Family Friendly Attractions in Pune

Taking children to a busy city such as Pune might feel like a challenge, but as long as you’ve got a good game plan there's no reason why younger travellers won’t enjoy this thrillingly historic city. There's plenty for kids to do in Pune, and they'll no doubt love the vast outdoor hiking trails, the colourful landmarks, and the attractions specifically aimed at young and questing minds.

 

Outdoors

 

The great outdoors beckons all visitors in Pune. There are hiking trails throughout the lush green hills, as well as serene lakes and waterfalls waiting to be discovered.

 

Pawana Lake

 

Just a short drive west of Pune, this body of water is a peaceful retreat from the city, where you can go on boat rides while surrounded by tall trees and rare wild birds. The journey itself allows you to enjoy spectacular views, driving amid the hilly landscape with plenty of places to stop and take photographs or go wildlife spotting.

 

Near Lonaval, Pune

 

Vetal Hill

 

The highest point within Pune's city limits, Vetal Hill is the ideal spot to enjoy a panoramic sweep over the rooftops. There are safe, well signposted routes, and on warm, dry days it's a fairly easy walk even for little legs. You'll enjoy winding tree-lined trails, taking in the serene atmosphere, and once you reach the top you'll be rewarded with amazing city views – especially at sunrise.

 

Panchawati Pashan, Pune

 

 

Animals

 

With vast outdoor spaces full of natural beauty, Pune’s animal residents are kept in excellent condition, being allowed to roam and live as they would in the wild while visitors look on.

 

Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

 

Just outside the city, the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park has plenty of space for all its animals, and this impressive site has its own lake, a snake park with hundreds of specimens, and an animal orphanage where baby critters are cared for. Take a tour of the park and you'll see playful elephants, sleek tigers, and all manner of exotic creatures from India and beyond.

 

Satara Road, Pune.  

 

Amusements

 

There's a small selection of attractions in Pune that are aimed at the younger audience, from amusement parks to miniature water parks, making it easy to keep kids entertained whatever the weather.

 

Joshi's Museum of Miniature Railways

 

This miniature railway and city has been created with every little detail taken into account, from replicas of diesel and electric trains, to models of fairgrounds, swimming pools, and tiny shops. Kids will love wandering around the displays at the Joshi's Museum of Miniature Railways and spotting all the quirky little details, with scale model houses and people to be found.

 

17/1 B/2 G.A. Kulkarni Road, Pune.  

 

Family dining

 

It can be hard to cater for children who are fussy eaters when you visit India. Luckily Pune has a pretty good selection of family spots, and if your kids aren’t into the hot vegetarian curries that are traditional in the region, then there are treats such as puran poli, a sweet bread, and mastani, a milkshake made with dried fruits.

 

Bluenile

 

A contemporary, casual restaurant that serves a varied menu, Bluenile is ideal for families as it has traditional Indian cuisine for adults and adventurous children, but also some less spicy options for those on their first trip to India. They'll even serve you fish and chips if you need something simple, along with a wide selection of Chinese dishes.

 

No. 4, Bund Garden Road, Pune.  

 

Prego

 

For a break from the local cuisine, try this cosy Italian hang-out which serves wood-fired pizzas and generous portions of pasta for hungry children. Prego is set within the upmarket Westin hotel, and you can choose to sit in the modern dining room, or eat al-fresco while overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens.

 

Koregaon Park Annexe, Pune.  

Prego website