories of contemporary design room and more than 10 different room sizes, to suit your budget.

• Shreyas Hotel

  phone: +91 20 2553 2785
  address: 1242 B, Apte Road, Deccan Gymkhana
  Basic facilities.

• Sentosa Resorts and Water Park

  phone: +91 9922992520
  address: Pune Bypass Road, Ravet
  Also has a multi-cuisine restaurant, open 11:00 to 23:59 daily, that serves North Indian, Continental and other cuisines, has outdoor and indoor seating and has live music and ghazals on weekends. The water park is open daily, 10:00-18:00 and costs $6. Sentosa is easily visible from the main highway.

Camping

There are many spots near Pune in which you can go for camping. Camping can be done safely on spots such as Lonavala, Tungarli Lake, Valvan Lake, Rajmachi, Mahableshwar, Panchgani, Kashid & Phansad.
Rappelling, lake crossing, adventure sports, paint ball in jungle setup.

Phone

• Pune is well covered by mobile phone networks. Idea (GSM), Airtel (GSM), BSNL (GSM),Vodafone (GSM), Tata (GSM/CDMA), Reliance (GSM/CDMA), Telenor (Formerly Uninor) (GSM),Aircel & Reliance JIO (GSM).
• To call a Mumbai number, the phone does not require STD. Simply dial 022 followed by the 8 digit number.
• STD/ISD booths, which are public pay phones are more or less extinct.
• The format of a Pune landline number is +91 20-2xxxxxxx (BSNL) / 3xxxxxxx (Reliance) / 4xxxxxxx (Airtel) / 6xxxxxxx (TATA Indicom)

Internet

A large number of internet cafes dot the city. Most private cafes charge about ₹10-₹25 an hour. However, the Reliance World chain of cyber cafes run by Reliance Communications offer fast broadband connections at around a US dollar per hour. There are 8 branches in Pune

• Plot 69, Sec 27A, Nigdi.
• Plot 19/20, Swajos Complex, Aundh.
• Ishwarlal Palace, Plot 293/294, Pimpri.
• Hotel Regency, Dhole Patil Rd.
• 19/20, Rahul Complex, Paud Rd.
• 917/2A, FC Rd, Deccan Gymkhana.
• 1358/A, Shukrawar Peth, Bajirao Rd.
• Shop 4, Sterling Centre, M.G. Rd, Camp.

Pune is by and large a very safe place. Violent crime is low, although it's important to keep an eye on your belongings in public, as petty theft can occur. Do report any such activity to the police. Keep away from the touts.
Chain-snatching has become the most infamous nuisance. Especially elder women need to be careful. Preventive measure include curbing the desire to wear and flaunt jewelery even in day time.
Locals are by and large friendly and mild mannered, though incidents of mugging have been reported on the outskirts of Pune, especially on highways and desolate stretches. If you face a vehicle breakdown after dark, its best to stay in the vehicle and phone for help.
Although Pune is generally safe for women, it's advisable not to venture out alone into dark and isolated places. Hiring cabs at night without one or more companions is not recommended. Climbing the surrounding hills alone is tempting but unwise-and this goes for both sexes! Having said that, women can confidently walk the streets or visit the shops/pubs/restaurants in the popular residential or commercial areas after sunset.
Driving in Pune is not for the weak-hearted. Like other Indian metros, Pune has seen an virtual explosion in traffic in recent years, and the infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. Lack of discipline especially during overtaking and driving on the wrong side is rampant in the city and on highways. Its common to see rude and impatient drivers at intersections honking away at pedestrians. Enforcement of traffic rules leaves a lot to be desired, unlike Mumbai or other major cities. Road conditions deteriorate especially in heavy traffic areas during monsoon. In 2008, 1,617 people suffered injuries and 477 fatalities in road accidents occurred in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. If you are driving, its a good idea to drive defensively. Be courteous to fellow motorists and maintain lane discipline. Though the helmet rule is not strictly enforced, its always a good idea to wear a helmet while riding a two wheeler.

Tourist offices

• Maharashtra Tourism (MTDC)

  phone: +91 20-26126867
  address: Pune Central Building

• Tourist Info Booth

  address: Pune City Station

Emergency assistance

• Police -100
• Fire -101
• Ambulance - 102
• Maharashtra Emergency Medical Services (Ambulance) - 108
• Accident and trauma - 1099

• Bhimashankar — Wildlife Sanctuary
• Jejuri — A 49-km drive to the southeast from Pune, this small city's best known landmark is the Khandoba Temple.
• Lavasa - Lavasa is a private, planned city being built near Pune. It is stylistically based on the Italian town Portofino, with a street and several buildings bearing the name of that town.
• Lohagad — 52 km northwest of Pune, this fort's walls and structures are more intact than other, neighboring forts. The fort rests on the top of a hill and is beautiful in the rainy season.
• Lonavla — the second-most visited hill station in Maharashtra. It is on the way from Pune to Mumbai.
• Mahabaleshwar — This is the largest hill station in the Sahyadri mountains and is about 115 km southwest of Pune.
• Malshej Ghat — Amidst the Sahyadri Hills, it is about a 119-km drive from Pune. This beautiful hill station has many scenic vistas and beautiful waterfalls.
• Mulshi — To the west of Pune lies Munshi, near the town of Lonavala. Mulshi and the surroundings are abundant with natural beauty that includes a dam, the hilly region of Sahyadri's deep forests and forts like Dhangad and Koraigadh. The water from the dam is used for generating electricity.
• Narayanpur (Purandar Fort) — 40 km southwest of Pune.
• Nashik — An ancient holy city about 210 km from Pune.
• Neel Kantheshwar — 35 km from Pune, this hill temple is near the source of the Mutha river. At this hill station are hundreds of statues that describe scenes from Hindu scriptures and Puranas. The scenery offers a view of three major dams from its top.
• Rajgad — This is a hill fort about 50 km southwest of Pune.
• Rajmachi (Udhewadi) — This small village is a roughly 78-km drive from Pune, in the rugged mountains of Sahyadri. There are two forts which were built by Shivaji Emperor during the 17th century. In the rainy season there are giant waterfalls and an abundance of greenery. Rajmachi can be reached by 2 ways, the tough route from Kondivade village, near Karjat, and the other easy but long route from Lonavla. It an excellent place for trekking and is about a 15-km hike from Lonavla.
• Shirdi — Shirdi is a town in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra in India. There are many buses connecting Shirdi to Pune which is 200 km away, about a 5-hour trip. Shirdi is where the saint Sai Baba lived till his samadhi in 1918. Today, it is a pilgrimage center and millions of his devotees from all over the world pay their respects each year.
• Torna — To reach this fort requires a steep climb. The village Velhe, at the base of the climb, is about 50 km southwest of Pune.
• Visapur Fort — It is less than 4 km from Lohagad and about 60 km from Pune.

Weekend getaways

• Alibag
• Aakshi
• Diveagar
• Harihareshwar
• Kamshet
• Kashid
• Lonavala and Khandala
• Mahabaleshwar
• Matheran
• Murud
• Nagaon
• Shrivardhan