Don’t be daunted by the traffic or the many, many things to see or do in Pune. A solo trip in the city is a welcome experience that you will always cherish.
Culturally rich, safe and interesting. These are just some adjectives that describe Pune, but the beautiful city is truly experienced in all its glory when you take a bike or car and travel all over it. Every street has a story to tell, there is a huge variety of food and drink on offer, and there are dollops of historical facts that you are made aware of when you visit.
As a solo traveller fresh off a Delhi to Pune flight, you might wonder if the city is safe for tourists, if the people will help you get around if you are lost, if there is enough to see and do. Relax – Pune can take your breath away in many ways, and nobody will disturb you or get in the way of your exploration.
Now that you’re heading to Pune soon, here’s our list of 5 fun things to do in Pune:
#1 Breakfast at German Bakery. The scene of terror bombings a few years ago is today a refurbished and bustling eatery that attracts both tourists and regulars all day. Their breakfast and brunch items are quite famous and you can start your day on a high note with their sumptuous keema pav or chicken lasagna. Finish your meal with their luscious red velvet cake and ask for the day’s fresh juices.
#2 Catch up on history. A visit to Pune means nothing if you don’t catch up all the history the city is known for. The erstwhile seat of Maratha and Peshwa power, Pune was considered an unofficial monsoon capital by the British, since the city has traditionally lower rainfall than Mumbai. Once you’re settled in the city after your long Delhi to Pune flight, make a list of places to see and arrange for transport (hire a bike or a car, if possible) and include places like Shanivar Wada, Lal Mahal, Shivaji’s revered Sinhagad Fort and the Shivneri Fort, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Osho Ashram and Aga Khan Palace, among many others.
#3 Enjoy the Ganesha Festival all over the city. Pune is normally more reticent than its gregarious counterpart Mumbaibut the city comes out all guns blazing during the Ganesha festival. The festival, in facthas its origins in Pune, when Lokmanya Tilak encouraged a ‘sarvajanik’ rather than private celebration to bring the community together. The city veritably shuts down for 10 days, and everyone’s out on the streets looking at Ganeshamurtisall over the city – and the displays are the most creative in all of Maharashtra.
#4 Go to Mulshi Dam. This is a perennial favorite amongst visitors and locals alike. Just pack a picnic basket and drive out to Mulshi Dam, an hour out of Pune. The surroundings are verdant and the setting just divine to sit alone with your thoughts.
#5 Go camping at Pawna Lake. You can sign up with a tour for camping at Pawna Lake, or pack your gear and head out alone. You will love the experience and meet some interesting people as well!
