The Lal Mahal is a historic place in the heart of Pune.
This mansion was built as a residence for Shivaji Maharaj the king who established self-rule in India in the 17th century by fighting against the invading Turks.
The main entrance is along a narrow road, so there is virtually no parking even on the streets.
There is a bus stop, however, very close to the gate where a couple of people are seen in the photo below.
So, I simply took a bus from near my residence and deboarded at the PMC bus stop. The ticket was INR 15 or 20 cents. The distance is approximately 10 km and an additional 500 meters of walking to reach the Lal Mahal.
There is an open yard within the compound walls that hosts a police station and a few life-size sculptures of horsemen.
Another sculpture depicts a young prince Shivaji with the Royal Queen Jijabai tilling the land using an Ox-driven plow.
Here is the south-west entrance to the Lal Mahal or Red Mansion.
There are no guides since the history is very well known to most visitors who hail from nearby places in Maharashtra.
There is also a painting that depicts the event when the Turkic chieftain Shaista Khan lost his 3 fingers in a surprise attack by the owner of the Lal Mahal, Shivaji Maharaj.
There is a shoe rack from the main entrance but none from the west side entrance which was also closed when I visited here on Friday.
The main entrance on the North side is accessible from the road and the yard is also then accessible continuously.
But the entrance to the mansion itself is not accessible.
Unfortunately, there are no side railings either.
There are accessible washrooms and also free tap water facility.
Entrance
There is no entry ticket. Simply walk in.
How to Reach
The Lal Mahal Mansion is easily reachable by bus and metro, with the PMC bus or metro station being the closest.
Where to Eat
There are plenty of food joints nearby though I recommend Ganesh Pure Veg Restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
Shaniwar Wada
Nana Wada
Kasba Ganapati Temple
Sri Trishunda Ganapati Temple