“Pune is the second-largest city in the state of Maharashtra, India. It’s known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra and is an important city for its economic and industrial growth.”
– Thrillophilia
It’s almost impossible to organise a family vacation that pleases everyone, especially when you’ve got energetic children running about. That’s why I am so excited to visit Pune. It combines history, culture, and entertainment into one package! Sounds almost too good to be true, right? I’m stoked to take all of you through all the lovely experiences that Pune has to offer.
Pune, Maharashtra’s bustling city, is a synthesis of history, culture, and modernity.
A city that carries a rich legacy of Maratha history, it is replete with famous places in Pune waiting to be explored.
Have you ever asked yourself ‘what are the places to visit in Pune with Family?’
With its fascinating array of kid-friendly attractions, from the mesmerising Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park to the thrilling Empyrean – The Sky High Adventure Park, Pune has something to engage and delight every member of your family. I’m thrilled to highlight some of the most enjoyable spots to visit in Pune with your kids in this blog, assuring you a memorable and delightful vacation for all. So strap in and let’s go on this thrilling ride together!
Table of Contents
1. Shaniwar Wada
2. Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways
3. The Imagica Theme Park
4. Parvati Hill
5. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum
6. Pu La Deshpande Garden
7. Sentosa Water Park
8. ABC Cheese Farms
9. Science Park in Pimpri Chinchwad
10.The Sky-High Adventure Park, Empyrean
11. Aga Khan Palace
12. Lal Mahal
13. Empress Garden
14.Vetal Tekdi
15. Panshet Water Park
16. Conclusion
Fun and Educational Family Vacation Destination in Pune
1. Shaniwar Wada
The Shaniwar Wada was originally planned to be a seven-story stone building for the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. However, the people of Satara complained to Emperor Chhatrapati Shahu I that only the emperor could authorize a stone monument. As a result, the Peshwas were instructed to build the remaining floors with brick instead of stone.
Peshwa Baji Rao I, who served as the prime minister to Chattrapati Shahu, laid the foundation of his residence on Saturday, 10 January 1730. The name Shaniwar Wada comes from the Marathi words Shaniwar (Saturday) and Wada (a term for a residence complex).
Key buildings within the palace include the Thorlya Rayancha Diwankhana (the court reception hall of Baji Rao I), Naachacha Diwankhana (Dance Hall), and Juna Arsa Mahal (Old Mirror Hall).
Introduce your kids to the rich Maratha history by visiting the majestic Shaniwar Wada. Shaniwar Wada is also one of the must places to visit in Pune with family.
This 18th-century fortification was once the seat of the Peshwas and is now one of the most famous places in Pune. It served as both their administrative centre and the home of Baji Rao 1, a Maratha commander who laid the cornerstone for the fort. It is known that the fort, which has 13 floors, formerly held up to 1,000 people.
The intricate architecture, expansive gardens, and fascinating stories of the past will leave your children in awe.
Make sure to attend the light and sound show in the evenings for a mesmerising experience.
Location: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra.Entry
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 08:00 am to 06:30 pm. There is an exciting Light and Sound Show every day. The tickets for the show can be bought every day from 06:30 pm to 08:30 pm.
2. Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways
The museum was founded by B. S. Joshi, also known as Bhausaheb Joshi. Since its establishment in 1998, the museum has become a popular attraction for tourists in Pune, with approximately 30,000 visitors annually. As we commemorate our 25th anniversary, our museum proudly displays an impressive collection of miniature trains, locomotives, and model railways from various time periods and regions across the globe. Our exhibits provide a historical account of the development of railway technology, starting from the earliest steam engines to the modern, high-speed trains of today.
Since 2003, the museum has been an authorized distributor in India for renowned international brands like Fleischmann, Roco, and Hornby Railways, which specialize in producing scale models of railways. The museum’s hobby center, called “Trainz,” aims to promote train modeling and provide fundamental knowledge about it, as stated by Ravi Joshi.
Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways will create a sense of curiosity in kids and is one of the must visit places to visit in Pune with family. For a unique experience, visit Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways – a delightful attraction that showcases an extensive collection of miniature trains, tracks, and landscapes.
The museum takes pride in being “India’s only miniature city.” It has an entire city made out of miniature structures, railroads, motorways, parks, lakes, towers, tunnels, and commercial areas.
