Pune is the second largest city in the state of Maharashtra, after Mumbai, and one of the top ten most populous cities in the country. It is nicknamed ‘Oxford of the East’ due to the presence of high number of educational institutions and for most part of its existence been the cultural capital of the region. Pune has something for all people, irrespective of age.
The city has drastically developed since the first decade of the 21st century and become a true metropolis spotted with shopping malls, great cultural diversity, spacious parks and entertainment destinations. There are countless fun places to enjoy in Pune, especially with your family and kids.
Here is a brief list of all the awesome attractions you can visit with your family and kids:
AMUSEMENT PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATIONS
ADLABS IMAGICA
Adlabs Imagica is one the country’s premier and best amusement parks. It is the perfect place to unravel and rejuvenate yourself away from the busyness of life. The 130 acre park is located in Khopoli, on the Mumbai – Pune Expressway (NH47), near Lonavala. The distance of 90 kilometers can be easily covered in a couple of hours and you can spend almost the entire day at this wonderful entertainment destination. Since the amusement park consists of a theme, water and snow park – Adlabs also provides accommodation facilities at the Novotel Magica hotel with packages so that people can explore all the three places over a couple of days.
It is located right adjacent to the park. There are also five lovely multicontinental restaurants in the park. The theme park is famous for its many rides, most notably the two roller coasters – Deep Space & Nitro. The water park is the apt place to get away from the striking heat and there are more than ten exciting water rides for people of all ages. The snow park is a one of a kind indoors destination where you can experience actual snow maintained at subzero temperatures.
It is one of the largest snow parks in India with an area of about 15,000 square feet. You can try your trade at Snow hiking and even mountain climbing here! Adlabs Magica is indeed one of the best places for activities and fun for kids. It is nothing less than a fairy tale vacation. So, pack your bag and head to Adlabs for a day (or more) full of fun and entertainment.
DIAMOND WATER PARK 
A day out with family, kids or friends has never been this exciting. Diamond Water Park is an amazing destination to beat the heat by enjoying the many water rides offered here. Pune usually has a moderate temperate weather, but the summers can get quite hot and such scenarios should prompt you to travel to places such as this water park. The park is at a distance of 20 kilometers from the Pune city center, near Lohegaon.
You can enjoy large family outing at the park without any problems by making prior bookings. In addition to the water park, there are also provisions for outdoor and adventure activities here such as camping, adventure hikes, zip lining, rock climbing, zorbing and archery. The water rides included are Sea Pirate, Tortuga Falls, The Octopus, Wet Bubble and multiple water slides. There are pools for families and exclusive pools for kids to enjoy. The wide range of facilities and activities at offer here are hard to miss. Diamond Water Park is a great place to be with your loved ones, for a calm, peaceful and enjoyable outing.
GO CRAZY ADVENTURE PARK 
Go Crazy Adventure Park is a fantastic place to have a gala and fun time with your kids and children. Located in a scenic environment, this park is nearby natural attractions such as Khadakwasla Lake, Panshet Dam, Singhad Fort and the beautiful valley it is located in, which also goes by the same name. Multitude of activities, both indoor and outdoor, are offered here.
Some of them are Rope Climbing, Bungee Trampoline, ATV Riding, Flying Fox, Wall Climbing and also Rifle Shooting. It is a lovely place to spend some quality time in the company of family and kids who will no doubt enjoy the place to its fullest. A game zone is also present here. If having fun is your primary concern, head out to the Go Crazy Adventure Park for an unforgettable fun time with kids and family!
SEVEN WONDERS DREAM PARK 
What if you are told that it takes only one destination to visit all seven wonders of the world? That is exactly what the Seven Wonders Dream Park provides, an immaculate journey to visit model-sized exhibits of the most beautiful creations of man. It is located in Yashwantrao Chavan Park, on Shahu College Road in Pune.
Give your kids a first-hand experience of the seven man-made wonders at display, namely – The Great Pyramid of Giza, Colosseum, Taj Mahal, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty and Stonehenge. Their respective information can also be found in front of each of them and is certainly an educational trip. The Seven Wonders Dream Park is a must visit place if you are in Pune and looking for a fun day outing. An awesome 4D and 3D show it also held in the evenings for kids.
