Mahadji Shinde Chhatri: A Hidden Gem in Pune Waiting to Be Explored

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri ( महादजी शिंदे छत्री )

Every city has its own history, culture, and traditions, but Pune just feels different! You might ask, “Why, Sandeep? What’s so special?” Well, Pune has everything— a rich history, deep-rooted traditions, mouthwatering food, and hidden historical gems that most people don’t even know exist. From grand forts and ancient temples to Irani cafés and bustling street food corners, this city has a charm like no other.

Today, I’m taking you to one such hidden gem, away from the city’s hustle—a place where history, legendary warriors, and peace come together. Any guesses? No? Okay, let me tell you! I’m talking about Shinde Chhatri in Wanowrie, Pune. If you’ve visited before, you know exactly what I’m talking about—it’s a masterpiece hidden in plain sight. And if you haven’t, don’t worry! Sit back, relax, and let me take you on a virtual tour of this historical gem.

The History of Mahadji Shinde Chhatri

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri (महादजी शिंदे छत्री) is a memorial dedicated to the legendary 18th-century Maratha military leader Mahadji Shinde. He was the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army under the Peshwas from 1760 to 1780. This place marks the exact spot of his cremation on 12 February 1794. It stands as one of Pune’s most significant landmarks, reminiscent of the grand Maratha era.

Quick Facts:
– Built-in: 1794
– Location: Wanowrie, Pune, India
– Built by: Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia of Gwalior in 1910
– Architects: Shapurjee N. Chandabhoy of Bombay
– Maintained by: Shinde Devasthan Trust, Gwalior

Originally, in 1794, only a Shiva temple stood here, built by Mahadji Shinde himself. He passed away the same year, and his last rites were performed on the premises. Later, his descendants built a samadhi (memorial) right next to the temple in 1910.

Journey to Shinde Chhatri

After resigning from my job (yes, I’m officially in my notice period vacation mode 😎), I got a call from my friend Nitin. He had an interview in Kondhwa and had traveled all the way from Latur—talk about dedication! It had been over a year since we last met, and I wasn’t about to let this rare Pokémon escape, so without wasting a second, I jumped on my bike and rushed to meet him.

The best part? He got selected! 🎉

Since it was Ramzan, all the shops were open, but we couldn’t find a good place to sit and talk. That’s when an idea popped into my head 💡—why not take him to Shinde Chhatri? It was just a few kilometers away, and he had never been there. A perfect plan!

In no time, we reached and parked the bike, and right near the parking, we saw a gola (ice candy) seller. The childhood memories came rushing back! Remember how we used to hear the gola wala’s bell and run with 5 rupees in hand? I couldn’t resist—I bought two golas, and they tasted just as amazing as before. 🍧

After enjoying our gola, we walked towards the main gate. But before going in, we saw a Hanuman Temple (Maruti Temple) nearby. We took Hanuman Ji’s blessings and then stepped inside, ready to explore.

The Entry Experience

It had been a while since my last visit. Back then, the entry fee was just ₹5 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. But now? ₹20 for Indians! Guess our government can’t stand the thought of people chilling for free! 😆 Back in my college days, there was no entry fee at all! But as people started discovering this place, the ticket prices started creeping up. Classic move!

Anyway, after taking the ticket, we entered and saw a huge banner with the history of Shinde Chhatri. Now, let’s dive into what makes this place so special.

The Architectural Beauty of Shinde Chhatri

The Shinde Chhatri complex consists of two sections:
1. The Hall – This is the first thing you see when you enter.
2. The Mahadev Temple – Located right next to the hall.

Many people call this place Mahadji Shinde Chhatri, while others refer to it as Shinde Chhatri Temple because of the Shiva temple inside. The outer walls of the hall are adorned with intricate Rajput-style carvings, and colorful stained-glass windows add to its charm. The entire structure was recently repainted, enhancing its beauty even more.

Read About: Sinhagad Fort: Gateway to Maratha History and Scenic Beauty

Inside the hall, we noticed grand paintings and portraits of Mahadji Shinde and his ancestors. The hall also has a massive chandelier (jhumar) hanging from the ceiling, adding a royal touch. The pillars and walls are decorated with detailed carvings, giving the place a historic feel.

Lord Shiva Temple

The Mahadev Temple is built from black stone and follows Vastu Shastra principles. Unfortunately, the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) door was closed, so we took Lord Shiva’s blessings from outside.

Right behind the Shiva temple, there’s a statue of Mahadji Shinde, standing tall, preserving his legacy. And above the main entrance, there’s a beautifully carved idol of Goddess Saraswati. The carvings on the main door? No words can do justice—you need to see it in person! (Or check out the images and tell me your thoughts in the comments!)

Hidden Details & Unique Features

This temple is centrally located inside the premises, with vast open spaces on all sides where people can sit and relax. The surroundings are covered with different trees, making it a calm and peaceful retreat.

