Introduction

Pune is a vibrant and bustling city in Western India full of life and culture. It has a rich history that dates back to the 8th century when it was known as Punya Vishaya or “Sacred Province.” The city has been ruled by several different dynasties over the centuries, including the Mauryas, the Satavahanas, the Rashtrakutas, the Yadavas, and the Marathas.

Pune is also home to some of the most beautiful gardens and parks. These areas of natural beauty provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and are a great spot for locals and tourists alike to recharge and relax. From sprawling botanical gardens to tranquil zen gardens, Pune has something to offer every visitor. 

Open spaces in the city

The parks and open spaces in Pune have played a significant role in the history of the city. The Mahatma Phule Market, which was constructed in 1860, and the Kamala Nehru Park, which was established in 1952, are two of the city’s most beautiful parks, gardens, and public spaces.

In recent times, the Pune Metropolitan Enterprise has attempted a few drives to improve and grow the city’s parks and open spaces. Peshwe Park, the Empress Garden, and the Saras Baug are just a few of the city’s over 300 public parks and gardens.

In addition to being a place to unwind and relax, these parks and open spaces are important ecological and environmental assets for the city. They play a role in regulating the climate in the area, filtering pollution in the air and water, and providing a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.

In general, Pune’s parks and open spaces play a significant role in the culture and history of the city. They serve as a reminder of the city’s rich past and bright future and reflect the city’s commitment to providing a healthy and sustainable environment for its residents.

Types of Parks in Pune

There are different types of parks in Pune, catering to a variety of interests and preferences. Here are some of the common types of parks found in Pune:

• Recreational parks: Recreational parks are the most common type of park in Pune. These parks provide a space for people to relax, play, and enjoy outdoor activities. They usually have amenities like walking paths, jogging tracks, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Examples of recreational parks in Pune include Saras Baug, Peshwe Park, and Kamala Nehru Park.

• Botanical gardens: Botanical gardens are parks that showcase a wide variety of plants and flowers. They are usually well-maintained and have collections of rare and exotic plants. The Empress Garden is an example of a botanical garden in Pune.

• Zoological parks: Zoological parks or zoos are parks that house a variety of animals and birds. These parks offer an opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitats and learn more about their behavior and characteristics. The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is an example of a zoological park in Pune.

• Japanese gardens: Japanese gardens are parks that are designed in the Japanese style. These parks have features like koi ponds, waterfalls, rock gardens, and cherry blossom trees. The Okayama Friendship Garden in Pune is an example of a Japanese garden.

• Meditation parks: Meditation parks are parks that provide a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for meditation and contemplation. The Osho Teerth Park is an example of a meditation park in Pune.

Overall, the different types of parks in Pune cater to a wide range of interests and preferences, providing a diverse range of options for visitors to choose from.

Pune’s Most Popular Parks

Pune has a plethora of beautiful gardens that exhibit rich flora and fauna that is soothing to the eyes as well as to the soul. Most of these parks and gardens are popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. Here are some of the most popular and must-visit parks in Pune:

Okayama Friendship Garden – Japanese garden

Okayama Friendship Garden is a beautiful park located in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It symbolizes the strong bond between India and Japan, as it was gifted by Okayama city in Japan to Pune city in 1969, as a gesture of friendship and cultural exchange between the two cities. 

The park covers an area of approximately 10 acres and is designed in the traditional Japanese style, with serene water bodies, stone lanterns, and carefully manicured lawns. It also features a beautiful Japanese Tea Garden, which is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a cup of tea while taking in the peaceful surroundings. 

The park is home to several varieties of exotic plants and flowers, including cherry blossoms, which bloom in early spring and attract a large number of visitors. There is also a small pond in the park, which is home to several species of fish and turtles. 

Okayama Garden Landscape https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g297654-d2692076-Reviews-Pune_Okayama_Friendship_Garden-Pune_Pune_District_Maharashtra.html

The Okayama Friendship Garden is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon with family and friends. Open to the public all year round, visitors can take in the beauty of the garden and its surroundings at any time of the day. Furthermore, the park hosts several cultural events and exhibitions annually, providing an opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture and traditions. 

Overall, the Okayama Friendship Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Pune. It is an ideal place to spend a quality day with family and friends and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. 

Osho Teerth Park – Meditation park

Osho Teerth Park, also known as Osho Garden, is a unique and beautiful park located in Koregaon Park, Pune, India. The park is dedicated to the teachings of the Indian mystic Osho, and is a popular destination for meditation and relaxation.

In 1989, the Ashram management assumed control of the property and subsequently enlisted the services of Shunyo Foundation, a Japanese environmental company, to initiate the transformation. Nihar, a talented Japanese landscape artist, was brought on board to work his magic.

