Pune, a bustling city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, offers many family-friendly destinations perfect for a summer day out with kids.
Here’s a list of the top 10 places you should consider visiting in Pune during the summer, complete with information on attractions, access, entry fees, and timings.
1. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park
• Attractions: The zoo has a variety of animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and reptiles, making it an exciting outing for children. The lake in the zoo also offers a relaxing boat ride option.
• How to Reach: Located in Katraj, it is easily accessible via public transport or by car, about 8 km from the city center.
• Entry Fee: Adults – ₹25, Children (3-12 years) – ₹10.
• Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on Wednesdays).
2. Aga Khan Palace
• Attractions: This beautiful palace offers both historical significance and open gardens for kids to play in. It’s a quiet place to introduce children to India’s freedom history.
• How to Reach: Located on Pune Nagar Road, it’s around 7 km from Pune Railway Station.
• Entry Fee: Adults – ₹25, Children – ₹10.
• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
3. Imagicaa Water Park
• Attractions: Imagicaa offers thrilling water rides, slides, and pools suitable for all ages, making it a perfect spot to cool down in the summer heat.
• How to Reach: Located around 80 km from Pune, the park can be reached by car or bus.
• Entry Fee: Approximately ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 (varies based on age and day of the week).
• Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
4. Pune Okayama Friendship Garden (Japanese Garden)
• Attractions: Modeled after the Korakuen Garden in Japan, this garden offers lush green landscapes, flowing streams, and stone arrangements, making it a serene escape within the city.
• How to Reach: Located in Sinhagad Road, it is about 5 km from the city center.
• Entry Fee: ₹5 for all ages.
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM & 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
5. Science Park
• Attractions: Pune’s Science Park offers a hands-on learning experience for kids, featuring interactive exhibits on space, the solar system, physics, and biology.
• How to Reach: Located in Chinchwad, it’s about 20 km from the center of Pune, accessible by car or bus.
• Entry Fee: Adults – ₹40, Children – ₹20.
• Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
6. Empress Garden
• Attractions: Empress Garden is a beautiful botanical garden with a playground, making it ideal for picnics. Kids will love the wide-open spaces and the variety of flowers and trees.
• How to Reach: Situated near Pune Race Course, it’s about 3 km from Pune Railway Station.
• Entry Fee: ₹15 for all ages.
• Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
7. Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways
• Attractions: This unique museum showcases a miniature railway network with working models of trains, stations, and cities, which kids find fascinating.
• How to Reach: Located in Kothrud, approximately 8 km from Pune city center.
• Entry Fee: Adults – ₹90, Children – ₹50.
• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
8. Shaniwar Wada
• Attractions: Known for its historical value and architectural beauty, Shaniwar Wada is a great place for kids to learn about Pune’s Maratha heritage and enjoy open spaces within the fort.
• How to Reach: Situated in the heart of Pune, it’s easily accessible by car, rickshaw, or bus.
• Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indians, ₹125 for foreign nationals.
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM.
9. Baneshwar Waterfalls and Temple
• Attractions: The Baneshwar temple complex is surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. It offers short hiking trails, where kids can explore nature and enjoy a summer dip in the water pools.
• How to Reach: Located around 36 km from Pune, it’s best accessed by car.
• Entry Fee: Free.
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
10. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum
• Attractions: A unique museum for cricket lovers, featuring memorabilia, bats, jerseys, and artifacts from legendary players around the world. A must-visit for young cricket fans.
• How to Reach: Located in Sahakar Nagar, around 7 km from Pune Railway Station.
• Entry Fee: ₹100 for adults, ₹50 for children.
• Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Tips for Visiting Pune with Kids in Summer
• Start Early: Pune summers can be hot, so it’s best to visit outdoor locations early in the day.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water and snacks, especially when visiting parks or outdoor sites.
• Sunscreen and Hats: Protect your family from the sun with hats and sunscreen, especially during peak hours.
Each of these locations provides unique attractions that blend fun with learning. Exploring Pune’s mix of parks, museums, gardens, and historical sites is a great way to spend quality family time while making memories.
