Imagine you have planned a trip to Pune with your kids. As it is a short trip of three days, you want to have a perfect schedule to shortlist the places to visit in Pune with kids instead of wasting time in a queue for entry tickets or visiting a place when it is closed. This means that you should have an itinerary in place, before you hop on into the train or flight. We help you with a list of places to visit in Pune, especially when you are traveling with children.
Historical Places In Pune
Pune is a city built by different dynasties, the influence of which is evident in its architecture and planning. If you want to give your kids a feel of the city’s history, these are the best tourist attractions you should take them to.
1. Shaniwar Wada
The Shaniwar Wada is a fort built in 1732 by the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. It was their capital building and was also the residence of Baji Rao 1, a Maratha general who laid the foundation stone for the fort. The fort is 13 stories high and is known to have accommodated around 1,000 people at one time. Where: 3.8km from Pune railway station and 11km from Pune airport. Attractions: Dilli Darwaza, a massive gate with pointed spikes on each door. The two-hour light and sound show from 7:15pm to 8:10pm (Marathi) and 8:15pm to 9:10pm, (English), costs Rs. 25 per person. Days open: All days Hours: 9am to 6:30pm Entry fee: Rs. 5 per person Amenities: Car parking available, no restrooms or food stalls Things to consider: It takes around two hours to tour the entire fort, so it is best to carry water.
2. Aga Khan Palace
The Aga Khan Palace or the Gandhi National Memorial was built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan. The place is where Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadevbhai Desai and Sarojini Naidu were imprisoned in 1942, during the freedom struggle. The palace building features several photographs, sculptures and other historical artifacts like furniture and paintings, which makes it one must place to visit in Pune. Where: 7km from Pune railway station and 4.9km from Pune airport. Attractions: The spacious lawns, the tomb of Kasturba and portraits that depict Gandhi’s life are a must see. You can buy handloom and khadi garments on the premises. The Gandhi Memorial Society organizes activities on Republic Day, Mahatma Gandhi’s birth and death anniversaries, Mahashivratri, and Independence Day. Days open: All days Hours: 9am to 5:30pm (lunch break: 12:30pm to 1:30pm) Entry fee: Rs. 15 for Indians, Rs. 200 for foreigners Amenities: Parking and restrooms available Things to consider: Some of the paintings and photographs in the museum are in a poor condition and may not be appealing to children.
3. Rajgad
Perched more than 4,500ft. above the sea level, the Rajgad (King of forts) fort is a must visit tourist place in Pune. The trek to the fort leads to the top that gives you a breathtaking view of the Sahyadri mountains. The Rajgad fort was under the Maratha Empire for over 25 years. One of the best times to visit Rajgad is during the monsoons when greenery surrounds it on all sides. Kids aged nine or above will enjoy the trek, which takes around 2.5 hours from the base. Where: 65km from Pune How to reach: Buses from Swargate, private vehicles or taxis Attractions: Trekking and camping for kids. Balekilla Mahadarwaja, Suvela Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, Brahmarshi temple and Chandratle lake (shaped like a crescent moon) Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for trek: between 6am and 6pm Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Parking at base village, usually in someone’s yard. No drinking water, villagers sometimes serve food at Padmavati temple. No restrooms near the fort. Things to consider: The only way to reach the top of the fort is by trek. Not recommended for toddlers and younger kids. The Pali trail is the easiest route for children.
4. Torna Fort
The Torna fort, or Prachandagad, is situated 4,600ft above sea level and can be a great trek for kids aged 10 or above. It was built by the Shaiva Panths, or followers of Lord Shiva, in the 13th century. It is one of the first forts to be captured by emperor Sivaji Maharaj. Best time to visit this fort with kids is during winter, as it can be slippery during monsoons. Where: 50km from Pune How to reach: Buses from Swargate, private vehicles and taxis to Velhe (base village) and trek to Torna. Attractions: Trek ideal for preteens and teens. Picturesque views of the valley and waterfalls, Kothi Darwaja, Bini Darwaja, Hanuman Bastion, Zunjar Machi and Budhla Machi Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for trek: Between 6am and 6pm. Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Parking and food stalls at base village, no drinking water or restrooms near the fort. Things to consider: Not recommended if traveling with toddlers or young kids. If trekking, carry water and wear proper shoes. Camping is possible on the top.
