Parvati Hill

Parvati Hill a heritage hillock in Pune

After Vetal Tekdi, the second highest hill point in Pune is Parvati Hill which rises to a height of 640 meters above ground level. The hill derived its name from the temple atop the hill named as Parvati temple which is the most beautiful destination in the city. Being the oldest heritage temple constructed at the time of Peshwan rule, it seeks an important place in developing Pune’s heritage property. The hilltop also serves as an observation point from where the entire Pune could be viewed. Visitors can reach the temple after climbing 103 steps by the hill. Previously the hill belonged to Taware Patil from whom it was purchased by the Peshwa for building the Shiva temple located atop the hill.

History of Parvati Hill Pune

Parvati Hill is a hillock located in the city of Pune, India. It is one of the oldest hills in Pune, with a rich history and cultural significance. The hill is named after the Hindu goddess Parvati, who is considered to be the goddess of power and fertility.

The hill has been an important site for Hindu worship for many centuries. There are several ancient temples located on the hill, including the Parvati Temple, which is said to have been built in the 17th century. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Parvati and her consort, Lord Shiva.

During the reign of the Maratha Empire in the 17th and 18th centuries, the hill was used as a strategic fortification. The Maratha leader, Shivaji, used the hill as a base for his army and built several military structures on its slopes.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the hill became a popular destination for British colonial officials and wealthy Indian families, who built luxurious bungalows on its slopes.

Today, Parvati Hill is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to see its historical temples and enjoy its scenic views. The hill is also home to several residential neighborhoods and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in Pune.

In conclusion, Parvati Hill is a significant cultural and historical site in Pune, with a rich heritage that has been shaped by centuries of worship, military activity, and residential development.

Temple Description

The main temple is known as Devdeveshwara and is created out of black stone. There are other temples that are dedicated to Rukmini, Vitthal, Vishnu, and Kartikiya. There are actually five temples at the top of the hill.

• The temple of Shiva and Parvati which is regarded as Devdevshwara Mandir
• Kartikeya temple, the eldest son of Shiva and Parvati.
• Vishnu mandir, in the name of the preserver of creation
• Vitthal temple in the name of the manifestation of Vishnu.
• Rama temple in the name of lord Rama, another manifestation of lord Vishnu

Other temples include the deities of Surya (Sun God) and goddess Bhawani. At the southeast part of the hill halfway up to the hill is the Buddhist cave. It is an incomplete structure but seems to resemble the Pataleshwar caves.

Apart from the temple, there are other heritage structures too situated nearby. One of the structures is the Pehwa Museum. The museum depicts the Peshwa rule. Another structure is the Samadhi of Nanasaheb Peshwa where he is known to spend his life’s last moments. The water tank called Parvati water tank provides water nearly to half of Pune.

Reaching the hilltop

The hilltop is not that high and has trial records. The steps are sloppy and wide enough because of which it is not like the technically built regular steps. The climb is easy and does not need more energy to get up. It may be a bit difficult for the elders but to say many elders are seen climbing the hill using it for doing exercises in the morning and evening. You can also have enough opportunities for photo shooting while climbing the hill. The steps to climb it run between the woods on one side and rocks on the other. It takes a maximum of half an hour to reach the top for the elders.

Useful information on Parvati Hill

The opening time of the temples is from 5 in the morning to 10 at night. It is open on all days of the week. Parvati stands at the heart of the city. The distance of the hill from Deccan is 4 km and from that of Swargate is just 1 km. the hill is situated in Saras Baug which is 1 km away from Saras Baug Ganapati temple. Saras Baug can be reached from Swagate via Saras Baug. You can reach the temple from Swargate either via Saras Baug by walking or by hiring an auto. In Saras Baug, there is a renowned Mahalaxmi temple. These three temples- Saras Baug Ganapati, Mahalaxmi, and Parvati can be visited in one day. Parvati Hill may be called a temple complex as the entire hilltop is full of various temples. It is a wonderful place for spending a leisurely evening or morning. You can spend your weekend at this place filled with positive vibrations all around.

Things to do at Parvati Hill

Parvati Hill is a popular tourist destination in Pune, offering a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the things you can do while visiting the hill:

1. Visit the Parvati Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Parvati and is one of the main attractions on the hill. It is a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu religion and culture.
2. Explore the old bungalows: The hill is home to several old bungalows that were built by British colonial officials and wealthy Indian families in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These bungalows are a fascinating example of colonial-era architecture and are now protected as heritage sites.
3. Take a scenic walk: Parvati Hill offers some of the most scenic views of the city of Pune. You can take a leisurely walk along its slopes, taking in the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
4. Visit the Peshwa Museum: The Peshwa Museum is located on the hill and showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the Maratha Empire, of which the hill was an important part. The museum displays a range of artifacts, including weapons, clothing, and manuscripts.
5. Enjoy a picnic: Parvati Hill is a popular picnic spot, with several large open spaces and gardens that are ideal for families and friends to spend a day out in the fresh air.
6. Take part in Hindu rituals and ceremonies: The hill is an important site for Hindu worship, and there are several religious ceremonies and rituals that take place here throughout the year. Visitors can participate in these ceremonies and gain an insight into Hindu culture and traditions.

