Fancy a morning walk or an evening stroll? Do you want to soak in nature and listen to the birds chirping? If you are in Pune, there are various options where you could do these activities! The tekdis or the hillocks in Pune are places where you can meet and hang out with friends, go on a short hike, or just immerse yourself in nature. That too without having to travel very far!
So, let us look at some of Pune’s well-known tekdis.
Explore Tekdis in Pune for a Peaceful Getaway
1. Vetal Tekdi
Vetal Tekdi is the highest point of Pune with an elevation of 2600 feet and from the top you can enjoy the cityscape of Pune. This hill is near the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), hence it is also known as the ARAI Hill.
Most Punekars come here for a morning walk or a jog or to meet friends for breakfast. If you are not a jogging enthusiast, you can also opt for some meditation or just enjoy a quiet stroll here and get some digital detox.
The hill is also home to several birds, some of which are seemingly rare and you can also enjoy some nature photography.
The best time to visit this hill is early in the morning. It is accessible from the Pashan side or the Kothrud side. Don’t forget to carry water, as there are no eateries on the hill.
2. Parvati Hill
Do you want to go on a hike as well as soak in some culture? Then, Parvati Hill is the place to visit! This hill has 108 steps leading to the Parvati Temple at the top. There are a total of five temples here. There is also a Peshwa museum which you can visit and learn more about this dynasty.
The Parvati Temple is the oldest temple in Pune and there is also a Buddhist cave in the premises. The second highest point in Pune offers a panoramic view of the city.
3. Taljai Tekdi
Located close to Parvati Hill is the Taljai Tekdi. At the entrance, you would find the Goddess Taljai temple, where you can pay your respects and start the trail.
Birds and animals such as ducks, peacocks, and wild rabbits are seen here often and there is a pond and a meditation centre on this hill. This place also attracts a lot of migratory birds.
There are numerous trails here for jogging, running, and trekking. You can also spend your time here just exploring or picnicking.
This tekdi offers a picturesque view of the city and the best time to visit is early morning or evening so that you can witness the sunrise of the sunset.
4. Baner Hill
If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can hike from Baner Hill to Pashan Hill. It has an easy to medium level of difficulty. This hill separates the suburbs of Baner and Pashan.
This hill has an amazing view of Baner on one side and Pashan on the other side. On the top, you can visit the Navagraha Temple.
It is said that the temperature on this hill is 1 to 2 degrees lower than the rest of the city. The best time to visit this place is in the monsoon to experience the greenery all around you.
5. Dighi Hills
Dighi Hills are situated near the Pune Airport. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city, this place offers much-needed calm and peace after a hectic week of work.
The best time to visit this place is early in the morning so be with nature and soak in some sunlight.
You can also visit these hills during sunset and get a scenic view of the city from the top. These hills are unexplored and offer a serene and quiet environment.
You can access these hills via public transport or by motorcycle. It has a Datta Mandir and a Durgah at the top. The location is ideal for family picnics.
So, if you are looking to escape from the chaos and the traffic of the city and enjoy some peaceful time alone or with friends or family, these hills will definitely provide you with the much-needed break from routine.
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