Shaniwar Wada

Overview

Shaniwar Wada was built in 1732 by the Peshwa Bajirao I as the seat of the Peshwas, the chief ministers who ruled the Maratha Empire from Pune. It was once a grand palace with courtyards, fountains and tall timber halls.

A fire in 1828 destroyed most of the interior, and what remains are the massive stone walls, the gates and the foundations. The main entrance, Dilli Darwaza, is studded with spikes to stop war elephants.

What to look for

• Dilli Darwaza, the spiked main gate
• The remaining walls, bastions and gateways
• The Hazari Karanje fountain, a lotus-shaped pool
• The gardens and the foundations of the lost halls

Visiting tips

• Allow about an hour; the ruins are open and uncovered, so avoid the midday heat.
• A guide brings the vanished palace to life.
• An evening sound and light show is held; check the schedule.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Shaniwar Wada, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Karla Caves Trimbakeshwar Bhaja Caves Lohagad Fort Aga Khan Palace Pataleshwar Cave Pandavleni Caves Ramkund