Best Places to Visit in Kirkee Cantonment (Khadki), Pune, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Places to Visit in Kirkee Cantonment (Khadki), Pune, Maharashtra

Kirkee Cantonment (also spelled Khadki), located in Pune district, Maharashtra, is a historically significant military area and suburb of Pune. Though it’s largely known for its defense establishments, it also offers hidden gems of history, architecture, spirituality, and nature nearby. Being close to central Pune, visitors can easily explore both Khadki’s heritage and the city’s broader attractions.

Best Places to Visit in and Around Kirkee Cantonment (Khadki), Pune

 1. Khadki War Cemetery

• Why Visit: Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it commemorates World War I and II soldiers.

• Features: Beautifully landscaped, peaceful atmosphere, historical plaques.

• Ideal For: History enthusiasts and peaceful reflection.

 2. Empress Botanical Garden

• Distance: ~7 km from Khadki

• Why Visit: One of Pune’s oldest and most beautiful gardens with ancient trees, floral exhibits, and birdlife.

• Best Time: Early morning or evening stroll.

 3. Aga Khan Palace

• Distance: ~9 km

• Why Visit: A majestic palace associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s imprisonment during the freedom movement.

• Highlights: Museum, Gandhi memorial, and serene gardens.

 4. Chaturshringi Temple

• Distance: ~5 km

• Why Visit: A prominent hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Chaturshringi.

• Activities: Climb ~100 steps for city views and spiritual vibes.

 5. Khadki Bazaar

• Why Visit: Local shopping for military gear, boots, and casual clothing. It’s a cultural blend of local and army influence.

• Popular With: Students, budget shoppers, and locals.

 6. Pataleshwar Caves

• Distance: ~7 km

• Why Visit: 8th-century rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Architecture: Monolithic pillars, shrine carved from a single rock.

 7. Pune Okayama Friendship Garden (Pu La Deshpande Garden)

• Distance: ~12 km

• Why Visit: A Japanese-style landscaped garden with koi ponds and walking trails.

• Peaceful Spot: Ideal for photography and families.

 8. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

• Distance: ~8 km

• Why Visit: Quirky and vast collection of artifacts, weapons, musical instruments, and sculptures.

• Great For: Anyone interested in India’s cultural diversity.

 9. Pashan Lake & Trails

• Distance: ~10 km

• Why Visit: Natural lake and walking trail for birdwatching and early morning jogs.

• Tip: Visit early morning for serenity and fewer crowds.

 10. National War Memorial Southern Command (Pune Camp)

• Distance: ~9–10 km

• Why Visit: A tribute to Indian soldiers with war exhibits, tanks, and memorabilia.

• Interactive Displays: Ideal for kids and defense enthusiasts.

 Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: October to February (cooler months)

• Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws, local buses, and ride-sharing apps (Ola, Uber)

• Nearby Eateries:

  • Vaishali (Fergusson College Road – iconic for South Indian)

  • Goodluck Café (Parsi-style bun maska and Irani chai)

  • The Northern Frontier (North Indian near Khadki)