Pune is one of the most vibrant cities in India. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, shopping, and delicious food. If you’re planning to explore Pune, here are the top 5 must-visit places you shouldn’t miss.
1. Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
If you’re visiting Pune, your journey is incomplete without seeing the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple. This famous temple is known for its beautiful idol of Lord Ganesha, decorated with gold and jewels. Devotees from all over India come here to seek blessings.
Location: Budhwar Peth, near Laxmi Road
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11:00 PM (every day)
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the Ganesh festival (August–September)
Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple was built in 1893 by a sweet maker named Dagdusheth Halwai after he lost his son to a plague. To cope with the loss, he and his wife built a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Lokmanya Tilak supported the idea and started the public celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi here, which later became a big festival in Maharashtra. Today, the temple is famous for its beautiful Ganpati idol, decorated with gold, and is visited by thousands of devotees every day.
2. Shaniwar Wada – Dive Into Pune’s Royal Past
Built in 1732 by the Peshwas, Shaniwar Wada is a historical fort that tells the story of Pune’s royal era. Though most of the palace was destroyed in a fire, the massive stone walls and grand entrance gates still remain.
Location: Shaniwar Peth, near Bajirao Road
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
Best Time to Visit: Morning (to avoid the heat)
Don’t miss the light and sound show in the evening that brings the fort’s history to life.
History
Shaniwar Wada is a historic fort built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I, the Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire. It served as the royal residence and political center of the Peshwas for many years.
The fort was once a grand structure with palaces, gardens, and fountains. However, a major fire in 1828 destroyed most of the inner buildings. Today, only the outer walls and gates remain.
Shaniwar Wada is also known for legends and ghost stories, especially about Peshwa Narayanrao, who was mysteriously murdered inside the fort.
3. FC Road – Shop, Eat & Explore
Fergusson College Road (FC Road) is Pune’s most loved shopping and hangout street. It’s always buzzing with students, tourists, and shopaholics.
What to do: Street shopping for clothes, accessories, and mobile covers
Must-try food: Vada Pav, Momos, Cold Coffee
Nearby Attractions: Hong Kong Lane (for affordable accessories)
This is the perfect place to experience the young and energetic vibe of Pune.
4. Vaishali Restaurant – Taste the Best South Indian Food in Pune
Vaishali Restaurant is an iconic food joint in Pune, especially known for its delicious and authentic South Indian dishes. It’s located right on FC Road, so it’s a great place to take a break after shopping.
Must-try dishes: Mysore Masala Dosa, Idli Sambar, Filter Coffee
Timings: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Budget: ₹200–₹300 per person
Tip: Visit during non-peak hours to avoid waiting
The food, service, and location make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
5. Artizen – Café | Art | Studio
Looking for something fun and creative? Artizen Café is a unique place where you can enjoy coffee and paint your own masterpiece at the same time!
Location: Koregaon Park, Pune
Activities: Canvas painting, DIY art kits, coffee and snacks
Ideal for: Dates, solo travelers, and families
Budget: Around ₹500–₹700 per person (includes food + art supplies)
It’s a cozy, artistic spot to relax and take home a hand-painted memory of your trip.