A Tourist’s Guide To Exploring The Pride Of Peshwas, The Shaniwarwada!

Pune is synonymous with the iconic residence of the Peshwas, the Shaniwarwada. Built in 1732, you will find it depicted on every Pune souvenir and is a must-visit when in the city. Rich with history and culture, Shaniwarwada will give you a taste of our city's journey through the years. It will also appeal to all the history buffs amongst you. We picked out the must-see things here when you decide to visit the most celebrated monument of Pune city!

Dilli Darwaja

As you reach Shaniwarwada, the first sight that will welcome you is the magnificent Dilli Darwaja. The Shaniwarwada has a total of five gates out of which the Dilli Darwaja was and is used as the main entry gate. The massive gate large enough to let elephants enter, is also equipped with a small man-sized door and sharp steel spikes. It was specifically designed in this manner to maximise protection during times of attack. 

Narayan Darwaja

The Narayan Darwaja gained special importance over the other gates- Mastani Darwaja, Khidki Drawaja and Ganesh Darwaja; because of a tragic incident. Narayanrao Peshwa was deceitfully murdered in the wada and even today people believe that his spirit calls out to his uncle for help, saying, “Kaka Mala Vachwa” (Uncle save me). Many claim to have heard these voices. The Narayan Darwaja was named so because Narayanrao’s corpse was carried out of the palace through this door.

The Diwankhanas

The Shaniwarwada was originally a grand seven storeyed structure, most of which was destroyed in a fire. What we see today are just ruins of what we can only imagine was a luxurious palace in its day. Even in ruins, you can still see the grandeur of the diwankhanas with the ornate pillars and the jharokhas overlooking the gardens.

Lotus Fountain

Shaniwarwada is known for its beautiful lotus-shaped fountain also known as Hazari Karanje or ‘Fountain of Thousand Jets’. The lotus has 16 petals and each petal has 16  jets. It was one of the most intricate creations of that time period and was compared to some of the most brilliant European fountains of the time. The Lotus fountain plays a major role in the laser show spectacle held every evening at the wada.

The Gardens

The interiors of the wada are a pleasant surprise; a green respite from the hustle of the city around it. The gardens are extremely well maintained even today, with perfectly manicured patches of grass lined with colourful flower beds. You will also catch some families spreading out mats and using these gardens as a picnic spot.

Light And Sound Show

Pic Credit: PCMC
The laser or the light and sound show at Shaniwarwada is sure to be the highlight of your visit here. Narrating the entire history of googand the lives of the Peshwas that resided here, the laser show is beautifully put together. With laser beams depicting images from the lives of Peshwas on the backdrop of water from the gorgeous fountains, this spectacle is a must-see. The show is complete with audio effects and commentary in both Marathi as well as English.

Timings for the laser show: 7.15 to 8.15 (Marathi) and 8.15 to 9.15 (English).

When: 9 am to 5.30 pm
Entry: Rs 25 (for Indians), Rs 300 (for foreigners), Laser show- Rs 50