Every town and city has a story to tell; and, when it comes to Pune, it is best told through a camera lens! It is not all forts and festivals—sometimes it is the soft sunset at ARAI Hill, or the worn down paint of a door in Kasba Peth that gives you the magic shot.
So whether you are a DSLR professional, or a smartphone enthusiast, this one is for you
1. ARAI Tekdi – Sunsets & Serenity:
The locals know it. The students rave about it. ARAI Hill, behind the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), is the quintessential viewing point for the entire city, especially during sunset when the golden light turns the city to gold. Come early morning for the soft light and calm compositions, or stay behind for golden light portraitures.
- Best for: Landscape, portraits, time-lapses.
- Pro tip: The early morning mist will give you some dreamy shots
2. Shaniwarwada Fort – History Meets Aesthetic:
Sure, it is popular. For good reason though. The symmetry of the fort, the arches, the large wooden doors, is sheer aesthetic. Come here in the morning to avoid crowds and have that ideal historical vibe.
- Best for: Architecture, editorial-style photos
- Pro tip: Play around with black-and-white edits here, it adds character.
3. Kasba Peth – Vintage Pune in a Frame:
This is old Pune at its raw best. Narrow lanes, aged houses, walls with colour, and not letting you miss a beat of life. It is chaotic but beautiful. If you like street photography with narrative, this is your playground.
- Best for: Candid shots, street life, textures
- Pro tip: When you are clicking people, be polite. A smile and a little, “Namaste” goes a long way
4. Empress Garden:
With its green lawns, flower beds, and peaceful areas, Empress Garden is the ultimate place for floral close-ups or fanciful portrait shoots. It is quiet, colorful, and complex, so you will have no shortage of compositions to make.
- Best for: Macro, couples’ shoots, portraiture
- Pro tip: Go during spring for peak blooming.With its green lawns, flower beds, and peaceful areas,
5. The Abandoned Railway Tracks – Moody Vibes:
If you love urban exploration while trying to achieve a slightly edgy look, the old railway tracks near Shivajinagar or Hadapsar provide dramatic canal-inspired shots with textures of rust and overgrowth and the rawness of empty spaces—an aesthetic.
- Best for: Moody edits, fashion shoots, concept photography
- Pro tip: Watch out for trespassing! Always ask locals before walking into these spaces!
6. Hidden Cafés – Bokeh & Beyond:
There are some cafés made for the gram; Vohuman Café – the vintage filters, Café Peter – colorful backdrops, German Bakery, warm tone but, more than food, they are aesthetic zones.
- Best for: Bokeh shots, flat lays, aesthetic reels
- Pro tip: Capture moments, not poses.
7. Pune Walls – Street Art and Murals:
Koregaon Park & FC Road are full of colorful walls- murals, quotes and expressive art. All are amazing backdrops for fashion shoots or Insta reels.
- Best for: Urban aesthetics, portraits
- Pro tip: Morning light is best for vibrant colors.
Click With Heart, Not Just for the Gram:
Pune has it all, from traditional space to contemporary craziness. When it comes to memorable pictures, it’s not just about good composition—it’s about feelings. Whether you’re capturing the silhouette of a cyclist in rain or a steaming chai cup on a tapri table—share a narrative.
Your lens, your city, your energy.
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