Experience in Pune, India by Bruguraj

What is it like to live in Pune? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Yes compared to most metropolitan cities in India, Pune is very laid back , it is known for it's University as it is called the Oxford of the east.People in Pune are generally nice.The city is crowded ,most students commute on two wheelers. Public transportation is good but it's crowded so one might need time to get used to it , specifically if you are coming from a foreign country

What is the student lifestyle like in Pune?

Student Life is quite good since there are many colleges in Pune for various specializations and courses , the main University campus in acres of lush green paradise. There are many pubs and bars in Pune if that interests you.it is a safe city for students.

How much does it cost to live in Pune?

Rent for a simple small studio or a 1 bedroom kitchen can range from 8-15 thousand rupees(200-300$) per month in a good locality.more better an bigger accomodations are available if you are willing to spend more.monthly mess(kitchens which serve 2 meals a day for a month, except Sundays ) can cost 60-100 dollars more if you have different requirements .student budget friendly hotels are available everywhere. Cafes are in abundance.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Pune? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes, being an educational hub it attracts students from all over India and foreign countries,apart from this it is known for I.T parks offices etc so people from other regions from India do travel to Pune for jobs or business etc

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is always a personal preference , that is exactly why I would say that you will enjoy it , the city doesn't impose a certain cuisine ,pretty much everything is available. The young populace of the city keeps the demand for new cuisines and dishes high.

What places would you recommend visiting in Pune?

Shanivar wada - heritage site.sinhagad - fort , lavasa - a beautiful place for biking ,good roads , beautiful view search for powerdrift on YouTube you might get what I mean about lavasa

Is it good to eat out in Pune? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Brilliant , for all tastes.marz-o-rin , cafe good luck , chitale sweet shop is something which the locals are very fond of. Street food is something which is available everywhere so it's hard to mention names the first two places I mentioned are prominent land marks which everyone knows. There are many others

Is the nightlife good in Pune? Where is good to go?

It is good from what I hear from friends.I don't personally like partying.cafes and pubs are in abundance. So are clubs etc but I don't like clubbing

What advice would you give future students heading to Pune?

People are helpful , so ask for help ,being aware of your surroundings while travelling is a basic advice I would give while travelling anywhere.take your time in understanding the city and it's people and take general decisions on personal judgements , there are a lot of places to travel around Pune , the food is brilliant and being a student city ,I would say have fun :)