Pune Bucket List: 10 Unmissable Things To Do In Pune

Pune’s tea culture is truly one of its charms. The aroma of freshly brewed chai fills the air as tea stalls and roadside vendors serve steaming cups of comfort. Among them, Aadhya Amruttulya in Raviwar Peth stands out. It is a century-old tea shop which has hosted icons like Asha Bhosale, Lata Mange.

Price For Two: INR 200 and upwards

Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Social Handle: Facebook

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.

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

You’re in the cultural capital of the state, so you’ve got to douse yourself in some cultural activity. And Pune has some of the best museums worth touring. Mahatma Phule Museum is one of them. Located in Shivajinagar, right opposite the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Auditorium, this museum was first established in 1890 as the Poona Industrial Museum. It was renamed in 1968 as the Mahatma Phule Museum. Inside, you'll find a fascinating collection of oil paintings, brassware, stone carvings, and marble statues—each piece offering a glimpse into India's rich artistic and cultural legacy. One of the highlights is their impressive library, which houses age-old scriptures and a rare collection of books that are sure to leave history buffs spellbound.

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry: INR 10

Google Rating: 4.2/5

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

The cantonment area in Pune, also known as Camp, is a lush, green neighbourhood that still retains its old-world charm, with quaint Parsi homes and iconic Irani and Parsi eateries. Spend a day on a food trail around the area. Start at Marz-O-Rin, one of Pune’s most famous Parsi bakeries, established in 1965. From their chutney sandwiches to vegan and gluten-free options, almost everything here comes highly recommended. You can also explore Kayani Bakery, known for its legendary Shrewsbury Biscuits. Next, head to Dorabjee and Son’s for an authentic Parsi lunch, and wrap up the day with a visit to Garden Vada Pav, a street food joint serving the famous Maharashtrian snack Vada Pav.

Places To Visit: Marz-O-Rin, Kayani Bakery, Dorabjee and Son’s, Garden Vada Pav & Pasteur

Renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, Tamhini Ghat is a favourite among Punekars. It is perfect for a long drive with friends, family, or even your special someone. The route is filled with scenic beauty, so if you’re into photography, don’t forget to carry your camera. You’ll also find plenty of roadside dhabas and tapris serving delicious local food, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Distance From Pune: 79 km

Travel Duration: 3 hours

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 neighbourhoods, 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

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 the special thali at INR 250.

Price For Two: INR 600 and upwards

Timings: 11 AM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 9.30 PM

Google Rating: 4.2/5

Social Handle: @poonaguesthouse

Located in Phoenix Marketcity, PUNO Advance is one of the first immersive gaming centres in the city. This place has many exciting things to keep you guys entertained for hours. From augmented bowling, glow-in-the-dark trampoline, virtual reality games, and much more, PUNO Advance promises a fun-filled day with your sibling. The best part is that they also have a lounge called Pots & Plates to fill up on nourishment post-gaming. 

Activities and Attractions: Glow in the Dark, Slide, Foam Pit, Twister, Trampoline Basketball, Kids Playground, Arcade Games

Timings: 11 AM to 10 PM

Price: INR 600 and upwards

Google Rating: 4.8/5

Social Handle: @funatpunopune