It is a fascinating destination for children and adults alike. Don’t miss the entertaining light and sound show that brings the miniature world to life.
Did you know that there is a theme park in Pune which offers amazing entertaining rides to enjoy as a family?
Location: Late GA Kulkarni Path, near Karishma Society, Kothrud, Pune,
Entry Timings: Mon- Wed: 9:30 a.m to 5 p.m, Thursday: 9:30- 1 p.m, Friday:9:30 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Sunday 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
3. The Imagica Theme Park
Imagicaa is a one-of-a-kind park in India that provides an escape with themed attractions, beautiful landscaping, dining options, and more. It sets itself apart from other parks in India and can be compared to the top parks globally. The park features a water park with exciting slides and live DJ parties, a snow park with real snow and freezing temperatures, and an on-site hotel with amenities like a pool, gym, and banquet halls. Imagicaa is a popular choice for school trips, corporate outings, and themed weddings. It offers entertainment, adventure, dining, shopping, and lodging all in one place, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a unique experience.
The Imagica Theme Park is one of the kids’ entertainment places in pune. Located just outside Pune, the Imagica Theme Park is a fantastic day trip option for families.
This massive amusement park features thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and delightful attractions that cater to all age groups.
From exhilarating roller coasters to enchanting live performances, Imagicaa offers something for everyone, making it one of the top places to visit in Pune with your kids.
Location: Sangdewadi, SH92, near Lonavala, Khalapur, Maharashtra
Entry Timings: Mon-Sun- 10:30 a.m – 7:30 p.m.
4. Parvati Hill
Parvati Hill in Pune is an attractive location providing a stunning panoramic view of the city and surrounding valley. The hill is home to the ancient Devdeveshwar Temple, along with temples dedicated to Kartikeya, Rama, Vishnu, and Vitthal.
The Parvati Hill Temple Complex is steeped in Maratha history, with connections to the Peshwa rulers. The museum on the hill serves as a reminder of the Peshwa rule and their legacy in the region.
Legend has it that Kashibai, the mother of Nanasaheb Peshwa, suffered from a leg ailment and visited Parvati Hill for its healing powers. After her recovery, Nanasaheb Peshwa built the main temple in the 1740s to fulfill his mother’s wish.
Parvati Hill is also one of the places to visit in Pune for kids. For a dose of nature and breathtaking views, head to Parvati Hill. The renowned Parvati Temple complex is located on this magnificent hill, which also provides an expansive panorama of the city. The 103-step climb to the top is an invigorating experience for children, who will love exploring the temple grounds and gazing at the beautiful surroundings. Make sure to carry water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the hill.
Location: Parvati Paytha, Pune, Maharashtra
Entry Timings: Mon-Sun: 5 a.m to 8 p.m
5. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum
Blades of Glory Cricket Museum is an amazing kids’ entertainment place in Pune. For cricket enthusiasts, the Blades of Glory Cricket Museum is a must-visit. The passionate cricket enthusiast Rohan Pate owns and runs this museum. This one-of-a-kind museum’s outstanding collection of cricket memorabilia includes jerseys, balls, and bats specially autographed by well-known players from across the world. Your kids will love learning about the history of the sport and the stories behind the cherished artifacts on display.
Did you know there are interesting and fun places to visit Pune with your kids?
Location: Govind Gaurav Apartments., Swanand Society Lane 1, Sahakar Nagar 2, Swanand Society, Tulshibagwale Colony, Parvati Paytha, Pune
Entry Timings: Open on all days from 10 a.m to 7 p.m
6. Pu La Deshpande Garden
Pu La Deshpande Garden is one of the best family entertainment places in Pune. If you’re looking for a serene retreat amid the city’s hustle and bustle, Pu La Deshpande Garden is the place to be. This Japanese garden, sometimes called the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden, is a well-maintained open space in Pune. It was designed after a 300-year-old Japanese garden and is a wonderful area for evening strolls. There is also enough space for youngsters to play. This beautiful Japanese-inspired garden is spread across 10 acres and offers a tranquil space for families to unwind.
It is the ideal location for a leisurely stroll or a picnic because of the rich vegetation, attractive bridges, and winding roads. One of the kid-friendly areas in Pune, where kids may run, play, and explore to their heart’s delight, is the well-kept play area.
