Tourist places in and around Pune
Lake
Pashan Lake It is a manmade lake, built by bunding the Ram River. It is situated about 12 kms off the road to NDA. This lake is hailed as a birdwatcher's paradise with as many as 60 species of migratory birds coming here. An early morning visit to the Lake will be ideal if you wish to catch a glimpse of the rare birds like the Small Blue Kingfisher, Rufus-backed Shrike, Indian Whiskered Tern, Ashy Wren warbler, etc.This lake is situated 12 Kms off the road to N.D.A. It is an Orinthologists delight, as it is the favourite haunt of a number of migratory and residential birds. For birdwatching head towards this little lake.
Agakhan Palace
One of the major tourist attractions in Pune is the Agakhan Palace. The claim to fame of the Agakhan Palace is the fact that the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi along with his wife Karturba Gandhi and Mahadeobhai Desai were imprisoned here in the year 1942, while participating in the "Quit India Movement". Amongst the must visit spots here are the marble memorials of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadeobahi Desai who had breathed their last here.Built by the president of the League of Nations in 1938, this palace witnesses a large number of visitors who pay homage to the samadhis of Mahadevbhai and Kasturba Gandhi. The museum within houses memorabilia depicting Gandhi's life and times and owing to its close association to the freedom struggle, it celebrates a whole range of functions in their memory. The picture gallery depicts events in the struggle and houses the utensils, clothes, chappals and mala of Gandhi. The rooms used by them for dining, science lessons and the letter written by Gandhiji on the death of his secretary are some of the other attractions. A special cenotaph honours Kasturba Gandhi and a shop nearby sells khadi and cotton handloom garments and textiles.
Open from: 9.00 am-6.00 pm (Lunch: 12.30 pm-1.30 pm)
Entry fee - Rs 5 adults, Rs 2 children
Built by Imamsultan Muhammad Shah Agakhan III in 1892, the palace with its Italian arches is remarkable. In 1969, it was donated to India by Agakhan IV. Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and other leaders were interned here by the British for nearly two years after Gandhi delivered his Quit India Resolution.
It was built in 1908, by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the spiritual head of the Ismailiah Khoja community. Mahatama Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and private secretary Mahadeobhai Desai were imprisoned here during the Quit India Movement in 1942. Mahadeobhai Desai died on 15th August 1942 and Kasturba Gandhi passed away on 22nd February 1944. Their bodies were cremated here and later on two marble samadhis were built in their memory. Khadi or cotton handloom garments and textiles can purchased at a shop here.
On Nagar Road, this Palace is also known as Kasturba Gandhi Memorial or Kasturba Samadhi. This palace was built in 1892 by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Agakhan III and was donated to India in 1969 by Aga Khan IV. Timings :0900 hrs to 1730 hrs (Except on national holidays) Entry Fee: Rs. 5/-
ShaniwarWada
Shaniwar Wada Palace is places to be seen in Pune. Balaji Rao (the grandfather of the last Peshwa) built it in 1736. Today, only the massive outer wall of the Palace is left as the rest of it was burnt down in 1827. During its glorious days, the palace used to be the multi-storey home of mighty Peshwas. The main entrance to this place is through iron-spiked Delhi Gate. The nearby street was used to punish people by getting them crushed by elephants.Shaniwarwada was the stately mansion originally built as the residence of the Peshwas. The foundation of the mansion was laid by Bajirao II in the year 1730 Ad and the construction was completed 1732 Ad. The walls in the palace were painted with scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata. A sixteen petal lotus-shaped fountain stands reminiscent of the exquisite work of those times. This historical structure stands as an important chapter in the history of the Martha Empire.
Once the stately mansion of the Peshwas, this seven-storey structure was almost reduced to ashes by fire. What remains now are the fortifications, five gateways and nine bastions that enclosed the palace. The main gate is Dilli Darwaja, and the other gates are called Mastani or Alibahadur Darwaja, Khidki Darwaja, Ganesh Darwaja and Narayan Darwaja. The walls of the palace are adorned with paintings depicting scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata. A 16-petal lotus-shaped fountain stands in the courtyard, an exquisite work of architecture. A light-and-sound show held daily depicts the life and times of the Peshwas.
