Where to Take Your Kids in Pune: Museums, Parks, Zoos & More

From museums packed with wonders to nature trails and fun parks, Pune offers a variety of family-friendly destinations to engage young minds and adventurous spirits.

Pune’s blend of heritage, learning, and adventure makes it a wonderful city for children to explore. Whether it’s through interactive exhibits, wild animal sightings, or imaginative play, there’s no shortage of things to do that are both fun and enriching.

1. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

This museum is a treasure trove of over 20,000 artifacts from across India—musical instruments, ancient utensils, paintings, sculptures, and more. Carefully curated by Baba Kelkar over four decades, it even features a recreated Mastani Mahal, complete with chandeliers and 18th-century elegance. A must-visit for kids curious about history, art, and culture.

2. Mulshi Dam

Located about two hours from Pune, Mulshi Dam is ideal for a nature-infused outing. The lush greenery, tranquil waters, and chance to spot rare birds make it great for kids and parents alike. Easy treks and picnic spots enhance the appeal, especially during monsoons.

3. Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways

Kids will be fascinated by the miniature trains running on tiny tracks through cities and landscapes. Created by B.S. Joshi, this museum showcases a working model railway network complete with tunnels, stations, and bridges. It offers a fun mix of engineering and imagination for children of all ages.

4. Pu La Deshpande Garden (Okayama Friendship Garden)

Inspired by a Japanese-style landscape garden, this serene space is ideal for kids to explore manicured paths, ponds, bridges, and seasonal flowers. Its wide open lawns make it perfect for a relaxed family stroll.

5. Aga Khan Palace

Introduce children to India’s freedom movement with a visit to this historic palace. It was once used to imprison Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders. The peaceful gardens, old photographs, and Gandhi’s belongings on display offer a quiet yet meaningful history lesson.

6. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

This zoo in Katraj is a great place for children to observe animals in well-maintained enclosures. Spread over 130 acres, it houses tigers, leopards, snakes, elephants, and more. There’s also a snake park and a small lake for boating.

7. Science Park at Pimpri-Chinchwad

An excellent place to turn learning into fun, the Science Park offers interactive exhibits on physics, biology, and space. There’s a 3D science theatre, a planetarium, and open-air installations designed to spark curiosity in young minds.

8. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum

Cricket-loving kids will enjoy this one-of-a-kind museum that houses memorabilia from cricket legends, including bats signed by Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and others. With hundreds of rare cricketing artifacts, it’s a unique way to connect kids with the country’s favourite sport.

9. Imagicaa Theme Park (nearby in Khopoli)

Though slightly outside Pune, Imagicaa is worth the drive. This massive theme park features thrilling rides for all age groups, a water park, and live entertainment. It’s perfect for a full day of adrenaline and fun.

10. Gram Sanskruti Udyan (Village Park)

Located in Someshwarwadi, this cultural park recreates rural Indian village life through lifelike statues and scenes. Kids can witness bullock cart rides, farming techniques, and village rituals. It’s both educational and entertaining, offering a glimpse into traditional lifestyles.

11. Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple

A must-visit place, the Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple offers a blend of faith, tradition, and cultural richness. However, for a peaceful experience, visiting during non-peak hours is recommended.

12. Shaniwar Wada

The intricate architecture, expansive gardens, and fascinating stories of the past will leave your children in awe. This 18th-century fortification was once the seat of the Peshwas and is now one of the most famous places in Pune.