Location: Narveer Tanaji Malusare Road, Dattavadi, Sinhgad Road, Pune, Maharashtra
Entry Timings: Morning: 6:00am – 10:30a.m; Evening: 4:00pm – 8:00pm
7. Sentosa Water Park
The ideal time to visit Sentosa Water Park is during the winter months (November to February). However, the post-monsoon months (September and October) are also a great time to enjoy the lush greenery in the surrounding areas. To fully explore the water park, it is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. Additionally, considering the travel time from Pune, it is advisable to set aside half a day for the visit. If you want to make the most of your experience, you can even book an overnight stay at Sentosa Resort and Water Park.
Sentosa Water Park is one of the best family entertainment places in Pune. When the mercury rises, there’s no better place to cool off than Sentosa Water Park. Boasting numerous thrilling slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, this water park promises endless fun for the entire family. One of the greatest locations to take your children in Pune during the blazing heat is the park, which features family-friendly attractions and thorough safety regulations.
Location: Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune
Entry Timings: Activity Timings at Sentosa water park starts right from morning 10AM to afternoon 2PM.
– The second slot for the activity at Sentosa water park starts from afternoon at 3PM and lasts till evening 6PM
8. ABC Cheese Farms
ABC Farms, founded in 1976 by the Aga, Bhathena, and Chinoy families on a 27-acre farm, has grown from 14 cows to a factory in Koregaon Park and three outlets in Pune. The Chinoy family now manages the business, with a focus on cheese production.
The cheese-making process at ABC Farms is intricate, involving steps like milk curdling, cutting, whisking, and ripening. They produce natural soft and hard cheeses, processed cheeses, and goat’s milk cheeses. They also offer specialty cheeses that need special care during ripening.
Apart from cheese, ABC Farms also makes products like lemsi, paneer, and organic farm goods. They organize an annual cheese festival featuring a variety of cheeses paired with wine, bread, and other dishes. Every year, new and creative cheese types are introduced at the festival.
A visit to ABC Cheese Farms in Pune would be a memorable experience for children in a variety of ways. First, kids would be able to witness and learn about how cheese is formed from milk. This would be an excellent educational opportunity for them, as they would be able to observe the entire process firsthand, from cow milking to final product packing. Furthermore, the farm offers a variety of activities developed exclusively for children, such as touching and feeding the cows and goats, as well as interactive workshops in which they may make their own cheese. It is also one of the best places to visit in Pune with family.
Location: Ganga Cascade, N Main Rd, Ganga Fortune Society, Meera Nagar, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra
Entry Timings: Mon-Sun: 8a.m- 9 p.m
9. Science Park in Pimpri Chinchwad
The Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park and Planetarium is a well-liked tourist spot and science center in the Pune area. It showcases galleries with different science and technology themes, an activity area, an inflatable Taramandal, and an auditorium. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits that make science exploration fun.
The centre offers science shows, including 3D shows, Taramandal shows, and live demonstrations for both visitors and student groups. It also arranges programs and workshops with hands-on activities for students and teachers.
The Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park, one of Pune’s most well-known attractions, is a home for youthful, inquisitive minds. This unique park provides a hands-on learning experience for children, allowing them to explore numerous scientific ideas via interactive exhibits. It is a wonderful chance for youngsters to learn about science, technology, and innovation in a fun and engaging way, with over 100 models spread across 10 galleries. It is also one of the best places to visit Pune with family.
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Location: Kalewadi Road, IBMR College Rd, Science Park Marg, near Auto Cluster Exhibition Center, Anna Sahib Nagar, Chinchwad
Entry Timings: Mon- Sun: 10 a.m – 5 p.m
10. The Sky-High Adventure Park, Empyrean
Take your kids to Empyrean – The Sky High Adventure Park for a day of adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking scenery. This park offers a range of thrilling activities, including zip-lining, rope climbing, and much more. A trip here not only ensures that your children have a fantastic time, but it also helps in improving their motor skills and building confidence. Two birds with one stone, eh? The park is appropriate for children aged six and above, making it one of Pune’s must-see kid-friendly attractions.
