Pune: often lauded as the “Oxford of the East” for its illustrious academic heritage, stands as a city that seamlessly marries tradition and modernity. Beyond the bustling IT hubs and educational institutions, Pune harbors a trove of cultural and historical treasures awaiting exploration. One of the most captivating ways to dive into the city’s rich past and diverse culture is by embarking on a museum-hopping adventure. Here, we present a curated list of must-visit museums in Pune that promise an enthralling journey through the city’s history, art, and heritage.
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
Location: Bajirao Road, Natu Baag, Shukrawar Peth
A visit to the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is akin to stepping into a captivating realm of art and history. Named after Dr. DG Kelkar, affectionately known as Kaka, this museum is the result of Kaka’s lifelong passion for art and culture. Over six decades, starting in 1920, Kaka traversed the length and breadth of India, amassing a remarkable collection of approximately 22,000 artifacts. These treasures reflect the everyday life of India and encompass a diverse range of materials, including stone, wood, metal, ivory, fabric, and clay.
The museum houses an eclectic array of items, from lamps, palanquins, and tinware to musical instruments, miniature paintings, and intricately carved wooden doors. Among the highlights is a captivating replica of the Mastani Mahal, originally built by Bajirao Peshwa I for his beloved consort, Mastani. The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a testament to one man’s dedication to preserving the arts and crafts of India, providing them with the recognition they truly deserve.
- Tribal Cultural Museum
Location: Tribal Research and Training Institute, Queen’s Garden
The Tribal Cultural Museum, formerly known as the Adivasi Cultural Museum, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of India’s tribal heritage. Established in 1965 under the Adivasi Research and Training Institute Pune, this museum boasts an extensive collection of 1,359 tribal artifacts on display. The museum is thoughtfully organized into five major sections, each offering a unique perspective on tribal life and culture.
Visitors can explore the Dr. Govind Gare Art Gallery, dedicated to tribal artistic expressions, and the Tribal Literary Culture section, which delves into the literary heritage of tribal communities. The Tribal Art Gallery showcases the mesmerizing Bohadaya masks and bamboo crafts, while the Tribal Jewellery and Deities section provides insights into adornments and religious practices. As a bonus, the open premises feature a replica of Tribal Huts, offering a taste of tribal living.
- Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum
Location: Harsh Sahawas Society, Karve Nagar
For enthusiasts of history and vintage wonders, the Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum promises an enthralling journey through time. This private museum, established in 2017, houses the remarkable personal collection of cycles lovingly acquired and restored by Vikram Pendse and his friend Pandurang Gaikwad. The museum showcases over 150 vintage bicycles, tricycles, tandems, trailers, and pedal cars spanning the past century.
Beyond bicycles, the museum displays an intriguing assortment of spare parts and accessories, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of this beloved mode of transportation. Visitors can marvel at antique lamps, typewriters, glassware, locks, irons, clocks, radios, sewing machines, weighing scales, and more. Notable among the collection is the 1940s BSA paratrooper bicycle, once used during World War II. The Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum is a testament to the enduring charm of vintage transportation and the craftsmanship of bygone eras.
- Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railways
Location: Bhau Joshi and G A Kulkarni Road, Kothrud
Prepare for a delightful journey into the world of miniature railways at Joshi’s Museum Of Miniature Railways. This unique museum, inaugurated in 1998, finds its home within the premises of a private factory dedicated to crafting train models. The founder, BS Joshi, affectionately known as Bhau Joshi, has nurtured a lifelong fascination with train models since childhood.
The museum features a remarkable 26×26-foot hall designed to showcase Bhau Joshi’s extensive collection of miniature railways. Each component, from tracks and signals to fences, lampposts, and flyovers, has been meticulously handcrafted. Visitors can witness the intricate details of nearly 1,000 wires at the control panel and admire the lifelike settings that recreate the charm of railways. The museum’s collection spans over a century, offering glimpses of more than 150 vintage bicycles, tricycles, tandems, trailers, and pedal cars.
These museums are not only repositories of history but also gateways to a deeper understanding of Pune’s cultural tapestry. Each visit promises a memorable exploration of art, heritage, and the stories that have shaped this vibrant city.
