Parvati Hill
Temples on a hill in the heart of Pune, built by the Peshwas. Climb the steps for one of the best views of the city.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Parvati, near Swargate
- Built:
- 1749 onwards
- Built by:
- Peshwa Balaji Bajirao (Nanasaheb)
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
Peshwa Balaji Bajirao, known as Nanasaheb Peshwa, built the main temple on Parvati Hill in 1749. More temples were added over the years, and the hill became closely linked to the Peshwa family. Nanasaheb Peshwa spent his last days here after the Battle of Panipat in 1761.
What you can see today
- The Devdeveshwar temple and other temples on the hilltop.
- A small museum with objects from the Peshwa period.
- Wide views over Pune city, Sinhagad Road and the hills around.
How to reach
Parvati Hill is close to Swargate and Saras Baug. The climb starts at the foot of the hill on the Parvati side. There are wide stone steps to the top.
Tips for visitors
- Go early in the morning. Many Punekars climb Parvati for exercise.
- Carry water. The climb takes about fifteen to twenty minutes.
- Combine the visit with Saras Baug at the foot of the hill.
More in Historical Pune
- Shaniwar Wada The fortified palace of the Peshwas in the heart of old Pune. Built in 1732, burnt in 1828, and still the best-known landmark of the city.
- Lal Mahal The palace where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood with Jijabai. Rebuilt in the old city next to Shaniwar Wada.
- Kesari Wada Home of Lokmanya Tilak and of the Kesari newspaper. A museum on Tilak and one of the best-known Ganesh festivals of Pune.
- Vishrambaug Wada The mansion of Peshwa Bajirao II, known for its carved wooden front. One of the finest wadas still standing in Pune.
- Aga Khan Palace A grand palace from 1892 where Mahatma Gandhi was held during the Quit India movement. Kasturba Gandhi's memorial is here.
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum One man's lifetime collection of everyday Indian art: lamps, musical instruments, nutcrackers and more, in a museum in the old city.
Questions and answers
Who built the Parvati temples?
Peshwa Balaji Bajirao (Nanasaheb Peshwa) built the main temple in 1749.
How long does it take to climb Parvati?
About fifteen to twenty minutes on the stone steps, at an easy pace.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.