Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary

Start this early morning tour with a 6am pickup from Pune Airport or your Pune city hotel by your bird-watching guide and private chauffeur. Your first stop is Bhigwan, a small village about 60 miles (110 km) away from Pune, and the drive takes roughly two hours. In the winter months, migratory birds flock to the huge Yashwant Sagar reservoir, which forms the backwaters of the Ujain Dam and is located by Bhigwan. Together with your guide and private group, you'll find the perfect bird-watching spot. Some of the famous birds you'll see include the ruddy shelducks, a large stork, the black drongo, the eurasian spoonbill, the red-naped Ibis, pratincole, and spotted owlets.

Bhuleshwar Temple

After birdwatching, visit the hilltop site of Bhuleshwar, the famous temple of Lord Shiva. Originally called Mangalgadh, the temple was built in the 13th century. There are beautiful carvings along the walls that enhance its stone structure. Bhuleshwar has historical significance as it is the place where Devi Parvati danced for Lord Shiva, after which they went to Kailas and got married. Your guide will tell you more of the story. On your way back to Pune, you'll stop off at a traditional cane sugar factory. You can also stop for food, souvenirs, and anything else along the way, just ask your guide. At the end of the tour you will be dropped back off at your hotel