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Mahatma Phule Museum is one of Pune’s oldest and most significant museums, offering a rich glimpse into India’s history, culture, and industrial development. If you want to get a closer look into India’s social reformers and the struggles they have endured for the country, this is one of the museums to visit. Originally known as the “Lord Reay Museum,” this heritage site’s existence dates back to the time of British colonial rule. You also get to learn about the life and contributions of Jyotirao Phule, a renowned social reformer.
Quick Details About Mahatma Phule Museum
Address: 1204/10, Ghole Rd, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults and ₹5 for children
Established: 1890
Best Time To Visit: October to February
About Mahatma Phule Museum
Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons
The Mahatma Phule Museum was established in 1890 during British rule, originally named the Lord Reay Museum in honour of the then-Governor of Bombay. Following the initial few decades after the establishment, the museum was later renamed after Jyotirao Phule, one of India’s greatest social reformers who advocated for the upliftment of the marginalised and also pushed for women’s education. The renaming happened in 1968. Inside the museum, the central attraction is getting a glimpse into the life of Phule and the work he had done to uplift the underprivileged in society. However, what’s fascinating about this museum is its diversity. Beyond the social reforms and the tales of Phule, the museum houses a series of other exhibits dedicated to industrial progress, natural history, agriculture, handicrafts, and technology.
How To Reach
Photo: Rohan Pawar / Wikimedia Commons
The central location of the Mahatma Phule Museum in India means that you wouldn’t have a hard time reaching the place. It is well-accessible by air, road and rail.
By Air: For those flying down to Pune, you have to land at Pune International Airport and from there, you have the choice to either hire a taxi or board a public bus or auto to get to the museum.
By Rail: Pune Junction is your nearest railway station from the Mahatma Phule Museum. With frequent trains from nearby cities, you can travel from Delhi, Mumbai, etc. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available from the railway station to the museum.
By Road: The museum is situated in Shivajinagar, which is a central area. Public buses (PMPML) and private vehicles can take you directly to the museum. Pune’s bus station, Swargate is the nearest option to the museum.
Things To Do At Mahatma Phule Museum
Before you plan your visit to the museum, having a solid itinerary of what you will do inside the museum is key. There are several options worth checking out.
1. Explore The Industrial Exhibits
Photo: Samreenshaikh / Wikimedia Commons
The museum has an expansive section dedicated to India’s industrial and technological progress. This is the particular exhibit inside the museum where you can witness models of machines used in different industries, from cotton mills to mining equipment. If these are concepts that you truly find fascinating, take your time to explore this exhibit at length. The majority of the artefacts in this section date back to the 19th and 20th centuries. The steam engines and agricultural tools, some of which were used in early Indian industries, are particularly fascinating for history and engineering enthusiasts.
2. Learn About Natural History
Photo: Samreenshaikh / Wikimedia Commons
Another important part of this museum that you have to stop and explore is the natural history section. The main points of focus in this section of the museum are zoology, botany, and geology. The museum exhibits various taxidermy animals, including species native to the Indian subcontinent. From birds to mammals, these specimens offer an opportunity to learn about India’s diverse wildlife. Also, the dedicated section for geology offers a glimpse into the minerals and the precious rocks found in India. They also have a taxidermy section in this gallery, adding to the uniqueness further.
3. Traditional Handicrafts
Photo: Salim Khandoker / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The museum also celebrates India’s artistic heritage by displaying a variety of traditional handicrafts. Some of the most alluring exhibits in this section include woven fabrics, pottery, sculptures, and intricate metalwork from various regions of India. Every artefact that’s on display in this exhibit offers you a look into the craft traditions and artistic expression of different communities across India. The textile exhibit is particularly remarkable, showcasing handwoven fabrics, including silk and cotton saris, along with beautiful traditional patterns.
Places To Visit Around Mahatma Phule Museum
Exploring the museum will not take anymore than 3 hours, meaning that you have the rest of the day to explore the surrounding sightseeing spots.
1. Saras Baug
Photo: Chaitrali Thorat / Wikimedia Commons
To start your Pune exploration, nothing comes near to Saras Baug, which is a beautiful garden located a short drive from the museum. The garden is spread across 25 acres and is a great spot for families, friends and even couples. At the heart of the park is the famous Sarasbaug Ganpati Temple, also known as the Talyatla Ganpati. This temple, built in the 18th century, is a prominent religious destination. Also, there are small food stalls surrounding the museum where you can indulge in some local snacks.
Distance From Museum: 3.5 Km
Timings: 9:30 AM – 9 PM
2. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
Photo: Alexkom000 / Wikimedia Commons
Another nearby museum that’s a must to add to your travel plans is Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of over 20,000 artefacts, including everyday household items, weaponry, musical instruments, and decorative items from different periods of Indian history. The museum consists of the personal collections of Dr. Dinkar Kelkar, who collected all these items over 60 years. The Mastani Mahal inside the museum is a major attraction.
Distance From Museum: 2.8 Km
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
3. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden
Photo: Prasadfalke / Wikimedia Commons
Another garden that’s perfect for some leisurely pleasure in Pune is the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden. It is located on JM Road and is a bustling and well-maintained green space that offers a tranquil retreat within the city. The garden is named after Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Shivaji Maharaj. There is an aquarium and a children’s park inside the garden. Also, in the middle of the garden, there is a statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji.
Distance From Museum: 1 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Where To Stay
If you have a 2-3 day itinerary to explore Pune after visiting the museum, there are several different hotels, resorts and luxury properties available for booking. Some of the most popular and highly rated accommodation options in the area include Smart Inn, Hotel Radiant, The Pride Hotel Pune, Hotel Parichay and Hotel Kohinoor Executive.
Where To Eat
There are several restaurants available around Mahatma Phule Museum, which you can explore at your convenience. You can try both veg and non-vegetarian options and even indulge in some authentic Marathi cuisine. Some of the must-try eateries include Shabree, Vaishali Restaurant, Asha, Shahji’s Parantha House and Lynx Kitchen and Bar.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons
Having a solid plan and following all the relevant tips will surely make the most out of your time at the museum:
- Plan your visit to the Mahatma Phule Museum in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Pune’s climate is generally pleasant, but it can get hot in the summer. So, plan accordingly.
- Carry small changes for entry fees, as some places might not accept cards or offer digital payment options.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking quite a bit.
- Pune has a good public transport network. Auto-rickshaws are available and public buses too.
Mahatma Phule Museum is a popular tourist attraction, which you have to visit the next time you are in Pune. Not only do you get a glimpse into the life of the social reformer, but you also get to explore numerous different and unique exhibits inside the museum dedicated to science, industrial elements, traditions and culture. When planning your trip to Pune with TripXL, ensure that you don’t miss out on adding this museum to your travel plans.
Cover Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons
