Tourist destinations in Pune

Pune is the historic town of Maharashtra and is flourishing in terms of industry as well as tourism. Its ancient forts and palaces stand testimony to its rich past and are a legacy to the town. Pune is also well-known for a number of prestigious academic institutions that are located here and is an important access point to the major tourist getaways of Maharashtra. Besides, Pune is also an irresistible lure for the tourists since it is home to a number of tourist places that are associated with the history of the region. Some of the prominent tourist destinations in Pune are:

Raja Dinakar Kelkar Museum: This museum houses a collection of the most enthralling Indian arts and crafts and it is housed in a Rajasthani style building located on the Bajirao Road. The most attractive among the various exhibits is the Mastani Mahal, which is simply a masterpiece. You can find here old pottery, traditional Indian lamps and magnificent paintings belonging to the 17th century.

Tribal Museum: It is a magnificent museum situated off Koregaon Road and features attention-grabbing artifacts that were found in the Sahyadri and Gondhwa regions of Maharashtra.

Shaniwar Waada: This impressive palace was built by the Peshwas in 1736. The Peshwas had started as the ministers of Shivaji�s successors but gradually started a ruling dynasty of their own. It occupies a prominent place among the tourist destinations in Pune. Here you will come across the striking brass studded gates and lotus pools and now it has become the mark of Pune�s heritage. The light and sound show held in the evening in this palace is much recommended as it offers details regarding the history of the Maratha Empire.

Aga Khan Palace: This palace is an important historical landmark of Pune and flaunts Italianate arches, a gracious building featuring salons, suites and spacious lawns. The historical importance of this town is that Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi were held captive here during the Quit India Movement in the year 1942 by the British.

Parvati Hill temple: This temple is one of the most revered among the temples of the region and one has to follow 108 narrow steps that lead to the hill top temple. This temple was built by Balaji Baji Rao and a large number of devotees drop in here to worship the residing deities. You will also come across the Parvati museum that houses portraits of Peshwas, ancient manuscripts and coins.

St. Mary's Church: It is a charming church built by the British in the year 1825 and is an architectural marvel.

Bund Garden: Don�t miss out Bund Garden which occupies an important place among the tourist destinations in Pune and it is also popular as the Mahatma Gandhi Udhayan. It is located on the right bank of the Mula-Mutha Rivers. You can be part of the evening boat rides and horse rides at this place.

Osho Ashram: The spiritually inclined can look forward to this place during their tour to Pune as it is well-known for utmost peace and harmony. Every year it is thronged by numerous followers of Osho Rajneesh, one of the greatest spiritual gurus of India, to be a part of the festival which is held here.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information on the places to visit in Pune and also offers useful inputs on tour to Pune.