10 Things to Do in Pune for Free

Known as the Oxford of the East and the Cultural Capital of Maharashtra, Pune is a city that blends academia, history, IT hubs, and a laid-back cosmopolitan lifestyle. While luxury dining and weekend getaways make Pune vibrant, the city also offers plenty of free activities for students, professionals, and travelers alike.

Here are Sudarshan Cars’ top recommendations for free things to do in Pune (2025 update).

Places to Visit

1. Shaniwar Wada (Outer Premises)

Though entry to the palace ruins requires a ticket, you can still admire the majestic gates and the fort walls from outside. The massive Delhi Darwaza is especially worth seeing, and many locals simply sit around the open area in the evenings.

2. Saras Baug

A lush 25-acre garden surrounding a temple in the middle of a lake, Saras Baug is a favorite with families and joggers. Entry is free, and it’s the perfect place for a calm morning or evening walk.

3. Parvati Hill

Climb up around 103 steps to reach this hilltop temple complex, one of the oldest heritage structures in Pune. The view from the top is breathtaking, offering a panoramic look at the city—especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

4. Pataleshwar Cave Temple

This 8th-century rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is tucked right in the middle of the city. The cave-like ambience and ancient carvings make it one of Pune’s hidden gems—and it’s completely free to visit.

5. Khadakwasla Dam

A peaceful escape just a short drive from the city, Khadakwasla Dam is a popular hangout during evenings and monsoons. People come here to sit by the water, enjoy corn on the cob, and watch the sun go down.

6. Aga Khan Palace (Gardens)

While entry to the palace requires a small fee, the surrounding gardens are often open to the public during events and Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. It’s historically significant as a site linked to Mahatma Gandhi’s freedom movement.

7. Pune University Campus (Savitribai Phule Pune University)

Spread across 400 acres, this beautiful green campus is dotted with colonial buildings, banyan trees, and jogging tracks. Perfect for morning walkers, nature lovers, and those looking for some peace within the city.

8. Chaturshringi Temple

Located on Senapati Bapat Road, this temple dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi is perched on a small hill. The climb itself is refreshing, and devotees as well as tourists often come here for both faith and city views.

9. Osho Teerth Park (Koregaon Park)

Created out of a transformed sewage nullah, this Japanese-style zen garden is an oasis of calm in busy Koregaon Park. Entry is free, making it ideal for meditation, reading, or simply enjoying a quiet stroll.

10. Vetal Tekdi (Vetal Hill)

The highest point in Pune, Vetal Tekdi is a paradise for morning walkers, cyclists, and trekkers. Its greenery and fresh air offer a much-needed escape from city life, without having to leave Pune at all.

Must-Try Food in Pune (Budget-Friendly Icons)

  • Misal Pav at Bedekar or Katakir Misal

  • Vada Pav outside JJ Garden

  • Bhel at Vaishali, FC Road

  • Sabudana Khichdi at Poona Guest House

  • Cold Coffee at Café Goodluck

  • Bhakarwadi from Chitale Bandhu

  • Mastani (Milkshake + Ice Cream) at Sujata Mastani

  • Pattice at Kayani Bakery

  • Kandha Bhaji (onion fritters) near Sinhagad Fort

  • Street Dosa at Jangli Maharaj Road

How to Get Here

By Air

Pune International Airport (PNQ) connects the city to all major Indian metros and select international destinations like Dubai and Singapore. Sudarshan Cars provides chauffeur-driven pickups and drops to and from the airport for a smooth travel experience.

By Road

Pune is well-connected by the Mumbai–Pune Expressway (approx. 3 hours) and highways leading to Nashik, Kolhapur, and Satara. Sudarshan Cars offers intercity transfers for both corporate and leisure travel.

By Train

With key stations like Pune Junction and Shivajinagar, the city is directly connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Travelers arriving by train can rely on Sudarshan Cars’ chauffeur-driven fleet for local and outstation journeys.

Getting Around with Sudarshan Cars

Pune is a city of students, IT professionals, and cultural explorers. To make the most of it:

  • Corporate Travelers – Choose Toyota Innova Crysta or Kia Carens for meetings in Hinjewadi or Magarpatta.

  • Families & Tourists – Toyota Etios or Innova Hycross for sightseeing trips to forts, temples, and gardens.

  • Premium Lifestyle – Luxury rentals for hotel transfers to Conrad Pune, JW Marriott, or Westin Koregaon Park.

Our trained chauffeurs know the city inside out, ensuring you avoid traffic snarls and reach your destination with ease.

✅ Sudarshan Cars Tip: Pair your free Pune explorations with the comfort of a chauffeur-driven car rental. From student hangouts on FC Road to sunset at Khadakwasla Dam, we ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and memorable.