About Pune Fondly known as ‘the Oxford of the East’, Pune offers the visitor an enchanting mix of history, culture, cuisine and attitude. People from around the world flock here to study at the University or seek a life of spiritual bliss at the Osho Commune. Once, the capital of the proud Peshwas of Maharashtra, Pune today is a bustling, cosmopolitan city dotted with tree-lined avenues, gardens, stately buildings and commercial areas. It is also one of the few cities that still retains much of its small-town charm by day, and exudes a big-city vibrancy after dusk. Location & Attractions Parvati Hill This famous landmark at the southern end of the city Consists of a group of beautiful temples dedicated to Shiva, Ganesh, Vishnu and Kartikey. A relatively easy climb up to the top via a set of wide stone stairs rewards one with a panoramic view of the city and an invigorating draft of cool, fresh air. Katraj Snake Park The snake park came into being in the year 1986, with the help of Pune Municipal Corporation. It is situated on the Pune-Satara Highway near Bharati Vidyapeeth Campus. The park has a collection of exotic reptiles, birds, a baby leopard, crocodiles and other animals. The Snake Park's most prized specimen is a six-year-old, King Cobra that's nine feet long! Shinde's Chhatri This beautiful architectural creation is located just a few km from the Pune racecourse. This monument was built in the memory of the great Maratha nobleman Mahadji Shinde. It is an imposing edifice, which exudes an air of serenity and austerity, coupled with architectural beauty. Pataleshwara Temple Just across the river on Jangli Maharaj Road is the wonderful rock-cut Pataleshwara Temple. This small, partially completed, 8th century temple is similar in style to the much grander rock temple at Elephanta and is actively used by the locals. In front of the excavation is a circular Nandi mandapam. Adjacent is the Jangli Maharaj temple, dedicated to a Hindu ascetic who died here in 1818. Panchaleshwar Temple The rock-cut Panchaleshwar Temple is a small 8th century temple built in a similar style to the much grander rock temples of Ellora. According to local lore, the temple was excavated in one night. There's a fine equestrian statue of Shivaji close by. Festivals Ganesh Chaturthi - an eleven-day festival, dedicated to the Elephant God is celebrated with great fervour here.