Things to do in Central Pune

Shaniwar Wada is the remains of an 18th-century fortressed palace from the Peshwa dynasty. It was the political center of the region until the British arrived in the early 1800s. A light and sound show offers an impression of how the fortress looked before a fire destroyed it in 1828. Large sections of walls, doors and columns survived and now make up a tribute to the former palace.

Saras Baug is a vast area of picturesque gardens surrounding a temple in the center of Pune. The central 18th-century temple is the park’s highlight, attracting visitors and devotees year-round. The temple’s pretty moat and spacious fields make it an ideal spot to take your children for a picnic on a sunny day. The entire complex, named after a type of crane bird, is spread across 25 acres (10 hectares) of land.

The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a tribute to everyday life in India, featuring an expansive collection of relics that capture the culture of the local people. Jewelry, hookah pipes and toys are among the many items that illustrate how Indians have lived throughout history.

Shinde Chhatri is a temple dedicated to Mahadji Shinde, who was the well-known commander-in-chief of the Maratha Army during the 1700s. In this elegant landmark see a stylish façade, a portrait gallery and the tomb of its eponymous war hero. Mahadji Shinde himself began construction of Shinde Chhatri in 1793, when its sole building was a shrine to Lord Shiva. Shinde passed away a year later and it wasn’t until 1965 that the politician Madhavrao Scindia commissioned today’s temple.

The cultures, languages and artworks of indigenous groups from the state of Maharashtra are represented in the Tribal Museum. Photos and artifacts illustrate the distinctions of each tribe, from food customs to spiritual beliefs. Masks and instruments are among the highlights in this intriguing museum. Visit the complex to learn about the state’s multifaceted past and present, featuring almost 50 distinct peoples.