The National Defence Academy or NDA as it is popularly known is located at Khadakwasla about 17 km from Pune city. NDA is approximately 20 kms away from Pune Railway station and one can travel by bus or auto rickshaws to reach the Academy. Private vehicles can also be hired for large groups. It is the only academy in the world where all the three defence forces; namely the Army, Navy and the Air force cadets are trained together.

The NDA campus is spread over eight thousand acres and is filled with lush green lawns and great facilities for training the future officers of the defence units. On one side it is bordered by the Khadakwasla Lake and from the other side, can also be approached from Pashan while coming from Chandni Chowk. With the geography of the place being very much conducive to the training of the cadets it is not uncommon to see them running around with heavy weights or exercising on the route to the Academy.

The NDA areas are not easily accessible to the common public who must procure permission to visit the campus; there are certain days like a Sunday when the common man outside is allowed a glimpse into the world of the defence personnel. Group visits can be arranged with prior permission. Peacock Bay is another must visit area where sailing championships are held for the NDA cadets every year.

The Academy has good training facilities in the form of spacious classrooms, well equipped laboratories, a good number of squash and tennis courts, two Olympic size swimming pools, 32 football grounds, a Gymnasium, polo grounds and even a cricket stadium.

Since sports is an important part of the daily lives of the cadets, it is a treat to see the cadets getting trained in horse riding, polo and show jumping. They are also trained in Nature study, trekking, and photography.

The entire estate is very picturesque and there are a lot of places to see within the boundaries of the Academy. These include Sudan Block, Habibulah Hall, Vyas Library, Bombay Stadium, Ashoka Pillar, Science Block, Air Force Training Team, Museum, Salaria Square, Khetrapal Parade Ground, Gymnasium, Peacock Bay, Jouravlov Golf Course, Hut of Remembrance, Gole Market, Squadrons A to O, Army Training Team and the Social Science Block.

All in all, any one visiting Pune must include NDA on their trip just for its magnificent size and a look at its training facilities.

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3. Written by AKASH , on 15-03-2009 23:11 FDBDF Report

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