Parvati Hill is one of the most famous landmarks in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It is around 200km from Mumbai. The hill is located in the city’s heart and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and attractions of Parvati Hill.
History of Parvati Hill:
The history of Parvati Hill dates back to the 17th century when it was developed as a holy site by Balaji Baji Rao, the third Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. He constructed a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Parvati at the top of the hill. The temple was built in the Peshwa architectural style and is an excellent example of the art and culture of that era. It is believed that the Peshwa rulers visited the temple regularly to seek blessings from the goddess.
Significance of Parvati Hill:
Parvati Hill has great religious and historical significance. The hill is named after the Hindu goddess Parvati, who is believed to be the wife of Lord Shiva. The temple at the top of the mountain is dedicated to Parvati and is visited by thousands of devotees yearly.
The hill is also significant from a historical perspective as it was the site of the Battle of Khadki, fought between the British and the Marathas in 1817. The British emerged victorious in the battle and established their regional dominance.
Attractions of Parvati Hill:
Parvati Hill is not just a religious site but also a popular tourist destination. The hill offers a breathtaking view of Pune, and visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top. The temple of Parvati is the main attraction of the hill, and visitors can explore the various shrines and temples within the temple complex. The Peshwa Museum is another popular attraction on the mountain, which showcases the art and culture of the Peshwa era.
One of the unique features of Parvati Hill is the 103-step staircase that leads to the top of the hill. The staircase is made of stone and is surrounded by lush green trees and plants. It is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can also opt for a more adventurous way to reach the top of the hill by trekking through the mountains.
The top of Parvati Hill is also home to a beautiful park, a favorite spot for families and children. The park has a play area for kids, and visitors can relax and enjoy the city’s scenic views. The park is also home to a small zoo that houses various animals, including peacocks, rabbits, and monkeys.
Another popular attraction on Parvati Hill is the Bhau Daji Lad Museum. The museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous artist Bhau Daji Lad. It houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Parvati Hill is also a popular spot for bird watching, and visitors can spot various bird species, including the Indian robin, yellow-throated sparrow, and the Indian peafowl.
How To Reach
Parvati Hill is located in the heart of Pune, Maharashtra, India, and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. Here are some of the ways to reach Parvati Hill:
By Air: The nearest airport to Parvati Hill is the Pune International Airport, located about 15 kilometers from the hill. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Parvati Hill from the airport.
By Train: Pune is well-connected by train, and the Pune Junction railway station is the central railway station in the city. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from the railway station to Parvati Hill.
By Bus: Pune is well-connected by bus, and visitors can take a bus to reach Parvati Hill. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular bus services to Parvati Hill from various parts of the city.
By Car: Visitors can also hire or drive their car to reach Parvati Hill. The hill is located on Parvati Road, which is easily accessible by car.
Once visitors reach Parvati Hill, they can park their vehicles at the base and climb the staircase to reach the top. Visitors can also hire a guide or join a group tour to explore the various attractions on the mountain. Overall, going to Parvati Hill is easy and convenient, and visitors can choose the mode of transport that suits their needs and budget.
Entry Fee, Ticket Cost
There is no entry fee or ticket cost to visit Parvati Hill. The hill is a public place open to visitors throughout the day. Visitors can explore the various attractions on the mountain, including the Parvati temple, the Peshwa Museum, the Bhau Daji Lad Museum, and the park, free of cost.
However, visitors may have to pay for certain activities or services on the hill, such as hiring a guide or using the facilities at the park. The zoo on the mountain may also charge a nominal fee for entry.
It is important to note that visitors should respect the sanctity of the hill and follow the rules and regulations of the temple and the park. Visitors should also avoid littering and maintain cleanliness on the hill. Overall, Parvati Hill offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors, and the fact that it is free to visit makes it accessible to all.
Opening And Closing Time, Holidays
Parvati Hill is open throughout the year, and visitors can visit the hill at any time of the day. However, certain attractions on the hill may have specific opening and closing times. Here are the details of the opening and closing times of some of the popular attractions on Parvati Hill:
Parvati Temple: The Parvati temple is open from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings at the temple during these hours.
Peshwa Museum: The Peshwa Museum is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except on Mondays and public holidays. The museum showcases the lifestyle and culture of the Peshwa dynasty and is a must-visit for history buffs.
Bhau Daji Lad Museum: The Bhau Daji Lad Museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except on Wednesdays and public holidays. The museum displays a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts and is a treat for art enthusiasts.
Park: The park on Parvati Hill is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, the fresh air, and the stunning city views from the park.
Zoo: The zoo on Parvati Hill is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, except on Wednesdays and public holidays. The zoo houses various animals, including tigers, leopards, and deer, and is a popular attraction for children and adults alike.
Visitors are advised to check each attraction’s specific opening and closing times before planning their visit to Parvati Hill. They should also note that certain attractions may be closed on public holidays or special occasions. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the authorities for the latest information.
Overall, Parvati Hill offers a range of attractions that can be enjoyed throughout the year, and visitors can plan their visit based on their preferences and schedules.
Parvati Hill Trek
Parvati Hill trek is popular among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting Pune. The trek to the top of the hill is moderate and takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. Here are the details of the Parvati Hill trek:
Starting Point: The Parvati Hill trek begins from the base of the hill, located at the end of Parvati Road in Pune. Visitors can park their vehicles at the bottom and start the trek from there.
Route: The trek to the top of Parvati Hill involves climbing a staircase of around 100 steps. The stairs are well-maintained and have handrails for support. Visitors can take breaks at the various resting points along the way and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Attractions: As visitors climb up the hill, they can explore various attractions, including the Parvati temple, the Peshwa Museum, the Bhau Daji Lad Museum, and the park. The zoo on the hill is also a popular attraction for children and adults alike.
Best Time: The best time to undertake the Parvati Hill trek is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and relaxed. Visitors should avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to September) when the steps may be slippery and unsafe.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for the trek.
- Carry a water bottle and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the trek.
- Dress appropriately and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Follow the rules and regulations of the hill, such as not littering and respecting the sanctity of the temple and the park.
- Visitors with health conditions or mobility issues should avoid the trek and explore the attractions on the hill by other means, such as hiring a guide or using the park facilities.
Overall, the Parvati Hill trek offers visitors a unique and exhilarating experience, and the stunning views from the top of the hill make it all the more worthwhile.
