Cheap Flights To Pune

One of Asia-Pacific's fastest growing cities and the state of Maharashtra's second largest city, Pune is located on the banks of the Mutha River in India. The city is hailed as the 'Oxford of the East', owing to the number of the higher education institutes located there and is also celebrated as the cultural centre of the Maharashtra. Copper plate artefacts dating back to 858 AD indicate that the region was governed by the Rashtrakuta dynasty and the items were unearthed in what was once believed to be an agricultural settlement known as Punnaka.

Today, this sprawling metropolis is home to diverse, multi-faith, multi-ethnic communities and the plethora of mosques, Hindu and Buddhist temples, synagogues and other religious buildings scattered throughout the city, is a sight to behold. The region enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate tempered with a tropical savanna climate and subsequently benefits from high temperatures, even during the winter months. This vibrant city boasts a myriad of attractions and activities for visitors; from shopping in the colourful markets to visiting one of the many historical sites and museums. Plan your trip to coincide with the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in August see celebrations of the birth of Lord Ganesha, God of prosperity and wisdom. The festival spans ten days and is an important event in the Hindu calendar. Expect parades, the lighting of oil lamps and offerings of sweet oranges.

Things To Do

There is no shortage of interesting and varied attractions on offer in this wonderful city. Watch the weekly cricket matches, appreciate the elaborate temples or enjoy evening cocktails in on of the clubs.

• For The Sports Enthusiasts

Cricket is a favourite sport in the region and weekly tournaments are held in the city. The Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium is the most popular venue where weekly matches are held.

• Get spiritual

Explore Dagduseth Halwai Ganpati Temple, one of the most famous in the world. This beautiful and ornate temple was built in 1893 and the Ganesha idol statue is almost 8 feet tall. Devotees from around the world flock to the temple, offering precious jewels and gold.

• Compare the nightlife

One of the few cities in India that permits its pubs and clubs to remain open until 4 a.m., Pune boasts no fewer than 145 pubs and clubs. Sample the cocktails at Ouzos in the city centre and be entertained by the live music followed by the house DJ.

Calendar Of Events

With such religiously diverse communities, the city of Pune hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Expect elaborately dressed locals, parades and fireworks.

• Holi: Holi is hosted in March and is a celebration of the return of spring. Participants apply coloured paint to themselves and huge bonfires are lit, representing the destruction of evil.

• Ganesh Chaturthi Festival: The Ganesh Chaturthi Festival is hosted in August and the event spans ten days. The festival celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesha, God of Wisdom and Prosperity. This is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar and features parades, the offering of sweet oranges and the lighting of oil lamps.

• Dussehra: Dussehra is celebrated in the month of October and is one of the largest festivals in Pune. The event symbolises the victory of good over evil and it is believed that Lord Rama rescued Sita from Ravana on this day.