5. Lohagad
Lohagad is a fort situated near the Malawi railway station. It is one of the easiest treks for kids aged six and above. The fort lies amidst the Sahyadri range, at a height of 3389ft above sea level. The hike to the fort takes an hour and is suitable for beginners. Kids can spot a variety of insects and birds along the route. Where: 60km from Pune. How to reach: Shuttle trains between Pune and Lonavla. Buses are available till Malawi. Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for trek: between 6am and 6pm. Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Parking at Malawi base; no food stalls, drinking water or toilets at the fort Attractions: Trek to the fort; Vinchoo point Things to consider: Best time to visit is winter, can get slippery during monsoons
6. Tung Fort
Tung is one of the many forts that were occupied by the Maratha empire. The fort is an hour’s trek from the base village of Tungwadi. It is 12km away from the Malawi railway station and lies 3,000ft above sea level. The fort is small and is one of the easiest trek places to visit near Pune. Where: 65km from Pune How to reach: Buses, private vehicles, and taxis; Train to Malawi from Pune Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for trek: between 6am and 6pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking at Tungwadi (base village), no food stalls, drinking water or toilets at the fort Attractions: Trek to the conical shaped fort; Temples atop the fort, viewpoints to see Lohagad, Korigad, Tikona, and Visapur. Things to consider: Trek ideal for kids aged ten years and above. Best time to visit is winters; monsoon trek can be difficult for beginners.
7. Malhargad (Sonori Fort)
The last fort built by Sivaji’s empire, Malhargad is one you can visit with the kids. Located near the city of Saswad, Malhargad is a one-hour trek from Sonori (base village) and is 3100 ft. above sea level. The youngest fort in the region, Malhargad is in good condition and has two temples that you can visit. Where: 30km from Pune How to reach: Buses to Sonori, private vehicles, and taxis till base Attractions: Trek to the fort (around 10km) takes 40 minutes to one hour with kids. Check out Ganesh Darwaja and the pond on the top. Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for trek: 6am to 6pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking at Sonori (base village), no food stalls, drinking water or toilets atop the fort Things to consider: An easy trek ideal for kids aged nine or above. Avoid visiting in monsoon when the terrain is slippery.
Museums In Pune
Pune is also home to several museums that speak about the history of the city, lives of prominent people and historical events. Here is a sneak-peek into the famous museums that you can never miss in your must- to-see list of tourist places in Pune.
8. National War Museum
The National War Museum is a memorial built for all the Indian soldiers who laid their lives to keep the country safe. Established by the Pune Citizen Forum, the memorial is located in the Cantonment area and managed by the Indian military. The museum was built in 1997 and is the only one in South Asia to be funded by the citizens. Where: Pune Cantonment Attractions: Old war tanks, an MIG BN jet fighter used in the Kargil War, uniforms, weapons and other war mementos. Days open: All days Hours: 9:30am to 12:30pm, 3:30pm to 6:30pm Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Restrooms, food stalls, parking Things to consider: A tribute to war heroes of India, the museum features several lethal weapons on display.
9. Mahatma Phule Museum
The Mahatma Phule Museum is a science and technology museum, which was originally founded as the Poona Industrial Museum in 1875. It features several pictures, paintings, brass and stone sculptures and science models. The museum also houses several items such as machinery related to industry, geology, natural history and agriculture. Where: Ghole Road, Pune Attractions: Stuffed animals in the natural history section, sugar mill, coconut oil mill and steam engine models, architectural models Days open: All days Hours: 9:30am to 5:30pm Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per person Amenities: Parking, restrooms Things to consider: The scientific models in the museum may be of interest to kids aged five or above, and not toddlers. For older kids, a guided tour of the museum can be an excellent experience.
10. Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railway
Trains fascinate kids and adults alike. When in Pune, visit the Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railway founded by BS Joshi. The museum boasts of being the “only miniature city in India”. It has a complete city made up of tiny buildings, trains, highways, parks, tunnels, lakes, towers, restaurants and business districts. Where: Kothrud, Pune Attractions: The miniature train show is a feast both for kids and adults. Toy train rides for visitors. Days open: All days Hours: 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Wednesday and Friday; 9:30am to 1pm on Thursdays, 9:30am to 4pm and 5pm to 8pm on Saturdays, 5pm to 8pm on Sundays. Entry Fee: Rs. 80 per person Amenities: Parking, restaurant, restrooms
11. Pune Tribal Museum
The Pune Tribal Museum exhibits the artifacts and items used by the Wagdheo, Danteswari, Bahiram and Marai tribes living in the Sahyadris. From everyday items like utensils, clothing and kitchen tools to beautiful masks of deities, musical instruments and life-size replicas of the people and their lifestyles, you can find everything that tells you about the cultures of the natives in this museum. Where: Bund Garden Road, Pune Attractions: Life-size figurines depicting tribal lifestyle, colorful face masks, paintings and photographs Days open: All days except weekends and public holidays Hours: 10am to 5pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, restrooms, and food stalls
12. Blades Of Glory Cricket Museum
Blades of Glory museum is for cricket buffs. It is a private museum owned and operated by Rohan Pate, an ardent cricket fan. The museum is spread over 4000sft and has memorabilia signed by famous cricketers from around the world. Where: Sahakar Nagar, Pune Attractions: Autographed cricket bats and jerseys from national and international cricketers. Days open: All days Hours: 10:30am to 7pm Entry Fee: Rs. 50 per person Amenities: Restrooms, parking
Malls And Entertainment Places In Pune
Pune has several malls and amusement parks you can take your kids to. Here are our famous places.
13. Phoenix Market City
Spread over 3.4 million sft, the Phoenix Market City has a number of stores, restaurants and movie theaters. The mall also has an exclusive gaming zone for kids and adults. It is a popular shopping destination where you can buy clothes, electronics, and sporting goods among others. Where: Viman Nagar, Pune Attractions: BluO Bowling alley – ideal for older kids, Fun City gaming zone for kids and adults and 9D cinema, virtual reality and paintball at the Praso Play Lounge Days open: All days Hours: 11am to 9.30pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, restrooms, restaurants, free Wi-Fi, wheelchair and baby pram assistance.
14. Seasons Mall
Seasons Mall is the largest mall in Pune. With over 100 brand stores, 15-multiplexes and an exclusive gaming zone, the mall is a great shopping and entertainment destination in the city. Kids can have fun with go karting, rock climbing, bowling and F1 simulation zone. Where: Hadapsar, Pune Attractions: 7D Rider, Score Arena, High Octane Bowling and Go Karting for older kids; Seasons Express and Downtown Essel World for younger kids. Days open: All days Hours: 10:30am to 11pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, restaurants, restrooms
15. Inorbit Mall
Inorbit mall is known for its exclusive gaming zone for kids. Besides Time Zone, the Pune Inorbit mall has a separate fun zone called Kool Kids for younger children. The mall also organizes special activities and events for kids from time to time. Where: Vadgoan Sheri, Pune Attractions: Video, simulator, and indoor games at Time Zone, Exclusive Kool Kids range of toys in the play zone. Watch out for special offers and promos by the mall. Days open: All days Hours: 11am to 11pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, restrooms, restaurants, free Wi-Fi, car spa and wheelchair assistance
16. Amanora Mall Pune
Spread over 1.2 million sft, the Amanora Town Center Mall is for all. From shopping to gaming zones to theaters, the mall has everything you would want for a fun-filled day. The architecture of the mall is another thing that makes it a must visit when in Pune. Where: Hadapsar – Kharadi Bypass Attractions: Amoeba gaming zone with a bowling alley, video gaming consoles, and an exclusive kids playground. Days open: All days Hours: 11am to 11pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, restaurants, restrooms, ATM, wheelchair assistance, free Wi-Fi
17. Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani is an ethnic village entertainment destination that gives you a taste of Rajasthani culture and traditions. Eat yummy Rajasthani dishes; enjoy regional dance shows and exclusive puppet shows for kids. The place also has joy rides for kids, besides tattoo artists, toy train and magic shows. Where: Wagholi, Pune Attractions: Toy train, Rajasthani dance shows, Kachhi Ghoda dance, Saap-Seedi, Ghanta Ghar, and boating. You can also try mehndi, jyotishyalay, and pot making. Days open: All days Hours: 5pm to 11pm Entry Fee: Rs. 650 for adults, Rs. 350 for kids – includes meals and entertainment Amenities: Parking, restrooms and restaurant Things to consider: Cuisine served is Rajasthani and purely vegetarian. Cost per person is considerably high.