Location: Level-02, FOUNTAIN HOUSE, CREATICITY MALL, Shastrinagar, Yerawada, Pune, Maharashtra 411006
Entry Timings: Mon-Sun: 10.30 a.m to 10.00 p.m
11. Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace is also one of the various historical places to visit in Pune with friends and families. The sultan who constructed it wanted to support the needy within the area.
The prominent historical monument in the city is the ‘Aga Khan Palace’ which was constructed by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in the year 1892. The Archaeological Survey of India included the palace into the list of protected monuments of the country in the year 2003.
Aga Khan the architect behind the creation of this magnificent piece of architecture gifted the palace to India in 1969 to pay his respect to Gandhi and his ideologies the palace today stands as an independent monument of history and is also a memorial where Gandhi’s ashes were placed.
At the front the palace boasts of beautiful arches and a massive lawn and within it there are five falls. The entire compound on which the palace lies on measures nineteen acres encompassing the lawn and other fields.
Entry Timings: Open on all days from 09:00 am to 05:30 pm.
Location: Pune Nagar Road, Kalyani Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014.
12. Lal Mahal
Lal Mahal is among the well known tourist destinations of Pune, also known by the name Red Palace. This beautiful monument was constructed in 1630 AD by Shivaji Maharaj’s father Shahaji Bhosale for his wife and son. Shivaji Maharaj stayed here for a long time until the time that he captured his first fort.There is the Jijamata garden which is now used as a recreational park for kids.
The Lal Mahal holds an important place in the historical arena as the story goes that Shivaji fought with Shaista Khan and in the scuffle, Shivaji chopped off the fingers of the Khan while he was trying to flee through the window of the Lal Mahal. Presently, one can find a gallery of large sized oil paintings depicting the most important incidents which happened in the life of Shivaji.
Entry Timings: Open on all days from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm and then from 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
Location: Lal Mahal, Ganesh Rd, Durvankur Society, Kasba Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411002.
13. Empress Garden
One of the best gardens and one of the beautiful places to visit in Pune is the Empress Garden, which is managed by the Agri Horticultural Society of Western India. This society took charge of the Empress Garden since 1880, and the garden has been preserved well under this vigilance with the aim of preserving these rare species of plants found in the region. Located on a 39 acre land, the garden contains several types of trees and plant and flowering plants. Besides this, flower shows and other related programmes of Agri-Horticultural Society are organised to make people aware of protection of the rare species of flora and it is certainly one of the best places to visit with kids in Pune.
Entry Timings: Open on Mon-Sun from 09:30 am to 06:30 pm.
Location: Near Race Course, Kavade Mala, Ghorpadi, Pune, Maharashtra 411001, India
14. Vetal Tekdi
Vetal Hill is one of the most popular and famous hills, situated within the city of Pune and has a height of approximately 2600 feet. It is one of the favourite trekking places in morning and it is one of the tourist attractions of Pune. Vetal Hill also got its own special name because there is a temple that was constructed at the top of the hill. Beside the temple, the Indian Forest Department has set up an observation desk and one can get a beautiful view of Pune city. This hill is situated in Bhamburda Van Vihar on the western side of Pune Municipal Corporation.
Entry Timings: No particular timings to visit the hill. Although, it is advisable to treak before dawn to enjoy the beautiful scenery of sunrise.
Location: Pashan, Pune 411038, Maharashtra.
15. Panshet Water Park
Another Landmark which has found its place among the list of the most recommended attractions centres in Pune is the Panshet Water Park located in the vicinity of the Sahyadri hills. It is especially for those people who are in love with water and other such physical activities such as swimming or diving, this Water Park in Pune will definitely give you the best time to spend either with your family or friend. New Matheran, the most attractive tourists’ spot is situated in the middle of the place which is in between two dams Varasgaon and Panshet. Few of the famous tourist attractions that can be found near to the water park are Raigad Fort, Khadakwaska Dam and also the Singad Fort.
This Park is extremely clean and life jackets are provided to play water sports. But inside the park, they did not permit that and there are restrictions concerning the use of a camera or video camera.
Entry Timings: Open on all days including public holidays from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm.
Location: Panshet Water Park, Near Khadakwasla Dam, Pune, Maharashtra 411024, India
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pune is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. It is a fantastic place for families searching for an enriching and amusing break due to its numerous attractions. The kid-friendly places in Pune listed above are bound to create cherished memories for you and your little ones. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this captivating city!
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