Because Puneri pride tastes better when itβs gift-wrapped
Visiting Pune and wondering what to bring back for friends, family β or yourself? Skip the generic fridge magnets and go for something that actually feels like Pune. From iconic snacks to handmade crafts, hereβs a curated list of authentic, locally loved gifts that reflect the cityβs spirit.
1. π§ Bakarwadi from Chitale Bandhu
π Multiple branches: Deccan, Kothrud, Sadashiv Peth
Why: Spicy, sweet, crunchy β this pinwheel snack is legendary in Pune and ships worldwide for a reason.
Pro Tip: Buy vacuum-packed boxes for freshness.
2. 𧴠Osho Fragrance Oils & Meditation Gear
π Koregaon Park β Osho Ashram Stores
Why: The Osho Ashramβs boutique sells calming essential oils, meditation robes, and zen souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Lavender and sandalwood oils are top sellers.
3. π¨ Puneri Patya Posters & Stationery
π Tulshibaug, FC Road, or local art shops
Why: These iconic sarcastic signs in Marathi are now available as mugs, posters, and notebooks β proudly judgmental.
Pro Tip: Look for lines like βBolnayacha kaay kaaran?β (Why speak unnecessarily?)
4. π° Shrewsbury Biscuits from Kayani Bakery
π Camp (East Street Road)
Why: Buttery, crumbly cookies that Punekars hoard. Kayani has kept this British-era tradition alive since 1955.
Pro Tip: Go early in the day β stock runs out fast.
5. π Kolhapuri Chappals (Made in Pune)
π Tulshibaug, Laxmi Road
Why: Handcrafted leather footwear β comfy, stylish, and full of character.
Pro Tip: Break them in slowly; they last for years.
6. π― Natural Honey & Chutneys from ABC Farms
π Koregaon Park
Why: Known for quirky cheeses and organic products, their chutneys and flavored honey are great gifts.
Pro Tip: Try guava cheese or mango mustard chutney for something different.
7. π Books from Marathi Sahitya Mandal
π Sadashiv Peth
Why: For those who love regional literature. Pick up Marathi classics or translated short stories from local authors.
Pro Tip: Ask staff for recommendations by Bhau Padhye or Pu La Deshpande.
8. πͺ Handcrafted Brass & Copper Puja Items
π Tambat Ali, Kasba Peth
Why: Home to Puneβs traditional metal artisans. Great for gifting decorative diyas, bells, and thalis.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning for live metalwork demos.
9. πͺ’ Eco-Friendly Stationery & Crafts by Local NGOs
π Either online or small exhibitions at Balgandharva & FC Road
Why: Hand-stitched notebooks, bookmarks, jute bags β sustainable, handmade, and heartwarming.
Pro Tip: Look for gifting fairs during festive seasons.
10. 𧡠Paithani-Inspired Accessories
π Local boutiques or Paithani specialists in Sadashiv Peth
Why: If a full sari is too bulky, go for purses, clutches, or dupattas with authentic Paithani weaves.
Pro Tip: They make elegant, heritage-rich gifts that travel well.
ποΈ Zomefy Tip:
- Always bargain in markets (especially Laxmi Road and Tulshibaug)
- Carry cash + UPI β not all small shops take cards
- Ask for paper packaging or cloth bags β many stores offer eco-friendly options
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