Pune (Marathi: पुणे Puṇe), formerly Poona, is the second-largest city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Often considered as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune is known for its educational tourism and has a blend of cultural, business, health, and cuisine tourism background.
This article covers the twin cities of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad (PCMC), and parts of Khed, Haveli and Mulshi talukas.
Pune (poo-nneh) has a long history that stretches back nearly 1,600 years. The Pataleshwar Caves (near Jangli Maharaj Road) from the 5th century are evidence of 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 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Maratha King) to a visit to Aga Khan Palace to learn about Mohandas Karamchand 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 the Gayakwadwada Museum.
There is a massive army of three-wheeled rickshaws. Some prepaid rickshaw stands can be found at Shivajinagar, Swargate Bus Depot and Pune Airport. All rickshaws plying in the Pune Municipal Corporation limits are supposed to charge according to the meter. Drivers will give you endless excuses why they cannot use the meter. They are required by law to have a working meter and use it, and this will almost always be the cheapest for you too. If they still refuse, walk away: there are plenty of other rickshaws on the roads.
Individual listings can be found in Pune's district articles Pune is the cultural capital of Maharashtra. The Marathi film industry is also based here.
Individual listings can be found in Pune's district articles Bird Watching: Enjoy boating and bird viewing in some of the city parks of Pune. Migratory parks can be viewed throughout the year in Pune. At the right time, you can see many migrated birds in the parks. 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 Ganeshotsav (Annual Ganpati Festival) The Chatushrungi Fair is an annual event. It is held overnight on Navratri at Senapati Bapat Road.
Individual listings can be found in Pune's district articles Pune is undoubtedly a great place to eat. Fergusson College Road and JM Road which runs parallel, are full of budget eateries serving delicious hot food at nominal charges. Almost all restaurants open and close at similar hours. 10AM - 11PM is 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.
Individual listings can be found in Pune's district articles Hindavi Swarajya Fruits & Juices, JM Road, Opposite to JM mandir. 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. Also check out the major hotel bars such as at the Sheraton Grand, Sagar Plaza, JW Marriott, Deccan Rendezvous and The Westin. There is no lack of coffee shops in the city.
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 and beggars. At times, on Fergusson Road, JM Road or in touristy places, plain-clothed people may approach you, pretending to be tourists who ran out of money or missed their bus or train, asking for money to buy a ticket to go home or to feed their children (who may be accompanying them). Most likely it is going to be a scam. A polite but firm "No" will suffice to get rid of them. Chain-snatching has become the most infamous nuisance.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Sep, Pune typically sees ~27°C daytime highs and 24 rainy days.
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