Every Punekar has one thing in mind: jeh swasta, te mast (meaning: whatever's cheap, that's the best)! So we thought, we'll help you explore Pune like a true Punekar - on a budget. You can do all this around Pune in a day, under INR 1000 (minus public transport, it's a big plus if you have your own vehicle). Here's where you should go to explore Pune on a budget.
Explore Pune In A Day With INR 1000 Only
Eat Breakfast Like A King
You haven't lived like a true blue Punekar if you haven't had breakfast at Vahuman Cafe on D.P. Road. An age old eatery, Vahuman is a favourite amongst several generations of Pune. Their limited menu which includes of eggs in various styles, some kadak-chai, coffee and other breakfast essentials, is the favourite breakfast place. The best part is that a meal for two over here will cost you INR 250 approx.
Street Shop Till You Drop
We know that perhaps shopping for apparel on the streets is not always the best idea. But, if you're in Pune, you can't skip shopping at FC Road. Named after Fergusson College, which is on the same road, the street is a shopaholic's paradise. But, we usually always ditch apparel and shop for accessories here.
Along the street, you can get the trendiest chappals, mules, fabric slip-ons and even heels starting at INR 250 usually. Trust us, we've bought several pairs that have easily lasted us a year. Another thing that you must definitely shop here is the jewellery. You'll find a range of earrings: Studs at INR 50, jhumkas at INR 100 or more and other earrings that range anywhere between INR 100 - INR 250. We've also bought big rings for INR 50, necklaces with pendants for INR 150 among other items.
Just remember, bargaining is the key here. So make sure you don't pay the quoted price at once and save some bucks to shop more.
Attend An Open-Mic
If you though comedy or spoken word gigs are expensive, thank god for Nukkad Cafe in Viman Nagar. A cozy space that hosts several open-mics of various kinds, here's where you can go to catch a gig. Every Friday or Saturday, the cafe hosts a poetry reading club, The Yellow Room. They also associate with other cafes and venues around Pune to host comedy open-mics, poetry open-mics among other such events in English, Hindi, Marathi and even Punjabi (they hosted Pune's first Punjabi open-mic).
Tickets for the events usually are priced starting at INR 150 and can go up to INR 300. It's a steal deal, right? You can check out Nukkad Cafe's Facebook page to know about the latest events.
Enjoy A Beautiful Sunset
Pune is a city that is blessed with a number of beautiful hills that offer some panoramic views of the city. The best ones amongst these hills is indeed ARAI in Kothrud. An abandoned quarry, the locals have turned this place into their everyday walking track, jogging and work out spot. There's also an open gym over here famously known as Jungle Bars where you can go and workout.
The hill has some dense vegetation around and is very peaceful place to be at during mornings or even evenings. And the best part is that there is no entry fee at this place!
Drink On A Budget
What's a night in Pune without going out and drinking? If you are doing it on a budget then head straight to Three Musketeers on Balewadi High Street. It's the second branch of the brand, and they are continuing with their legacy of cheap drinks, good music and good times. A meal with drink will cost you around INR 600 for two people.
