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India’s freedom struggle is filled with heroes, some of whose names we are aware of and some names that we don’t know about. Among them are the Chapekar brothers, renowned revolutionaries who played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle. The Chapekar Museum in Pune offers a glimpse into the lives of these unsung heroes and the sacrifices that they made to bring India towards its independence. You get to learn about the brothers, their lives and the role they played in India’s independence.
Quick Details
Chapekar Museum Address: 03/08/484, Gandhi Peth, Prabhat Colony, Chinchwad Gaon, Chinchwad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra
Chapekar Museum Ticket Price:None
Phone: 093220 85971
Best Time To Visit: November to February
About Chapekar Museum
Photo: Spandanbhatt94 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Chapekar Museum was established in memory of the Chapekar brothers, Damodar, Balkrishna, and Vasudeo Chapekar, who were key figures in India’s freedom movement. They were known for assassinating W.C. Rand, the British officer responsible for the harsh treatment of locals during the plague epidemic of 1897. The museum’s collection includes rare photographs, letters, and weapons used by the Chapekar brothers. One of the main attractions of the museum is the interactive displays, which narrate the events leading up to the assassination of W.C. Rand, the subsequent capture and execution of the Chapekar brothers, and their impact on India’s fight for freedom.
How To Reach The Chapekar Museum
Photo: Varadyk25 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Since the museum is located in Pimpri Chinchwad, the nearest airport from there is the Pune International Airport. Outside the airport, you will find taxis and public buses to get to the city centre and then to the museum.
By Rail: To get to the museum, you’d need to get down at Chinchwad Railway Station, which is the nearest railhead. If Pune Junction is more accessible for you, that’s another route that you can take. From the station, you’d need to take a local train or taxi to get to the museum.
By Road: The Chapekar Museum is easily accessible by road, as Chinchwad is well-connected via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and other major highways. You can take a bus, car or even a rental taxi, whatever is feasible for you.
Things To Do At Chapekar Museum
If you are planning your getaway to the Chapekar Museum, here listed are the activities that you can indulge in:
1. Explore The Chapekar Brothers’ Ancestral Home
Photo: Anjali 08/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Since the museum is located inside Chapekar Wada, the ancestral home of the brothers, that’s your first stop to explore. This traditional Maratha-style house is where the brothers lived, plotted their revolutionary acts, and left a permanent mark on India’s fight for freedom. As you walk through the intricately designed wooden doorways and explore the open courtyards, you get a sense of the era in which the brothers lived.
2. Interactive Audio-Visual Exhibits
Photo: Yamini vijay lawhate / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are interested in a more interactive way of learning about the Chapekar brothers and the freedom fight, there are audio-visual exhibits that you can check out. These exhibits make history come alive by using multimedia presentations, including video reenactments of pivotal moments. The museum has also created an immersive experience with touchscreen displays where visitors can explore different aspects of the Chapekar brothers’ lives and the Indian independence movement.
Places To Visit Near Chapekar Museum
As you finish your tour around Chapekar Museum, you can take your time to get around and explore the nearby sightseeing spots too.
1. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Photo: Karthik Easvur / Wikimedia Commons
For a spiritual experience after the historical exploration, head to Pataleshwar Cave Temple. It is an ancient rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Evidence depicts that the temple is from the 8th century. The temple complex consists of a shrine with a massive Shiva Lingam, a Nandi bull statue, and intricately carved pillars and chambers. There are a lot of similarities to this temple with Elephanta Caves.
Distance From Chapekar Museum: 17.1 Km
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
2. Sinhagad Fort
Photo: Rait / Wikimedia Commons
Located on top of a hill, Sinhagad Fort is another historical destination that you have to add to your travel plans. It played a significant role in several key battles, most notably the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670, when Tanaji Malusare, a loyal commander of Shivaji Maharaj, recaptured the fort from the Mughals. You have to embark on a scenic trek through the jungles and rugged terrain to get to the fort.
Distance From Chapekar Museum: 45.6 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Pashan Lake
Photo: Chinmayee Mishra / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are in the mood for some peace, a visit to Pashan Lake in Pune is a must. This man-made lake, originally constructed to supply drinking water to the Pashan village, has evolved into a popular spot for birdwatching, boating, and nature walks. It is a peaceful retreat for tourists, especially ones looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Distance From Chapekar Museum: 12.7 Km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
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With so many different hotels and resorts available in Pimpri Chinchwad, you won’t run out of options when it comes to accommodations. A few of the highly rated properties include Noorya – Business & Banquet Hotel, Super OYO Flagship Hotel Kamini, FabHotel Wakad Villa and Hotel Celebrations Inn.
Where To Eat
Photo: SteveR- / Wikimedia Commons
If you are in the mood to try some authentic Marathi cuisine or even something international, there are several restaurants and local eateries around Pimpri Chinchwad that you can explore. Some of the best restaurants to indulge in are Ek Punjab Dhaba, Tatva, Rangla Punjab and FC Road Social.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo:PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers:
- Plan your visit during the winter months since it is a lot more comfortable.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum and surrounding areas involve a lot of walking.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum.
- Taking Chapekar Museum photos is allowed, so make the most of the opportunity.
- Opt for guided tours to get a comprehensive understanding.
On your next vacation to Pune, ensure that Chapekar Museum is part of your travel plans. Getting a glimpse into the life and struggles of independence and these revolutionaries is truly an eye-opening experience. You also get to explore the rich culture of the city. You can plan your trip now with TripXL and explore the past like never before!
Cover Photo: SafarNama / Wikimedia Commons
