Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk in the footsteps of the Peshwas, the rulers of the Maratha Empire? If you are in Pune, you can do just that by visiting Saras Baug, a historical garden that was once the recreational spot for the royal family. Saras Baug is not only a beautiful and peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature, but also a sacred and cultural site that houses a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Saras Baug Pune, including its history, significance, attractions, activities, timings, and more.
The History and Significance of Saras Baug
Saras Baug is one of the oldest and most cherished landmarks of Pune. It was built in the 18th century by the Peshwas, who were the prime ministers and de facto rulers of the Maratha Empire. The Peshwas used Saras Baug as their personal garden, where they would spend their leisure time and entertain their guests. The name Saras Baug comes from the word “saras”, which means lake in Marathi. The garden was originally surrounded by a lake, which was later drained and converted into a public park.
The most prominent feature of Saras Baug is the Talyatla Ganpati temple, which stands on a small island in the middle of the garden. The temple was constructed by Madhavrao Peshwa in 1784, who was a devout devotee of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and success. The temple is also known as “Talyatla” because it is located at the base or “tala” of Parvati Hills, another historical attraction in Pune. The temple has a unique architecture that combines Hindu and Islamic styles. The dome of the temple is adorned with gold plating and intricate carvings. The idol of Lord Ganesha inside the temple is made of marble and is believed to be self-manifested or “swayambhu”.
Saras Baug has witnessed many historical events and movements in Pune’s history. It was here that Bajirao I, the founder of the Peshwa dynasty, celebrated his victory over the Mughals in 1728. It was also here that Nana Saheb Peshwa, the leader of the 1857 revolt against the British, held his court and administered justice. Saras Baug has also been a venue for many cultural and social programs, such as music concerts, literary festivals, and public meetings. Saras Baug is considered as a symbol of Pune’s culture and heritage and is revered by its people.
The Attractions and Activities at Saras Baug
Saras Baug offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the things you can do at Saras Baug:
Explore the lush green garden that spans over 25 acres and houses various plants, flowers, and birds. You can admire the beauty and diversity of nature as you stroll along the paved paths or sit on the benches. You can also spot some rare and exotic species of flora and fauna, such as orchids, roses, peacocks, parrots, and ducks.
Visit the Peshwa Museum that showcases the artifacts, paintings, and weapons of the Peshwa era. You can learn more about the history and culture of the Maratha Empire as you browse through the exhibits. You can also see some personal belongings of the Peshwas, such as their clothes, jewellery, swords, and coins.
Enjoy the street food stalls that offer local delicacies such as bhel puri, pav bhaji, vada pav, misal pav, and kulfi. You can savour the authentic flavours of Pune as you munch on these snacks. You can also quench your thirst with some refreshing drinks such as sugarcane juice, lemonade, or lassi.
Take a boat ride on the artificial lake that surrounds the temple. You can enjoy a scenic view of Saras Baug as you glide on the water. You can also see some aquatic animals such as fish, turtles, and crocodiles in the lake.
Participate in the cultural events and festivals that are organized at Saras Baug throughout the year. You can witness some spectacular performances by artists from various fields such as music, dance, drama, poetry, and comedy. You can also join in some festive celebrations such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi.
Timings: Try to visit Saras Baug early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat and the crowd.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee for Saras Baug, but you may have to pay a nominal fee for the museum or the boat ride.
Saras Baug Pune is a historical garden with a divine temple that offers a serene and scenic experience for visitors. It is a place where you can learn more about the history, culture, and heritage of Pune, as well as enjoy some fun and relaxing activities. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to suit your taste and interest at Saras Baug.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Saras Baug Pune today and discover its beauty and charm for yourself.
