Pune from Ahmedabad: where to stay and what to do
Pune is a city of Peshwa palaces, Sahyadri forts, and a lively food scene. This guide covers the essentials for a trip from Ahmedabad.
Getting there from Ahmedabad
The quickest way from Ahmedabad to Pune is by air. Non-stop flights from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) to Pune International Airport (PNQ) take about 1 hour 20 minutes. Check current schedules, as frequencies vary. Indian citizens need a government photo ID for boarding. The airport is about 10 km north-east of the city centre, and taxis or app-based cabs are available for the onward journey.
Travellers can also take a train from Ahmedabad Junction to Pune Junction. Several trains run daily, including overnight options. The journey takes roughly 8 to 10 hours. Check current timings and availability. Buses are another option, with state-run and private services taking around 10 to 12 hours. For those driving, the route via NH48 passes through Vadodara, Surat, and Mumbai, covering about 650 km and taking 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic.
Areas to stay in Pune
Koregaon Park is a popular area with tree-lined streets and many restaurants. It is close to the Osho International Meditation Resort and has a relaxed vibe. Viman Nagar, near the airport, is convenient for short stays and has good connectivity to the rest of the city. Both areas have a range of accommodation options, from budget to upscale, and are well-connected by public transport.
The Old City, around Shaniwar Wada and Laxmi Road, offers a more traditional experience. You will find narrow lanes, old wadas (mansions), and local markets. Hinjewadi and Baner are IT hubs on the western outskirts, with many hotels and eateries catering to business travellers. These areas are further from the main tourist attractions but offer modern amenities and good road connectivity.
- Koregaon Park is good for dining and nightlife.
- Viman Nagar is practical for early flights.
- The Old City gives a taste of Pune's history.
- Hinjewadi and Baner suit business visitors.
What to do in Pune
Start with Shaniwar Wada, the 18th-century seat of the Peshwas. The fort has a large palace complex and a light-and-sound show in the evening. Nearby, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum displays a collection of everyday objects from the Maratha period. Both are within walking distance in the Old City. The museum has over 20,000 artefacts, including musical instruments, textiles, and household items from the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Aga Khan Palace, built in 1892, is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, who was imprisoned here in 1942. The palace grounds are peaceful and house a museum. For a view of the city, drive up to Sinhagad Fort, about 35 km south-west. The fort is a popular trekking spot and offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri range. The trek takes about an hour from the base, and the fort has historical significance from the Maratha era.
- Shaniwar Wada: Peshwa palace with a sound-and-light show.
- Aga Khan Palace: Gandhi memorial with a museum.
- Sinhagad Fort: a day-trek with Sahyadri views.
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: Maratha artefacts.
Food in Pune
Pune's food scene is diverse, with a strong Maharashtrian influence. Try misal pav, a spicy curry of sprouted moth beans served with bread. Puran poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with chana dal and jaggery, is a traditional festive dish. Bhakarwadi, a crispy fried snack, is popular in local bakeries. These dishes are widely available across the city, from street stalls to family-run restaurants.
The city also has a wide range of South Indian, North Indian, and international cuisines. Koregaon Park and Camp area are known for their restaurants and cafés. For street food, visit the stalls near FC Road or JM Road. Pune is also famous for its bakeries, especially those in the Camp area that date back to the British era. The city's food culture is influenced by its history as a colonial and industrial centre.
Getting around and practical tips
Pune has a growing metro system with two lines: one from Pimpri-Chinchwad to Swargate and another from Vanaz to Ramwadi. Check the current network. Buses run by PMPML cover most areas. Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are widely available. For short distances, consider walking in the Old City, where streets are narrow and traffic is heavy. The metro is efficient for longer journeys, especially during peak hours.
The best time to visit is October to February, when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) brings greenery but also occasional waterlogging. Carry a light jacket for evenings in winter. Pune is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Carry a government photo ID at all times, as it may be required for entry to some monuments or for train travel.








