Settling-In Tips from
Staff in Pune

What is special or unique about your city?

Pune is a city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the 8th largest city in India with a population of 4.5 million, and the second largest in the state of Maharashtra. It is 160 Kilometers (about 100 miles) East of Mumbai--a three-hour drive on the spectacular Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Pune is one of the fastest growing cities in India. It has many sobriquets such as "Queen of the Deccan," "Pensioners’ Paradise," "Detroit’s of India" and "IT Capital of Maharashtra." The city has emerged as the most vibrant new metropolitan center in Western India. It is known for having several esteemed colleges and educational institutions, a reason why it is also called "Oxford of the East." It is also home to many software and IT companies.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Even though Pune is the seventh largest city in India, it has the sixth largest metropolitan economy and the highest per capita income in India, with the least income disparity between the rich and poor. It is a vibrant cultural city and people from multiple religions and speaking different regional languages reside here. It also hosts various national festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The people of Pune have wide interests in various arts, spiritualism and food.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Pune is a major industrial center, growing very fast every year. The city has witnessed a sizeable investment in the software and automobile sectors, resulting in an influx of skilled labor from all over India. Several suburbs are now completely cosmopolitan and real-estate prices have boomed since 2003.

What is the local language?

Although Marathi is the main language of Pune, its cosmopolitan population speaks several other languages such as English, Hindi and Gujarati.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

English is widely spoken and understood.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

The predominant religion followed is Hinduism. As such, following the customs and culture followed by Hindus and not offending their sentiments will be appreciated. For example, you should remember to wash hands after touching footwear. No footwear is allowed at places of worship. Most locals would like you to keep your shoes out of the house entirely, especially in the kitchen. The following are some other tips to avoid offending the residents of Pune: Status is often determined by a person's age, university education and profession. Be aware that government employment is considered to be more prestigious than private business. It is acceptable for men and woman to wear pants. However, on more formal occasions the pants should be "dressy." Shorts are acceptable for men only when jogging. It is preferable that women who jog wear track pants but that is not mandatory. If you host a meal, keep in mind that Indians have a variety of dietary restrictions. Generally, Hindus do not eat beef, Muslims do not eat pork and many Indians are strict vegetarians. But there is no hard core rule for this. Some may eat beef . Alcohol should be avoided until you are certain that your host approves of it. Even if it is okay, do not get drunk. If you're invited to dine at somebody's house, a bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates is the common gift to bring. It is typical for guests to arrive late regardless of what the invitation says. It is impolite to help yourself with second servings. Wait to be asked and for someone else to serve you. Be respectful when visiting holy sites, no matter what condition they are in. Smoking and drinking are prohibited in Holy Sites. Always speak in soft tones. Some sites do not allow non-believers to enter. Indians of all ethnic groups disapprove of public displays of affection between men and women and most Hindus avoid public contact between men and women. Standing tall with your hands on your hips is perceived as aggressive. Pointing with your finger is considered rude. Whistling in public is unacceptable. Never point your feet at another person as feet are considered unclean. To tip a taxi driver, simply round off the fare.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Pune experiences three distinct seasons: Summer: March to May, Temperatures 25°C to 39°C (77°F to 10°2F) Monsoon: June to September, Temperatures 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) Winter: October to February, Temperatures 10°C to 29°C (50°F to 84°F)

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

The people of Pune are warm and hospitable. They are embracing the changes as their beloved city grows and the population expands.

Useful Links

http://www.webindia123.com/city http://www.poonabest.com.

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Your status in India depends on your country of citizenship, the length of your stay within India, and the type of visa or permit you have been issued. To enter India, visitors must have a valid passport. No matter what your nationality, you should have a visa obtained from an Indian embassy or consulate.

What kinds of visas are available?

