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Located barely a kilometer from Swargate, and about three kms from Pune station, is the beautiful temple of the Sarasbaug Ganapati. Nanasaheb Peshwa is known to have constructed the Sarasbaug garden when the Peshwas were overseeing the construction of the Devadeshwar temples, at the Parvati hills nearby. This temple was orginally surrounded by a lake, which has now taken the shape of the park. Because of the lake, this place was also known as ‘Talyacha Ganpati’ (Tal = Lake). This lake and park was originally built to provide for relaxation while the Parvati temples were under construction. The temple is situated on a little hillock close to the park and is the abode of Lord Siddhivinayak (The God who makes wishes come true). It is really difficult to believe that this temple now surrounded by green lawns and a well-maintained park was once reduced to a garbage dumping ground that was prone to mosquito breeding and disease. It's true !! A gradual decline in the maintenance of the temple and the drying up of the lake during the British rule, led to the decline of the park. However, in the 1930s, the Municipal Commissioners in the Pune Municipal Corporation took an interest in the reconstruction of the temple and its surroundings and the whole area was transformed into a garden, where people could come for worship as well as relaxation. Next to Sarasbaug is the Peshwe Park, which is a huge favorite with children. They love it for its toy train, boat rides and even a mini zoo! While discussing Sarasbaug one must remember to visit the beautiful hill temples that bear testimony to the grandeur of the Peshwas. Parvati is one of the more prominent landmarks in Pune. Though located to the South of the city, this hill temple is visible from almost all parts of the city. The temple is dedicated to Parvati and Devadeshwar. The path leading to the temple has 108 steps. Other temples dedicated to Vishnu, Ganesh and Karthikeya also form part of the magnificent temples on top of the hill. The idols in these temples date back to the 17th century. There is a small museum that displays old manuscripts, weapons and coins used during the times of the Peshwa rule and also has portraits and pictures of the brave Peshwas who ruled during that time. The trek to the temples on the hill is itself a beautiful experience and it gives an excellent view of Pune.
Last Updated: Saturday, 07 April 2007
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