Things To Do
in Shikrapur
Shikrapur is a small town in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India, rooted in agricultural heritage and traditional markets. It serves as a gateway to rural Maharashtra while being close enough to Pune for day trips. The town features temples, temples, and everyday-life scenes that offer a slow-paced, authentic Indian rural experience.
Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, cuisine, and nearby natural scenery while staying affordable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the ancient temple of Bhairavnath, where you can witness the intricate carvings and sacred rituals performed by local priests. The serene atmosphere and the morning chants create a spiritual ambiance that rejuvenates your soul. Afterward, stroll through the surrounding village, soaking in the traditional architecture and vibrant local life.
For lunch, savor authentic Maharashtrian cuisine at a local eatery, enjoying dishes like puran poli and thalipeeth. Post-lunch, head to the nearby Godavari River, where you can indulge in a peaceful boat ride and take in the lush greenery along the banks. The afternoon sun casts a beautiful glow, perfect for photography and relaxation.
As the sun sets, visit the local market where you can shop for handmade crafts and textiles unique to the region. Engage with friendly vendors and perhaps learn about traditional weaving techniques. End your day with a peaceful evening at a local café, sipping on masala chai while reflecting on your day's adventures.
Start your day with an invigorating nature walk in the nearby Sahyadri hills, where the fresh morning air fills your lungs with vitality. As you trek along the trails, keep an eye out for various bird species, including the vibrant Indian Peafowl and the majestic Crested Serpent Eagle. The sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves create a symphony of nature that enhances your experience.
After your walk, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning landscape, relishing homemade snacks while taking in the scenic views. Spend the afternoon exploring the flora and fauna of the region, perhaps even visiting a local botanical garden. The diverse plant life provides a perfect backdrop for some stunning photographs.
As evening approaches, witness the breathtaking sunset over the hills, casting a golden hue over the landscape. Gather around a campfire with fellow travelers, sharing stories and enjoying the camaraderie of nature lovers. The night sky reveals a blanket of stars, perfect for stargazing as you unwind after a day filled with exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.30-0.60 |
| 🚗Taxi start (within town) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $12-28 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Maharashtra experience
- Affordability and simplicity
- Friendly locals and festivals
- Good base for exploring Pune district
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Varied road conditions
- Fewer Western-style amenities in some pockets
- Language may be a barrier for non-Marathi speakers in rural areas
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Krupa karun" - Please / Kindly
- "Kimmat kay aahe?" - What is the price?
- "Maaf kara" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Shikrapur
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over temple spires with local worshippers starting their day.
Wide horizons and fields with silhouettes of farmers and time-worn farm structures.
Calm waters, reflections, and life along the river on calm evenings.
Colorful houses, prayer flags, laundry lines, and everyday village life.
Food in Shikrapur
Shikrapur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rustic gram flour curry served with millet or jowar bhakri; a quintessential rural staple.
Must-Try!
Spicy sprouted lentil curry with pav; a beloved street-food classic across Maharashtra.
Tapioca pearls cooked with peanuts and cumin; popular during fasting periods and monsoon.
Sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentil filling; a festive treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main town market offering fresh produce, pulses, spices, and everyday snacks.
Small roadside stalls serving snacks like Misal, bhaji, and chai near temples and crossroads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or a polite nod; address elders with appropriate titles.
Dress modestly in temples and rural areas; shoulders and knees covered.
Remove shoes before entering temples; avoid photography in sanctums without permission.
Ask permission before photographing people; never photograph private rituals without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Shikrapur
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% at hotels and restaurants is common but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept digital wallets and card payments in towns; smaller stalls may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (March–June) with temperatures often reaching 35–40°C; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, use sunscreen.
June–September brings heavy rains; lush landscapes but occasional flooding on low-lying roads; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear.
November–February offers mild to cool weather (15–25°C); ideal for outdoor exploring and day trips.
Shikrapur at Night
Hiking in Shikrapur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby hill area offering short treks and scenic views; popular from Pune.
Famous hill-stations with multiple trekking routes and viewpoints.
Local fort and hill routes for short hikes around the Pune district.
Airports
How to reach Shikrapur by plane.
Serving Pune and the surrounding region; about 60-90 km from Shikrapur, with domestic and limited international flights.
Mumbai's international gateway; about 150-180 km from Shikrapur, reachable by road or train via Pune.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group with rural and agricultural livelihoods.
Residents involved in agriculture and related trades.
People traveling to Pune for education or work, contributing to a mixed, younger demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in school and street play; local teams play in parks and grounds.
Traditional Indian sport played in schools and festivals.
Popular in community centers and homes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shikrapur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many options are vegetarian; look for bhakri, sabzi, dal, and bhaji; request dairy-free preparations if needed.
Choose jowar or rice bhakri with vegetable curries; confirm no cross-contact in shared kitchens.
Ask for oil-based preparations and no ghee or butter; specify sunflower or peanut oil when available.