Open from: Light and sound show - 7:15 pm - 8:10 pm (Marathi Show);
8:15 pm - 9:10 pm (English Show) Entry fee - Rs 25
Book tickets between 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm daily
This bastion of Peshwa power is an icon of Pune and its rich culture. It was built in 1736 and became the seat of political power under Bajirao-I. Within the massive walls of the wada (fort) is the magnificent palace of Peshwas, which was destroyed by a major fire in 1827. There are well laid out gardens with impressive fountains. A fine statue of Bajirao Peshwa-I in fornt of the wada is quite impressive. A Light and sound show is held here in the evening.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Pataleshwar Cave Temple A marvelous respite from the bustle in Pune, Pataleshwar Cave Temple is quite elegant and exudes spirituality. Adding to the tranquility and beauty of the site is the circular stone gazebo (Nandi mapandapam) standing by the entrance of this small underground temple, which is a must visit place for the tourists to Pune.Located on Jungli Maharaj Road, these 8th century caves temples are dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar, Lord of the Underworld. It is believed to have been cut out of a single rock and is adorned with massive pillars. Shrines are also dedicated to Shiva and the Nandi Bull. The caves also house grand statues of Sita, Ram, Lakshman, Ganesh, Lakshmi and a huge Shivlingam. There is a museum next to it, which houses a wondrous exhibit - a grain of rice engraved with almost 5000 characters!
Open from: 8.00 am-5.30 pm
Pataleswar Cave Temples lies in the heart of the city, at Shivaji Nagar on Jangali Maharaj road. This 8th century rock-cut temple, hewn from a massive single rock, has huge pillars, a Shiva shrine and a Nandi bull. Nearby, is the Jangali Maharaj temple dedicated to a Hindu ascetic?
The 8th century rock-cut cave temples at Sivajinagar on the Jungli Maharaj Road are dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar (shiva), the God of the nether world. The exquisitely carved caves have a shrine of shiva in the centre, with a huge lingam and the Nandi bull in front under a circular canopy. There is a small museum near the caves. A grain of rice exhibited here is engraved with about 5000 characters and finds place in the Guinness Book of world Records.
Pataleshwar Caves on Jungli Maharaj Road are 8th century cave temples dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar, God of the Underworld. Believed to have been cut out from a single rock, the place has massive pillars, which are the grandeur of the temple caves. The shrine out there is dedicated to Shiva and the Nandi.
Peshwe Udyan (zoo)
It located near Saras Baug and has a rich variety of wild animals. Other attractions are, a toy-train ride, an elephant ride and boating.Raja Denkar Kelkar Museum
Kelkar Museum Creation of the passionate efforts of a single person, Dr. D.G.Kelkar, the museum has a vast collection of unique and peculiar exhibits. The collection is eclectic and exceptional. In a pleasant change from the other well-known museums of India, the Raja Denkar Kelkar museum exhibits the diversity of India's culture in a subtle and delightful way. The elephant-shaped foot scrubber, a brass scorpion that reveals a secret lock and eight images of Lord Ganesha carved on a bean make it a place to see in Pune.Established as early as 1962, the museum houses almost 20,000 artifacts, collected over time by Baba Kelkar, the founder. Located on Bajirao Road, the artifacts date to the Mughal and Maratha period and comprise of paintings, nut crackers, Ganpati's guns, carved doors, pottery and musical instrument. Its highlight is the Mastani Mahal, which is actually a section of the original palace built by Bajirao for Mastani. It is believed that Baba Kelkar discovered this ruined palace and transported its parts to his museum. The carved wooden pillars, colourful paintings, chandeliers, carved ceilings and different musical instruments depict the grandeur of the Peshwa period. The museum also houses household items, including artifacts made of terracotta, copper and brass. Idols of Ganesha, Shiva and Parvati, together with paintings depicting scenes of Ramayana, armours made of fish scales and crocodile skin, daggers, swords and small cannons adorn the first floor. Other marvels include Inkwells made of glass, terracotta, copper and brass, wooden artifacts and temple doors, richly ornamented fabrics and artifacts made of ivory and brass. For music lovers, there is a musical gallery with instruments donated by P.L. Deshpande and Ustad Kadarbaksh Khan. You will also find a tortoise shaped veena and a gramophone belonging to the early 20th century.
Open from: 9.00 am-6.00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 15
It lies at shukarwar Peth on the Bajirao road and is one of the major attractions of Pune. The museum si housed in a quaint Rajasthani - style building with faceade of red stone and its galleries bear the stamp of the Maratha period. It exhibits historical and everyday artefacts collected over a period of 60 years by shri Dinkar Ganghadhar Kelkar from all over the country.