Tourist Visa - Tourist visas can be valid for 15 days, three months or six months This is for tourists and is valid for a period of 180 days only. It cannot be extended and cannot be converted to another visa. Foreigners who enter India with a visa valid for more than 180 days are required to register with the nearest Foreigners Registration officer within two weeks of their arrival even if they do not plan to stay for more than half a year. Registration is required only once during the visa's validity. You may leave the country and re-enter as many times as you desire provided the visa is for multiple entries. However, you are required to surrender your registration certificate at the time of your final departure from India. Business Visa - Business visas may be issued for up to five years with a multiple-entry provision. Foreign nationals who wish to work in India must visit India on an employment entry visa and obtain a residential permit from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). If you are coming to Pune on temporary business (lasting between one month and one year), this is the visa to apply for. This is usually valid for a short duration and you cannot be accompanied by family. Employment Visa - Apply for this visa if you are coming to Pune for employment. With this visa, you can be accompanied by your spouse and family. Spouse or Dependant Visa - This visa is for your spouse and other accompanying family members. Anyone holding this visa cannot be employed in the country. If your spouse is interested in working in the country, he/she should apply for his/her own employment visa.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Applying for a visa is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is very important to check that you are applying for the correct visa, as it is not possible to change your visa type once you are in the country. Applying for a visa should be done at the country of origin or the country of where last employed. Furthermore, one should always apply for a multiple-entry visa. This is needed in case of any travel outside of India is undertaken by the employee during the period of assignment in India. The following documents are required for visa application: Three passport size photographs Copy of the passport Employment letter from the company The process of applying and obtaining a visa can take up to five to seven business days so be sure to plan ahead.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Spouses are not allowed to find gainful employment while on a dependant visa. If they are interested in working, they will need an employment visa of their own.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

A foreign national arriving in India with the appropriate visa and intending to stay for more than 180 days in the country is required to register with the FRRO. Registration must be completed within 14 days of arrival, failing to do so will result in a fine of US$30 per person. FRRO requires the following documents: Five color passport-size photographs A copy of both passport and visa Three copies of Registration application forms Terms and conditions of employment Letter of employment from the company The residence permit is usually received in two to three working days. Together, the passport and residence permit booklet will provide all the necessary official permission documenting the employee's stay in India. This booklet is handed over to airport immigration at the time of final departure from India.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

If you follow the visa and permit requirements above, you will be fine.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

The following items should not be brought into the country: liquor drugs firearms pornographic material

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

There is a mandatory ten-year sentence for possession of even small quantity of drugs.

Useful Links

Consular Passport and Visa Division of India http://www.passport.nic.in

 

What is the local currency?

The Indian monetary unit is the Rupee (Rs. or INR), which can be divided into 100 Paise.

What denominations does it come in?

Coins come in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 paise. The 5, 2 and 1 are almost collector items. Notes come in 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. Older notes of 1, 2, 5 and 20 are also in circulation. However, 1, 2 and 5 rupee coins have replaced paper notes of that denomination.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Money can be exchanged at banks and most hotels. The best way is to go through a licensed money changer. There are a number of money exchange centers offering competitive rates.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash is the most commonly-used form of payment for everyday purchases. You will find that smaller establishments only accept cash so it is recommended to carry a small sum of cash at all times. American Express, Diners, Visa, Access, Master card and other major cards are accepted at leading hotels and shops.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Many businesses do accept major credit cards, debit cards and cash. However, some businesses will add the bank charge to the bill if paid by credit card. Smaller shops, markets and some other business types only accept cash so again, it is recommended to always carry a small sum.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Bills can be paid by check, but many utilities (like telephone or electricity bills) can also be paid online. Additionally, you can set up an electronic collection system which allows the billing company to directly debit your bank account for the said amount.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Crown recommends the QA22 account for expatriates, as this is the most viable option. Currently, the QA22 account allows the account holder to bank in funds in local currency (INR) as well as in foreign currency, but withdrawals are only possible in local currency. Repatriation of funds out of India (in foreign currency) at the time of closure may be limited (varies by bank), but withdrawal of all account funds in local currency (INR) can be done at any time. The following is a list of documents required for a QA22 bank account application: Completed Form QA 22. Each bank will have their respective forms for the QA22 account. The employee needs to complete all information and meet personally with the bank official for an interview before the application will be accepted. Declaration of (overseas) sources of credit into account Two recent passport-size photos Letter of employment from the local office of your company Copy of valid passport and Employment visa (E-type) Most banks insist on an average quarterly balance of INR 10,000.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

You will be able to find banking material in English.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

The only exception would be regarding an overseas money transfer. Transfers up to 80% of your annual salary abroad are allowed. However, only with an employment visa can you open a bank account that would make international transfers possible.

What are typical banking hours?

