Have You Been Ignoring Your Gut?
Have you ever ignored a nagging stomach ache, hoping it would just magically disappear? You are certainly not alone. Most of us brush off occasional heartburn, bloating, or irregular bowel movements as the price we pay for a heavy dinner or a stressful work week.
But think of your digestive system as the engine of a high-performance vehicle. If the fuel line gets clogged or the oil filter fails, the whole car sputters to a halt. Your gut works exactly the same way. When your digestive tract struggles, it impacts your energy, your mood, and your overall immunity.
Pune is rapidly becoming a major hub for advanced healthcare in Maharashtra, boasting state-of-the-art medical infrastructure. Whether you are dealing with chronic Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), seeking a liver specialist, or simply need a routine colonoscopy, you need a doctor who listens. You need an expert who combines technical skill with a compassionate bedside manner.
To make your search easier, we have put together a thoroughly researched guide to the top 10 gastroenterologists in Pune. We looked at patient reviews, clinical experience, hospital affiliations, and specialized skills to bring you the best options for your digestive health.
When Should You Actually See a Gastroenterologist?
Before we jump into the list, let’s clarify when a trip to the specialist is necessary. You don’t need a GI doctor for a mild stomach bug. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms consistently, it is time to book an appointment:
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Persistent heartburn or acid reflux that over-the-counter antacids cannot fix.
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Unexplained weight loss accompanied by a loss of appetite.
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Chronic constipation or diarrhea lasting more than a few weeks.
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Severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly or worsens over time.
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Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is stuck in your throat.
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Visible blood in your stool or dark, tarry stools.
If you are experiencing these warning signs, delaying treatment can complicate things. Let’s look at the top specialists in Pune who can help.
The Top 10 Gastroenterologists in Pune, Maharashtra
Here is our curated list of the best GI specialists practicing across Pune.
1. Dr. Lalit Shimpi
Experience: 31+ Years | Location: Jehangir Hospital & The Cedar Clinics
When it comes to experience, few can match Dr. Lalit Shimpi. With over three decades in the medical field, he is widely regarded as one of the most trusted voices in Pune’s gastroenterology circles. Patients consistently praise his calm demeanor and his ability to diagnose complex, long-standing stomach issues that others might miss.
Why he stands out: He holds an exceptionally high patient retention rate. If you have a complicated, hard-to-diagnose digestive issue, Dr. Shimpi is the veteran you want in your corner.
2. Dr. Suresh Jain
Experience: 26+ Years | Location: Digestive Endoscopy Clinic & Jehangir Hospital
Dr. Suresh Jain brings a unique blend of surgical and medical expertise to the table. After earning his MS in General Surgery, he pursued specialized fellowship training in Therapeutic GI Endoscopy. He has even trained in the USA for advanced Endosonography.
Why he stands out: Dr. Jain is highly specialized in advanced endoscopic procedures. If your condition requires a precise, minimally invasive endoscopy, his clinic is equipped with top-tier technology to handle it comfortably.
3. Dr. Prasad Bhate
Experience: 15+ Years | Location: Bhate’s Gastro – Liver Clinic (Baner) & Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital
If you are specifically looking for a liver expert, Dr. Prasad Bhate should be at the top of your list. He heads the Department of Gastrology and Liver Transplant and specializes deeply in hepatology. From managing fatty liver disease and alcoholic liver disorders to liver transplant care, his expertise is vast.
Why he stands out: He focuses heavily on holistic liver care. His clinic in Baner is highly rated for patient follow-ups, ensuring you don’t just get a prescription, but a complete lifestyle management plan.
4. Dr. Vikrant Kale
Experience: 18+ Years | Location: Kaizen Gastro Care (Wakad)
Dr. Vikrant Kale is a Senior Gastroenterologist and Interventional Endoscopist who co-founded Kaizen Gastro Care. The numbers speak for themselves: he has performed over 6,000 gastroscopies, 4,000 colonoscopies, and 2,000 ERCP procedures.
Why he stands out: Volume and precision. When a doctor has performed thousands of procedures, their muscle memory and diagnostic accuracy are incredibly sharp. Kaizen Gastro Care is also uniquely structured as a dedicated day-care center for digestive issues.
5. Dr. Ksheetij Kothari
Experience: 15+ Years | Location: Sahyadri Hospital & Dr. Kothari’s Clinic (Pune-Solapur Road)
Dr. Ksheetij Kothari is known for his compassionate, patient-first approach. He is highly skilled in using Fibroscan (a non-invasive test to check liver stiffness) and ERCP. He frequently treats NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) and chronic acidity.
Why he stands out: He is actively involved in medical research, having published papers on complex GI bleeding and drug-induced liver injuries. This means he stays completely up-to-date with the latest medical advancements.
6. Dr. Mangesh Keshavrao Borkar
Experience: 9+ Years | Location: Manipal Hospitals (Kharadi)
Located in the bustling IT corridor of Kharadi, Dr. Mangesh Borkar is a favorite among young professionals dealing with stress-induced gut issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and chronic acidity.
