National War Museum

A relatively recent addition to Pune’s cultural attractions, the idea for the National War Museum was proposed in 1996, and realised just two short years later, in 1998. Fittingly located in Pune’s beautiful and green cantonment area, the museum has been established in memory of the Indian soldiers who lost their lives for the country in post independence wars. One of the most unique features of this museum, is the fact that it is the only war museum in South Asia that has been built entirely as a consequence of funds raised by the public. Encompassed on all sides by marble plaques rising to a height of eight feet, each plaque is engraved with the names of war martyrs, adding up to about 1200 names in all. Currently run by the Southern Command, highlights here include the display of a MiG 23 BN (from the Kargil War) in good condition, and a replica of the warship INS Trishul, which was used during both the Portuguese-Indian War, and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Additionally, the stone galleries are inscribed with details of the battles fought, and the heroic deeds of the soldiers that fought in them. A must visit for all.