Aga Khan Palace
One of the finest historical creations of the country, The Aga Khan Palace is one of the top places to visit in Pune. It was established in the year 1892 by Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III. The primary reason for its establishment was to help the needy people in the nearby places of the palace during the famine.
In 1942, Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and his secretary Mahadev Desai along with the Sarojini Naidu was imprisoned at Aga Khan Palace following the Quit India movement.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwarwada, once the seat of the Peshwa governance in Pune is a 286-year-old mansion and is one of the finest examples of architecture in the city. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra. This grand mansion was built by the Peshwa Bajirao I himself as the residence of the Peshwas.
Although the Wada currently covers an area of 625 acres, in its heyday it covered almost the entire area of the city itself. The place never fails to amaze the visitor with its various forts and fountain, and the majestic statue of Baji Rao I that greets the visitor at the entrance of the palace. Although most of the Wada was destroyed by an unexplained fire in 1828, what remains of it is equally thrilling and majestic.
Adlabs Imagica
A very popular theme park in Pune, Adlabs Imagica has become a family attraction ever since it opened a few years ago. This place attracts both the young and the young-at-heart, with magic shows, thrill rides family and child-friendly rides, meeting cartoon characters, and other fun activities. The park can be visited all year round.
Pataleshwar
Pataleshwar has been declared as a protected monument by the government. This 8th century rock-cut temple built during the Rashtrakuta dynasty is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There’s a Linga situated within the inner sanctum flanked by two smaller cells on either side. In front of the cave is the Nandi Mandapa which is the most peculiar feature of the architecture at Pataleshwar. The temple is still in use and the Linga is anointed with ghee and yogurt. If you want to see ancient Indian architecture which is still prevalent in today’s day and age, then Pataleshwar is where you should go.
Lal Mahal
Also known as the Red Palace, Lal Mahal was built by Shivaji’s father Shahaji Bhosale in 1630 AD. The original construction does not exist anymore; the current building is a reconstruction. Although the new structure lacks most of the features of the old building, visitors will find a wide array of paintings and other historical artifacts inside. There is also a children’s recreational park within the premises.
National War Museum
Built in 1997 by the Express Citizens’ Forum, National War Museum in Pune is 25 feet tall and a huge draw among people who want to know more about the Indian army. The major attaction is a MIG 2 BN used in the Kargil War. Located in the Pune Cantonment area, the Museum pays tribute to soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.