Shaniwar Wada: The Grand Seat of the Peshwas
Built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I, Shaniwar Wada was once the political heart of the Maratha Empire and remains one of Pune’s most iconic heritage landmarks. Though much of the palace was destroyed in a fire, its massive gates, fortified walls, and sprawling courtyards still reflect the scale and grandeur of the Peshwa era. Visit in the evening to experience the popular sound-and-light show that brings centuries of Maratha history alive through narration, music, and visual effects.Things to Know:
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Sound & Light Show: Held every evening
- Entry Fee: Approx. INR 25 for Indians
Aga Khan Palace: A Landmark of India’s Freedom Movement
Constructed in 1892 by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the Aga Khan Palace is admired for its elegant Italian arches, sprawling lawns, and deep historical significance. It served as a detention site for Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, and Mahadev Desai during the Quit India Movement. The palace grounds house the samadhis (memorial shrines) of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai, adding emotional depth to the visit. Today, it functions as both a heritage monument and a museum preserving important moments from India’s freedom struggle.Things to Know:
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Approx. INR 25 for Indians
- Photography: Allowed in outdoor areas
Lal Mahal: Where Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy Began
Located in the heart of old Pune, Lal Mahal is closely associated with the childhood of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the early rise of Maratha power. Originally built in the 17th century by Shahaji Bhosale for Jijabai and young Shivaji, the palace symbolises courage, strategy, and the formative years of one of India’s greatest warrior kings. The present-day reconstruction features murals, artefacts, and scenes depicting important moments from Shivaji Maharaj’s life, making it an engaging stop for history enthusiasts.
Things to Know:
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best For: History lovers and cultural walks
Phoenix Marketcity: Pune's Go-To for a Day Off
One of Pune’s largest lifestyle and entertainment destinations, Phoenix Marketcity combines shopping, dining, and leisure experiences in one vibrant space. Home to a mix of international and Indian brands, the mall also features multiplex cinema screens, gaming zones, cafes, and popular restaurants, making it ideal for casual outings, family visits, or relaxed evenings out.
Whether you are planning to shop, watch a movie, enjoy a meal, or simply unwind indoors, it offers a lively and convenient experience for visitors of all ages. Open daily, typically from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Koregaon Park: Pune’s Leafy Neighbourhood of Cafes & Culture
Known for its tree-lined avenues, vibrant cafe culture, and upscale dining spaces, Koregaon Park offers a refreshing contrast to Pune’s historic quarters. The neighbourhood is popular among both locals and travellers for its relaxed atmosphere, boutique stores, bakeries, and international restaurants that reflect the city’s cosmopolitan spirit.
It is also home to the renowned Osho International Meditation Resort, a 28-acre wellness and meditation retreat that attracts visitors from around the world. Whether you are exploring stylish cafes, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or simply walking through its shaded streets, Koregaon Park captures Pune’s modern and multicultural side with ease.
FC Road: Where Pune’s Youthful Energy Comes Alive
Fergusson College Road, popularly known as FC Road, is one of Pune’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its lively cafes, popular street food stalls, bookstores, fashion outlets, and bustling college hangout spots. Surrounded by prominent institutions such as Fergusson College and BMCC College, the stretch reflects Pune’s youthful and contemporary side, offering a striking contrast to its quieter heritage districts.
Whether you are exploring local eateries, shopping for affordable fashion, or simply taking an evening walk, FC Road offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s energetic everyday culture. The area is especially lively in the evenings and remains a favourite for its street food, cafe culture, casual shopping, and vibrant student atmosphere.
Sinhagad Fort Trek: A Scenic Escape into Maratha History
Perched at an elevation of around 1,312 m in the Sahyadri Range, Sinhagad Fort is a popular trekking destination near Pune, blending history, adventure, and scenic mountain views. Associated with the legendary battle led by Tanaji Malusare, it offers both a historic and nature-rich experience. The 45–60 minute trek passes through rugged trails, hillside views, and local food stalls, leading to panoramic views of Khadakwasla Dam, valleys, and the Western Ghats, making it a favourite for trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Things to Know:
- Trek Duration: Approx. 45–60 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon and winter seasons
- Entry Fee: Applicable for vehicles at the base
Khadakwasla Dam: A Scenic Escape by the Water
Located around 24 km from central Pune, this peaceful dam is known for its calm waters, open landscapes, and refreshing atmosphere away from the city’s bustle. Built on the Mutha River, it is a popular spot for travellers seeking a quick nature escape, scenic photography, and relaxed time outdoors.
The cool breeze, lakeside views, and surrounding greenery make it especially appealing for evening drives and laid-back weekend outings. The area also comes alive with roadside snack stalls and local eateries, adding to the overall experience. Early mornings are ideal for quieter surroundings, pleasant weather, and clearer views.
Things to Know:
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings
- Entry Fee: Free
- Popular For: Scenic views, photography, and weekend drives
Bund Garden (Mahatma Gandhi Udyan): A Peaceful Riverside Escape in Pune
Set along the banks of the Mula-Mutha River, Bund Garden, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Udyan, offers a refreshing green retreat amidst the city’s bustle. Known for its tree-lined pathways, open lawns, and calm riverside atmosphere, the garden is a popular spot for morning walks, casual strolls, and relaxed evenings.
