Unveiling Lal Mahal’s secrets: Local Guides Meet-up in Pune!
On March 17th, enthusiastic Local Guides from both Pune and Mumbai came together for a fascinating exploration of Pune’s historic Lal Mahal (Red Palace). Our adventure began outside the palace walls, where we were greeted by statues depicting Chhatrapati Shivaji himself, his mother Jijabai, and glimpses into his childhood years. Stepping inside, we delved deeper into history through informative posters showcasing the Lal Mahal’s rich past. A captivating statue of Jijabai further enriched our understanding of this significant site.
From Shivaji’s childhood to historical landmark: The story of Lal Mahal:
Standing tall in Pune is the Lal Mahal, also known as the Red Palace. Built in 1630 AD by Shahaji Bhosale, it wasn’t just any palace - it was the childhood home of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Imagine young Shivaji playing within these very walls, dreaming of the forts he would one day conquer!
The Lal Mahal wasn’t just a place for young Shivaji to grow up, it was also a place where his mother, Jijabai, instilled the values that shaped him. While Shivaji dreamt of forts, Jijabai likely spent time here worshipping and teaching him about courage, righteousness, and devotion - qualities that would become hallmarks of his reign.
Feature of the Lal Mahal:
Architectural Style: The Lal Mahal showcases a mix of Deccani and Marathi architectural styles. Look for the intricate carvings, balconies, and courtyards.
Recommendations and Tips:
- Time your visit: The Lal Mahal is open Monday through Sunday from 9 am–1 pm, 4–8 pm. It’s closed on national holidays. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during weekdays.
- Photography: While photography is not allowed, please be respectful of other visitors and also avoid using cameras inside the palace.
- Accessibility: The Lal Mahal is not fully accessible to visitors with disabilities. There are steps and uneven surfaces to navigate within the palace.
- How to Get There: The Lal Mahal is located in the heart of Pune city and is easily accessible by public transport or rickshaw. If you are driving, there is limited parking available near the palace. Also, you can easily travel by train and get down at Shivajinagar station, which is the nearest to the palace. [If you are coming from Mumbai, you can take a train or bus to Pune. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.]
- Combine your visit: The Lal Mahal is located close to other popular Pune attractions such as Shaniwar Wada, Kasba Peth Ganapati Temple and market, Vishram Baug Wada**,** Consider exploring these sites as well.
- Pune has a variety of restaurants serving Maharashtrian cuisine and other Indian and international dishes around the city area.
Google Maps locations:
- Lal Mahal: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BNZkYokH4WDKctXS9
It was a fantastic day exploring Lal Mahal with all of you fellow Pune and Mumbai Local Guides and also Thanks to Tushar for hosting this meet-up without which it wouldn’t have been possible for me to visit this historical palace.
@TusharSuradkar @AjitThite @Purvik_mistry @Ketan_Kangankar @Anannya_19 @abhishekpatk @Rohan10 @ameysun @TravellerG @Akshun_P
I wish I could have been there but, you made it seem like at times I was there. Thanks 
my virtually swag to you for writing soo inclusive and icing on a cake with historical tadka awesome.