Vetal Tekdi: What To Do At Pune's Highest Point

Vetal Tekdi, also known as Arai Hills, is one of the highest points in Maharashtra at an elevation of 2600 feet. Tekdi means hill in Marathi. There is a temple dedicated to Vetal on the hill, along with a few others. This is where the name of the hill comes from. ARAI, which stands for Automotive Research Association of India, is located here. There is also an observation deck maintained by the Indian Forest Department. You can find an abandoned stone quarry near ARAI that has formed a lake. Hundreds of joggers, cyclists, fitness freaks, tourists, and nature lovers visit Vetal Tekdi daily to watch the horizon and the cityscape.

Vetal Tekdi aka Arai Hills, in the heart of Pune's hustle and bustle, is among the well-known attractions in the city. Referred to as the Mini-Sahyadri, it is home to many rare plants and trees. Vetal Tekdi is often crowded by fitness enthusiasts. Here, you can walk, jog, take photos, practice yoga, meditate, enjoy nature, and observe the city from atop. However, an early morning trek to Arai Hills, Pune, is highly recommended to witness the sunrise. It takes half an hour to get to the top. Many also visit it for a picnic or just to enjoy the sunset views. It is quite crowded during the weekend, especially on Sunday. So, plan accordingly and avoid going alone at odd hours.

Arai Hills, Pune, is also a birders’ haven. You can see members of the cuckoo family, such as the Common Cuckoo and Jacobin Cuckoo. Blue-throated Flycatchers, Common Kestrels, Oriental Honey Buzzards, Booted Eagle, and Rusty-tailed Flycatchers have also been spotted.

You can do a lot here but locals usually come here for their morning jogs and you'll spot several walking and trekking enthusiasts. A lot of people enjoy cycling here as well. But if these activities aren't your thing, then you could bring some friends and have a breakfast picnic while enjoying the alluring view. Perhaps, you could also channel your inner photographer and spam your Instagram followers with gorgeous views of Pune. If you're a pro, you could capture some shots of birds in flight and hidden in trees. Keep a look out for rare oriental white-eye, francolins and more. This is also a great place to meditate and take a digital detox. Away from the bustling city life, Arai Hills is a perfect place for one to connect with nature.

LBB Tip: There is also an annual Vetal Tekdi Birding Marathon that takes place at the Arai Hills. The purpose of this event is to document bird migrations and promote sustainable tourism. The event is organised by the Vetal Tekdi Bachao Kruti Samiti (VTBKS).

Vetal Tekdi is located on Pashan Road, which is well within city limits and is thus accessible either from Panchavati or Kothrud. It is situated 10 KM from Pune Railway Station. You can take a bus from the station to Kusalkar Putala. The bus number is 146. You can also book an auto or cab via multiple service providers like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. Several walking trails lead to the top of the hill from nearby areas like Law College Road, Senapati Bapat Road, and Pashan. The ARAI campus, located at the top of the hill, is accessible via Paud Phata. There is public parking along this road near the campus.

Entry Fee: Free

Vetal Tekdi Timings: 24/7