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In the busy, bustling metropolis that Pune has (unfortunately, for Pune-ites who were born and raised here) become, it’s extremely challenging to find an oasis of calm amid the madding crowds. Therefore, the Trance Sunderban Resort comes as a very pleasant surprise indeed.

Located in the leafy bylanes of Koregaon Park, where the sweeping branches of mighty banyan trees still brush the surface of the roads, this heritage (it was part of the Gaekwad {Maharaja of Baroda} estate many decades ago) property is adjacent to Pune’s legendary Osho Ashram. Over the years, the property changed hands and was eventually acquired by the Taleras. From April 2026, the Trance Group of Hotels has undertaken management of the Sunderban.

Trance Sunderban Resort Pune evening

The Reception area is small and functional, leading onto a verandah overlooking the verdant lawn. One can hear the busy twittering of birds, interspersed with the shrill cry of peacocks – yes, the actual resident guests at the Sunderban are peacocks with their mates, who strut through the premises fearlessly!

With just 22 exclusive rooms to its name, the resort prides itself on an Art Deco style. Accommodation is categorised as: Superior Rooms, also known as the Baroda Heritage rooms (505 sqf and 580 sqf); Studio Rooms (350 sqf); and the Osho Suite (710 sqf). The Superior rooms are done up in classic interiors with muted, restful hues, wooden slatted window shutters and the timeless stone flooring of yore (somewhat reminiscent of Parsi-styled interiors), with very spacious bathrooms, while Studio rooms either have patios with direct access to the lawn or else private balconies. There is one corner Studio room with a ramp for wheelchair access from the road, and the interiors have been cleared to make the accommodation more accessible to people with disabilities.

Trance Sunderban Resort Pune Hotel entry

The signature Osho Suite (Osho himself is said to have stayed here) has large windows that look out onto a serene green expanse of manicured lawns across which the peacocks preen and strut magnificently.

All rooms are air-conditioned and have ceiling fans, and are kitted out with a tea/coffee maker, television, mini fridge, iron and ironing board, electronic safe, and toiletries from the Hyderabad-based brand Kimirica. The bathrooms could do with better lighting, particularly for ladies. Also, a peculiar smell from the drain should be looked into. Furthermore, given the luxuriant greenery that abounds within and near the hotel, mosquitoes are a given, so pest control needs improvement.

The only restaurant on the premises, Sante, serves health food along with a minimal Italian menu (please note that, being in the vicinity of the Ashram, the menu is strictly vegetarian and alcohol consumption is prohibited at the Sunderbans). With 180 covers, the all-day dining Sante is outsourced to an outside operator and resident guests receive a 25% discount. Within the complex is also Bai Mu Dan, a coffee shop quite popular among Pune-ites, and some select shopping outlets. Of course, as soon as you step out of the hotel, you’re surrounded by eateries and cafes.

Peacocks strut fearlessly around the premises

Recreational facilities include an airy wellness space (also outsourced) that offers yoga and flute meditation. There is also the Aroma Thai Spa (outsourced), where in-house guests can avail of a 25% discount. It has a carefully planned list of services and, having personally availed of treatments there, I can vouch that the staff (all from Mizoram) are well-trained, courteous and very friendly; indeed, given the inherent love of music that people from that region have, Sammy, the manager, is also the lead singer and guitarist during the Sunday live entertainment session.

The biggest charm at the Sunderban, of course, lies in taking gentle walks along the hotel’s meandering paved paths amid the lush green foliage. The rooms have been arranged around a small, open courtyard, with the spa and restaurant on either side. Most unfortunately, given the Indian penchant for ignoring civic courtesies, one also hears blaring vehicle horns, which are completely at odds with the ethos and philosophy Rajneesh propagated; in my opinion, the entire Ashram area should be declared a no-noise zone!

As mentioned earlier, the Trance Group has taken over management of the Sunderban fairly recently and has its work cut out. While to-do objectives in the pipeline include a complete makeover of soft furnishings (drapes, rugs, linen, pillows, and such-like), focus also needs to be on staff training, notably Housekeeping.

Trance Sunderban Resort Pune – Super deluxe with AC

Pune is known for its well-known university (even among international students) and its proximity to hill stations such as Lonavla, Panchgani and Mahableshwar. As mentioned earlier, the Trance Resort is located in the uber prestigious locality of Koregaon Park. In the vicinity is the Osho Ashram & Park, the Aga Khan Palace and several upscale eateries. The main shopping street, known locally as Main Street (Mahatma Gandhi Road), is a 15-minute rickshaw ride away. The city is famous for its plethora of bakeries; do visit the old and well-established ones such as Kayani, City Bakery, Royal Bakery, Pasture Diary and others.

Pune has its own small international airport; however, because it’s an Air Force base, only a select few airlines are permitted to fly here. Other travel options include flying to Mumbai and then driving down by taxi, or taking the train/bus.