Pune was, at one time, the bastion of the great Maratha Empire and is closely associated with the military exploits of Emperor Shivaji. It later became the capital of the Peshwas.

WHAT TO SEE:

PALACES:
The Aga Khan’s Palace in Shaniwarwada is Interesting monuments.

RUINS OF THE MARATHA ERA:
The childhood home of Shivaji, the Maratha leader who consolidated the area against Aurangzeb’s might. Ruins of the hill-top fortress-Simhagad, Shivneri, Raizad, Rajgadh and Purander are evidence of Maratha resistance from the Mughals to the British Simhagadh or the Lion Fort relates the colorful story of the brave attempt by Tanaji who sealed the daunting fort with the help of a gaint lizard. Raigad witnessed the crowning and death of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

NATIONAL DEFENCE ACADEMY:
Joint-services officer training institute of the Indian military force is located 18 km from Pune, at Khadakvasala. It is said to be one of the best officer training school in the world comparable with Samdhurst and West Point.

RAJNEESHPURAM:
The headquarters and the first ashram of the controversial God-man Bhagwan Rajneesh-turned-Osho. Though the Osho has attained “Nirvana”, his first ashram just outside Pune is still run impeccable by his followers who now run immensely successful spiritual and Business Empire. Visitors are taken on conducted tours of the place. You will find the meditation centre, set amidst beautiful gardens, which Oshoites converted from a sewer-the behind it is truly remarkable. Try the excellent vegetarian food.

EXCURSION:

PANCHGANI:
About 100 km from town is the place which was discovered in 1853 by John Chesson, an Employee of east India Company sent out to find a suitable place where the wives and children of the officers could live permanently without pining to go back to England. Since then, it has been an educational centre.

Bhilar Table Land, Merawali, Crai, Harrison Folly, Grover Point, Baby Point, Rajpuri caves, Devil’s kitchen and Dhome are the major attractions.

MAHABALESWAR:
At the height of 1372 meters above sea level is a popular hill resort. The bracing climate and charming scenery inspired the British to develop it in to the Bombay Presidency’s summer capital. It was also used during Word War 2nd by the British Indian Army as part of its Jungle and Mountain Warfare centre.

Old Mahabaleswar, 5 km away, is visited for the temples of Mahabaleswar, Krishnabai Ram and Hanuman. The Mahabaleswar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva Hemadpanti in style. The Krishnabai temple has a”Go- Mukha”, a carved cow-head connected to a source of water which is believed to be the origin of the five Deccan rivers. Hence the temple is also called Panchganga.

STANDARD SIGHTSEEINGH TOURS:
Half day sightseeing tour visiting Singhagarh Fort, scene of one of shivaji’s most daring battle; temple, museum and of course, the famous National Defence Academy.