The park is approximately 7 acres in size and features winding paths, small waterfalls, and lush greenery in a tranquil setting. The recreation area likewise includes a few sculptures and models that portray the lessons and reasoning of Osho.

The park has a delightful outdoor meditation space called the Osho Kund, which is intended to provide a tranquil and peaceful environment for meditation and contemplation. In addition, the park has a bookshop and a small library where visitors can learn more about the teachings of Osho.

Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Osho Teerth Park, a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. It provides a one-of-a-kind, tranquil experience that is ideal for those seeking a respite from the bustle of city life.

Anyone looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in Pune should go to Osho Teerth Park. Whether you follow Osho’s lessons or just searching for a beautiful and serene environment to relax and meditate in, this park is the perfect destination for you.

Stream Park, Nanded City – Residential park

Stream Park is a beautiful and tranquil park situated in the Nanded City township of Pune, Maharashtra, India designed by a well-known Landscape Architect Varsha Gavandi. The recreation area covers an area of roughly 3.5 sections of land and is intended to give a relaxing and peaceful environment for visitors.

The park is centered around a wonderful water stream, which moves through the park and adds to the park’s natural beauty. In addition, the park has a well-kept lawn, walking paths, and several seating areas where visitors can unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

In addition to its natural beauty, Stream Park also has several amenities such as a children’s play area, a basketball court, and a fitness area among others which are Stream Park’s many attractions for visitors. Additionally, the park is wheelchair-friendly, making it a welcoming and inclusive destination for all visitors.

Stream Park is a popular destination for families, joggers, and anyone seeking a break from busy city life. Photographers flock to this location to capture the park’s tranquility and natural splendor.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing spot in Pune, you can’t miss Stream Park. This park is the ideal location for you if you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with your loved ones, or simply take in the natural beauty.

Empress Gardens – Botanical garden

Empress Garden is a well-known park in Pune that covers an area of around 59 acres. The British founded it in 1892 and named it after Queen Victoria, also known as the Empress of India. The garden is renowned for its stunning collection of trees, plants, and flowers. Cacti, succulents, and orchids are just a few of the exotic and rare plant species that can be found there.

There are a number of walking paths, jogging tracks, and seating areas in the Empress Garden where visitors can unwind and take in the natural beauty. In addition, the park has a small lake, a number of fountains, and a musical fountain that performs a light and sound show in the evenings.

Notwithstanding the normal beauty of the garden, the Empress Garden also has several facilities for visitors, including a library, a kids’ play region, and a small restaurant. The park is a popular destination for families, joggers, nature lovers, and photographers.

Empress Garden is a must-visit park in Pune and is a great place to spend a peaceful day amidst nature.

Saras Baug – Recreational garden

Saras Baug is a popular park in Pune, located in the heart of the city. The park covers an area of around 25 acres and is known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh. Saras Baug is a popular spot for nature lovers, families, and runners.

There are numerous walking and jogging paths, as well as seating areas where visitors can unwind and take in the natural beauty of the park. The recreation area likewise has a little zoo, a children’s play area, and a boating facility. The highlight of the park is the Ganesh temple, which is located in the middle of a small pond and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Saras Baug is additionally known for its annual Ganesh Festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. Thousands of devotees flock to the park to seek the Lord’s blessings during the festival, which also includes the installation of a massive idol of Lord Ganesh in the temple.

In Pune, Saras Baug Park is a must-see for its beautiful and tranquil setting away from the city’s bustle.

Sambhaji Park – Recreational garden

Sambhaji Park is a popular park in Pune named after Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Maratha King Shivaji. The park is situated in the core of the city and covers an area of around 7 acres. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, families, and runners.

There are numerous walking and jogging paths, as well as seating areas where visitors can unwind and take in the natural beauty of the park. In addition, the park has a small playground, a skating rink, and a small amphitheater that is used for musical and cultural performances.

The statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in the center of Sambhaji Park is one of the park’s highlights. Beautiful gardens and fountains surround the statue, creating a serene and tranquil setting.

Street food vendors, who sell a wide range of local delicacies like vada pav, bhel puri, and chaat, are another thing that makes Sambhaji Park famous. In general, Sambhaji Park is a must-see park in Pune that provides a tranquil and beautiful escape from the city’s bustle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pune is a city blessed with numerous beautiful parks and open spaces that provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. There are numerous must-see parks in Pune that provide something for everyone.

The parks in Pune provide a wide range of options, making them ideal for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, is a fitness enthusiast, or just wants a quiet getaway. The parks are likewise home to numerous cultural events, music shows, and celebrations throughout the year, making them an important part of the city’s cultural fabric.

Overall, Pune’s parks demonstrate the city’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage and providing residents with enjoyable green spaces. They are a true asset to Pune and are worth exploring for residents and visitors alike.