Full day tour of Pune with guide and lunch

Maharashtra , India

Full day tour of Pune with guide and lunch

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Pune city experience is a great way to experience this vibrant city characterized by a rich cultural heritage, spiritualism as well as capitalism! The highlights include a visit to Pune’s most famous temple – Dagdu Sheth Ganesh, one of the world’s largest one man collection at Kelkar museum, seat of the powerful Peshwas of the great Maratha empire at Shaniwarwada, a unique biographical museum on Sadhu Vaswani, and the magnificent Aga Khan Palace which has its place in India’s freedom struggle.

Available options

Outskirts of Pune pick up

Outskirt areas: Wakad, Hinjewadi and Chinchwad hotels<br/>Pickup included

City Hotel pick uo

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

The day begins at Dagdu Shet, a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and arguably the most famous one in Pune. This temple was built in 1892 by a sweet maker who lost his son to the plague. The temple played a crucial role in inspiring Lokmanya Tilak to organise the annual Ganesh festival to unite Indians to fight for freedom from the British.

History comes alive at the Raja Dinkar Kelkar museum which is one of the largest one-man collections in the world. Dinkar Kelkar toured some of the remotest parts of India and collected artifacts including embroidered textiles, sculptures, antique vessels and swords of the Marathas. Guests will be fascinated with Mastani Mahal, a room recreated from the ruins of the original Palace which was a symbol of the royal romance between Baji Rao the legendary prime minister of Maratha Empire and Mastani, his lady love.

We visit Shaniwar Wada, the seat of power of the Peshwas or Prime Ministers of the powerful Maratha Empire which was a dominant power in India between the 17th and 19th centuries. This Palace was built in 1730 in honor of Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Balaji Bhat for services rendered to the Maratha Empire. Shaniwarwada is considered as the most haunted place in Pune! Our guide will tell you the stories of how the Palace witnessed an early and unfortunate death, a betrayal, a tragic love story and treachery. As per local legends, even today Shaniwarwada is dreaded for supernatural activities on the full-moon night! People believe that the fort is haunted by the ghost of Bajirao’s grandson Narayanrao, who was murdered by his family.

The Darshan museum is a unique biographical museum dedicated to the Life and teaching of Sadhu Vaswani, a spiritual leader.Sadhu Vaswani professed the need for love and reverence for the betterment of humanity. It is a modern museum that uses multi media technology to tell the story of Sadhu Vaswani and his teachings. Upliftment of women and animal rights were 2 causes very close to his heart. In fact Novermber 25, Sadhu Vaswani’s birth date, is celebrated as the International Meatless and Animal Rights Day.

The Aga Khan Palace is a national monument of India’s freedom movement. Built in 1892 by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the Palace witnessed some remarkabale events that define India’s freedom movement against the British. Gandhiji, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and his secretary Mahadevbhai Desai were imprisoned here during the Quit India movement in 1942. During the guided tour, guests will realize why the Aga Khan Palace is a memorial to Gandhiji and his simple life.

What's not included

Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.

About Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a vibrant state in western India, known for its bustling cities, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes. From the financial capital of Mumbai to the historic Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra offers a blend of modernity and tradition.

Top Attractions

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites featuring ancient rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries. These caves are renowned for their intricate carvings, paintings, and architectural marvels.

Historical Full day INR 500 to 1,000

Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is a monumental archway located in Mumbai's Apollo Bunder area. It was built during the British Raj to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai.

Historical 1 to 2 hours Free

Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Elephanta Island, about 10 km from Mumbai. These caves feature ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Historical Half day INR 500 to 1,000

Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic railway station in Mumbai. It is a fine example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and a symbol of Mumbai's colonial past.

Historical 1 to 2 hours Free to enter, train fares vary

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a scenic promenade along the Arabian Sea in Mumbai. It is a popular spot for evening walks, offering stunning views of the Mumbai skyline and the sea.

Scenic 1 to 2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Vada Pav

A popular street food item consisting of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between two slices of a bun (pav).

Snack Vegetarian

Pav Bhaji

A dish consisting of a thick vegetable curry (bhaji) served with a soft bread roll (pav).

Dinner Vegetarian

Misal Pav

A spicy curry made with sprouted mung beans, served with bread rolls (pav).

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Kolhapuri Chicken

A spicy chicken curry from the Kolhapur region, known for its rich and flavorful gravy.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Western Ghats Scuba diving in the coastal regions Beach activities Spa and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Water sports Visiting hill stations

Best Time to Visit

October to February

This is the best time to visit Maharashtra as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon rains have subsided, and the landscapes are lush and green.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Marathi, English
Widely spoken: Hindi, Gujarati, Urdu
English: Widely spoken in urban areas, moderately spoken in rural areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Maharashtra is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Violent crime is relatively rare, but travelers should exercise caution, especially at night and in isolated areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night. Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas.
• Be cautious when using public transportation, especially late at night. Avoid empty compartments and trains, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be cautious when walking alone, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid isolated or poorly lit streets.

Getting there

By air

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport • 30 km from Mumbai city center
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport • 30 km from Mumbai city center

By train

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus

By bus

Mumbai Central Bus Depot, Pune Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

The Mumbai Suburban Railway is one of the most extensive suburban rail networks in the world, connecting the city's suburbs to the city center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colaba Bandra Pune Camp

Day trips

Lonavala and Khandala

80 km from Mumbai • Full day

Lonavala and Khandala are hill stations located in the Sahyadri mountain range, known for their scenic beauty, waterfalls, and viewpoints. These towns are popular weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune.

Matheran

80 km from Mumbai • Full day

Matheran is a hill station in the Raigad district, known for its scenic beauty, lush greenery, and car-free environment. It is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune.

Alibaug

100 km from Mumbai • Full day

Alibaug is a coastal town in the Raigad district, known for its beautiful beaches, historic forts, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai.

Festivals

Ganesh Chaturthi • August or September (dates vary each year) Diwali • October or November (dates vary each year) Holi • March (dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Explore the street food scene in Mumbai and Pune, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Take a ferry ride to Elephanta Island from the Gateway of India for a scenic and affordable way to reach the island.
Experience the local culture by attending a traditional Maharashtrian wedding or festival, if possible.
Learn a few basic phrases in Marathi to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for the local culture.