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Pune is one of the best places you can visit in India. The city have that old feel of the Marathi culture but it also have a modern face too. There are many places to visit in this elegant city ranging from palaces, museums, forts, and temples among other incredible places. The hotels in Pune are very comfortable and the view is magnificent.
The city has a lot to offer that might require you to use a few weeks or even a few months in order to explore the place to your satisfaction but if you just have limited time, then it is important to know the best places to visit in Pune so that you don’t get to “waste” your time on the not so important things and you end up missing the very things that are the best. Check them out.

Aga Khan Palace

This Elegant palace that was built back in 1892 by Sultan Mohammed Sha Aga Khan III is definitely one of the most iconic places you must see while you are in Pune. The palace lies on a 19 acre land and it has even been declared a monument that is of national importance.
The palace has a lot of history and it is even believed that Mahatma Gandhi as well as Mahadev Desai were prisoners in this palace. The museum has a lot of photos and belongings of Mahatma Gandhi. At the back of the building there is a garden where you can see where Mahadev Desai was laid to rest as he died a prisoner in the palace. The palace is usually opened at 9.00 am and it is closed in the evening around 5:30 pm.

Shaniwar Wada palace

Another place that has a lot of historical importance is this palace that was built back in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I. The palace was built as the seat of the Peshwa before it was lost to the British in the year 1818. The palace was the hub of politics as well as history back in the days but it was destroyed on a fire outburst back in the year 1828.
The remains of the palace are now maintained as a tourist attraction and it is doing very well because every year thousands of visitors visit Pune to witness this historical place. There is usually a show that is conducted every evening and it is fun, something you don’t want to miss while you are in Pune. The palace was even featured in one of the best Bollywood movies, Bajiro mastani. It is usually open as from 8 in the morning and closed 6 in the evening.

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Who said you have to visit forts and palaces to feel the history of India? You can visit this museum and experience the history of the country up close. The museum is considered as one of the one man collection in the whole world. The artifacts in this museum were collected by Dr. Dinkar Kelkar and it contains more than 20 000 curios and over 2500 items that are on display for all to see. There are some sculptures that dates back as early as the 14th century, hookah pipes and Mughal lamps among other things that you will definitely enjoy seeing if you are a history lover. The museum is usually opened about 10 in the morning and closed around 5:30 pm.

Parvati hill

Now that you have travelled through time and experienced good time, it is time to get out of the history class and visit some other places. How about you start with Parvati, the highest point in Pune? This hillock is definitely one of the most scenic points in the city allowing you to have a panoramic view of the city. There are other tourist attractions in the area ranging from a museum to temples. As it is not a temple or palace, you can be sure of visiting at any time of the day. We recommend you visit the hill early in the morning or the evening where you can enjoy some cool breeze. The entrance fee to the hill is zero rupees!

Okayama friendship Garden

The park lies on a 10 acre land and it was inspired by a 300 year garden that is located in Japan of the same name. The landscape of this place are phenomenal and not forgetting the beautiful vegetation, flowers and natural water canals that surrounds the garden. There is something to catch your eye every step you make. The park is usually open as early as six so you can be sure of starting your day with some beautiful views. It is one place you don’t want to miss while you are in Pune.

Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

For the nature lovers this is a place you don’t want to miss. Spread over 130 acres it is a perfect place to hike and take some photos to flood your Instagram account with. There are some animals and birds that adds more grace to this beautiful park. It is a perfect place you should consider visiting especially if you are exploring with your family. The park is open as early as 9:30 in the morning and closes at 5:30 in the evening. The park is also usually closed on Wednesdays so you might want to remember that.

The restaurants in Pune

You will need to refill after exploring the beautiful city all morning or all day. The restaurants in Pune prepares some of the best foods in the whole country. They are usually opened early in the mornings so you can be sure of having even your breakfast in one of the restaurants. Be sure to try some Mysore Dosa and sabudana vada before you leave Pune.

Other places you might want to visit include:

The lounge bars in Pune.

Dugdusheth Halwai Ganpati temple.

Shinde Chhatri.

Read 27 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Guwahati

Read 24 best places to visit in Mahabaleswar

The monsoon season in India lasts from June to September, which is the period when tourist activities go low. This is not because of the destructive rains, as some would like to think. As a result, if you really want to enjoy your stay in India at hotel rates that are not extremely exorbitant due to hotel competition while being served up to standard qualities and visit most places without countless tourists viewing the same sight, then traveling during the monsoon will be a wise decision. For a perfect monsoon getaway in India, here are some 20 places.

