Pune is known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra. The city was the centre of the Maratha power and is one of the oldest cities existing since 847 AD. Pune has many traditional economy industries which exist even today. The city has witnessed tremendous growth after independence and the city is known for its Manufacturing industries, educational institutions, research institutes and more. Today, Pune gives the glimpse of modern living combined with traditional values.

History of Pune

Pune is the oldest city that is believed to have existed since 847 AD. As it is the first capital of the Maratha Empire, Pune holds a lot of historical importance. Pune was referred to as Punyanagri which means ‘City of Virtue’ by the Rashtrakutas dynasty who ruled Pune at that time. Later, the city was named as Punawadi in 13th century. The city later was officially named as Poona in 1960 which got reformed into Pune.

Later in 1674, when Shivaji was crowned as the Chatrapati and the Maratha rule was established, Pune became the capital. The city witnessed various developments during this period. The city was conquered by Mughals. But, later Marathas recaptured the Singad fort and re-established their rule in 1670.

Bajirao was made the Peshwas of Pune in 1720 and he built the famous Shaniwarwada on the banks of the Mutha River. It was during the reign of Maratha Peshwas, a number of temples and monuments were constructed in and around Pune. During 19th century, Pune witnessed many social and religious reforms taking place and also played an important part in the freedom struggle. Many famous social reformers and freedom fighters are from Pune like Gopalakrishnan Gokhale, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule.

After Independence, Pune witnessed fast developments in private as well as government sectors like the establishment of National Defence Academy (NDA), NCL etc. Moreover, Pune is the headquarters of Southern Command of Indian Army. After 1990, Pune saw the development of IT sector.

Major Attractions in Pune

Shaniwarwada

Built during the rule of Bajirao Peshwas in 1730, this monument holds a lot of historical importance as it is the symbol of the efficient and affluent rule of Maratha Empire. This historical monument was destroyed in fire in 1827, but the remains of the magnificent wall of Shaniwarwada still remains intact.

Parvati Hills

The Parvati hill temple built during 17th century is an important Hindu religious destination. The temple was used only by the Peshwas and later it was opened for the public. This temple beholds architectural as well as historical importance.

Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapathi Temple

It is believed that the temple was found by Dagadusheth Halwai, a sweet merchant in 1893. This is one of the most famous religious destinations and the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great enthusiasm here.

Shopping in Pune

Pune is one of the major shopping centres in Maharashtra. Today there are lots of shopping malls in and around Pune.

Best Time to Visit

The climatic conditions of Pune are relatively moderate with hot to semi hot-summers and mild winters.

Winters are during the months of December to February and it is the best time to visit Pune.

Pune receives average to normal rainfall during the months of June to October.

How to Reach Pune

By Road

Pune has some of the best roads in India. Pune is well connected with other parts of the city with excellent roads with National highways and State highways. There are regular bus services from Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Nashik.

By Rail

There are local trains available to different parts of the city. Moreover, there are daily express trains that connect Pune to other parts of India like Cochin, Chennai and Bangalore, Jaipur, Patna and more. The major railway station is the Pune railway station.

By Air

Pune Airport at Lohegaon is the nearest airport in Pune which is operated by the Airport Authority of India (AAI).