Shaniwar Wada is a historic palace-fort in Pune that served as the headquarters of the Peshwas. Built by Bajirao I in 1736, it is known for its fortified walls and gates, with several named features preserved in the complex.
- Location: Pune’s old city.
- Opening pattern: Open daily
- Tickets: Confirm the current entry fee and ticket conditions with the official site.
- Nearby sights: Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Lal Mahal, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum and Pataleshwar Cave Temple.
What is Shaniwar Wada?
Shaniwar Wada is a palace-fort in Pune that once served as the Peshwas’ headquarters. The District Pune government page dates its construction to 1736, when Bajirao I built it.
A fire destroyed the palace in 1828. The fortified walls and gates remain, giving the site its distinctive historic character among Pune’s landmarks. The fort can also fit into a broader old-city outing, such as this one-day Pune itinerary.
What can you see at the site?
The surviving gates and named palace features are among the main points of interest at Shaniwar Wada. Delhi Darwaja is the main entrance; the other gates are Ganesh, Mastani, Jambhal and Khidki.
The District Pune government page also names Ganesh Mahal, Rang Mahal, Aarsa Mahal, Hasti_Dant Mahal, Diwan Khana and a fountain among the complex’s features. A light-and-music show about Peshwa history is conducted daily, though you should confirm details before planning around it.
How do you reach Shaniwar Wada?
Shaniwar Wada is in Pune’s old city, and Pune Station is the nearest railway station named by the District Pune government page. The site is 3–4 km from the station. Pune is also identified as the nearest airport.
Shaniwar Wada is about 6.2 km from Hotel Phoenix, a three-star hotel in Pune.
What are the hours, tickets and visitor rules?
Hours and entry arrangements can change, so check the official site before you go.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30–17:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Entry fees and ticket options are not consistently covered in the cited visitor information. Confirm the current fee and conditions before setting out rather than relying on an old ticket example. The District Pune government page also names a daily light-and-music show, but gives no time for it.
Which Pune sights can you pair with Shaniwar Wada?
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is just steps from Shaniwar Wada, while Lal Mahal is 800 metres away. These nearby places make a natural pairing if you’re spending time in the old city.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is another nearby attraction, and Pataleshwar Cave Temple is approximately 2 km from the fort. The Pune old-city markets guide covers Tulshibaug, Mandai and Laxmi Road.
FAQs
Who built Shaniwar Wada?
Bajirao I built Shaniwar Wada in 1736. It later served as the headquarters of the Peshwas.
Which gate is the main entrance?
Delhi Darwaja is the main entrance. Ganesh, Mastani, Jambhal and Khidki are the other named gates.
Is Shaniwar Wada open on Sundays?
Open daily. Check the official site before your visit in case opening arrangements have changed.