Pune’s Shaniwar Wada

In late December of 2022, I visited Pune, and was expecting it to be cold. But it was warm & pleasant during the day, atleast at home.

On my second day in the city, my cousins and I visited Shaniwar Wada, a famous historical fort build under the reign of the Maratha Empire.

The fort was build in 1732 and in the 18th centurty was the center of Indian politics. Originally a seven storey structure, major parts were unfortunately destroyed by an unexplained fire in 1828, but the surviving structures are now maintained as a tourist site.

Chattrapati Shahu Maharaj’s Prime Minister Peshwa Baji Rao I, laid the ceremonial foundation of his own residence on Saturday, January 10th of 1730. It was named Shaniwar Wada from the Marathi words ‘Shaniwar’ meaning ‘Saturday’ and ‘Wada’ – a general term used for a residence complex.

The venue is huge landscape surrounded by remants of the old fort and engulfed with greenery. Although its a wonderful place to filled with history. There were a few things I regret about my visit like …

• Visiting after 10 AM
• Not carrying water
• Not bringing any head gear

We reached the place at around 11 – 11.30 AM. There was a long queue and it was so hot. We didn’t take any water or hats/scraves to cover our head. I also forgot to bring sunglasses. So I had a hard time there in the heat. I couldn’t explore the place as much as I would have liked to.

I would recommend to be there as it opens around 9 AM to avoid the sun and long queue or in the evening after sunset. Definitely carry a water bottle and a few snacks. It’s a good place to relax and have a picnic. If you do go there after 10 AM, do take a cap, hat or scarf to cover your head and also sunglasses.

Reference : https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaniwar_Wada

• Ticket price : ₹25
• Timings : 09:00 AM to 18:00 PM
• Address : Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra – 411030

Abby Recommends : to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water when traveling, and carry a reusable water bottle.

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Bon Voyage! Abby