18. Della Adventure
For a day filled with adventure and fun with kids, Della Adventure Park is a must visit when in Pune. From joy rides and water games for kids to adrenalin-pumping activities like paintball, ATV rides, swoop swing, the adventure park, it has over 70 fun activities for the entire family. Where: Lonavla, 70km from Pune How to reach: Drive or hire a private vehicle to Lonavla Attractions: Aqua Zorb, tandem cycles, bubble soccer, bungee trampoline, artificial rock climbing, trikke rides, radio controlled cars and archery. Days open: All days except public holidays Hours: 11am to 9pm Entry Fee: Day pass for adults Rs. 2,013, Rs. 1,438 for kids Amenities: Parking, restrooms, restaurants, lockers Things to consider: Not ideal if traveling with toddlers. Games and activities ideal for kids aged seven and above.
19. Kolad
A rustic village that lies amidst the Sahyadri mountains, Kolad is an adventure destination. When traveling with kids, you can try adventure sports like artificial rock climbing, water rafting, and camping. Families can also have picnics, stay at the Eco lodges and go on hot air balloon rides. Where: 144km from Pune How to reach: Train, buses and private vehicles Attractions: White water rafting, Tamini falls, Bhira Dam. Stay in Kolad for a day or two to experience the thrill of rafting and camping. Days open: All days. Best time to visit is between August and December. Hours: Recommended time for activities – from 6am to 6pm. Entry fee: Depends on packages Amenities: Parking, restaurants, restrooms Things to consider: Kolad is a place for activity and adventure, not relaxation.
Lakes And Parks In Pune
Pune city has a few lakes and parks, which can be your favorite picnic spots. Here are some.
20. Katraj Snake Park & Zoo
As the name says, the Katraj Snake Park and Zoo is home to 22 different snake species, and several animals including white tigers, peacocks, and birds. The park is spread over an area of 130 acres and is also home to the Katraj Lake, which spreads over 42 acres. The place has an animal orphanage. Where: Katraj, Pune Attractions: Boating in Katraj lake, snake park – has over 150 individual reptiles including crocodiles Days open: All days except Wednesdays Hours: 10:30am to 6pm Entry fee: Rs. 3 for adults, Rs. 2 for kids Amenities: Parking, restrooms, and food stalls Things to consider: The snake park can educate kids about the species, while zoo introduces them to a variety of birds and wild animals.