Vishrambaug Wada
This 3-storeyed mansion is famous for its exquisite entrance and balcony carved in wood. Once a stately palace, it was ruined in fire, but was somewhat restored by contributions made by the public and government.This is a three-storied mansion, known for its beautiful entrance and balcony with carved woodwork typical of the Peshwa period. The 260 ft long and 815 ft broad Teen-Chowki Wada was built by the last Peshwa, Bajirao II as his residence. The Wada's eye-catching wooden façade is memorising in its beauty, and has beautiful columns carved in the Suru form. On October 31,1880 a surprise fire engulfed the Wada ravaging the entire structure. Vishrambaug Wada was restored to its somewhat original appearance by public subscriptions and municipal contributions
The three-storied mansion of the Peshwas in the heart of the city is an icon of Pune's rich culture and heritage. The Kirti Mandir museum here showcases the glorious history of Pune.
A three-storied mansion with its famous entrance is another of Pune's attractions, which symbolises and tells tales of Pune's rich culture and heritage. Now serving as a post office, this place has carved woodwork in its balcony and is located on Bajirao Road. And yes, the best person to ask for any sort of information on this is the best historian in the city, Baba Saheb Purandare.
University Bldg
On a sprawling campus of about 400 acres, the University of Pune campus is a treat in the early mornings and evenings. A minimum of a degree temperature difference can be easily felt.Parvati Hill
This is one of the most scenic locations at a height of 2100 ft offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. This is also the site of several temples dedicated to Parvati, Vishnu, Ganesh, Kartikeya and Devadeshwar. Climb to the top via the 108 steps and catch an aerial view of the city. Besides the temples, there is a museum here, which houses artifacts spanning the Peshwa period, including old manuscripts, ancient paintings, arms and old coins. The Parvati Hill and Temple is said to have housed an idol carved out of pure gold, which was stolen and replaced by a silver idol painted in gold. Close to the museum is the Samadhi Sthan of Shrimant Nanasaheb Peshwa who took his last breath here.This 17th century Parvati temple lies on the southern outskirts of the town on a hill top. The Parvati museum houses portraits of heroes of the Peshwa dynasty, besides old manuscripts, weapons and coins. There are also temples of Ganapati and Kartikeya.
Parvati hill located in the south-east corner of Pune has the historic temple of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva (Devadevesvara). It can be reached through a flight of 108 stellply rising steps. The Parvati Museum here displays portraits of Peshwas, old manuscripts, weapons and coins. The hill affords a panoramic view of the Pune city.
This hill, located in Southern Pune is visible from many parts of Pune. The temple atop after a climb, is dedicated to Parvati, Vishnu, Ganesh, Kartikeya and Devadeshwar. The climb comprising of a hundred odd steps to the top does turn to be very rewarding with a beautiful panoramic view of the Pune City.
Katraj Snake Park
Located in Katraj, this is home to a number of snakes and reptiles of different shapes and sizes. Before proceeding to the park, you can glean all possible information about the reptiles from the library inside. A recently created zoo makes it particularly interesting for children. The park also hosts festivals and special programs for spreading awareness about these species. Especially at Nagpanchami, events are held for providing information about them.Open from: 10.30 am-6.00 pm (Wednesday closed) Entry fee - Rs 3 Started in 1986, with the help of the Pune Municipal Corporation, the Katraj snake Park is situated on the Pune-Satara Highway near Bharati Vidhapeeth Campus. The straight road emanating from Swargate takes you to the desired destination. The park today has a collection of wonderful reptiles, birds, a baby leopard, crocodiles and others. The prize collection is of course the six-year-old, nine feet long King Cobra.
Located in Katraj, this snake park, one of the only ones in the country is well known for its work towards animals besides its snakes and reptiles. Recently it added a zoo to it as well. It has held many snake festivals and snake awareness programs to let people know this dreaded creepy creature better.