Its peaceful setting makes it an ideal stop between sightseeing plans, especially for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Pune. Visitors often come here to unwind, enjoy the fresh air, and spend time surrounded by greenery close to the city centre.
Things to Know:
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal Visit Time: Early morning or sunset hours
Vetal Tekdi: Pune’s Green Escape Above the City
Vetal Tekdi is one of Pune’s most popular hill trails, offering a refreshing break from the city’s fast pace. Surrounded by forest cover and natural greenery, the hill features nearly 3 km of walking and jogging trails, making it a favourite among walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Despite being within the city, it feels calm and uncrowded, with elevated viewpoints overlooking Pune’s skyline. A visit here is perfect for those seeking quiet outdoor experiences beyond Pune’s heritage attractions, especially during early mornings and sunrise hours.
Things to Know:
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal For: Walking, jogging, cycling, and nature photography
EON IT Park: The Landmark That Shaped Kharadi’s IT Boom
One of Pune’s key IT hubs, EON IT Park, has transformed Kharadi into a major business district with large corporate campuses, modern workspaces, and glass-fronted towers. It hosts global technology, banking, and consulting firms, creating a fast-paced corporate ecosystem in eastern Pune. With landscaped open spaces, cafes, and strong infrastructure, it reflects the city’s modern business growth and the rise of Kharadi as a key tech and lifestyle hub.
Things to Know:
- Best Known For: Major multinational offices and modern business infrastructure
- Ideal For: Corporate travellers, business visits, and urban photography
- Nearby Areas: Viman Nagar, Wagholi, and Hadapsar
World Trade Center Pune: A Global Business Address in Kharadi
Located within Pune’s thriving eastern corridor, the World Trade Center (WTC) Pune is among the city’s most prestigious commercial developments. Known for its contemporary architecture and international business environment, the complex hosts global companies across technology, finance, and consulting sectors. Its sleek towers, premium office spaces, and integrated commercial ecosystem reflect the growing global identity of Kharadi as a business destination.
Things to Know:
- Best Known For: International business presence and premium office spaces
- Ideal For: Business travellers and commercial visits
- Nearby Attractions: EON IT Park and Riverside Road
International Tech Park Pune: A Modern Corporate Hub with Green Design
International Tech Park Pune (ITPP) is a large mixed-use commercial development in Kharadi known for its sustainable design, modern office spaces, and integrated amenities. Developed with LEED-certified infrastructure, the campus combines workspaces with food courts, wellness areas, landscaped zones, and recreational facilities, creating a balanced corporate environment. It is home to several IT, banking, and financial service companies operating in Pune’s rapidly expanding tech corridor. Visitors often appreciate the park’s contemporary layout and organised surroundings, which showcase the evolving face of Pune’s commercial growth.
Things to Know:
- Best Known For: Sustainable office infrastructure and mixed-use corporate spaces
- Ideal For: Corporate meetings and business travellers
When to Visit: Reading Pune's Seasons
October to February offers the most comfortable conditions for visiting Pune, with daytime temperatures generally between 15-28°C and minimal rainfall. This window suits trekking, heritage walks, and extended outdoor activity. The trails around Sinhagad Fort and the open grounds of Aga Khan Palace are at their most accessible during this period.
March to May gets progressively warmer, with temperatures occasionally reaching 38-40°C, making early morning starts important for any outdoor plans. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall that limits trekking and can restrict access to some outdoor sites, though the Sahyadri hills turn intensely green. For attractions in Pune that are primarily indoors, such as museums and retail hubs, the monsoon is a workable option with flexible planning.
Practical Travel Tips for Pune
- Getting Around: App-based cabs (Ola and Uber) and auto-rickshaws cover most of the city. Traffic peaks between 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays; plan sightseeing outside these windows for smoother travel.
- Trip Duration: 3–4 days is ideal for comfortably covering Pune’s major historical sites, cultural landmarks, and a trek. A focused 2-day visit should prioritise Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, and Sinhagad Fort.
- Language: Marathi is the primary local language. Hindi and English are widely understood in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas throughout the city.
VITS Select Kharadi, Pune: Comfort and Convenience Near Pune’s Key Attractions
Covering the many attractions in Pune across multiple days becomes easier with a well-connected stay in the city’s eastern business district. Located behind EON Free Zone in Kharadi, VITS Select Kharadi, Pune, offers easy access to IT parks, shopping hubs, heritage sites, cafes, and trekking spots, while being around 11 km from Pune International Airport and 13 km from Pune Railway Station. Its location also places guests close to EON IT Park and the World Trade Centre, making it ideal for both business and leisure travellers.
Our hotel features thoughtfully designed accommodation across Classic Single, Deluxe, and Super Deluxe room categories, with comfortable interiors and select rooms offering private balconies with city skyline views. Guests also benefit from facilities like free parking, a 24-hour front desk, laundry assistance on request, and travel desk support for a smooth and hassle-free stay.