Where to stay in Pune

Pune, previously spelled in English as Poona (the official name until 1978), is a city in the state of Maharashtra in the Deccan Plateau in Western India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Pune district, and of Pune division.

Pune (poo-nneh) has a long history that stretches back nearly 1,600 years. The Pataleshwar Caves (near Jangli Maharaj Road) from the 5th century are evidence of Pune's old settlements. Pune is a gateway to knowledge about the past with opportunities to learn from the help of forts, monuments, museums and higher-learning institutions. From the medieval Maratha history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Maratha King) to a visit to Aga Khan Palace to learn about Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's non-violent freedom struggle, there is much to learn here.

This article covers the twin cities of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad (PCMC), and parts of Khed, Haveli and Mulshi talukas.

Pune offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets, from simple guesthouses to luxury hotels. Travellers can choose between lively neighbourhoods like Koregaon Park and Viman Nagar, business‑focused districts such as Hinjawadi and Baner, or central areas like Shivajinagar and Deccan that provide easy access to major attractions and transport links. Prices vary widely depending on the season, with higher demand during festivals, conferences, and university admissions, so booking ahead is often advisable. A double room tends to be priced at US$200-400 per night. During the lean season, good discounts are available.

Getting in

Pune is a major transport hub of inner Maharashtra. It serves as the gateway for the numerous hill stations in the Western Ghats.

Getting around

There is a massive army of three-wheeled rickshaws. Some prepaid rickshaw stands can be found at Shivajinagar, Swargate Bus Depot and Pune Airport. All rickshaws plying in the Pune Municipal Corporation limits are supposed to charge according to the meter. Drivers will give you endless excuses why they cannot use the meter. They are required by law to have a working meter and use it, and this will almost always be the cheapest for you too. If they still refuse, walk away: there are plenty of other rickshaws on the roads.

Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0; excerpted.