10 Secret Science Spots In Pune

Hey there! Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure with your little ones? Pune, with its vibrant culture and rich history, holds some delightful secrets waiting to be discovered. Today, let's uncover the lesser-known, but absolutely captivating, science spots scattered across Pune's landscape.

Pune, fondly known as the "Oxford of the East," isn't just about academics; it's also a hub of fascinating scientific wonders tailor-made for parents and their curious kiddos.

Let's dive into the enchanting world of these hidden gems, designed to ignite wonder and spark curiosity in both young and old.

IUCCA-Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA)

📍Post Bag 4, Ganeshkhind, Pune
🧪 Activities include:
Campus visits for the public: Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. By appointment only.
Summer school programme; Telescope making; Sky watching; Science toys activity; Basic astronomy workshops; Lectures and demonstration programs
Contact Prasad Adekar at scipop@gmail.com or (020) 25604602. Visit https://scipop.iucaa.in/ for more details.

GMRT-Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope

📍GMRT Project, P.B. No. 6, Narayangaon
🧪 Visit the observatory: Open to the public on Friday, every week.
🕐 Two sessions: Morning: 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon (reporting time: 10 AM), Afternoon: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (reporting time: 2:00 PM). By prior appointment only.
More details here: http://www.ncra.tifr.res.in/ncra/outreach/visit-the-gmrt

IISER- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research

📍Dr Homi Bhabha Rd, Pashan
🧪 Activities include:
Half-day workshops and demonstration of 20-25 science experiments
Celebration of special days such as National Science Day, Children's Day, Teacher's Day with many demonstrations, exhibits and other hands-on activities along with popular talks and lectures.
For more details, visit: https://www.iiserpune.ac.in/engage/outreach-and-training/science-activity-centre

PIMPRI CHINCHWAD SCIENCE PARK + PLANETARIUM

📍Kalewadi Road, IBMR College Rd, Science Park Marg, near Auto Cluster Exhibition Center, Anna Sahib Nagar, Chinchwad
🕐 Open all days, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
💰 Tickets start at INR 30.

IMD- Indian Meteorological Department

📍University Rd, Revenue Colony
🕐 Open to all on 28th Feb and 23rd March. For visits on other days you need to request permission. Details here: https://www.imdpune.gov.in/visitors.php

National Chemical Laboratory

📍Dr Homi Bhabha Rd, Ward No. 8, NCL Colony, Pashan
🧪Outreach activities, campus visits for PG students, celebrations on specific days.
On CSIR Foundation Day i.e., 26 September, CSIR-NCL announces well in advance the organisation of Open Day through local media and a large number of students and science enthusiasts visit CSIR-NCL and take first hands experience of various ongoing experiments and interact with scientists.

Agharkar Research Institute

📍Maharashtra Association for the Cultivation of Science, Gopal Ganesh Agarkar Road
🧪Workshops and outreach activities, celebration of National Science day every year via exhibitions, lectures, and demonstrations.

Pashan lake

📍Pashan Lake. Close to Mumbai-Pune highway
🧪Bird watching, boating, and understanding the lake ecosystem.
🕐 6:00 AM- 11:00 AM and 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm all week

COEP boat club

📍Behind Mechanical Department, College Of Engineering Pune Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Rd, Shivajinagar
🧪 Observe and learn the mechanics of different kinds of rowing boats, attend boating events held regularly. Lies within the premises of COEP, may need permission for access.
More details at: https://www.coep.org.in/boatclub/

National Institute of Naturopathy

📍Bapu Bhavan Matoshree, Ramabai Ambedkar Rd
🧪 Monthly awareness programs on nature cure and yogic management of diseases on the last Saturday of every month. Attend naturopathy-based cooking classes by experts. Attend celebration of various international days, such as Naturopathy Day and International Day of Yoga. Access the institute's library for a nominal fee.
Call on 020-26059682/3/4/5 for more details. www.ninpune.ayush.gov.in

In a city brimming with cultural diversity and intellectual fervor, Pune's secret science spots offer a refreshing escape into the realm of discovery. From the intricacies of quantum physics to the majesty of the cosmos, these hidden gems pave the way for a deeper appreciation of science and its profound impact on our lives.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Pune, venture off the beaten path and uncover the scientific wonders that lie hidden in plain sight. Who knows what mysteries await your discovery?

But the exploration doesn't have to stop here—we're eager to hear about your experiences and discover new science spots together. Share your favorite finds with us, join our community of curious explorers @parenthingapp on Instagram, and let's keep the spirit of discovery alive.

Also, we are building an amazing app that will help you find nearby events, classes, like-minded, and more for your kids. You can join the waitlist here: www.parenthinapp.com.

Happy exploring!