KRUSHNAI WATER PARK AND RESORT 
Krushnai Water Park and Resort is located very close to the Go Crazy Adventure Park, on the Sinhagad Road, approximately at a distance of 20 kilometers from Pune’s city center. It is one of the better known parks around the city. The park offers entertaining water zones for families and kids and serves as the perfect getaway from the chaos of the big city life.
Facilities such as swimming costumes, locker rooms and changing rooms are provided and food courts are present on site if you want to relax. It is spread over an area of 15 acres and offers exciting adventure rides such as Tunnel – Funnel, Turnpikes, Crazy Cruise, Twister, Family Slide, Water Mushroom and Black Hole. A game zone with video games, dashing cars, bull ride and a play zone is also here for kids. There are so many activities for kids here. If you are looking for a magical place full of adventure and fun, Krushnai Water Park and Resort surely does the job for you.
DELLA ADVENTURE PARK 
Situated at a distance of approximately 70 kilometers from Pune, very close to Lonavala, Della Adventure Park is one of the best destinations to visit for a range of adrenaline pumping, exciting and fun affairs. The park is exactly half way between Mumbai and Pune and is frequented by residents of both the cities, mostly during the weekends.
It claims to be India’s largest extreme adventure park and certainly does not disappoint anyone who visits it. You can either get a Day Pass or the much rewarding Jumbo Pass that covers enthralling activities such as Buggy Riding, Motocross, ATV riding (includes a 700CC Yamaha Raptor!) and also Paintballing, among many others. This is an adventure park like no other and caters to both adults and kids. Head to Della Adventure Park for a day full of fun and excitement!
ABSOLUTE SCUBA 
Yes, you read it right. It might sound a bit odd to see such a thing in a land locked city like Pune, but the presence of the Mula Mutha river makes it possible to learn the tricks and trades of underwater diving.
Sign up for classes at Absolute Scuba for an adventurous and exciting activity to discover the deep blue. They are conducted on the premises of the Royal Connaught Gardens and Boat Club. It is a starter’s course that can be tried by everyone, from children and young kids to adults and even non swimmers. Advanced and professional courses are also provided by Absolute Scuba.
MONUMENTS AND HISTORICAL PLACES
SHANIWAR WADA 
The 18th century Peshwa fort is one of the top attractions in the city of Pune. The monumental fortification was built in 1732 and was the stronghold of the Maratha Empire till the early nineteenth century. Shaniwar Wada was in ruins and was restored to its former glory. It is said that, the fort once was home to a thousand people! The Shaniwar Wada is the epitome of Maratha architecture and must be visited by anyone who have a love for majestic art and an aura of calmness.
A light and sound show is held every evening on the grounds of the fort complex, in both English and Marathi. The royal gardens are well maintained and one can spend a quality time here. The large courtyards, high ceilings and fantastic architecture details make this a great fun visit for families and kids.
RAJGAD FORT 
Although it is not located in the city, Rajgad Fort is nonetheless one of the most visited sites around the Pune district. Rajgad is at a distance of approximately 60 kilometers south-west of Pune. Its scenic beauty is unparalleled as it offers undulating views of the valley and forest regions. For almost 26 years, the fort was the center of the Maratha empire under the great ruler Chhatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj because of its commanding position on the top of a hill.
It lies about 4,500 feet above sea level and its construction is certainly an engineering marvel. The runs of the fort that now lies there consists of barracks, water cisterns, caves and palaces. It was also the summer retreat of Shivaji. Monsoon treks are quite popular here. Rajgad Fort is a brilliant day outing from Pune with your family and Kids as the drive down here is fantastic and once you get on the top of the fort, the views are breathtaking.
TORNA FORT / PRACHANDAGAD 
Torna Fort can be conveniently added to the day trip along with your visit to Rajgad as they are located close to one another (you can view one fort from the other when you are on the top). It is one of the larger forts in the state and requires a moderate trek to reach the top, as it is the highest fort in the district & the views are beautiful.
Torna Fort is historically important as it was the first fort to be captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji, only aged 16, at the time when the Maratha empire was at the peak of its powers. The winter months are the best to visit Torna Fort as the views are amazing on cloudless days. It makes for a great fun day outing with your kids and family, along with Rajgad Fort.
