Trekking, Maharashtrian Thalis, Museums & More: Here Are 12 Things To Do In Pune

If you love walking amidst nature, you must visit Vetal Tekdi. Also known as Arai Hills, it stands as one of the highest points in Maharashtra, rising to an elevation of 2,600 feet. During the rainy season, the hill transforms into a lush, green paradise. Every day, several joggers, cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers come to Vetal Tekdi during morning hours to soak in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful views of Pune's cityscape.

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24/7

LBB Tip: It is quite crowded during the weekend, especially on Sunday. So, plan accordingly and avoid going alone at odd hours.

It might sound obvious, but road trips don’t have to be dull. Pune is surrounded by plenty of quick escapes—from Matheran to Tapola—or you can simply slow things down with a relaxed one-day picnic near the city. Sometimes, the best plans are the ones just a short drive away. Also, these hill stations enjoy pleasant weather year-round, especially during the monsoon, making them perfect for a long weekend escape. Whether you’re exploring caves, chasing waterfalls, or trekking scenic trails, there’s no shortage of things to do.

If you are in Pune, you need to explore its magnificent wadas (forts) that stand as proud symbols of Maratha glory. Among them, Shaniwar Wada is a must-visit and one of the city’s most popular landmarks. With an entry fee of just INR 20, this iconic fort, built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I, is a treat for history enthusiasts. It draws visitors from all over the world. The Light and Sound Show at Shaniwar Wada was launched in 2000 and takes place daily from 7 PM to 9 PM. Also, when you visit Shaniwar Wada, don’t miss the lively street market just behind the monument. The vibrant stalls are filled with stunning oxidised jewellery, colourful ghagras, and chaniya cholis which are all beautifully adorned with mirror work and intricate embroidery, and available at pocket-friendly prices.

Timings: 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM

Entry: INR 20

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Heritage walks have gained popularity in recent years, offering a fun way to meet new people in Pune while discovering the city’s rich culture and history. Local groups like Pune Heritage Walk organise these walks, guiding you through Pune’s oldest neighborhoods, including Kasba Peth and Mandai, as well as the grand Royal Wadas of the Maratha Empire. We highly recommend the Old Pune Food Walk.

Contact: +919130641707

Social Handle: @puneheritagestory

Pune is buzzing with live gigs, especially on weekends, and the comedy scene is no exception. You can catch stand-up shows featuring comedians like Masoom Rajwani, Pratyush Chaubey, Aaditya Kulshreshth (aka Kullu), and more. It’s the perfect way to laugh, unwind, and dive into the city’s vibrant comedy culture—whether you’re flying solo or hanging out with friends. Grab your ticket, get comfy, and let the laughter take centre stage!

Pro Tip: You can check out such events in Pune here.

If you're a book lover, why not spend your Saturday morning immersed in a good book? Head over to Kamla Nehru Park in Deccan for Pune Reads, a silent reading community. All you need to do is bring your own book and mat. And there’s no entry fee. The reading session starts at 8 AM every Saturday, offering the perfect quiet setting to unwind and enjoy your favourite novel.

Price: Free

Timings: 8 AM onwards, every Saturday

Social Handle: @pune.reads

A well-known restaurant for its thalipeeth and puran poli, Poona Guest House at Nana Peth is the best place for a homely Maharashtrian thali. They have three varieties of thalis—regular thali at INR 180, gramin thali at INR 200, and special thali at INR 250. While the regular one has all the basics like bhaaji, chapati, varan, bhat, and papad, the gramin thali includes additional delicacies like pithala and lasun kharda, and the special thali has even more treats like koshambir, kothimbir wadi, and more. FYI, the regular thali is priced at INR 180, the gramin thali at INR 200, and special thali at INR 250.

Price For Two: INR 600 and upwards

Timings: 11 AM to 3.30 PM, 7 PM to 9.30 PM

Google Rating: 4.2/5

Social Handle: @poonaguesthouse

Pune offers a plethora of opportunities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Western Ghats surrounding the city are home to numerous trekking destinations, each showcasing the splendour of nature. From forts like Sinhagad, Rajmachi, Torna, Visapur, and more, there are plenty of trails to satisfy your adventure cravings. You can also join trek groups like Trek and Trails for exciting day or night treks—an opportunity to meet fellow adventurers while embarking on thrilling journeys.

 Pune’s museums are a great way to enjoy a cultural escape. It is a treasure trove, especially when it comes to history and heritage. Explore the Tribal Cultural Museum in Camp, established in 1962, which showcases the lives and traditions of Maharashtra's tribal communities. Or visit the RK Laxman Museum, a Pune Municipal Corporation initiative dedicated to the legendary cartoonist, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2022. For more information about the Tribal Cultural Museum, you can visit the official TRTI website.

Entry: INR 10 (Tribal Cultural Museum) & INR 50 (RK Laxman Museum)

Social Handle: @rklaxmanmuseum 

If you’re a Punekar, you’ve surely heard of Sujata Mastani, a name that’s become a part of the city’s dessert culture. For those who haven’t, a mastani is a thick milkshake topped with a generous scoop of ice cream and nuts like pistachios, almonds, and cashews. What began as a small ice cream parlour in Sadashiv Peth in 1967, offering just five flavours, has grown into an iconic brand. Today, Sujata Mastani has around 31 outlets across Pune, serving 33 flavours of ice creams and mastanis. The Mango Mastani remains their most loved bestseller, winning hearts for over 50 years.

Timings: 11 am to 11 pm

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Price For Two: INR 300 and upwards

Social Handle: @sujatamastani

If you enjoy poetry, storytelling sessions, singing, or stand-up comedy, open mic nights by Kasa Kai Pune should be on your bucket list. The group gathers every other week to give the community a platform to express themselves and meet like-minded individuals. Removing barriers around gender, age, and language, the community brings people together for a night of performances. You can showcase your talent or watch others enthrall you with their performances. 

Timings: 6 PM to 9 PM

Price: INR 250 and upwards

Social Handle: @openmicsbykasakai

If you’ve lived in Pune long enough, you know that Laxmi Road is where you go for stuff that won’t damage your pocket. It’s one of Pune’s oldest streets. Whether you’re looking for everyday jewellery or something special for an occasion, the stores here offer high-quality, certified pieces to suit every style. The more you meander down the streets, the more you’ll find.

Timings: 10 AM to 9.30 PM