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Things to do in Pune, India
by Frank Weaver
No trip to Mumbai is complete
without a side trip to Pune, India. This once center of Maharashtra dates
back to the eighth century and is often called the "Cultural Capital of
Maharashtra" because of the way it balances, age old traditions with modern
growth. Bordered by the Sahyadn Mountains, Pune has played a major role
in India's struggle for independence.
While in Pune be sure visit
the Shaniwar Wada. The palace fort was built in 1736 and served as the
seat of the Peshwa rulers until 1818 when it was surrendered to the British.
Then In 1827 a mysterious fire engulfed the fort leading to its destruction;
all that remains today is its magnificent gate which faces towards Delhi,
the outer stone walls, bastions, ramparts and narrow stair wells. The fort
is one of the major attractions in Pune.
| Not far from the old fort
is the Dinkar Kelkar Museum known for its unusual collection of priceless
artefacts depicting everyday life in India. Here you can see the cultural
heritage of India, with carved wooden doors, textiles, toys, earthenware,
paintings, coins, arms, and musical interments. There is an area dedicate
to the role of women in India with a large selection of combs and Jewelry.
The Museum is located on Bajirao Road, Shukawar Peth.
In addition, Pune is the
home of the Agra Kan Palace built in 1892 by the Sultan Mohammed Shah Aga
Khan III. This residence was used as a prison by the British to house dissidents.
The most famous were Gandhi who was kept there until 1940 along with his
wife Kasturba, who died there. The Palace is known today as the Gandhi
National Memorial, inside the palace complex is a rich collection of memorabilia
and photographs from the important events in Gandhi's life. The Palace
is located in the Yerwada area of Pune. |
Bullock
Cart Races at Pune Festival, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Within an hour's drive from
Pune about 40 KM (24.9 miles) one can visit the Karla caves. This complex
of ancient Buddhist Shrines carved from the local rock dating back to the
2nd century BC and represents the golden period of Buddhism in India.
Inside the main cave are prayer halls and dwelling places for monks who
would gather here during the monsoon season. The most notable, is one of
the columns has four lions at the top; the design was adopted for the national
emblem of India. The walk to the caves consists of several winding steps
with numerous vendors offering food and cold drinks.
About 25 km (15.5 miles)
southwest from Pune is the Sinhadgad Fort, a popular weekend destination
and a favorite picnic spot sitting around 800 meters (2,600 feet) above
the surrounding landscape. The fort has been the site of many important
battles, but today the Fort lies mostly in ruins. General Tanaji
Malusare in 1670 was said to have led a charge up the steep cliff riding
a giant lizard. Although, General Tanaji lost his life in the battle, his
brother Suryaji was able to subdue the fort's keeper and his army to capture
the fort.
While Pune does not have
a high crime rate you still need to be aware of the people around you because
petty thefts can occur although under Urban Minister
Kamal Nath India has made strides in lowering its crime rates.
The best time to visit Pune
from October to March; from April to July is summer where the temperature
can reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), while July to September
is the Monsoon season with its high humidity and seasonal rains.
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Keywords : India,
Mumbai, Pune, Gandhi, Agra Khan Palace, Karla Caves.
Travel
Articles / Asia
/ India
|
