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Undoubtedly the cultural capital of the state of Maharashtra, is said to be the educational center of India. Forts from the 17th century, built by the revered (King) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj can still be toured from the inside giving tourists a look and feel of life at that time. Shaniwarwada, a weekend residence of the Peshwas, Lal Mahal (the red palace), residence of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Fergussion College, a 200-year old college built by the British. Lakshmi Road, the avenue for buying all things Maharashtrian. These are just some of the places that register high on the tourist's agenda.
While it has always been a corporate stopover, Pune has its mix of potpourri and culture which makes for interesting sight seeing within the city! For those interested in history and architecture, Pune offers a mix of the modern interlaced with the old! Whether it is the Lal Deval standing side by side with a spanking petrol pump or Vishram Baug Wada, which now functions as a post office, the list is endless! Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace and the Parvati temple are the other few attractions without which a visit to the city would be incomplete!
Once upon a time Pune was a very sedate Maharashtrian city... very representative of the Maratha heartland.
The arrival of Osho to the city gave it an international flavour. The Osho International Meditation Resort has acquired international recognition with thousands of people, from more that 100 countries, visiting the Resort every year.The beauty of the Resort is its green and tranquil surroundings creating the most suitable environment for meditation and introspection.
Osho Teerth, a beautiful garden is an important place on the itinerary of Pune visitors. It is a major contribution to the environment of westside Pune. It has also the won the award of 'Pune's Pride.'
The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation Office is at Central Building, Sassoon Hospital Road. And there is an MTDC counter at the train station open from 10.00 to 6.00 pm Monday through Friday and on Saturday till 1.00 pm. The MTDC office organises a three-hour city bus tour for Rs 50, which is not highly recommended.