1. Goa

Being home to miles of swaying coconut palms and beaches with an old heritage and diverse cuisine, Goa is among the top tourist destinations in India. Visiting this place during the monsoon means unpopulated beaches, lower costs and a breathtaking view of the watermelon pink sunsets. There is something truly magical about Goa in the rainy season. If you are adventurous, you can hike up to Fort Chapora and enjoy the rejuvenating view of the raindrops falling into the ocean. The Sao Joao Festival is a vibrant festival held in Goa in the monsoon. It involves a group of people jumping into wells to retrieve the local alcohol. People sailing on rafts in the river while dancing and singing characterize this feast.

2. Meghalaya

Commonly known as the ‘abode of the clouds’, this hilly location during the monsoon assure you of a wet and cool pine-fresh mountain escape. Its charm is also in the sparkling mountain streams, the massive waterfalls and an emerald-green view of the hilltops. What makes Meghalaya ( 10 Places to Visit In Meghalaya ) look more appealing during the monsoon is the enchanting beauty of the living root bridges. The bridges are normally surrounded by beautiful streams, a variety of colorful flowers and the diverse wildlife that makes them seem to be heavenly tracks.

3. Coorg

As one of the most beautiful hill stations, the gorgeous scenery is rejuvenated with the rains which make the falls flow in their full might. The experience is heightened with a trek to its highest peak where the beauty of the rainbow is a jaw-dropping sight. You can get the perfect view of breathtaking sunrise views and the unflinching beauty of the surroundings at Kumar Parvatha, Pushpagiri, Doddabetta, and Yenikallu Betta at the Bisle viewpoint.

4. Munnar

This paradise in Kerala is a must visit monsoon destination. The green tea plantations and the beautiful hills are enveloped by the mist and are surrounded by the ambiance of numerous seasonal waterfalls. The crowd-free environment activates the reduction in prices and the calm on the marvel of natural bliss. Even though it may be raining, you can still enjoy bird watching, trekking and sightseeing the beautiful cascades.

5. Darjeeling

Located on the northern regions of West Bengal, visiting Darjeeling during the monsoon is another experience. Cold winds and intermittent showers project a perfect view of the jagged white Himalayan peaks. Take a chance to marvel at the misty tea plantations. In addition, do not miss a ride on the toy train in Darjeeling. During the monsoon, the mountains are covered in mist and the ride is a sure better way to uncover this mist as you experience the marvels of creation and the jaw-dropping views on the steep mountain slopes.

6. Valley of Flowers

The bloom of the flowers in this valley located in Uttarakhand made it one of the most beautiful places in the world. With more than 300 varieties of flowers in full bloom during the rains, what more beauty can you expect? The valley of flowers is also famous for its picturesque snow-capped Himalayan ranges. Heavy rains have not stopped the tourists from reaching this remote part of Uttarakhand to enjoy the monsoon. The serenity and ambiance of the spot are heightened by the no plastic policy were all plastic from tourists is collected and returned after taking the tour. This ensures that your view will not be disturbed by the sight of an annoying dirty water bottle peeking from somewhere.

7. Mahabaleshwar

Enveloped by the beauty of ridges, this is one of the most spectacular places during the rain with a dreamlike panorama from the Elephant’s Head Point. The fog on the roads, the lush greenery, and clouds that sink in mountain tops are a picturesque sight.

8. Kanyakumari

This is where two large seas join the Indian Ocean. Other than the beach, you can visit the Palace or enjoy the marvel of the elaborate architectural masterpieces

9. Lonavala

No matter the condition of the weather here, you can only marvel at the beauty. This is a perfect destination if you do not want to get soaked. Enjoy the breeze, the lush forests, and trek for scenic trails. The Tiger’s peak that resembles a tiger jumping off the cliff is a popular tourist spot. You can hike your way to the top and enjoy the magnificent eye-soothing view of the emerald-green valley, the cool breeze against your face and the misty mornings. It is a very ideal place for photography. The Lion’s point view is also another spot to enjoy the view. However, it is well known for its spectacular sunsets making it a better place for evening and night trekking.

10. Allepey

Full of backwaters, the beauty can only be enhanced with the rain. Being one of the most romantic places, it can be a perfect getaway for a couple of anyone who would love the moist and dust-free weather to open up the pores of the skin allowing for therapeutic treatment. The luxury houseboat comes equipped with a butler, a sun deck, a kitchen, and an en suite bedroom. You can simply enjoy the ambiance of the hush of the waters and enjoy a meal from your personal chef while your boat is anchored for a night halt. 