LOHAGAD FORT 
Lohagad Fort can be found nearly 65 kilometers northwest of Pune, near Pawna Lake. Lohagad literally translates to “Iron Fort” and the name serves as a testament to how the fort was used to rule the region with an iron fist by the Maratha empire during its peak years. Situated at a height of nearly 1030 meters above sea level, it is said that the fort has served the purposes of not only the Marathas but also several dynasties before such as the Chalukyas, Satvahanas, Rashtrakutas, Nizams and also the Mughal empire. In its latter years of power, the fort was used to hide and protect treasury. It is now a protected monument and is frequented normally by families and kids. Take your kids for a fun day experiencing the rich history and beauty of nature here at Lohagad.
MALHARGAD FORT 
Malhargad Fort is one of the nearest forts to the Pune city, located at only a distance of 30 kilometers. The village of Sonori is present at the base of the fort and hence it is also called Sonori Fort. It is said to be the last fort built in Maharashtra, between 1757 and 1760, by the Peshwa clan.
The fort itself is relatively small when you compare it to the other forts in the state and the region. At the base of the fort, near the village, there is a palace dedicated to the creator of the fort, Panse – a Peshwa Sardar. Malhargad Fort is one of the best day excursions from Pune as the views from the top of the fort are captivating. You can take you family and kids to the fort for an enjoyable day amidst nature.
PARKS & OUTDOORS
RAJIV GANDHI ZOOLOGICAL PARK 
Also known as Rajiv Gandhi Zoo or Katraj Zoo, the zoological park is a wonderful place to be in the company of wilderness. It is located at a 30 minute drive south of Pune, on the Pune – Satara highway, at a distance of approximately 8 kilometers. The vast 130 acre zoo is divided into a snake park and an animal orphanage which is dedicated for conservation purposes and taking care of animals. An animal rescue center has also been established on the park premises.
Some of the major attractions of the zoo are White tiger, Royal Bengal tiger, Asiatic lions, fox, leopard, barking deer, sambhars, blackbucks, monkeys and elephants. The snake park is home to more than 22 species of snakes and more than 10 species of reptiles such as vipers, cobras, Indian rock python, crocodiles etc. It is a wildlife paradise here.
PUNE – OKAYAMA FRIENDSHIP GARDEN / PU LA DESHPANDE UDYAN 
The Pune – Okayama Friendship Garden is one of the largest gardens and park spaces in the Pune district. It is a Japanese Garden, based on the model of Okayama’s Koraku-en Garden in Japan, which is almost 300 years old. The vast green complex is spread over 10 acres was established with respect to sustainability and going green, as a statement for the global changes in environment quality.
The park is an awesome place to spend a day picnicking with your family and kids. Relax and rejuvenate at this beautiful park which is dotted with flower beds, fountains, verdant lawns and also a natural water canal where you can witness small colorful fishes.
PASHAN LAKE 
Frequented by nature lovers and people who want to relax in general, from the hubbub of regular city life, Pashan Lake is a popular getaway destination from Pune.
The small reservoir is famous for birdwatching as you can find many species of exotic and indigenous birds who come here to hibernate and rest. You can rest on the shores and take in the beautiful views. It is an ideal place to visit for a few hours of relaxation. Pack some food and a mattress and enjoy a fun time with your kids and family at Pashan Lake.
PAWNA LAKE 
Its close proximity to Mumbai, Lonavala and especially Pune make it an ideal weekend getaway destination to families looking forward to spending their time in a calm and relaxing manner. It is situated at a distance of 60 kilometers northwest of Pune. The lake and its surroundings are beautiful and offer great opportunities to spend a one on one time with nature.
The main feature of Pawna Lake is its sheer size which is imposing to witness. Various important forts such as Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona and Tung are situated near Pawna Lake and therefore it serves as a gateway for viewing further attractions. The lake is an amazing destination to have fun with your family and kids!
MULSHI DAM 
Mulshi Dam is one of the most famous dams in the state of Maharashtra, but is not as explored as it may seem. The dam is an amazing day trip from Pune at a distance of 45 kilometers, exactly west of Pune. Its verdant surroundings, beautiful sparkling waters, calm breeze and abundance of birds makes it a lovely place to visit with family and kids. It is a popular birdwatching site.
