Shaniwar Wada
A historic fort in Pune, once the seat of the mighty Peshwas, now a serene ruin echoing tales of power and intrigue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Shaniwar Wada
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic fort in Pune, once the seat of the mighty Peshwas, now a serene ruin echoing tales of power and intrigue.
"A small but good remainder of a fort, worthy to spend an evening and worth for money."
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a steal at just ₹20! Book online via QR code for a quick entry.
🚶♂️ Walk from Metro
Take the metro to PMC station; it's a short, pleasant walk to the fort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Delhi Darwaza
Main Entrance
The grandest of the five gates, once used for elephant processions. A symbol of Maratha power.
Remnants of the Palace
Central Courtyard
Explore the stone foundations and ruins that hint at the fort's former seven-story glory.
Lush Green Lawns
Inside the Fort
Enjoy a peaceful stroll or relax on the expansive lawns, a stark contrast to the fort's tumultuous past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Parking & Metro Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a steal at just ₹20! Book online via QR code for a quick entry.
🚶♂️ Walk from Metro
Take the metro to PMC station; it's a short, pleasant walk to the fort.
👻 Haunted Tales
Learn about the fort's spooky legends and ghost stories from locals or guides.
📸 Great for Photos
Capture the grandeur of the gates and ruins. Drone shots offer unique perspectives. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Tickets are a steal at just ₹20! Book online via QR code for a quick entry.
🚶♂️ Walk from Metro
Take the metro to PMC station; it's a short, pleasant walk to the fort.
👻 Haunted Tales
Learn about the fort's spooky legends and ghost stories from locals or guides.
📸 Great for Photos
Capture the grandeur of the gates and ruins. Drone shots offer unique perspectives.
🗣️ Hire a Guide
Enhance your visit by hiring a guide to understand the rich history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shaniwar Wada is a significant historical landmark in Pune, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Peshwa era. While the fort is not fully intact due to a fire, its remaining structures, like the Delhi Darwaza, and expansive lawns provide a peaceful and historically rich experience. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry and the intriguing, albeit spooky, legends associated with the site.
"Here’s a polished review combining history + present experience + ticket info, still short and reader-friendly:
Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Bajirao I, was once the seat of the mighty Peshwas. Though much of it was lost to fire, the grand gates, lawns, and ruins still reflect Maratha pride. Today it’s a peaceful spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the heritage in the heart of Pune. Entry tickets cost just ₹20 and can be easily booked online."
Deepak Edakkott
"It's a small but good remainder of a fort. Crowded in evening. Ticket just 20₹. Better to book using QR. They aren't maintaining it well. But some scenery and nice breeze.. worthy to spend an evening and worth for money."
Ammar& Bilal KM
"Shaniwarwada is a famous fort palace in Pune, built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I.
It was named so because its foundation was laid on a Saturday.
The fort was the seat of the Peshwas and a center of the Maratha Empire.
Its main gate is called the Delhi Darwaza.
In 1828, a huge fire destroyed most of it.
Today, it is an important historical site and tourist attraction."
Prakash Pandey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shaniwar Wada is centrally located in Pune. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or bus. For a convenient and eco-friendly option, take the Pune Metro to the PMC station, which is a short walk away.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot near Shaniwar Wada. While it might require a short walk, it's considered safe and is frequently used by visitors.
The nearest metro station to Shaniwar Wada is the PMC (Pune Municipal Corporation) station. From there, it's about a 9-10 minute walk to the fort.
Yes, Shaniwar Wada is well-connected by local buses. Many routes pass through or near the fort, making it accessible via Pune's public transport network.
The grounds of Shaniwar Wada are relatively flat, but the ruins and uneven paths might pose challenges. Access to certain areas might be limited for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry ticket to Shaniwar Wada is very affordable, costing only ₹20 per person.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It is also recommended to book tickets online using the QR code for a faster and more convenient entry process.
Shaniwar Wada is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special holiday hours.
While not strictly necessary due to the low ticket price, booking online via QR code is recommended to save time, especially during peak hours or weekends.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely publicized, but the general entry fee is very low, making it accessible for all.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the impressive Delhi Darwaza, the ruins of the original palace, the expansive lawns, and learn about the fort's historical significance as the seat of the Peshwas.
Yes, Shaniwar Wada has a reputation for being haunted, with tales of ghostly cries. Many visitors are intrigued by its paranormal stories.
Photography is generally allowed inside Shaniwar Wada. Drone photography is also popular for capturing the scale of the fort.
Absolutely! It's a significant historical landmark offering a glimpse into the Maratha Empire's past, with beautiful architecture and a peaceful ambiance.
A visit to Shaniwar Wada typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time to explore the grounds, gates, and learn about its history.
📸 📸 Photography
The Delhi Darwaza is a prime spot for photos. The ruins of the palace and the expansive lawns also offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, drone photography is popular here and offers unique aerial perspectives of the fort and its surroundings.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more pleasant atmosphere.
While general photography is allowed, it's always wise to be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. Specific restrictions might apply to certain areas or for commercial shoots.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grand gates and expansive grounds. A telephoto lens can be good for details of the ruins. A tripod can be helpful for low-light photography in the evenings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the site is largely open, so sun protection and water are essential, especially during warmer months. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking to explore Pune's heritage.
👻 Ghost Enthusiasts
Visiting during the late afternoon or early evening, when shadows lengthen, can enhance the eerie atmosphere. While official tours focus on history, many visitors come specifically to experience the fort's spooky legends and perhaps catch a glimpse of the supernatural.📸 Photographers
+1Drone photography is particularly popular here, allowing for breathtaking aerial views of the entire complex. Consider visiting during different times of the day to capture varied lighting conditions and moods. The fort's historical significance also lends itself to capturing evocative images that tell a story.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Peshwas
+1Although a devastating fire in 1828 destroyed most of the original structure, the robust stone foundations and remaining walls still stand as a testament to its glorious past. Today, visitors can walk through the remnants and imagine the grandeur that once was, making it a crucial site for understanding Maratha history.
Key figures like Bajirao I and Madhavrao Peshwa resided here, and significant political decisions that shaped India were made within its walls. The fort's architecture itself is a blend of Maratha, Mughal, and Persian styles, reflecting the cultural influences of the era.
+1Haunted Tales and Historical Tragedies
These tales of paranormal activity have captured the imagination of many, drawing ghost hunters and curious visitors alike. While the historical accounts focus on political intrigue and power struggles, the supernatural lore has become an integral part of Shaniwar Wada's identity.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the fort's history is steeped in drama and tragedy, from internal conflicts to its eventual decline. Exploring the ruins, especially during quieter hours, can evoke a sense of mystery and the weight of centuries of history.
Architectural Marvels and Surviving Structures
Inside, the stone foundations of the original seven-story palace offer a glimpse into the scale of the lost structure. The expansive lawns and the remaining fort walls provide a serene environment for visitors to reflect on the history. The architectural style is a fascinating fusion, incorporating elements from Maratha, Mughal, and Persian designs, showcasing the diverse cultural landscape of the time.
+1Visitors can also find a viewpoint within the fort complex that offers a panoramic vista of the entire area, allowing for a comprehensive appreciation of the layout and the surrounding city. The meticulous planning evident in the fort's design, even in its ruined state, highlights the advanced engineering and aesthetic sensibilities of the Peshwa era.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit