Shaniwar Wada is a historic palace-fort in central Pune that served as the headquarters of the Peshwas. Its surviving fortified walls and gates offer a glimpse of the site’s past, and nearby old-city landmarks make it easy to pair with other stops.
- Location: central Pune
- From Chakan: about 35.5 km from this hotel in Chakan
- Opening pattern: Open daily
- Nearby stops: Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple and Lal Mahal
What is Shaniwar Wada?
The District Pune government identifies Shaniwar Wada as a palace-fort built by Bajirao I in 1736 and used as the Peshwas’ headquarters. A fire destroyed the palace in 1828; its fortified walls and gates remain.
The main entrance is Delhi Darwaja. The other gates are Ganesh, Mastani, Jambhal and Khidki. Together, they give the surviving complex a strong sense of its former fortified layout.
What can you see within the complex?
The complex includes named palace features such as Ganesh Mahal, Rang Mahal, Aarsa Mahal, Hasti_Dant Mahal and Diwan Khana, along with a fountain. A light-and-music show about Peshwa history is conducted every day.
Take time to look at the walls and gates as well as the remaining structures: the palace itself was destroyed, so the surviving fortifications are a central part of what you see.
When is Shaniwar Wada open, and what should you know about tickets?
Ticket fees and entry conditions can affect how you plan your visit, so check the official site before you go for current visitor details.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30–17:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
How do you get from Chakan to Shaniwar Wada?
Shaniwar Wada is about 35.5 km from Click Sagar in Chakan. Pune Station is the nearest railway station, 3–4 km from the fort. Pune is the nearest airport.
If you’re planning more stops in the city, a one-day Pune itinerary from Chakan can help you arrange them around a visit to the fort.
Which old-city stops can you pair with Shaniwar Wada?
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is just steps from Shaniwar Wada, while Lal Mahal is 800 metres away. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is another nearby attraction, and Pataleshwar Cave Temple is approximately 2 km from the fort.
Tulshibaug, Mandai and Laxmi Road add old-city market stops to a Pune visit; the guide to Pune’s old-city markets covers these areas.
FAQs
Who built Shaniwar Wada?
Bajirao I built Shaniwar Wada in 1736. It later served as the Peshwas’ headquarters.
What are the names of its gates?
Delhi Darwaja is the main entrance; the other gates are Ganesh, Mastani, Jambhal and Khidki.
Is there a light-and-music show?
A show about Peshwa history is conducted every day. Check current visitor details before planning around it.