Vishrambaug Wada

Situated at Sadashiv Peth, at the intersection of the Bajirao Road and the Laxmi Road in Pune, Vishrambaug Wada is a a three storeyed magnificent mansion built in 1811 by Peshwa Bajirao the Second. The mansion was the residence of the Peshwa and it took over six years to be constructed with a whopping cost of INR 200,000. Boasting of a Maratha style of architecture, the building has been done in tones of earthy red, brown and white. Although in a little neglected state now, the historic architectural wonder is thronged by several tourists as it still stands strong as a testimony to the rich culture and grandeur of the bygone era. Tucked up in the heart of a busy market place, the monument boasts of finely carved teak pillars, cypress shaped columns, decorated ceilings, teak wood gallery and stone floors etc.

The first floor with a durbar, balcony and hall is also completely done up in teak and is known to be the place where the musicians of the Peshwa performed. This floor does not allow visitors anymore. Only some parts of the ancient monument are open for public, the rest being used up as offices. When Pune was annexed by the British, Vishrambaug Wada was used as a prison for a long time. Later it was also used to house the office of Pune Municipal Corporation from the year 1930 to 1958. However, it is still visited by tourist owing to its impeccable architectural finesse and designs. A number of offices still operate from the building even today. One part of it is also used as Post Office and another part of it is occupied by SMILE (Savitri Marketing Institution for Ladies Empowerment).