Experience in Pune, India by Mitalee

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

I would definitely recommend living in Pune. With a great deal of institutions placed all over the city, it is a melting pot for various cultures. The food industry is picking up and new experience based restaurants are popping up for great prices.

What is the student lifestyle like in Pune?

Pune is very student friendly. The city has specialised courses in a variety of sectors, ranging from architecture, films and fashion to engineering and technology. Around institutes, on would find everything they'd need.

How much does it cost to live in Pune?

Pune can be slightly expensive, if one wishes to stay in the city centre or the most happening places. As you go towards the edges of the city, prices tend to drop down but at the same time you're not completely out of the city, so you do get to experience the life.

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

Accommodation can be tricky. Find a place close to your school/work of place. If it's not in your budget, try the adjoining suburb area, but keep in mind that during travelling, traffic at rush hours might be a problem. But Pune is comparitively smaller, and travelling across town is not a big hassle.

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

The food scene in Pune is improving day by day. Baner, Balewadi High Street, KP, kalyani Nagar are some of the places for chic experimental cuisines at affordable prices. FC Road and Camp are areas where you'll find modern and traditional dishes.

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

Nightlife is a whole new experience. Some clubs have Bollywood wednesdays for dancing to hindi pop songs. Baner, Korgaon Park and Kalyani Nagar are some of the areas where you'll find the best of the nightlife.

What advice would you give future students heading to Pune?

Don't go with high expectations, sometimes certain things can be disappointing. Since the Metro project has started, there's a lot of traffic on a few roads in peak hours, so try to adjust your timings or find different routes. Try to get a two wheeler- it's the best possible way to travel. There's a variety of things to do- don't just stick to the common ones but at the same time don't hesitate to try the cultural visits.