AIP 05 – Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Discovering a Hidden Cultural Gem in Pune

When you stay at our clean and friendly budget lodge in Pune, you’ll love knowing there’s a superb heritage stop nearby: the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum. Located in old Pune, this place offers a slice of Indian everyday art and history that’s both fascinating and very accessible.

Why This Museum Matters

This museum was created by the passionate collector Dinkar G. Kelkar who, for over sixty years, travelled around India gathering everyday objects – utensils, toys, musical instruments, doors, windows, carvings. He did this in memory of his only son, Raja.

The museum now houses **over 20,000 artefacts**, of which about 2,500 are on display. These are beautiful, often humble objects that show the creativity of India’s artisans in previous centuries.

Where & When It Began

The collection began around the 1920s and the museum building opened in 1962. Originally Dr. Kelkar exhibited items informally, and eventually his collection was transferred to the government of Maharashtra.

What You’ll See Inside

On your visit you’ll find:

A gallery of musical instruments – rare and fascinating.
Old utensils, beautifully carved wood doors/windows, ivory items, everyday objects from the past.
The “Mastani Mahal” – a recreation of the palace quarters of Peshwa Bajirao’s beloved Mastani, adding a romantic historical layer to the museum.

The building has three floors and winding galleries, making it a relaxed and immersive walk through time and craft.

Who Should Visit & How to Go

This museum is a great stop if you’re staying at our top-rated budget homestay in Pune and want a cultural break between trekking or day tours. It’s especially nice for:

Families who like exploring somewhere indoors and interesting.
Travel-writing or photo-enthusiasts who love craft, design, old objects.
Anyone looking to discover a lesser-known gem among the tourist places near Pune.

Getting there is easy from our budget lodge near Sinhagad Road: take an auto or taxi into Shukrawar Peth/Bajirao Road area — it’s centrally located. Parking is a bit tight, so two-wheelers work well.

What Makes It Different from Other Museums

Unlike large national museums filled with grand paintings or sculptures, this one shines by showing everyday Indian art and craft objects — the sort of things you might not notice but reveal a lot about how people lived, worked and created. Dr. Kelkar’s vision was to shine a light on the “mundane made beautiful”.

That gives it a friendly, approachable feel — which pairs nicely if you’re staying at a homestay rather than a big hotel. You’ll feel more connected to Pune’s culture and local history.

What to Look Out For During Your Visit

Some artefacts have small labels — take time reading them so you appreciate the stories behind everyday objects.
Photography may incur an extra charge — check at the counter.
Because the galleries are narrow and in a historic building, if you have mobility issues it’s good to plan ahead (there is a lift, but ask at reception).