Retaining a deep-rooted historic past and at the same time, embracing modernization, Pune is surely a mix of old world and the 21st century. Distinctively noted for its rich and dynamic culture, there are many a times when the place is called the “Cultural capital of Maharashtra”, with culture being one of the many attributes that one is expected to explore and relish. It is also a large base of education, home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions and colleges. It is for this fact that place is also recognized as the “Oxford of the East”. Apart from that, it is a well-known fact that the place is a large hub of information technology and home to the headquarters and/or branches of several major players in the IT industry, such as Infosys Technologies Ltd., Tata Technologies, Wipro Ltd., Cognizant Technology Solutions India Ltd., AccelTree Software Pvt Ltd. etc. Plus, Pune city is also home to the headquarter of the eponymous district, home to NDA, and a couple of other significant governmental bodies that have earned the place the sobriquet of “pensioner’s paradise”.
Today, the city is also bestowed with a large tourism industry. With an increasing number of backpackers visiting the quaint city, it houses a large number of hotels, lodges, resorts, and government guest houses, etc. to comply with the lodging needs of the tourists. It is ideal to pick from the hotels that are well-connected to commerce centres, tourist attractions, as well as the airport or railway station. Fortune Inn Jukaso, The Elite Suites, Hotel Eco Inn, etc. are some of the first favorites. They are amongst the best hotels in Pune near airport and offer a value for money stay.
This city is an old place; it was once the capital of the Marathas and owes the great rulers for its rich cultural heritage. The history of the place is reflected in the wadas and old temples that still dot it. Shaniwar Wada, in particular, needs mentioning. Situated in the heart of the city, the wada is the former palace of the Peshwas. It was built in 1736 and was an emblem of their valor, might, and opulence. However, in 1827, a massive fire destroyed a majority of the building. The remains are today the mute testimonies of the ravages of time. On every evening, there is a light and sound show organized in the building’s premise showcasing the history of the past rulers as well as the heritage building.
Another significant tourist attraction in the place is the Aga Khan Palace. It was built by Aga Khan, the head of the Khoja sect who evidently named the building after himself. It is well-known for its lavish architecture and intricately appointed interiors, including Italian arches, lawns, salons, suites, hallways, etc. The place is also significant historically based on the fact that during the Quit India Movement, Mahatma Gandhi and his wife were imprisoned in the palace.
There are several other amazing places of interest in the city; visit the city on next vacation to explore them all. Pune is well-connected to rest of India via rail, road, and flights. The Pune airport is large and served by frequent flights. However, if you are not getting the direct flight, a rather good alternative is to book a flight to Mumbai first and board a Mumbai airport to Pune taxi. Although, it is not as convenient as flying directly to the city, but it certainly serves the purpose.
Dimpy Roy
Dimpy Roy is a travel writer working with an Online Travel Guide. She guides travelers to various resources where they can find best hotels in Pune near airport and choose the best one.