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Among the many historical figures in India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a name that doesn’t require an introduction. The founder of the Maratha Empire, his legacy and his valour are some of the highlights that deserve to be talked about elaborately. The Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune stands as a tribute to the Maratha ruler and the contributions he has left to the history of Maharashtra and India. The museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying artefacts from the great Maratha Empire. It offers a glimpse into the life and achievements of Shivaji Maharaj.
Quick Details Of Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune
Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune Address: Wadgaon Shinde Road, Gulabhari Vasti, Pune, Wadgaon Shinde, Maharashtra 411047
Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune Ticket price: ₹150 per person (without audio guide) and ₹200 per person (with audio guide)
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction
About Shivaji Maharaj Museum
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The Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Pune offers a thorough understanding of the Maratha Empire’s military strategies, governance systems, and culture. Inside the museum, you get to immerse yourself in their collection of ancient weapons, sculptures, coins, and manuscripts. One of the main attractions inside the museum is the detailed models depicting various historical events and battles won by Shivaji Mahara. You can see exhibits that demonstrate how Shivaji Maharaj built an empire and strategised to defend it against the Mughals and the British. The museum also emphasises his administration, which was progressive and fair, highlighting his attention to welfare programs, military organisation, and fort architecture.
How To Reach
Photo: Randy Breese / Wikimedia Commons
Shivaji Maharaj Museum is located in Pune, making it a fairly easy-to-access destination the next time you are in Pune:
By Air: Pune International Airport is your nearest airport to the museum, located under an hour’s drive from the main city centre. You’d best take a taxi from the airport to the museum for a comfortable journey.
By Rail: To get to the museum, you’d have to reach Pune Junction Railway Station, which is around 5 km from the museum. After reaching the museum, you’d have to either hire a taxi or an auto to reach the museum.
By Road: The museum is easily accessible by road as Pune is connected by a network of highways. You can use local buses or hire a cab from different parts of the city. If you’re driving, parking facilities are available nearby.
Things To Do At Shivaji Maharaj Museum
A visit to the Shivaji Maharaj Museum offers a rich and immersive experience. These are detailed exhibits inside the museum and rare artefacts, which are quite fascinating to explore:
1. Explore The Main Galleries
Photo: P. Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
The museum is divided into various galleries that cover different aspects of Shivaji Maharaj’s life and reign. Every gallery inside the museum is further curated to provide a deeper understanding of the Maratha Empire. These galleries contain rare artefacts such as weapons, armour, manuscripts, and paintings that shed light on Shivaji’s military strategies and vision for the Maratha kingdom. Also, don’t miss out on exploring the weapons section, where you get to witness swords, shields, and other battle gear used by Shivaji Maharaj and his army.
2. View The Fort Models
Photo: Mili shah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are aware of Shivaji’s history, you likely know the extent of the forts he constructed during his reign. While exploring every fort Shivaji built isn’t possible, the museum offers you a look into the miniature version of these forts. These models include famous forts like Raigad, Sinhagad, and Pratapgad. Each model is intricately crafted, showcasing the unique architectural styles and defensive mechanisms of the forts. Also, under the model of each fort, you have an elaborate information plaque that offers details about the strategic importance of the fort.
3. Visit The Souvenir Shop
Photo: P. Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There is a gift shop available inside the museum, from where you can pick up memorabilia related to Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha history. The shop offers a wide array of items, including books, postcards, replicas of weapons, models of forts, and other historical artefacts. You can find biographies, historical texts, and research papers related to Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha Empire. Also, the shop has numerous handcrafted items that you can consider purchasing.
Places To Visit Around Shivaji Maharaj Museum
Pune is home to numerous tourist attractions and these are quite a few different ones you can visit after exploring the museum:
1. Shaniwar Wada
Photo: L Ram Vidhya Sagar / Wikimedia Commons
While already reeling in historical facts and experience, a visit down to Shaniwar Wada is a must in Pune. It is one of the oldest forts, which served as the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. The fort was constructed in 1732 and while a lot of the fort was destroyed in a fire in 1828, most of it remains a significant tourist attraction. The Delhi Darwaza, the main gate, is an imposing structure, with massive spikes to deter enemy elephants and is a popular attraction of this fort.
Location: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
2. Pataleshwar Cave Temple
Photo: Karthik Easvur / Wikimedia Commons
For a religious experience in Pune, head to Pataleshwar Cave Temple. This is a hidden gem that is renowned for its rock-cut architecture. The cave temple’s origin, dedicated to Lord Shiva, dates back to the 8th century. The cave consists of a shrine dedicated to Shiva with a Nandi bull facing the deity, typical of Shiva temples. Also, the main shrine inside the temple is quite reminiscent of the temples of Ellora and Ajanta.
Location: Jangali Maharaj Road, next to J M Temple, Revenue Colony, Pune, Maharashtra 411005
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
3. Saras Baug
Photo: Pakshya / Wikimedia Commons
For some peace in Pune, head to Saras Baug. This is a 25-acre park and temple complex in Pune, India. It is home to the famous Siddhivinayak Temple and is a spot where people indulge in strolls. The temple was built during the Peshwa era and holds great historical significance. Most of the devotees visit the temple and also the garden has a small lake, well-manicured gardens, and walking paths.
Location: Saras Baug Road, Municipal Colony, Pune, 411 030
Timings: 9:30 AM – 9 PM
Where To Stay
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After you finish exploring the museum, there are several sightseeing spots around, explaining why planning a long stay in the city is a must. Some of the must-visit accommodations in the area include Treebo Landmark, Urban Nomads Pune, Smart Inn, FabHotel Chaitanya Executive and Omkar Executive.
Where To Eat
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To appease your hunger and try some authentic cuisine in Pune, you can hit some of the nearby local eateries and fine dining spots around the museum. Some of the recommended restaurants include Puran da Dhaba, World of Veg, Hotel Rupali, Sharavan Restaurant and Sagar Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Amit20081980 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers:
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
- Since you will be exploring the museum on foot, wear comfortable shoes.
- Photography may not be allowed in certain sections, so check beforehand.
- Check for any temporary exhibitions or special programs during your visit.
- Be prepared to spend at least 2 – 3 hours fully exploring the museum.
Shivaji Maharaj Museum Pune is undoubtedly one of the most historically significant museums in the country. For anyone interested in learning about the history of the Maratha Empire, this is the museum that provides them with the opportunity. There are well-preserved artefacts and exhibits inside the museum, which add to the experience quite well. For a detailed trip to the museum and nearby attractions, reach out to TripXl for a customised itinerary.
Cover Photo: Rahul Patil / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
