Shaniwar Wada is one of the most iconic buildings of Pune. I was contemplating the idea of going there for quite sometime and finally made it this day. With the unexpected November rains, every corner seemed again to be freshly coated with a green cover. This place is currently under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India and opens at 8.00 AM. There is a nominal feel of Rs 5 for Indian nationals to enter this place.
This place was a palace of the Peshwas who were the Prime Ministers Of the Chhatrapati Maharaj of the Maratha kingdom. The foundation stone was laid down on a Saturday, January 22, 1732 and hence the name. This place was completed in 1746 and it remained in the Peshwas possession till they surrendered to British rule.
Unfortunately the fort was destroyed in a huge fire in Feb 27, 1828 which went out for 7 days. It is believed that this place was inhibited by 1000 odd people at that time.What now remains is the peripheral walls with the majestic Dilli Daarwaza and evidences of the buildings that once were inside this fort. It is believed that the structures within this fort were seven stories high and one could see the spire of the Sant Dnyaneshwar temple at Alandi could be seen from the top of the building.
As of now there are fountains inside the complex and a lush green garden. You can also see the foundations of what must have remained after the fire. You can climb the stairs and take a complete round of the complex. It is quite hard to believe that such a green and clam place exists within that compound wall which keeps the traffic and chaos at bay.
It is probably the easiest landmarks of Pune which every one knows about. Located in the Shaniwar peth in Pune, one can recognize it easily by it huge walls. Car and two wheeler parking though available but they are limited.
Dilli gate arguably has become the most common synonym of when it comes to portray Pune.
The entrance gate has these iron nails on them. This was meant to prevent enemy elephant banging the doors to break open in case the fort is under attack.
You are greeted with these gardens and lotus shaped fountains once you enter the fort.
There are staircases similar to these on every side of the wall. You can climb these and go around the compound wall and get a good glimpse of the complete fort.
View of the outer courtyard as seen atop Dilli gate.
As a whole one of the must visit places if you want to explore Pune.
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