21. Sambhaji Park
One of the most famous parks of Pune, Sambhaji Park is frequented by joggers and walkers in the morning. The lush greenery of the park is calming and makes it a nice place to relax after a day of activity in the city. Kids will enjoy visiting the fish aquarium in the park. Where: Shivajinagar, Pune Attractions: Kids’ play area, aquarium and seasonal exhibitions by the Pune municipal corporation Days open: All days Hours: 8am to 11:30am and 4pm to 8:30pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Limited parking space outside the park
22. Krushnai Water Park
Spread over 15 acres, the Krushnai Water Park is a must visit place in the summer. The park has several kid-friendly water rides and pools and activities. The park also has exclusive themed pools and spaces for younger kids. Where: Sinhagad Road, Pune How to reach: State transport buses, private buses, and cars Attractions: Wave pool. Pirate Island, Mushroom, Family Slide and Little Champs are some of the kid-friendly activities in the park. Days open: All days Hours: 10am to 6pm Entry fee: Rs. 500 for adults and Rs. 400 for kids (weekdays) Rs. 600 for adults and Rs. 500 for kids (weekends) Amenities: Parking, restaurants, restrooms, lockers, swimming costumes Things to consider: You can avail of group discounts on entry tickets
23. Mulshi Lake And Dam
Built across the Mula River, the Mulshi Dam led to the formation of the Mulshi Lake. The lake is located amidst dense and lush green forests and makes an ideal picnic spot for families. It is also an excellent place for bird watchers and nature lovers. Where: Mulshi Taluk, 50km from Pune How to reach: Buses, private vehicles, and taxis Attractions: Nature walks, bird watching and adventure activities arranged by lake resorts in the area Days open: All days Hours: 9am to 6pm Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, food stalls and restrooms Things to consider: Mulshi dam and lake is a place for nature lovers only.
24. Pashan Lake
A man-made lake in the outskirts of Pune, Pashan Lake is a scenic location that is home to a variety of birds. If nature appeals to your kids, this is where they can see birds like the kingfisher, woodpecker, cattle egret, jungle babbler and the cotton teal. The lake stretches up to 1.2km and covers an area of over 40sqkm. Where: Pashan, Pune Attractions: Sunset at the lake, bird watching Days open: All days Hours: 24 hours. Best time to visit is early morning to see the birds and at sunset for a scenic view. Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Parking, food stalls Things to consider: There aren’t any specific activities for kids. You may want to limit the time spent here to an hour or so.
25. Khadakwasla Lake
The Khadakwasla Lake is yet another place where you can enjoy the sunset. Click great pictures of your children with the lake as the background, or have a quiet and relaxing picnic near the shores of the lake. Regardless of what you do, you will have a good time at this lake. Where: Khadakwasla, Pune Attractions: Picturesque views, boating, the Khadakwasla dam Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time to visit 6am to 6pm Entry Fee: Nil Amenities: Food stalls, parking, and restrooms Things to consider: The place may get crowded during weekends.
Hill Stations In Pune
Pune is surrounded by some of the most beautiful hill stations that are tourist destinations in themselves. If you are planning a trip with your family and friends, make sure you include one or more of these best places in Pune to your itinerary.
26. Mahabaleshwar
The city of Mahabaleshwar rests amidst the breathtaking Western Ghats range, at an elevation of 4,439 ft above sea level. Home to the famous Pratapgad Fort, Mahabaleshwar has over 40 places of interest you can visit. Where: 120km from Pune How to reach: Buses, private vehicles, and taxis Attractions: Mapro Garden, Pratapgad Fort, Connaught Peak, Elphinstone Point, Dhobi Waterfalls and Mount Malcolm Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for sightseeing – 6am to 6 pm Entry Fee: Varies for different attractions in the region Amenities: Accommodation, food, parking Things to consider: When traveling with kids, the best time to visit is summers and spring. Avoid monsoons and winter.
27. Matheran
One of the favorite trekking and adventure destinations, Matheran offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The place also has several tourist attractions like viewpoints, waterfalls, lakes and a fort that you can trek to with the kids. Where: 118km from Pune How to reach: Bus, car or train (mountain train to Neral) Attractions: Toy train between Neral and Matheran, sightseeing. Trek can be dangerous and challenging for kids. Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for sightseeing – 6am to 6pm Entry fee: Varies for different attractions in the region Amenities: Accommodation, food, parking Things to consider: When traveling with kids, the best time to visit is summers and spring. Avoid monsoons and winter as the temperatures go really low on the hill.