Typically, banks are open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm on weekdays, and 9:30 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday. Sunday is the weekly holiday and most banks are closed. However, many banks have one or more of their branches open on Sundays for the convenience of working people.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes, ATMs machines are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be found all around the city.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

The Indian numeric system is similar to the Western decimal system, although Indians use the terms Lakhs and Crores to describe certain large numbers. A Lakh is equal to 100 thousand and a Crore is equal to 10 million. Even when writing numbers this uniquely Indian system is used. 100,000 is 1 Lakh and 10,000,000 is one Crore. Be aware: If you are handed a grubby note, insist on having it exchanged for a newer one, since others might refuse accepting it from you, and counterfeit bills are common. Have a big supply of small bills as most stores don't carry sufficient change.

Useful Links

Universal Currency Converter http://www.xe.com

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. One of the major factors is the driving distance from home to work and the proximity to your children's school. Also note houses on main roads tend to be noisy (and dusty) through the day and sometimes even during the nights. Diligence needs to be exercised in making sure that the proposed housing is sufficient in terms of electricity and water supply and phone connections. Make sure there are facilities for groceries, vegetables, meats and medicines close by.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Most of the expatriates prefer to stay in the following areas in Pune:  Koregaon Park  Kalyani Nagar  Boat Club Road  Bund Garden  Aundh (National Society/Sindh Society) These areas are most expensive in terms of rent. They cater to all the needs of the expatriates such as shopping, entertainment, restaurants, schooling, etc. The Koregaoon Park, Kalyani Nagar and Bund Garden areas are closer to the airport. One can find more spacious bungalows in the Aundh area. For visits to the city, Pune offers four luxury/5 star hotels ranging from US $150 to US $395 Le Meridian , RBM Road Taj Blue Diamond, Koregaon Park Sun n Sand, Bund Garden Road Best Western The Pride Hotel, Shivaji Nagar Hotel Aurora Tower, MG Road Pune also offers Service Apartments. These may be a better alternative for short-term stays of a few weeks or months, the diet conscious and business travelers. The Service Apartments in Pune range from US $80 to US $110. Season’ s service apartments, Koregaon Park & Aundh Bell Air service apartments, Koregaon Park Beverly Hill service apartments, Lullanagar, Nr. Mount Carmel School Manisha Service Apt., Pune- Solapur Road. There are 10 other hotels with 3/4 star ratings and 20 budget hotels. For Long-Term stays, there are a fair number of spacious, newly-constructed homes ranging from 2-4 bedrooms. In Pune, Expats will find Land houses as single family homes, Row houses and Apartment houses.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Typically, most expatriates prefer to rent their homes. Monthly rents range from US $1,400 to US $4,000. The rental values for the apartments are much lesser as compared to single family houses.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Ordinarily, the security deposit (an interest free amount paid up-front at the time of the commencement of the lease) is equivalent to 10 months rent. For an additional cost, landlords are often willing to provide furnishings. The property taxes are generally paid by the house owner.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

The rent does not include electricity, telephone and society charges (towards maintenance of common areas of the complex) if applicable.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

For the most part, Pune is a safe city, especially considering the number of people that call it home. However, as with most cities, some areas are more desirable than others. This is usually evident in the cost of the accommodation. Before deciding where to live, make sure that the house or apartment has door and window protection and a reliable alarm system. Change all locks on doors and replace with brand new ones. It is also prudent to always lock your house and car when you are not there. Also, it is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor on whether you choose to live in a certain neighborhood or not. One should be watchful that there are no drains around the house, as they can create a problem with mosquitoes.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current for India is 230 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 hertz of power. Wall sockets are of the three round-pin variety. UK, US and Australian plugs require adaptors, while continental European round pins plugs fit the sockets. Two pin plugs also work fine. Power adaptors are available from electrical shops. Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in India. Type C plug - Round pin attachment plug NOTE: Type C plugs can also be used with E and F and some L receptacles. This type of plug is very common in most "universal" adaptor sets. (Though the diagram shows a circular plug, quite often Type C plugs have a rectangular form factor, as in the photo above.) Type D plug - Round pins with ground