Timings: 1000 to 1330 hrs and 1500 to 1730 hrs -- Closed on Wednesdays
Osho's Ashram
The controversial ashram of Osho (also known as Rajnish) is located in Koregaon Park. It is a lush green 24-acre commune, described as the "spiritual Disneyland for disaffected First World yuppies" by the Wall Street Journal. A number of programs with special emphasis on new-age meditation are conducted here. This place is worth more than a visit in Pune.In the Maratha Kingdom, Pune was the centre of power and all the places around this city reflect the might and glory of Marathas. Sinhagad, a hilltop fort, is the epitome of the bravery and cleverness of Maratha warriors. Raigad Fort was the place closely associated with the life and times of Shivaji, an icon of Maratha pride. Bhimashankar is a place known as much for its religious importance as for its natural surroundings. Jejuri has one of the most important temples in Maharashtra situated on a hilltop.
Bhagwan Rajneesh's famous ashram is located at 17 Koregoan Park, a green and elite suburb of Pune. This site attracts thousands of visitors. The ashram offers a variety of expensive courses on meditation. All that is required is filling out of an application form (with 2 passport photographs) and an on-the-spot, HIV negative test with the purchase of special tunics. Accommodation needs to be arranged outside the ashram. The nearby Nulla Park also called the Osho Teerth, is a beautifully maintained garden, transformed from a swamp.
Visitors are required to contact the welcome centre near the entrance to the Ashram, between 0900 and 1100 hrs from where they are taken in batches on a tour of the ashram.
Konark Park
Located on the outskirts of Pune, this hosts the private collection of Dr. Suhas Jog, collected over 30 years from across the world. This aviary-cum-birds research centre will overwhelm you by the exotic collection. It includes species like the Bare-eyed Cockatoo from Australia, Yellow Golden Pheasant from China, Ring Oiet Pheasant from Kenya and the Ostrich and Emu. For children, there is a playground and a pond with ducks. Remember, photography is not allowed inside the park.Open from: 10.00 am-10.00 pm Situated in the outskirts of Pune, ahead of Ambrosia and around 5kms from Pashan is this beautiful bird sanctuary. It is a private collection of birds of Dr. Suhas Jog. The birds here have been collected by Dr. Jog over a period of 30 years from different parts of the world.
Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute
It is housed in a beautiful oriental style building and has over 20,000 manuscripts from the collection of Bolhar, Kielhorn and Bhandarkar.Bund Gardens or Mahatama Gandhi Udyan
The well laid out gardens on the right bank of the Mula - Mutha Rivers is a popular evening spot. It has boating facilities and has a well - designed jogging track.Located on the banks of the Mula-Mutha Rivers, these gardens are home to the migratory birds in winter. Boat rides are also available in the river and a jogging track enables people to view these are leisure.
These gardens located on the banks of the Mula-Mutha Rivers are a treat during winters with a number of migratory birds. Boat rides are also available in the river's backwaters. The Bund Gardens are located at a distance of 2 km from the Pune Railway Station. Some years back a jogging track was added to the gardens increasing its popularity.
Central Water, Power, Irrigation and Navigation Research Institute
Kesari Wada
The famous Ke3sari newspaper was started here by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who advocated ‘Self Rule'. The Gangpati festival was started in the courtyard of the Wada by Tilak.Khunya Murlidhar Temple
This temple of Lord Krishna (Muralidhar) at Sadashiv Peth was built in 1797, by Sadashiv Raghunath or Dada Gadre, a famous merchant.Mahatma Phule Museum
This unique museum at Ghole Road, Shivaji Nagar was established in 1890. It showcases industrial, agricultural and handicraft articles. There are also specimens of the body structures of different animal species.Shinde Chatri
This is home to the samadhi of Shrimant Mahadji Shinde. Also located in the courtyard is a Shiv mandir, which is designed beautifully with intricate carvings.Open from: 6.00 am-9.00 pm Entry fee - Rs 2 The imposing structure at Wanawadi was built in the memory of great Maratha nobleman Mahadji shinde, the commander of the Maratha army from 1760-80 under the Peshwas.
The building built in the memory of Mahadji Scindia who was great Maratha noble man. It is about 4 km away from Pune camp and 2k ms away from the race course in a place called Wanowri. The carving and beauty of the temple is worth a look.
Tilak Smarak Mandir
It commemorates Lokmanya Tilak, the great freedom fighter and social reformer. A small museum on the ground floor is dedicated to Tilak.Tribal Museum
Located near Don Bosco Bridge, this is the best place to catch a view of the life and times of Maharashtrian Tribal Communities. The museum houses excellent documentation as photographs and artifacts of the life and customs of the tribal people of Maharashtra.Open from: 10.00 am-5.00 pm This unique museum near the Don Bosco Bridge provides an interesting insight into the life of tribal communities of Maharashtra.
