Pu La Deshpande Garden (Okayama Friendship Garden)
A Japanese-style garden on Sinhagad Road, modelled on Okayama's Korakuen. Built as a symbol of the friendship between Pune and its twin city Okayama.
What it is
Pu La Deshpande Garden, also known as the Okayama Friendship Garden, is a Japanese-style garden on Sinhagad Road in Pune. It was designed to replicate elements of Korakuen, the famous garden in Okayama, Japan. The garden is named after the Marathi writer and humourist Pu La Deshpande, who had a deep appreciation for Japanese culture. The garden was created as a symbol of the friendship between Pune and Okayama, which are twin cities. It features traditional Japanese landscaping elements such as a koi pond, stone lanterns, a small bridge, and carefully pruned trees and shrubs.
The garden offers a calm space for a quiet walk, away from the city's noise. The layout encourages slow walking and observation of details such as the arrangement of rocks and the pruning of trees. The garden is not large, but it is carefully designed. It provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from the urban environment. The garden is maintained by the Pune Municipal Corporation and is a popular spot for morning walks and evening strolls.
What to see
The centrepiece of the garden is a large pond filled with koi fish. A wooden bridge crosses the pond, offering views of the water and the surrounding greenery. Stone lanterns, a common feature in Japanese gardens, are placed along the paths. The garden also has a small waterfall and a tea-house-style structure. The lawns are well-maintained, and the pathways are lined with bamboo and flowering plants. Benches are placed in shaded spots for sitting. The garden is a good place for birdwatching, as several species visit the pond and trees.
Visitors can observe the careful arrangement of rocks and the pruning of trees, which are typical of Japanese garden design. The garden has a small stream that flows into the pond, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. The tea-house-style structure is a popular spot for photographs. The garden is also used for cultural events and workshops related to Japanese culture. The overall design encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty.
- Koi pond with a wooden bridge and small waterfall.
- Stone lanterns and a tea-house-style structure.
- Bamboo groves and neatly pruned shrubs.
- Lawns with benches for sitting.
How to get there
The garden is on Sinhagad Road, about 2.2 km from the Sinhagad Road junction and 2.8 km from Deccan Gymkhana and FC Road. It is a 3.8 km straight-line distance from the city centre. From Pune airport (PNQ), the straight-line distance is 13.4 km. By road, the journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Auto-rickshaws and ride-app taxis are the most convenient options from central Pune. Buses on Sinhagad Road stop near the garden. Check the current route numbers with the PMPML.
Parking is available for private vehicles, but space can be limited on weekends. The garden is accessible by walking from nearby residential areas. For those coming from the Deccan or FC Road areas, an auto-rickshaw is the quickest option. The garden is also accessible from the Kothrud area via a short auto-rickshaw ride. Visitors from the Hinjewadi area should allow about 45 minutes to an hour for the drive.
When to go and how long to allow
The garden is pleasant in the dry season from October to February, when the weather is mild. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for a visit, as the light is soft and the temperatures are lower. The garden is open every day. Check the current opening hours before visiting, as they may change with the seasons. The monsoon season from June to September brings greenery, but some paths may be slippery.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and one hour at the garden. It is a small space, so it does not require a long visit. Combine it with a walk on Sinhagad Road or a visit to a nearby café. The garden is not a full-day destination. For those interested in photography, allow an hour to capture the best light and compositions. The garden is also a good place for a short picnic, but check if food is allowed inside.
Nearby sights
Sinhagad Road itself has several old bungalows and temples. The Sinhagad fort is about 35 km further south-west, a popular trekking destination. The Parvati Hill temples are about 3 km away, offering views of the city. The Pataleshwar caves, an 8th-century rock-cut temple, are about 4 km away on Jangli Maharaj Road. The Deccan and FC Road areas, about 2.8 km away, have many shops and eateries.
The Pune University campus is about 5 km away and has its own botanical garden. The garden is also close to the neighbourhood of Kothrud, which has a few small parks and local markets. The Chaturshringi temple is about 6 km away, a popular destination during Navratri. The Aga Khan Palace is about 7 km away, a historic site where Mahatma Gandhi was held. These attractions can be combined into a day trip.
- Sinhagad fort (35 km south-west) for trekking and history.
- Parvati Hill temples (3 km) with a 103-step stairway.
- Pataleshwar caves (4 km), an 8th-century rock-cut temple.
- Deccan and FC Road (2.8 km) for shopping and dining.
Practical tips
Dress comfortably for walking. The garden has paved paths, so flat footwear is recommended. Photography is allowed, and the garden is a popular spot for portrait and nature photography. Tripods may require permission. Check at the entrance. Avoid loud behaviour, as the garden is meant for quiet enjoyment. The garden is generally safe for solo visitors and families. Keep valuables secure.
There are public toilets on site, but their condition varies. Carry hand sanitiser. The garden is not wheelchair-friendly in all areas due to steps near the bridge and pond. Monsoon visits can be pleasant, but some paths may be slippery. Carry an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon. The garden has limited shade, so carry a hat and sunscreen in summer. Water fountains are available, but it is safer to carry your own water.
