Overview
Pune is a city with a very rich cultural heritage which is best experienced over a walking tour. In this walking tour we visit Shaniwarwada the haunted fort and seat of power of the Peshwas, the magnificent Lal Mahal built by the father of Shivaji Maharaj, Dagdu Sheth temple of Lord Ganesh built by a sweet meet maker, Kasba Ganpati whose idol was installed by Shivaji Maharaj and Laxmi market the popular bazaar for bargain shopping.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Local guide
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Coffee and/or Tea
What's Not Included
- Lunch
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
We start the walking tour at Shaniwar Wada, the seat of power of the Peshwas or Prime Ministers of the powerful Maratha Empire which was a dominant power in India between the 17th and 19th centuries. This Palace was built in 1730 in honor of Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Balaji Bhat for services rendered to the Maratha Empire. Shaniwarwada is considered as the most haunted place in Pune! More about this during the tour.
Stop 2
Dagdu Sheth, is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and arguably the most famous one in Pune. A sweet maker who lost his son to the plague built this temple in 1892. The temple played a crucial role in inspiring Lokmanya Tilaorganizeanise the annual Ganesh festival to unite Indians to fight for freedom from the British.
Stop 3
We walk through Laxmi Market, the haven for shoppers! We visit quaint shops in the most famous bazaar and flea market of Pune. It has been aptly named after the Hindu goddess of wealth. 130PM- Drop off at Laxmi market.
Stop 4
History comes alive at this iconic temple. The idol of Ganesh was installed by none other than Shivaji Maharaj and his mother Jija bai in 1630. The temple is the presiding deity of Pune city and has the privilege of the first immersion during the Ganpati festival.
Stop 5
Lal Mahal or the Red Palace was established in 1630 by Shahaji Bhosle, the father of Shivaji Maharaj. It is famous for the encounter between Shivaji Maharaj and Shaista Khan. While the original building fell into ruins, the present building is a reconstruction and has oil paintings which depict significant events in the life of Shivaji Maharaj.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women