Shinde Chhatri, Pune - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 6 km from Pune Junction, Shinde Chhatri is an imposing monument constructed on the left bank of the Bhairoba stream in Wanavadi and is one of the well-known tourist places in Pune.

Shinde Chhatri was constructed as a memorial of the Maratha noble Sri Mahadji Shinde. The 18th century military leader, Sri Mahadji Shinde, served as the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army under the Peshwas from 1760 CE to 1780 CE. The memorial is actually a hall that marks the spot of Mahadji Shinde's cremation on 12th February 1794 CE.

The structure is known for its exquisite architecture and it is a strong fortified complex with a huge 15 feet tall fortification wall surrounding the main complex. Mahadji Shinde himself constructed a shrine to Lord Shiva in 1794 CE. He passed away the same year and his last rites were performed in the same complex. In 1965 CE, Shrimant Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia of Gwalior (who is a descendent of Mahadji Shinde) founded the Chhatri and installed the image in 1971 CE. The structure was constructed following the Vaasthu rules.

The Shiva Temple has beautiful architectural design and remains unaffected by the passage of years. There are statues of saints placed on the top of the roof. The decoration of the pillared hall, the beautiful coloured window panels and the decoration of the ceiling are fine and worth observing. There is a row of photo frames of the members of the royal Scindia (Shinde) family. It is maintained by Scindia Devasthan Trust, Gwalior.

Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM.

Entry Fee: Rs. 5 for Indians and Rs. 25 for Foreigners