The fantastic sceneries with the Sahyadri hill ranges in the backdrop are amazing to witness. Take your kids here for a day out in the lap of nature!
KAMALA NEHRU PARK 
As one of the most verdant and beautiful parks in the city, Kamala Nehru Park is a regularly frequented destination by residents who jog, walk and exercise here on a daily basis.
Its open spaces with clean air attract many people including children, who can enjoy and have fun at the playground for kids. The park has a jogging track, one fountain, two lawns and also a fighter jet! You can have an awesome time here and then head out for a bite at the many food stalls and eateries outside.
MUSEUMS
JOSHI’S MUSEUM OF MINIATURE RAILWAYS 
One of the most unique places to visit in the whole of Pune is the miniature railway museum. The one of a kind building holds wee sized working models of trains that toot their way through small railway tracks. The museum was started by Bhausaheb Joshi on 1 April, 1998 – 21 years ago. He used to conduct regular model train exhibitions, the first of which was held in 1982.
Since then, the innovative museum has gone on to receive national and international recognition. The model trains work on automated systems that are presented light and sound effects, making it realistic. The trains pass through a normal environment – which include fences, bridges , lamp posts etc. There are distinct types of trains, from bullet trains and steam engines to diesel trains and the famous Wuppertal hanging rail system. The Miniature Railway museum is a must-visit and is bound to entertain anyone who enters it, regardless of age and liking. Kids are bound to have a fun and amazing time here.
RAJA DINKAR KELKAR MUSEUM 
If you are an avid history buff and a kind of person who loves learning and studying more about Indian culture, this is exactly the place you need to visit. The abundance and richness of the treasures and artifacts collected and preserved here will blow your mind away. The collection is said to have over 20,000 objects, of which very few are on display.
It is dedicated to Dr. Dinkar Kelkar’s only son, who passed away at an early age. The entire collection was donated to the Government of Maharashtra by Dr. Dinkar – the collector, in 1975, 13 years after the museum was established. It contains vessels, earthen pottery, jewelry, ornaments, historic war weapons and musical instruments. This is an informative trip and one which may just spark some interest in your kid. The museum is a fun for place for kids, so do not miss!
BLADES OF GLORY CRICKET MUSEUM 
Blades of Glory is a cricket lovers heaven. The sport museum was established and inaugurated in 2012 and has since been visited by nearly 500 national and international cricket players and houses great items such as bats signed from each of the previous eleven ODI & six T20 World Cup winning teams, cricket uniforms of legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, autographs on bats by all triple centurions in the history of the sport – Brian Lara, Virender Sehwag, Hashim Amla, Kumara Sangakkara & Sanath Jayasuriya, and countless other cricket memorabilia. If your kid or anyone in your family is fond of cricket, the Blades of Glory Cricket Museum is the best place to be at.
NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL SOUTHERN COMMAND 
The National War Memorial Southern Command is a war memorial dedicated to the post-independence war martyrs. It was opened just before the turn of the century as a tribute to Indian soldiers and is only war museum in Asia to have been built through the contributions of citizens of the country.
The museum is located in Pune Cantonment on the Ghorpadi Road, beside the famous Rajendra Sinhji Institute (RSI). It is a great place to be aware of our heroes and their contribution to the country’s defenses. A visit to the National War Museum may serve as a source of inspiration for anyone.
CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ MUSEUM OF INDIAN HISTORY 
One of the premier museums on Indian fistory in the state, the lovely building complex is home to thousands of artifacts from different periods of the country’s history. The complex has nine buildings, all of which have a distinct unique display.
The museum also has one of the only two temples in India dedicated to Mother India or Bhavani Bharat. Some exhibitions and collections are dedicated to different historical personalities such as Maharana Pratap, Dara Shikoh, Tipu Sultan, Aurangzeb, Shivaji and also holds a section on the history of Tibet. The museum is a great informative arena where you or your kids can learn and have fun while doing so. It is one of the best activities to do in Pune for kids.
Pune is city that has a certain charm and there is so much to do for everyone. It is a city for all ages. Pack your bags and head to these destinations for a memorable trip for your family and kids!