11. Wayanad

Most of the people exclusively visit this location to enjoy the rains.  The unique thing about this place if the spectacular blue of the flowers that only bloom once in 12 years. The splash festival is a 3 day even of fun only during the monsoon. If you would want to have an experience of the pre-historic Neolithic era, the Edakkal caves should be a sure destination on your bucket list. The caves date back to 5000 BC. You have to take a 1km steep hike to take you to the cave’s entrance. While there, you can decide to squeeze yourself through the rocks or hike up further. The view is better at the top where you get a bird’s eye view of the emerald-green mountains and valleys. The exit from the cave is extravagant heaven like a path.

12. Mount Abu

With the rains, the white-marbled Dilwara temple has an enchanting look. The royal charm of the highest point of Mount Abu mixed with the rain allows for spectacular sunset views, Nakki lake and the outstanding appearance of the ruins of the Mewar Dynasty. If you love shopping and taking back souvenirs from various destinations you visit, why not visit the 3 famous markets around Mount Abu and take with you the colorful handicrafts, carpets and Kota sarees that have a rich Gujarat and Rajasthan heritage.

13. Shillong

During the monsoon, this hill town has a majestic view. What can heighten your visit to this place is the Elephant Falls and Spread Eagle falls. These falls are fed by rains creating a nice view. Another interesting destination within Shillong is the Laitlum canyons. This is a wonderful spot covered with fog and mist in the rainy season that begs for your visit. The lush green view includes sights of bamboo plants, green hills and orchids whose beauty will leave you awestruck.

14. Kodaikanal

Known as ‘The Gift of the Forest’, this scenic site has more beauty in the monsoon. In addition to enjoying the waterfalls, you can have a chance to experience the “Brachem Spectre” where you can see yourself in the clouds. Since it is located on a plateau, it has numerous towering hills, rainbows after every rain and mystic forests, a good calm place if you want to get lost in nature. In addition, there are finger licking South-Indian delicacies that are common during the monsoon such as a variety of Dosa and Idli. The diversity of food served in numerous restaurants makes this a good destination.

15. Udaipur

Udaipur in Rajasthan represents the quietness of India in the monsoon. Steeped in tales of romance, fantastic palaces, and massive forts, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake with the lake palace and enjoy the boat rides. While many people would think that traveling to India during the monsoon is a crazy idea, the palaces in Udaipur strongly oppose this belief. It is believed that kings built monsoon palaces to enjoy the Udaipur rains. This place becomes more romantic during this season since there are fewer tourists and you will, therefore, find numerous scenic picnic spots and empty areas. Apart from sightseeing, you can live in the palace and even get a chance to stay in the royal suite of the Kings and queens of the Mewar Dynasty since most palaces are heritage hotels.

16. Jog falls

located in Karnataka state, this is one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India. During the rainy season, enjoy the milky water falling in four cascades. Scream and hear the water swallow your voice or enjoy ambiance by the sound of the voluminous water falling to show one of the mighty marvels of creation.

17. Lahul

If you desire a peaceful monsoon getaway, then Lahul is the perfect place to go. Enjoy the breathtaking sites of nature during a walk and reconnect with it. The ambiance of the peace prevalent in monasteries and the wilderness is a guaranteed rejuvenating experience from the numerous anxieties of life. You can also get to learn about the rich Indian culture and witness their hospitality by treating yourself to a beautiful traditional accommodation that includes quality food instead of staying at commercial properties.

18. Maravanthe

This is one of the most exceptional places in India that has a visual treat of the River Souparnika in one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. During the monsoon, the small beach village looks spectacular with perfect green scenery and the blue cooling waters.

19. Pondicherry

Just like how amazing it would be to visit the French Riviera, the same beauty can be experienced by visiting Pondicherry during the monsoon. With an old world charm, expect the rain to do its magic on this destination. Enjoy the sight of the sun’s illumination on the yellow townhouses against the constant drizzle. Since the monsoon runs from June to August, being in Pondicherry at this time of the year is a great decision. This is because, in August, there is the biggest cultural celebration of the birth of Sri Aurobindo. This celebration falls on Independence Day which means that you will witness a scenic large mass of devotees and locals attending the Ashram and you also get a chance to take part in this lovely celebration characterized by music and dances as you watch the spectacular representation of the Indian flag in numerous ways.

