The Top 10 Things to Do for Free in Pune

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati, Pune
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati, Pune | © Dave.kaustubh/WikiCommons
Vishal Ingole

The best things in life are free. Quite simply, some of the best experiences in Pune can be enjoyed without spending a penny. You don’t have to splurge on a six-course meal at JW Marriott or go to a nightclub to enjoy the live music scene in the city. There are so many activities that you can do in the Oxford of the East totally free of cost.

Jog at Bund Garden

Pune is home to several gardens and parks, and most of them are free to enter. One of the first things that you can think of doing for free in Pune is to go for a jog at the famous Bund Garden. This is also a popular picnic spot and has a lake and a jogging track. If you’re lucky, you can even spot some migratory birds in winter.

Jogging park in Pune

Stroll down Koregaon Park

One of the most expensive and plush localities of Pune, Koregaon Park is home to some of the best restaurants, pubs, hotels, and residential complexes. This leafy neighborhood has quiet, tree-lined avenues that are great for a long walk. If you have nothing else to do and are too broke to spend money on any activity, head to Koregaon Park for a stroll, alone or with a friend.

German Bakery, Koregaon Park, Pune

Visit the Osho Ashram

Situated right behind the Osho Ashram is the Osho Garden, a Japanese Zen garden built by the Shunyo Foundation. For all those who enjoy both spirituality and nature, visiting the Osho Ashram and Garden should be on top of the bucket list.

The Osho Ashram, Koregaon Park, Pune

Visit Gyaan Adab Centre

If the written word fascinates you, the Gyaan Adab Centre is a perfect place to spend a relaxed day reading or attending a poetry reading session. You can check out their library and also visit the gallery for any ongoing art exhibition. This literary center features both new and veteran artists.

Book reading at Gyaan Adaab Center

Climb up Parvati Hill

In the heart of the city lies the second highest and the most famous hill of Pune – Parvati Hill. Once you climb the steep flight of 108 steps, you not only find an ancient rock-cut Shiva temple, but also a 360-degree view of the city. Aside from fuel in the car, you won’t need another penny to experience this.

Parvati Temple, Parvati Hill, Pune

Admire Pune University

Aside from being one of India’s first premier educational institutes, the Savitribai Phule Pune University also boasts breathtaking architecture. A visit to Pune cannot be complete without a look at this remarkable piece of architecture.

SPPU, Main Building, Pune

Visit Raja Kelkar Museum

Pune has many museums, and the Raja Kelkar Museum is the most popular. There are over 21,000 artifacts at the museum ranging from woodwork to sculptures. Some pieces even date back to the 14th-century.

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

See the Khadakwasala Dam

Besides being the major source of water to the region, the Khadakwasala Lake itself is a thing to adore, with the blue waters and the greenery all around. You could either visit alone and spend some time with feet dipped in the water, or visit with friends and have a great time over the snacks and chaats.

Khadakwasla Dam, Pune

Visit Aga Khan Palace

This famous historical landmark is marked by its imposing architecture and makes for a great trip back in time. Visit on any weekday to see the relics of Kasturba Gandhi, visit the textile shop, or just admire the towering building.

Gandhi Statue at Aga Khan Palace

See the Mulshi Dam

If you have a car at your disposal, then head to the scenic Mulshi Dam, a couple of hours drive from the city. Sunny skies and blue waters amid a verdant surrounding are enough to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for a long time.

Money is no object for having fun in Pune. Visit some of these remarkable places to have a great time for free.

Backwaters of Mulshi Dam

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