28. Panchgani
Panchgani is made up of five villages in the Sahyadris, hence the name. Remember the film Taare Zameen Par? Most of the boarding school scenes in the movie were shot here. The hill station is home to several gardens, forts, and viewpoints that offer scenic views of the Western Ghats. Where: 102km from Pune How to reach: Bus, private vehicle, taxi Attractions: Sydney Point, Wai, Ligmala Falls, Dhom Dam, Mapro Gardens, and 35 more places to choose from. Kids can have fun at the On Wheelz amusement park. Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for sightseeing – 6am to 6pm Entry Fee: Varies for different attractions in the region Amenities: Accommodation, food, parking Things to consider: Best time to visit is between May and September
29. Satara
Satara is a hill station in Maharashtra and lies amidst the seven Sahyadri mountains. It is a serene and not-so-crowded tourist spot near Pune and is known for its beautiful flora. The Koyna tributary of river Krishna passes through Satara, which was also a part of the Mauryan and the Maratha empires. Where: 113km from Pune How to reach: Bus, private vehicles, train Attractions: Thosegarh, Kaas Plateau, Chalkewadi Windmill farms, and treks to the Ajinkyatara and Sajjangarh forts Days open: All days Hours: Recommended time for sightseeing – 6am to 6pm Entry Fee: Varies for different attractions in the region Amenities: Accommodation, food, parking Things to consider: Satara has several attractions that you cannot cover in a day. There aren’t many kid-friendly activities, but it is a great place to click pictures.
Other Kid-Friendly Places In Pune
Here are a few off-beat places to see in Pune along with your kids.
30. ABC Cheese Farms
Did you know that there are over a few hundred varieties of cheese in the world? The ABC Cheese Farms in Pune makes 70 varieties of cheese. The dairy farm offers day tours that the kids will enjoy. You can taste different types of cheese and even indulge in organic agricultural products and cheesecakes while you are there. Where: Ghorpadi, Pune Attractions: Cheese tasting, cheese festivals, cheese shopping Days open: All days Hours: 6am to 9pm Entry fee: Nil Amenities: Parking Things to consider: For cheese fans only.
31. Pu La Deshpande Japanese Garden
Also known as the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden, this Japanese garden is a beautifully manicured public garden in Pune. Inspired by a 300-year old garden in Japan, it is a great place for walks in the evening and also has sufficient place for kids to play. Where: Sinhgad Road, Pune Attractions: The garden has a beautiful landscape filled with flora. Kids would love seeing colorful fishes in the ponds in the garden. Days open: All days Hours: 6am to 10:30am and 4pm to 8pm Entry Fee: Rs. 5 for kids, Rs. 10 for adults Amenities: Parking, restrooms Things to consider: This is a public park and may not appeal to kids as much.
32. Empress Garden
Managed by the Agri-Horticultural Society of Western India, the Empress garden is over 100 years old. The botanical garden has several species of plants, many of them rare, and spreads over an area of 39 acres. Flower shows are often organized in the park and are a must visit if you are in town. Where: Near Race-course, Pune Attractions: Hundreds of varieties of plants and flowers; flower shows Days open: All days Hours: 9:30am to 6:30pm Entry Fee: Rs. 5 per person. During flower shows, the entry costs is Rs.30 for adults and Rs.15 for children Amenities: Restrooms, food canteen, parking Things to consider: An educational trip is what your kid’s visit to this park will be.
33. Bund Garden
A landmark of Pune, Bund Garden is located on the banks of the river Mula-Mutha. Situated in the heart of the city, Bund Garden is a place of retreat for people of all ages. The park is well maintained and is home to some of the region’s migratory birds. Where: Sangamvadi, Pune Attractions: Boating, magic shows and horseback rides for kids. Days open: All days Hours: 9am to 6pm Entry Fee: Rs. 5 per person Amenities: Restrooms, food stalls and parking Things to consider: The park is in the center of the city and is usually crowded during the weekends.
Mandwa beach Dapoli beach Murud beach Alibaug beach Harihareshwar beach
Shivaji Nagar New Kalyani Nagar Kothrud Koregaon Park Senapati Bapat Road
