Parvati Temple, Parvati Mandir

Parvati Temple

History of the temple:
The main temple, as it stands today, was built by the third Peshwa, Shrimant Nana Saheb in the year 1749 A.D. The history of the temple is linked with a miracle. It is believed that Kashibai, the mother of the third Peshwa was suffering from a severe ailment in her right foot. One of her advisors informed her about a temple of Goddess to the South of Pune which was famous for its miraculous healing power. Kashibai went to the temple which was located on top of this hill and prayed for her recovery. She vowed that if she was cured of her ailment, she would build a temple there. She soon recovered and her son built a temple on the hill. This was the famous Parvati temple. Parvati is one of the favourite relaxation spots for the residents of Pune. The height of Parvati hill is 2100 feet above sea level and 260 feet from the city level. The hill offers an aerial view of the city and the most picturesque scene in the early hours of the day. Parvati hill houses one big and three small temples.
One has to climb 103 steps to reach the hilltop. The steps are an example of fine stone work of the Maratha period. A special black quarry stone has been used for all these steps. It is weather-resistant and except for a few places, the stone has survived for over two hundred and fifty years even after being fully exposed to sun, wind and water. The steps are so wide that an elephant can easily walk with all pomp and gaiety towards the temple. They are not too steep and even old people can climb with ease. It is an enjoyable sight to see children running up and down the hill. Main entrance of the Parvati Temple. The construction of the main entrance of the temple reflects typical architecture of old Maratha style.
Idol of Lord Shiva is engraved on the wall of the temple.

Parvati is the daily visiting place for a number of citizens and for many people, going to Parvati (103 steps) forms a part of their daily exercise regimen. The Parvati gates open at 5.00 am and close at 8.00 pm.

Lord Kartiks Temple

Museum houses the objects used by Peshwas. Entry fee is Rs. 5 per person. The museum holds weapons, house hold articles, scriptures, coins used during the Peshwa rule.

Another belief is associated with the temple of Parvati. Chhatrapati Shri Shahu Maharaj, the ruling king of the Maratha Empire and the grandson of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was pious, kind and a man of high moral character. He had special affection for his minister, young Nana Saheb Peshwa and he entrusted the entire business of the empire to him. The young Peshwa won the confidence of the king and was bestowed with his faith and affection.

The correspondence stands evidence to the fact that for the aged king, the young Peshwa was almost like a son. The death of King Shahu Maharaj was a personal loss to Nana Saheb. As a sign of rememberance, he brought the 'KHADAWA,' the wooden footwear of the late king and also an icon of Shivalinga with him from Satara to Pune and placed them underneath the Shivalinga of the main temple of Parvati. Though there is no evidence in writing about this episode but three events point out to the truth of this belief. Firstly, Nana Saheb Peshwa called the Shiva of Parvati hill temple by the name "Devadeveshwara" i.e."Lord of Lords" - suggesting its supreme position in the divinity. Secondly, Nana Saheb Peshwa paid personal attention to the Parvati temple. Thirdly, when he became seriously ill, he preferred to remain near his favourite deity, than to stay at his usual place. Noted historians have also pointed this fact that Nanasaheb Peshwa had special respect and love for Devadeveshwar at Parvati Hill.

Being the highest point in Pune and having conveniently located observation points, the beautiful panaromic view of Pune city leaves visitors spellbound. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views are like the icing on the cake.