Raj Bhavan
Raj Bhavan or the Government's House was built in the year 1866 and housed the government of Bombay Presidency during the colonial times in the summers. The building was impressively designed by James Trubshawe and is situated in Ganeshkhind. It is must visit place for all the tourists in Pune.Saras Baug
Saras Baug A popular place in evenings in Pune, you can visit the sprawling green lawns and the famous Ganesh Temple constructed by Madhavrao Peshwa.A sunken garden as the first impression states it to be, Sarasbaug was built by Nanasaheb Peshwa, surrounding the Parvati Hill. Now with a Ganapati Temple as the center, the garden now with lush green lawns at one time was a garbage dumping ground for the British.
Shaniwar Wada
This 18th century palace was built as the chief residence of the Peshwas.Kasturba Samadhi
Kasturba Samadhi is located near the Aga Khan Palace, now Gandhi National Museum. Kasturba was the wife of Mahatma Gandhi. She died at Aga Khan Palace, which was used to imprison Gandhi by the British. The samadhi contains the ashes of Kasturba.Film and Television Institute of India
Situated in the Law College Street, Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) of Pune is one of the most prominent film schools in Asia. The institute has trained a good number of famed actors, directors, and technicians for the Hindi Film Industry. This place is worth visiting in Pune.Located in the spacious garden of the former Prabhat Studios, it is made of a number of buildings. The Institute offers courses in direction, editing, screenplay, photography and music. This institute was established by the Indian government for imparting training in the art and techniques of film making. Some of the known personalities who have completed film courses are Mani Kaul, Shabana Azmi, Feroz Chinoi, Subhash Ghai, Jaya Bachchan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Note - If you are not a student, please obtain prior permission to visit the campus
The only Film and Television Institute in India, FTII is located on Law College Road. Famous for their film appreciation course, which has people coming in from all over, this one is where all the budding dramatic talent of the country comes from which includes Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi and the likes.
Sassoon Hospital
This is a Gothic-style building built in 1867. It is located near the railway station of Pune and a popular tourist attraction.St Mary's Church
Located to the south of Sasoon Hospital (1825) in Pune, the St. Mary's church was consecrated by Bishop Heber, who toured the region in the 1830's.Synagogue
The synagogue is located to the southwest of Sasoon Hospital and was built in 1867 by Sir David Sasoon. Also known as Lal Dewal, it has an attractive red building with coloured windows and a 90-ft tower to the north of the entrance. The tomb of Sir David Sassoon is located in the centre of the cemetery. This place is a must see in Pune.Empress Garden
Empress Garden is located to the north of St Patrick's Cathedral. The place with a fine collection of tropical trees and a small zoo is a must visit in Pune.Sinhagad
The Lion Fort or Sinhagad, situated around 25 kilometres southwest of Pune is atop a steep hill. Now almost ruined, the fort has a interesting history and an important place to visit and see around Pune. It was in the year 1670, that Tanaji Malusre, a general of Shivaji scaled the steep hill in dark with his men and defeated the forces of Bijapur. According to legends, the Maratha forces used trained lizards to carry the ropes up the hillside. This is also the place where Mahatma Gandhi met another stalwart of Indian freedom struggle, Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1915 for the first time. A pleasant day trip to this place from Pune should not be missed.Raigad
Raigad is the place where Shivaji was crowned in 1648 and died in 1680. From the fort located on an isolated hilltop, you can get a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats. To reach the hilltop, you need to ascend the steep climb. Raigad is situated at a distance of around 126 kilometers from Pune.Sarasbaug Temple
Located on the foothills od Parvati Hill, this temple houses the idol of Shree Siddhivinayak, manifestation of Lord Ganesha. It is a site of tremendous faith and worship, and receives almost ten thousand visitors daily. In fact, the number coolly increases to almost eighty thousand on Ganesh Chaturthi, as devotee's line up for His blessingsOsho International Meditation Resort
Pune's most defining structure, this ashram is located at Koregaon Park. This lush 40-acre meditation resort is beautifully created in white marble, complete with pathways, black buildings, lush foliage and a huge swimming pool. An ideal retreat for those who wish to relax and meditate, it is visited by people from across the world. The institute holds trainings in Osho Active Meditations and imparts training in techniques to relieve stress, bodywork and massages.Open from: 5.30 am onwards Entry fee - Full day meditation pass Rs 475
Mahatma Phule Wada
The former residence of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, today it has been converted to a museum housing photographs of Mahatma Phule and his wife. The wada has a well inside, which is said to be open to all, irrespective of class and creed. The courtyard also has a statue of Mahatma and is well-shaded by lush trees.National Defence Academy
Situated in Khadakwasala, this is a joint services academy, where the cadets of three wings, Army, Navy & Air Force undergo training before they depart for their respective academies. The three-year compulsory program includes all subjects required for a University Degree and also the basic training of fundamental military sciences. Permission is required to visit the institution, which us set is lush greenery and which hosts the sailing championships in the Peacock Bay.Note - It is open for visits only on Sundays. Guided tours may also be provided for a large group
Chaturshringi Temple
Located atop the hill overlooking the city, the temple is dedicated to Chaturshringi, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. The temple is 90 ft high and 125 ft wide and hosts the Navratri festival in October or November.The Chaturshringi Temple is a small hillock dedicated to Goddess " Durga " The Presiding deity is Goddess " Ambreshwari " An annual Navaratri Fair is held here in the month of " Ashwin " This temple is built in Shivaji era.
