Do you think there is any palace that will astonish you with its royal beauty and give you the shivers at night? Well, yes, there is. Welcome to Shaniwar Wada, one of the best places to visit in Pune. This is a massive fort built by the powerful Peshwas of the Maratha Empire at the heart of Pune. Its walls whisper history to this very day.
Walk into Shaniwar Wada, and stand in tall majestic gateways, green lawns, and old ruins that depict its good old glorious days. As the evening falls, the Shaniwar Wada haunted story becomes the talk of the town, and folks get curious and excited about this place. Whether you love history, culture or are just curious and excited, Shaniwar Wada takes you to view the past come alive. This guide will reveal all the information you need to have a memorable trip to this Maratha’s iconic structure.
Shaniwar Wada History
Shaniwar Wada is a portal to the splendid Maratha times. It was constructed in 1732 by Bajirao I, who was the most influential Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. The name is derived from ‘Shaniwar’ or Saturday, the day the foundation stone was laid. The fort came to be the headquarters for the Peshwas, where meetings were held, festivities were celebrated, and power was exercised in each corner.
Although the original fort building had seven floors, only the sturdy base still stands from the massive seven-day fire in 1828. The spooky haunted story of Shaniwar Wada got a beginning when the young Peshwa Narayanrao was murdered inside the house, leaving a horrible life-changing mark forever.
Every brick here, you see, is a story of courage, a power struggle, loyalty and betrayal. When you pass through its gates, you are not merely appreciating a monument; you are immersing yourself in a chapter of royalty that defined the course of Maharashtra's history. Shaniwar Wada is not just a fort, but it is a story of bravery, betrayal, tragedy, and power. The glory of the Marathas is seen everywhere, at every door. Even the cracks seem to mourn with grief, ambition and royal secrets. One can feel the power that fills its great halls and the mystery that lies in its soundless ruins.
Architecture of Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada has an architectural style that combines Maratha and Mughal styles. The palace had over a thousand rooms once; now only the massive stone base is left. Still, the ruins paint a picture of the royal Peshwa's life.
Inside Shaniwar Wada, the most well-known section of the design is the massive gateway, Delhi Darwaza. It was so heavy that it couldn't be broken by the enemy. Iron spears were added to prevent the attack of elephants. Inside, there are large courtyards, patterned fountains and the remains of grand rooms of the royal palace complex.
One of the most beautiful of the monuments is the Hazari Karanje, or lotus-shaped fountain with 1,000 small jets, an engineering marvel at the time of its construction. The fort walls also have fine wooden work and artistic carvings that offer an insight into royal life in the 18th century, which makes it among the finest places to visit in Pune with family.
Highlights of the Architecture
Delhi Darwaza: 21-foot-tall entrance gate
Hazari Karanje Fountain: Lotus-shaped water system
Strong fort walls: Symbol of the defensive power of the Marathas
Spiked gates: Provided protection from war elephants.
Things To Know about Shaniwar Wada
If you are planning to visit this one of the most popular places to visit in Pune, then you should know this important information before entering this big fort for a smooth visit:
Shaniwar Wada Location: Kasba Peth, Pune City Centre
Shaniwar Wada Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Shaniwar Wada Light & Sound Show: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM(Seasonally)
Photography: Allowed
Restricted Areas: A few ruins are fenced for safety.
Built by: Peshwa Bajirao I
Year of Construction: 1730‑1732
Major Disaster: Peshwa Narayanrao was killed in 1773.
Fire Incident: 1828 (destroyed mostly above ground level)
Best Time to Visit Shaniwar Wada
The best time to visit Shaniwar Wada is during the cooler seasons, from October to February, to make the most of your visit. The nice weather makes a walk around the gardens and the walls of the fort enjoyable. In the daytime, sunlight falling on the remains makes photography even better.
If you like being part of history and appreciate quiet, then mornings are a great time for you, as the fort is very quiet and less crowded at this time of day. Have a magical experience by paying a visit in the evening to experience the renowned Light and Sound Show, where the Peshwa saga is narrated with the use of lights, music and special effects. Avoid the hot afternoons of summer (March to June) as the temperature in Pune is really hot and the sun can be very exhausting.
Ideal Time: October - February
Best Hours: Morning & Evening
Main Attraction: Light & Sound Show in the evening.
Not recommended: Sunny afternoons in summer
How to Reach Shaniwar Wada
Reaching Shaniwar Wada in Pune is not difficult because it is located in the centre of the city. Whether you are a resident or a first-time visitor, the fort is accessible by all major transport modes.
By Air: Pune International Airport is the nearest. It is 12 km away from the Shaniwar Wada. You can take a cab, an auto or a bus from there.
By Train: Pune Junction railway station is just 3km away from here. City buses and ride-sharing sharing such as Uber and Ola are also available.
By Local Transport: Buses, auto, and taxis are easily available.
Why is Shaniwar Wada Known as a Haunted Fort?
The famous story of Shaniwar Wada being haunted is a big reason for people visiting here after dark. The legend goes that young Peshwa Narayanrao, who was just 17 years old, was killed inside the palace in 1773. His uncle Raghunathrao and his aunt Anandibai allegedly plotted the murder for the greed of the throne. Guards attacked Narayanrao. He shouted his last words, 'Kaka… mala vachva!' (Uncle, save me!) This place is definitely one of the best places to visit in Pune with friends for an amazing adventure.
Locals say that even to this day, those words can be heard echoing through the ruins at night, on full moon nights. Guards and visitors claim to see strange shadows, sudden chills and frightening screams at night. Though the beauty of the fort outside is still lovely, the silent walls harbour a dark past that makes people uneasy. Some believe it is simply a legend; however, some believe that the spirit of Narayanrao continues to walk the halls. Either way, once the sun sets, Shaniwar Wada gets converted into a whole different world.
Tip: After 6:30 PM, only the Light & Sound Show can be attended.
Conclusion
Whether you come for the heroic stories, the stunning architecture or the Shaniwar Wada haunted story, you will carry the experience and memories created with you long after you leave the city. So schedule a visit, have a memorable night at the grand Light & Sound Show, and discreetly follow a historical trail; the footsteps of the Maratha empire, a time of valour and untold stories. Visit this fort and the nearby places and have a revealing and unforgettable historical experience with unbelievable memories.
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