 Pune, though it is not a cosmopolitan city like, Mumbai, is a pleasant getaway for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. The city has a very calm atmosphere with non-confronting people and is much more relaxed and peaceful than most other cities. It has a glorious history and was the early home of the great Marathi warrior, Shivaji. It became the Marathi capital in 1750. For a short period, it was under the control of the Nizam of Hyderabad and in 1817 it came under the British rule. Today, the city has lost much of its past grandeur of but the places around here are resonant with a rich heritage and natural beauty. In recent times, Pune became famous as the home to the Osho Commune International. The ashram attracts people from around the world who come to practice Osho’s meditation techniques. Pune is also an internationally celebrated educational centre, being home to many reputed institutions like Film and Television Institute of India, Armed Forces Medical College, National Defence Academy and Symbiosis Educational Society.
Pune Facts:
• Area 146.11 sq. km
• Population 1,566,651
• Altitude 560 m above the sea level
• Languages Marathi, Hindi, English
• Best time to visit October- May
• STD code 020
Tourist Attractions in Pune
Most of the attractions in Pune are related to the Marathas, who once controlled much of north and western India and directly confronted the mighty Mughal Empire and the British. One can find remains of foundations and outer walls of Shaniwar Wada that had been burnt down in 1827. Pataleshwar Cave Temple is a respite from the general crowds that are found at most other temples. Raja Denkar Kelkar Museum is one place in Pune that should not be missed out on. It exhibits more than 17,000 art objects. Other interesting sites in Pune that one should visit are Saras Baug, Kasturba Samadhi and Film and Television Institute of India.
Tourist Attractions around Pune
Pune was the centre of power of the Maratha Kingdom and all the surrounding places reflect the might and glory of Marathas. Sinhagad, a hilltop fort, is the quintessence of the valor and ingenuity of Maratha warriors. Raigad Fort can be closely associated with the life and times of Shivaji, an iconic Marathi. Bhimashankar is known for its religious importance as well as for its natural surroundings. Jejur is one of the most important temples in Maharashtra.
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