But wait, here’s something truly fascinating! On top of the hall, you’ll find statues of sadhus in different yoga poses, meditation postures, and reading Vedas. It’s a unique detail that adds to the spiritual vibe of the place.

After exploring the hall, we walked around the outside area, and honestly, the exterior carvings are even more breathtaking than the interiors! The kalash (sacred pot) on top of the Shiva temple glistened beautifully under the afternoon sun. The intricate carvings on the kalash and the backside of the temple are truly mesmerizing!

Samadhi of Mahadji Shinde

To the left side of Shinde Chhatri is the Samadhi (memorial) of Mahadji Shinde. We paid our respects and then walked towards the ticket counter area, where there are some benches. We sat there for a while, just admiring the historical beauty and architectural marvel in front of us.

Eventually, it was time to leave, as Nitin had to catch his train back home. We bid farewell to this hidden treasure of Pune, feeling grateful for the visit.

Final Thoughts

Shinde Chhatri is a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape in Pune. Whether it’s your first visit or your 30th (like mine!), there’s always something new to discover.

So, if you ever find yourself in Pune, don’t miss this hidden gem! And if you’ve already been here, share your experience in the comments below.

Until the next travel adventure, Keep Exploring! ✨
History is not just in books; it’s all around us—waiting to be explored!

Nearby Places to Explore

If you’re visiting Shinde Chhatri, why not make the most of your trip? Here are some amazing places nearby that you can explore:

1. Agakhan Palace
One of Pune’s most iconic landmarks, this palace is known for its connection to Mahatma Gandhi. A peaceful spot with lush gardens and rich history.
2. Sarasbaug Ganpati Temple
A beautiful temple surrounded by a serene garden. Perfect for a relaxing visit after exploring historical sites.
3. Lal Mahal
A must-visit for history lovers, this is where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood. Located in the heart of Pune.
4. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
A hidden treasure showcasing an incredible collection of artifacts, including weapons, musical instruments, and historical items.
5. MG Road
If you’re in the mood for shopping or some good food, MG Road is the perfect place. Try out the street food or visit one of the many cafes.
6. Parvati Hill
If you love panoramic city views, a short trek up Parvati Hill is worth it. The temple at the top adds to its charm.

These places are just a short ride away, making your trip to Shinde Chhatri even more memorable! 🚗✨

How to Reach Mahadji Shinde Chhatri

Shinde Chhatri is located in Wanowrie, Pune, and is easily accessible by different modes of transport.
– By Road
If you’re in Pune, just hop on your bike or car and set your Google Maps to Shinde Chhatri, Wanowrie. It’s well-connected by local roads. Plenty of auto-rickshaws and cabs are available from different parts of the city.
– By Bus
You can take a PMPML bus to Wanowrie or Fatima Nagar and walk from there. The landmark is well-known among locals.

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Shinde Chhatri?
Shinde Chhatri is a historical memorial dedicated to Mahadji Shinde, an 18th-century Maratha military leader. It is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Where is Shinde Chhatri located?
It is located in Wanowrie, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
What are the visiting hours of Shinde Chhatri?
It is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day. However, it’s best to check locally for any changes in timings.
What is the entry fee for Shinde Chhatri?

Indians: ₹20 per person
Foreigners: ₹100 per person

What is the best time to visit Shinde Chhatri?
Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Is photography allowed inside Shinde Chhatri?
Yes, photography is allowed, but tripods and professional cameras might require permission.
How can I reach Shinde Chhatri?

By Road: You can take a cab, auto, or personal vehicle to Wanowrie.
By Train: Pune Railway Station is about 6 km away. From there, you can take an auto or cab.
By Bus: PMPML buses run to Wanowrie, making it an affordable option.

What are some nearby attractions to explore?

Aga Khan Palace – Historical site
Sarasbaug – Temple & park
Lal Mahal – Shivaji Maharaj’s childhood home
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum – Artifacts & antiques
MG Road – Shopping & food
Parvati Hill – Trekking & temple visit

Are there good food options near Shinde Chhatri?

Café Peter – Great for coffee & quick bites
Blue Nile Restaurant – Famous for biryani & Mughlai food
George Restaurant – Known for its kebabs & Irani tea
Kalyani Biryani – A must-try for biryani lovers
The Flour Works – Ideal for a relaxed brunch

Where can I stay near Shinde Chhatri?

Budget Stays: Hotel Cozy Inn, Treebo Trend Madhav International
Mid-Range: St. Laurn Hotel, The Central Park Hotel
Luxury: Conrad Pune, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park

Is there parking available at Shinde Chhatri?
Yes, parking is available near the entrance for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Is Shinde Chhatri wheelchair accessible?
There are no dedicated ramps, but the ground is relatively even, so it may be manageable with assistance.