20. Marleshwar

This destination provides you with a chance to get to understand one of the Hindu spiritual beliefs. The beauty at the temple located on the mountain top on the scenic view is jaw-dropping. Enjoy the water cascade off the Dhareshwar Waterfall and feel the freshness of the air amidst the thick green forests and the wind that blows here.

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Travel warnings and advisories

Travel warnings and advisories are official statements or alerts often released by governments to warn their citizens against unnecessary travels to a particular country or region either because of civil unrest, war, natural disasters or anything that could threaten their safety.

Even without a travel warning and advisory, you wouldn’t want to travel the likes of Syria,  and some other parts of the middle east but little do you know that other countries are not too safe for tourists as well. Therefore, the government strives as much as possible to create this awareness for their citizens for them to be wary of planning vacations; the family gets away even business trips to such destinations.

Although a travel warning and advisory no matter how stern it sounds had no legal power to restrain you from traveling, the choice is still yours to make because even after you are advised of the ongoing crisis in a particular country and you still decide to go, you won’t be stooped. But bear in mind that you are traveling at your own risk even though the embassy in your destination will do as much as possible to help you should in case something goes wrong.

In the past few years, major travel warning and advisory released by countries including the United States and the United Kingdom warning their citizens about visiting the following countries Thailand, Mexico, China, India, and the United States. Most recently, the United State also listed Nigeria as unsafe for their citizens to travel.

Asides from the above-listed reasons for issuing a travel advisory, a government might also issue one if they do not have the facilities to respond to the problem of their citizens traveling there whether because they do not have a presence there in the form of an embassy or any other reasons.

Types of travel warning and advisory

The types of travel advisories issued by the government generally depend on the situation of things in the affected country. Some could be a temporary just for a short period while some could be permanent. Also so could be partial while others total.

Temporary and permanent travel advisory

This type of warning and advisory are issued by the government in the case of temporary issues such as post-election violence, natural disasters, and industrial actions. These sorts of warning can be revoked as soon as the issues are resolved and work returns to normal.

A permanent travel advisory, on the other hand, is issued by governments as a result of prolonged violence or war.

Partial and total travel Advisory

A partial advisory is issued when only a little part of the country is affected by the violence or disaster. The government advises its citizens against those areas or state. Just as the case of Mexico, although the violence was all over the internet only a few parts of the country was affected. The major point of tourist attraction like the Mayan Riviera was free from violence. The total travel advisory, on the other hand, is issued when there is a total shut down of the country by violence. When there is no state or province that can be particularly pointed at as being safe, the government issues a total travel warning.

Evaluating Travel Warnings

I do understand that there are times that you have to take a trip to a particular country, but then your government had issued a travel warning on that particular country. Not to worry because not all travel warnings are created equal just like I explained earlier, so in other to decide whether or not you should heed your government warnings, there is a need to evaluate the travel advisory and below is how

1. Is it a total or partial warning?

You need to ascertain if the entire country is affected by the reported violence because in many cases of natural disasters and violence it is only confined to a particular area of the zone while the rest of the country is still safe welcoming to tourist. You need to ascertain this fact before you decide, but you need to know that a little crisis somewhere in a country can end up being a communal riot real quick.

2. What potential danger you are exposed too

You also need to find out the cause of the unrest, who is involved and who the target of the violence is. The violence that’s targeted at foreigners should give me a red alert while violence among locals should be of lesser concern to you. Make sure you make your findings and get your facts right.

3. How long ago was the warning released?

It is also important to know how long ago the warning was released because situations could have changed over time either for good or worse. If you are looking at a warning issued a few months ago, then it is advisable that you search if you’ll find an update on the alert. Things change over time so does violence. International newspaper websites is a good place to search.

4. What are other countries saying about your intended destination?

Sometimes, travel warnings and advisory are politically influenced as claimed by critics. So in order the get the full picture of the situation it is advisable to compare and contrast travel warning from different countries and see they all agree on the situation of your destination.

5. Is there a haven?

Finally, you need to check and confirm if your country has a haven for you in your intended country of visit. A haven could be an embassy or consulate. Be sure that this safety net is well staffed and fully functional, should in case you run into trouble, you don’t want to be stranded in another man’s land without help in sight.

So, as you plan your next trip, be sure to take all of this into consideration and follow them, and you’ll be fine.

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