ShivalayBNB

About ShivalayBNB

ShivalayBNB suits travellers who want a quiet base in South Pune, close to the zoo and the gardens. The property is on a residential street near Dhankawadi Post Office, away from the main road noise. Guests can park a car free of charge and use the free WiFi throughout their stay. The location works well for those visiting Parvati Hill or the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, both within a short drive. Families appreciate the listed family rooms and the garden space.

This is a straightforward stay with listed air conditioning, internet access and a safe in the room. The property is about 4 km from Swargate bus station and roughly 7 km from Pune Junction railway station. Shaniwar Wada lies about 6 km away in a straight line. The hotel is not in the city centre, but the main sights of old Pune are within easy reach by auto-rickshaw or cab.

Rooms and listed facilities

ShivalayBNB lists air-conditioned family rooms, which are suitable for couples or small groups. The property also provides free WiFi and internet access in the rooms. A safe is listed, so guests can store valuables. Late arrivals should inform the property in advance. Parking is free and available on site, which helps those arriving by car. Confirm the exact room configuration and any extra bedding when booking.

The setting

ShivalayBNB stands on Swarabrahma Sangeet Vidyalay 26, a lane off Shivalay Rakshalekha Society near the Dhankawadi Post Office in Katraj. This is a residential pocket of South Pune, about 4 km from Swargate bus station in a straight line. The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is 1.8 km away, and Parvati Hill is 3.6 km away. Pu La Deshpande garden and Sarasbaug are also within 4 km. Pune International Airport is about 14.5 km north-east, and Hinjewadi IT Park is roughly 19 km to the north-west. The area is quiet, with local shops and eateries within walking distance.

Location and neighbourhood

The area is defined by the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, which covers a large hill. Families come here for the zoo and the adjoining Pu La Deshpande garden, also known as the Okayama Friendship Garden. The Katraj ghat begins just south of the area. Parvati Hill rises to the north, its Peshwa-era temples visible from the road. The neighbourhood is quieter than central Pune, with wider roads and more open space. It is a practical base for families who want easy access to the southern exits of the city.

The area has a suburban feel. Many apartments and housing societies line the main road. Local shops and small eateries serve the residents. The zoo and the garden draw visitors on weekends and holidays. The Katraj ghat is a steep climb on the Satara road, leading towards the ghats and the hill forts. The area is not a tourist district in itself, but its location makes it convenient for families travelling south or wanting a calm stay away from the city centre.

Getting there and around

Pune International Airport is around 14.5 km from ShivalayBNB. The route goes through the city or via the ring road, depending on traffic. Pune Junction is around 7.2 km away. The Satara road connects ShivalayBNB directly to the zoo and the ghat. Local buses run along the main road. Auto-rickshaws are easy to find. The Pune Metro does not yet reach Katraj. For trips to Sinhagad, Rajgad or Torna forts, a private vehicle is the most practical option. The Mumbai–Pune Expressway is about 30 minutes north, via the city bypass.

Nearby sights and food

The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is the main attraction for families. It has a large collection of animals and a reptile house. The Pu La Deshpande garden next to it has themed sections, a lake and plenty of grass for children to run. Parvati Hill is a short drive north. The climb of 103 steps leads to temples with views over the city. Sarasbaug, a garden with a small lake, is nearby. The Talyatla Ganpati temple stands beside it. These places are all within a few kilometres of ShivalayBNB.

Food in Katraj is straightforward. Misal pav and vada pav are common at roadside stalls. Many small restaurants serve Puneri thali, a full meal with rice, chapati, dal and vegetables. Mastani, the thick milkshake with ice cream, is popular with children. Bakeries sell Shrewsbury biscuits, a local specialty. Irani cafés offer bun maska and chai. Families will find plenty of options for simple, filling meals without needing to travel far.

A day from ShivalayBNB

A day from ShivalayBNB could start at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park. The zoo opens in the morning, when the animals are most active. After a couple of hours, walk next door to the Pu La Deshpande garden. Children can explore the Japanese garden section and the lake. Pack a picnic or buy snacks from the stalls near the entrance. In the afternoon, drive to Parvati Hill. The climb is short and the view from the top rewards the effort. End the day at Sarasbaug, where the garden and the Talyatla Ganpati temple offer a quiet evening. Return to ShivalayBNB for dinner at a nearby eatery.

Distances

Facilities listed by the supplier

As listed by the booking supplier; a facility not listed here may still exist. Confirm anything important with the property.

• Air conditioning
• Bath
• Bathroom
• Bidet
• Cleaning
• Coffee
• Desk
• Family rooms
• Fan
• First aid
• Free Wifi
• Free car parking
• Garden
• Internet access
• Iron and board
• Laundry Service
• Non smoking rooms
• Parking
• Safe
• Shower
• Sofa bed
• TV
• Toiletries
• Towels
• WC
• Wifi