Shaniwar Wada
Today I am going to discuss the historical monument which is the picture identity of Pune. That place is an Iconic Shaniwar Wada. Shaniwar Wada has the historical significance in the Indian politics. “Shaniwar” means Saturday and “Wada” means residential palace. This is one of the most visited historical tourist places in Pune city. Many people think that this is a fort, but in reality, it is a royal palace. Geographically it is located in the heart of the Pune city. Pune is a popular educational hub in India and the 2nd largest city of Maharashtra state.
This palace was built by Bajirao Peshwa I. There is an interesting story behind the name “Shaniwar Wada”. Peshwa has given this name to his palace because the construction of this royal building started on Saturday 10th January 1730. During the period of Maratha Empire, Shaniwar Wada was a residential palace for Prime Minister. In the 18th century, this palace became the center of Indian politics. Peshwa used this palace for meetings, family functions, and other social ceremonies. This palace was captured by British in the year 1817. This was the residence of Pune’s first collector Henry Dundas Robertson. On the date, 17th June 1919 Indian government announced this palace as National Heritage Place.
This historic monument built in Maratha Imperial Architecture. Many things are now not present, due to destroyed by devastating fire in 1828. But still, it is well maintained by ASI. Different nameplates show the importance of those places. This building is 21 feets in a height and surrounded by 950 feets long wall. There were five big gates and nine towers constructed on this long wall. This castle is located at the Mutha river’s riverfront. There are five gates in the fort, namely Delhi, Alibahadder or Mastani, Khidki, Ganesh, Drama Shala and Jambul Darwaja respectively. Delhi Darwaza is the largest among all doors. This massive construction is still standing tall in the middle of Pune.
1. Ganesh Rangmahal – This beautiful hall was built by Nanasaheb Peshwa. The purpose behind the construction of this hall was to celebrate Ganeshotsav on a large scale. On the one end of the palace there was a marble statue of Lord Ganesha with a gold plate, and on the other end, there were garden and fountains. It is a pleasant experience to sit in this mansion due to the floral aroma and the breeze of the fountain.
2. Lotus Fountain – This is one of the most difficult architectures of that time. It was designed as a sixteen petal lotus, each petal had sixteen jets with an eighty-foot arch. It is really an amazing place.
3. Sound and Light Show – Nice thing to do with family. It is really worth watching and delightful thing for Children.
4. Delhi Darwaza – The main entrance facing towards Delhi, North India. Well-known for its massiveness and architecture. This door is 21 feet high and its width is 14 feets.
By Road: This historical monument is situated in the heart of the city. If you are coming by road then you can take a public or private transport to reach this palace. If you are coming with your own vehicle then there is parking available in the palace campus. Don’t park your vehicle anywhere outside. As it is located on one of the most crowded streets of Pune.
By Railway: The nearest railway station is “Shivaji Nagar”. Many people don’t know that Shivaji Nagar is the 2nd railway station which comes in the Pune city. You can reach the palace via road from Shivaji Nagar railway station.
By Air: The nearest airport is the “Pune Airport”. You will get private cabs or public transport services from the airport to reach here.
Shivaji Nagar Railway Station Distance: 1.7 Kms
Distance From Pune Junction: 3.5 Kms
Distance From Shivaji Nagar Bus Station: 1.7 Kms
Distance From Swargate Bus Station: 3.4 Kms
For Indians: Rs. 5/person
For Foreigners: Rs. 125/person
For Light and Sound Show: Rs. 25/person
Tourist can book the tickets for Light & Sound show between 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
It remains open on all weekdays. Timings may be changed during public holidays. Tourist can experience the wonderful light and sound show on every day. This show will be in Marathi and English languages. Marathi show timing is 7:15 pm to 8:10 pm. While English show timing is 8:15 pm to 9:10 pm.
| Monday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Tuesday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Friday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
| Sunday | 8:30AM–6:30PM |
1. Haunted Palace: This historical palace is now among the top 10 Haunted Places of India. The story behind this is interesting. In 1773, Narayanrao, who was the 5th Peshwa was murdered by guards on orders of his uncle Raghunathrao. Various people, working around Shaniwar Wada, has reported that they heard the Sound of a young prince “Kaka Mala Wachawa” on full moon nights. “Kaka Mala Wachawa” means “Uncle save me”. But still, Shaniwar Wada is attracting tourist from all around the world.
2. Bollywood Movie: Shaniwar Wada was featured in Bollywood Hindi film Bajirao Mastani.
020 2612 6867
Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra, 411030, India
1. Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple – Pune is famous for Ganesh Festival. Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Pune.
2. Tulshi Baugh – Most loved shopping destination by females. If you are going there don’t forget to take a taste of Sujata-Mastani Faluda.
3. ABC – If you are fond of books, then must visit this place. This place is also known as “House Of Books”.