Why he stands out: He is highly accessible and operates out of one of the city’s premier corporate hospitals. His approach is highly modern, focusing on how modern corporate lifestyles trigger digestive distress.
7. Dr. Ninad Deshmukh
Experience: 10+ Years | Location: NewLife Gastro and Liver Clinic (Kothrud)
Dr. Ninad Deshmukh is a leading consultant gastroenterologist and liver transplant surgeon. His practice in Kothrud is fully equipped to handle serious GI emergencies.
Why he stands out: He bridges the gap between medical gastroenterology and surgical intervention. If you are dealing with a severe condition like liver failure or require a multi-organ transplant consultation, Dr. Deshmukh has the precise surgical background required.
8. Dr. Sachin Vaze
Experience: 16+ Years | Location: Jehangir Hospital (Sangamvadi)
Dr. Sachin Vaze is a highly dependable specialist known for his thorough consultations. He doesn’t rush his patients. Whether you are dealing with a stubborn case of jaundice or persistent gas and bloating, Dr. Vaze takes the time to explain the “why” behind your symptoms.
Why he stands out: Excellent bedside manner. Patient reviews frequently highlight his ability to translate complex medical jargon into simple, actionable advice.
9. Dr. Samrat Jankar
Experience: 17+ Years | Location: Kaizen Gastro Care (Wakad)
Working alongside Dr. Vikrant Kale, Dr. Samrat Jankar is a specialist in Laparoscopic and GI Surgery. While a medical gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats with medicine, Dr. Jankar steps in when surgery is necessary. He has performed over 1,500 successful laparoscopic surgeries.
Why he stands out: If your diagnosis requires surgery—such as an appendectomy, hernia repair, or colorectal surgery—having a dedicated GI surgeon who specializes exclusively in the digestive tract ensures a safer, faster recovery.
10. Dr. Nitin Pai
Experience: 21+ Years | Location: Ruby Hall Clinic (Sassoon Road)
Operating out of the historic and highly respected Ruby Hall Clinic, Dr. Nitin Pai brings over two decades of clinical excellence to his patients. He is highly experienced in managing chronic conditions like Hepatitis, abdominal cysts, and severe pancreatic inflammation.
Why he stands out: Deep institutional backing. Being affiliated with Ruby Hall Clinic means his patients have immediate access to world-class ICU setups and multidisciplinary medical teams if their condition is highly complex.
How to Choose the Right GI Doctor for You
Finding a doctor on a “top 10” list is a great starting point, but how do you narrow it down to the one you will actually visit?
Keep these three practical factors in mind:
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Identify Your Specific Need: If you have liver issues, look for a Hepatologist (like Dr. Prasad Bhate or Dr. Ninad Deshmukh). If you need an endoscopy, look for someone who specializes in interventional procedures (like Dr. Vikrant Kale or Dr. Suresh Jain).
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Hospital Infrastructure: Does the doctor operate in a well-equipped hospital? If you need a procedure that requires anesthesia, you want to be in a facility that has a robust emergency care unit.
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Proximity and Accessibility: Digestive treatments often require multiple follow-up visits. Choose a doctor whose clinic is relatively easy for you to reach. Traffic in Pune can be unpredictable, and traveling two hours while suffering from stomach pain is miserable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly does a gastroenterologist treat?
A gastroenterologist treats diseases and conditions of the digestive system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines (colon), liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Common conditions they manage include acid reflux, IBS, hepatitis, ulcers, and colon polyps.
Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist in Pune?
In India, you generally do not need a formal referral from a general physician to book an appointment with a specialist. You can directly contact the doctor’s clinic or the hospital desk to schedule a visit.
How much does a consultation with a top gastroenterologist cost in Pune?
Consultation fees for senior gastroenterologists in Pune typically range from ₹800 to ₹1,500. The exact cost depends on the doctor’s experience level and the hospital they are affiliated with.
What happens during my first visit to a GI specialist?
Your doctor will first review your medical history and ask detailed questions about your symptoms, diet, and lifestyle. They will likely perform a physical exam by pressing on your abdomen. Depending on their findings, they might prescribe medication or recommend diagnostic tests like blood work, an ultrasound, or an endoscopy.
Is an endoscopy painful?
No, an endoscopy is generally not painful. The procedure is performed under conscious sedation or a local anesthetic spray to numb your throat. You might feel mild pressure or a strange sensation, but it should not hurt. You will also have no memory of the procedure if sedated.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Digestive Health
Your gut health dictates your overall quality of life. From how well you absorb nutrients to how your immune system fights off infections, your digestive tract is the foundation of your well-being.
Living with persistent abdominal pain, chronic acidity, or irregular bowel habits is not normal, and you do not have to accept it as a standard part of your life. The top gastroenterologists in Pune offer world-class diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and compassionate care to help you get your health back on track.
Ready to finally fix your gut issues? Don’t wait for your symptoms to turn into a severe emergency. Pick a specialist from this list based on your location and specific needs, and book your consultation today. Your future self—and your stomach—will thank you.