Around Pune
Ahmandnagar (120 km)
It was founded by Ahmed Nizam shah and has a 400 year old fort, which witnessed many battles. Later on, freedom-fighters were imprisoned here. Other attractions are chandbibi Mahal or Salabatjang's Tomb and Farah Bagh.Alandi (21 km)
The pilgrim centre on the banks of river Indrayani is famous for the sacred samadhi of the saint Dnyaneshwar, who wrote Dnyaneshwari, a Marathi commnentary on the Bhagawad Gita. Two fairs are held here annually - one on Ashadhi Ekadashi and the other on Kartik Ekadashi. Other attractions is the temple of Vithoba - Rakhumai.Bhatgar Dam (40 km)
The dam on the river Velvandi is one of the highest dams in India. It is also a good holiday resort and picnic spot.Bhimashanker (95 km)
The beautiful shiva temple here was built by Nana Phadnis, an emient statesman. It enshrines one of the 5 jyotirlingas of Maharashtra. A large fair is held on Shivratri. The town is also noted for its scenic beauty and bracing climate. Other places worth visiting are – Bomby Point, Gupta Bhimashankar (the originating point of Bhim river), Hanuman tank and Nagphani point etc.Bhimashankar is a little picturesque spot situated around 95 kilometers from Pune. The place has everything to attract the visitors - deep forests, temples, rivers and all other things that give you a feeling of being in a paradise. More than anything else the place is famous for the temple of Lord Shiva, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The place is also the point of origin of river Bhim. A must visit if you are interested in trekking, nature watching, and bird watching.
Jejuri (50 km)
The pilgrim centre is famous for the temple of lord Khandoba, the family deity of many Maharashtrians. A large fair is held here during the mnonth of Magashirsha.Popularly known as Khandobachi Jejuri, Jejuri is a famous temple of Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Mhalsakant or Malhari Martand, a god worshipped by Dhangars, one of the oldest tribes in Maharashtra. The temple is situated on a hill and you need to negotiate 200 steps to reach it. Jejuri is situated around 40 kilometers southeast of Pune towards Phaltan.
Karla (66 km)
The famous Buddhist rock cut cave shrines in the Western Ghats have a large collection of chaitya halls adorned with intricate carvings. The caves were excavated between 2n century Bc. And 7th century Ad. And are considered to be as beautiful as the world famous Ajanta Ellora. A 45 metres long chaitya hall here is considered to be the most perfect of its kind. An inscription at the entrance attributes its excavation to Bhutapal of Vaijayanti. The caves with viharas were excavated for the Buddhist monks, who used to gather here during the monosoons. While at Karla, the Bhaja and Bedsa caves are worth a detour. The Bhaja Caves set in a lush valley are as old as the Karla caves and its cave No.12, a large chaitya hall resembles to the one at karla. Another cave has a magnificent stilted vault. The last cave is a treasure house of rich carvings. To the south of the main cave is an amazing group of 14 stupas. The Bedsa Caves are another set of excellent rock cut caves. One of them has a fine chaitya hall with ribbed roof, supported by 26 octagonal pillars.The 18th century Lohagad and Visapur forts are located just 6kms from karla. Another attraction nearby are the hill resort of Lonavala (10 km) and khandala (14 km) Mumbai is 114 km from Karla.