Pune

Tourist places in Pune, Pune Travel Info

City Overview

Pune is one of the most important cities in the state of Maharashtra, India, and serves as a major cultural, educational, and IT hub of the country. Located on the Deccan Plateau along the banks of the Mula and Mutha rivers, Pune is often referred to as the “Oxford of the East” due to its large number of reputed educational institutions.

The city has deep historical roots as the former seat of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and later the Peshwas. Today, Pune has evolved into a modern metropolitan city with a strong presence in information technology, manufacturing, automobile industries, and startups. Its pleasant climate, green surroundings, and vibrant youth culture give it national and international relevance.

Pune is ideal for business travelers, students, leisure travelers, families, solo travelers, and cultural explorers. The city offers a balanced mix of history, modern lifestyle, nightlife, food culture, and proximity to hill stations.

Best Time to Visit

Pune experiences a tropical wet and dry climate with relatively moderate temperatures compared to many other Indian cities. Summers are warm, monsoons bring refreshing rainfall, and winters are cool and comfortable.

The best time to visit Pune is during the winter and post-monsoon months when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season enhances the beauty of nearby hills and forts, while summers are suitable mainly for indoor travel and short trips.

  • Peak season: October to February with cool and pleasant weather
  • Off-season: April to May due to summer heat
  • Best months: November, December, January, and August

Transportation & Getting Around

Pune is well connected by air, rail, and road. Pune International Airport offers domestic and limited international flights. Pune Junction and Shivajinagar Railway Station provide extensive rail connectivity to major Indian cities.

The city is connected by national highways to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Nashik. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation buses and private operators offer frequent intercity services.

Local transportation in Pune includes PMPML city buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, app-based cab services, and a growing metro rail network. Travel costs are reasonable, with buses and shared autos being the most economical options.

  • Airport: Pune International Airport
  • Rail connectivity: Pune Junction and Shivajinagar
  • Local transport: Buses, metro, auto-rickshaws, and taxis

Nearby Places & Day Trips

Pune’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring hill stations, forts, and nature destinations in western Maharashtra. Many places are suitable for day trips or short weekend getaways.

Lonavala and Khandala are popular hill stations known for waterfalls and viewpoints. Lavasa offers lakeside scenery, while Sinhagad Fort is ideal for history and trekking enthusiasts. Mulshi provides a peaceful nature escape.

  • Lonavala and Khandala – around 65 km, hill stations and waterfalls
  • Sinhagad Fort – around 30 km, trekking and history
  • Lavasa – around 60 km, lakeside leisure destination