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

The process of searching for suitable accommodation could take some time and is sometimes frustrating. Ideally, the process should be started a few weeks before the start of the assignment. A preview trip arranged through Crown is highly recommended. It is a common practice that owners clean, paint and repair after the deal is finalized. If you opt to take a long-term lease (two to four years), you can request what you wish to be worked on. However, this practice often results in delays in moving into the house. It also might be a good idea to try and negotiate with the owner to provide as many appliances (particularly air conditioners) as possible within the premises. There are a few things one must do before taking possession of the premises. A round of thorough cleaning is a must. It would also be advisable to have the entire premises treated by the pest control company before moving in. All electrical points and appliances should be checked for functionality. Water pressure should be checked as well. Gas is supplied in cylinders or bottles through a neighborhood dealer; it is advisable that you keep one extra cylinder on hand as backup.

Useful Links

http://www.indiahousing.com/pune/houses-on-rent.html

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Pune has become a seat of learning with several universities, colleges and centers of professional education being located here. Most expats prefer to send their children to international (private) schools rather than local public schools. The best private schools are accredited and have waiting lists, so it is recommended that you begin your school search as soon as you arrive in the country. Contact Crown for advice or contact your local consulate. It is also very helpful to start networking with other expatriates through groups and associations.

What are some examples of these schools?

Teaching facilities are available from Kindergarten and pre-school up the 12th grade standard. While there are a few more International Schools coming up to cater the increasing demand, there are currently two international schools that teach the IB (International Baccalaureate) curriculum: Mercedes Benz International School, Hinjewadi, Mumbai- Pune highway Academic session: August - to - June Symbiosis International School, Viman Nagar, Pune Academic session: July - to - May  Admission procedure generally conducted in month of February / March.  However, Students coming from abroad can be admitted throughout year depends upon seat availability.  Teaching facility available for kindergarten / pre-school up to 12th grade standard.  Hostel Accommodation also available.  Pickup and drop facility available. There are additional schools, with quality reputations, that teach the ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Examination) curriculum:  St. Ann’s School (Camp area)  St. Felix School (Bund Garden Road)  Bishops (Kalyani Nagar)  Hutchison Kinder Garden (Camp area) Pune is recognized as the "Oxford of the East." There are 67 colleges and 3 Universities located in Pune.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes, if you decide to enroll your child in a local public school, you should also prepare early because there are many students applying and the availability is limited.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

For younger children there are numerous private play-schools and kindergartens in almost every area, some of which are run according to the Montessori method. These schools vary greatly in their both their fees and quality.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

In areas where school transportation is available, students travel by school bus. In areas where it is not, most parents drive their children or they form carpools with other parents.

When does the typical school year start and end?

International schools tend to run from August to June; most other schools from July to April. You should check with your child's school for a specific schedule.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Please contact Crown for further information on education support.

Useful Links

 

Are there any vaccinations I should get or other health precautions to take as I prepare for my move to your city?

The following vaccinations are recommended prior to entering the country: All children should be up-to-date on routine childhood immunizations Hepatitis A - for all travelers over the age of two Typhoid - for all travelers Polio - for all travelers Japanese encephalitis - for long-term (1 month) travelers to rural areas or travelers who may engage in extensive unprotected outdoor activities in rural areas, especially in the evening, or during shorter trips Hepatitis B - for travelers who will have intimate contact with local residents or potentially need blood transfusions or injections while abroad, especially if visiting for more than six months Rabies - for those at high risk for animal bites, such as veterinarians and animal handlers and for long-term travelers who may have contact with animals and may not have access to medical care Tetanus-diphtheria - for all travelers who have not received an immunization within the last 10 years Measles - for any traveler born after 1956 who does not have either a history of two documented measles immunizations or a blood test showing immunity Varicella (chicken pox) - for any international traveler over one year of age who does not have either a history of documented chicken pox or a blood test showing immunity. Yellow fever - for all travelers arriving from a yellow fever infected country in Africa or the Americas For more information on requirements or recommendations please check with your local embassy or consulate.

Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?

