Pimpri-Chinchwad belongs to the Metropolitan City of Pune on the west coast of India and is made up of numerous different small towns, all governed by a common body. Although it is close to Pune and well connected to the city, it has its own attractions and local culture but is frequently visited by travellers to the nearby city. Much of its culture revolves around the abundance of temples that occupy the area, although there is also a spiritual connection found in the three rivers that flow nearby and the mysteriously beautiful surrounding hills.
Pimpri-Chinchwad is known for its many temples, with some of the most famous being Jay Shree Krishna Temple, a peaceful religious centre, Vaishno Devi Temple, a spring temple in the shape of a hexagon, and Shree Ram Temple, a colourful Hindu haven. The most famous temple is possibly Morya Gosavi Temple, where visitors can learn more about the named saint of a local religious sect, who was considered to be a devout worshipper of the Hindu elephant-faced god, Ganesha. Pimpri-Chinchwad is also the home of a legendary warrior king called Chhatrapati Shivaji, who is thought to have lived in the now ruined Shivneri Fort, which visitors can explore for cultural stories and stunning views over the region. The area is also home to some of India’s most important industrial centres, and many national and international companies have plants and headquarters in Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Pune Airport is the nearest major travel hub to Pimpri-Chinchwad and has connects hundreds of flights throughout India and the world every day. Visitors can also reach the area by train to the major stations of Dehu Road, Dapodi or Akurdi, or visitors can travel in by car, with central Pune located less than 10 kilometres away. Once in Pimpri-Chinchwad, it is easiest to travel by foot, private car, buses or rickshaws.
The modern area of Pimpri-Chinchwad originated in the amalgamation of many different independent towns such as Chinchwad, Pimpri and Akurdi, all of which contain their own local histories, religious stories and culture. The area became modernised in the 1960s when it underwent industrial development, with many large corporations setting up in the area due to its links between Pune and Mumbai.