In conclusion, Parvati Hill offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors, from cultural and historical tours to scenic walks and picnics, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Pune.

Places to Visit Near Parvati Hill

Parvati Hill is located in the city of Pune, which is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. There are several other places of interest near Parvati Hill that visitors can explore while they are in the city. Here are some of the popular places to visit near Parvati Hill:

Shaniwar Wada:

Shaniwar Wada is a historic fort located in the heart of Pune. It was built in the 18th century and was once the seat of the Maratha Empire. Visitors can explore the fort’s beautiful gardens, grand gates, and impressive walls, and learn about its rich history.

Aga Khan Palace:

This palace is a magnificent building located just a few kilometers from Parvati Hill. It was built in the 19th century and has a rich history as a center of political and cultural activity in India. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its connection to the Indian independence movement.

Sinhagad Fort:

Sinhagad Fort is a historic fort located on a hilltop near Pune. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the fort’s historic buildings and learn about its role in the Maratha Empire.

Osho International Meditation Resort:

This resort is located just a few kilometers from Parvati Hill and is a popular destination for visitors who are interested in meditation and spiritual practices. The resort offers a range of classes and workshops, as well as meditation rooms and peaceful gardens.

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum:

This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Raja Dinkar Kelkar, a famous collector of traditional Indian arts and crafts. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits, including sculptures, paintings, and musical instruments, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of India.

In conclusion, there are many interesting places to visit near Parvati Hill, offering visitors a range of cultural and historical experiences, as well as opportunities to explore the beautiful landscapes and scenic countryside of Pune.

Interesting Facts

Here are some interesting facts about Parvati Hill in Pune:

1. Parvati Hill is named after the Hindu goddess Parvati, who is considered to be the goddess of power and fertility.
2. The hill has been an important site for Hindu worship for many centuries, with several ancient temples located on its slopes.
3. The Parvati Temple is one of the oldest temples on the hill, and is said to have been built in the 17th century.
4. During the reign of the Maratha Empire in the 17th and 18th centuries, the hill was used as a strategic fortification, with the Maratha leader Shivaji building several military structures on its slopes.
5. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the hill became a popular destination for British colonial officials and wealthy Indian families, who built luxurious bungalows on its slopes.
6. Parvati Hill is one of the highest points in Pune, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
7. The hill is home to several residential neighborhoods and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in Pune.
8. The Peshwa Museum is located on the hill and showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the Maratha Empire.
9. Parvati Hill is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to see its historical temples, scenic views, and colonial-era bungalows.
10. Parvati Hill is also a popular destination for Hindu worship, with several religious ceremonies and rituals taking place on its slopes throughout the year.

In conclusion, Parvati Hill is a rich and fascinating site, with a long and complex history that has been shaped by centuries of worship, military activity, and residential development.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Parvati Hill in Pune:

Q: What is Parvati Hill?

A: Parvati Hill is a hill located in the city of Pune, India. It is named after the Hindu goddess Parvati and has been an important site for Hindu worship for many centuries. The hill is home to several temples, residential neighborhoods, and scenic views, and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in Pune.

Q: How can I get to Parvati Hill?

A: Parvati Hill is located in the city of Pune and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus. Visitors can also take a scenic hike up the hill from the city center.

Q: What are some popular things to do at Parvati Hill?

A: Parvati Hill is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of activities and attractions, including visiting ancient temples, exploring colonial-era bungalows, taking scenic walks, and enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Q: Are there any historical sites on Parvati Hill?

A: Yes, there are several historical sites on Parvati Hill, including ancient temples, military structures built during the Maratha Empire, and colonial-era bungalows. The Peshwa Museum is also located on the hill and showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the Maratha Empire.

Q: Is Parvati Hill a good place for a scenic walk or hike?

A: Yes, Parvati Hill is a popular destination for scenic walks and hikes, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The hill is also home to several residential neighborhoods, parks, and gardens, making it a peaceful and picturesque place to explore.

In conclusion, Parvati Hill is a unique and interesting destination, offering visitors a range of cultural, historical, and natural experiences. Whether you’re interested in visiting ancient temples, exploring scenic views, or learning about the rich history of the Maratha Empire, there is something for everyone at Parvati Hill.