Often, Indian doctors have been trained in the West and do speak good English. The recommended hospitals for the Expats community are as follows:  Ruby Hall Clinic, Sasson Road, Nr Pune Railway Station  Jehangir Hospital & Medical Centre, Sasson Road, Nr Pune Railway Station  Inlaks & BudhraNI & M N B Cancer, Koragaon Park  Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Erandwane  K E M Hospital, Somwar Peth area  Poona Hospital, LBS Road. Twenty-four hour drug stores and emergency services are also available in the above mentioned hospitals. Cash payment on the spot is the norm for medical care. Having an insurance policy that covers treatment outside of your home country and with medical evacuation coverage will be extremely valuable and you will be welcomed at any hospital. For more information on medical care, please contact your local consulate or Crown.

What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?

"Doctor" is a universally understood word in Pune.

What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?

You should be able to find all medical and health facilities in the front of your local telephone book. Another way is to get a recommendation from a work colleague, friend or other expat.

Do expats in the area tend to leave the city/area/country to seek medical care? If so, why and where do they go?

No, most expats stay within the country for their medical care because healthcare, both public and private, are of an extremely high standard in Pune. However, some expats choose to go overseas for treatment (particularly those who are expecting a baby) and then there are some who choose to wait for a trip back to their home land to visit their regular doctor. As was previously mentioned, medical practitioners in Pune are truly top-notch so leaving the country is not really necessary.

What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.

Depending on the emergency, dial 102 for an Ambulance – 101 for the Fire Department and – 100 for the Police

What do I do if there's an emergency in the middle of the night—or at another time when my normal doctor/clinic is unavailable?

If an emergency occurs in the middle of the night, either call one of the numbers above and wait for an ambulance or have a family member or friend drive you to the closest major hospital in your area. Major hospitals have 24-hour emergency clinics, so identifying the closest 24-hour emergency clinic from where you live is an important task once you have had a chance to settle in.

How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?

The pharmacy is usually called a chemist, and it can be recognized by the red cross. All hospitals and clinics will have pharmacies adjoined or have a few shops nearby. There are a few day and night chemist shops; others are open only during the daytime. Some medications are available under different names and many prescription drugs are offered over the counter.

Is the water safe to drink?

No it is not safe to drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered or chemically disinfected. Also, do not drink unbottled beverages or drinks with ice. Do not eat fruits or vegetables unless they have been peeled or cooked. It is recommended that you drink only bottled water.

Useful Links

 

What are the items that I should bring with me because they’re not available (or are too expensive) where I am going?

Pune is considered a shopper’s paradise. One can get all sorts of branded items in this area and visit all of the famous retail outlets. There are some truly western style super markets as follows: 1. Dorabjee & Co., Camp Area 2. Westside Store, Camp Area 3. Planet M Music Store, Camp Area 4. Pune Central, Bund Garden Road 5. Shoppers Stop, Wakdewadi, Pune-Mumbai Road 6. At Home Store, Wakdewadi, Pune-Mumbai Road 7. Pyramid Store , Senapati Bapat Road 8. TruMart Departmental Store 9. Nuclues Mall, Camp 10.Kakde Magnum Mall, Camp

Will anyone have particular trouble finding clothes that fit?

This shouldn't be a problem because clothes are available all over in a variety of sizes and shapes. Additionally, tailors are inexpensive and very good.

What grocery stores do expats in your city shop at?

All residential areas have a market where you can buy groceries. Some expats employ domestic staff to do the shopping for them because they know their way around the local markets.

Where can other household items (such as cleaning materials and home furnishings) be found?

All cleaning products and furniture can be found at all local markets.

What are factors that might affect my shopping habits in this country/city?

You may sometimes not find the brands that you are used to back home. However, most well-known brands are available in Pune.

Useful Links

 

How close-knit is the expat community in this area? How do I get involved with it?

Compared to other foreign postings, Pune does not have the scope and variety of clubs and organizations catering to expats. As the city is growing though, clubs are starting to emerge and Expats are starting to come together to organize social activities. But there are still many opportunities for socializing and forming new friendships. Often people discover new found leisure time allowing the indulgence of new hobbies and interest during their residence here. One way of contributing to local culture is through voluntary charity/welfare work, which will not only keep you active but also assist in understanding the complexities of life in the city. People of Pune are known to be food-lovers. For the expatriate community eating out should not be a major problem because there are a number of restaurants in Pune that offer different kinds of cuisine’s such as Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Thai, Continental, Indian etc. The Camp area (Main street[MG Road] and East street), Jungli Maharaj Road and Ferguson Road, are the most popular hang-outs for food-lovers. English daily newspapers such as the Indian Express and The Times of India editions based out of Pune are available, with additional local supplements.

Beside expat groups, what is the best way to make social connections outside of work?

The Royal Western India Turf Clubs Internationally famous Mahalakshmi race course is amongst the best in the world. For Expats that like to play golf, they can play at the Poona Golf Club, a 97-acre course that was originally developed by Western influences. There are several sports clubs including the PYC Deccan Sports club and gym and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Sports Complex. There are playgrounds for basketball, football and volleyball, as well as tennis courts, swimming pools and indoor game facilities such table tennis, Squash, and Billiards & Snooker rooms available throughout the city.

Where can I meet other singles in this city?

Life in Pune never comes to a halt no matter what time of day is it. With an escalating number of pubs, bars and lounges, the night life has become even more glittering. Night Clubs: o Ten Downing Street o Thousand Oaks o Xion o Fire n Ice o Nirvana o The Scream You can choose between a hi-tech multiplex and old single screen cinema hall according to your choice. The young generation is more attracted towards the cords of western music and is greatly influenced by it. This is the reason foreign musicians choose Pune to hold their concerts as they are attended by a major proportion of people.

Are there any unique networking opportunities for accompanying partners?

Female Expats are also beginning to form formal networking events. As the city continues to grow, these clubs will become more commonplace. Family Clubs: The Residency Club, Bund Garden Road The Poona Club, Bund Garden Road The Corinthians Club, NIBM- Undri, Road. The Pancard Club, Baner. Partners can choose to eat at 24-hour coffee shops in the city: Bombay Brasserie, Boat Club Road Mainland China, Boat Club Road ABC Farms, Koragoan Park (There are numbers of specialty restaurants inside the campus) German Bakery, Koragaon Park Banjara Hills, Chandani Chowk, Pashan Road Garden Court, Chandani Chowk, Pashan Road Flags Restaurant, Bund Garden Road La Pizzeria, Bund Garden Road

Useful Links

 

How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?

Children are left to the care of grandparents, nannies and creches. There are no public areas to change diapers; parents do these activities in the washrooms of hotels, malls etc. There are parks throughout the city and these are popular places to spend the day and get some fresh air.

Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?

Word of mouth is a remarkable and effective tool for obtaining a reliable list of child-care providers. Check with your neighbors, co-workers and/or friends you meet. Another way to obtain a list of reliable child-care providers or nannies is by contacting your local embassy or Crown.

Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.

Kidnapping incidents are rare--though it is best to keep ones eyes and ears open and avoid talking to strangers. Be cautious as you would in any city.

What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?

There are several Amusement Parks in Pune including: Appu Ghar at Bombay-Pune Highway Diamond water Park situated near Lohagaon on Nagar Road Splash mountain water park Appu Ghar Katraj Snake Park Empress Botanical Garden Pashan lake, Khadakwasla lake Museums are also a popular place for children to visit: Gandhi National Museum Joshi’s Museum Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum Museum of Arthropoda

What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?

Many of the schools offer extra Curricular activities including: Swimming Football Table Tennis Basket ball Drama Traditional & folk dancing Yoga Music

What's it like to be a teenager in this city? Are there any particular challenges I should be aware of as a parent?

Most good nightclubs require memberships. You need to be above 18 years of age to order alcoholic beverages, and most nightclubs close by midnight. There are movie theaters which show a selection of movies made in India and around the world.

Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?

There are no organizations specifically targeting this age group.

I want my child to get the most out of our stay in this country. Are there any specific opportunities to teach young people about the local culture?

Vinayaka Chathurthi: Lord Ganesha or Vinayaka, the elephant headed god is among the most worshiped deities of the State. The Ganesha Puja, a ceremony where Lord Ganesha is worshipped, is performed with fervor and gaiety. The celebration ends on the tenth day when the idols of Vinayaka are carried and submerged in water after a procession. The festival falls in the month of September. Navarathri: This is another festival that lasts for nine days. The goddesses Durga, consort of Lord Shiva is worshiped. The festival falls in the months of September/October and is marked with traditional displays of handmade dolls. Deepavali: This festival of lights is usually celebrated in October or November. It generates an atmosphere of gaiety, friendliness and excitement.

Useful Links

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.