The short answer
Peshwa Smarak, Shrivardhan: what visitors should know first
Go only if Peshwa history interests you. Plan 30 to 45 minutes, expect a simple memorial, not a polished museum, and check that it is open and lit. Shrivardhan is about 18 to 20 km from Harihareshwar, so pair it with Diveagar.
History and context
The story behind Peshwa Smarak, Shrivardhan
Wikipedia describes Shrivardhan as the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa, serving from 1713 to 1720 and father of Baji Rao I, and says the institution of the Peshwa is said to have been born in the town in 1713.
The same source records that a statue of Balaji Vishwanath was installed in 1988 and that a large house built by Balaji Bajirao in 1750 was recently renovated.
Useful facts
Peshwa Smarak, Shrivardhan facts at a glance
- Location
- Shrivardhan town centre
- Experience type
- Memorial and heritage stop
- Known for
- Birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, first Peshwa
- Built
- Statue installed 1988, per Wikipedia
- Distance
- About 18 to 20 km from Harihareshwar
Why it matters
Why Peshwa Smarak, Shrivardhan is worth your time
The institution of the Peshwa, the chief minister who later ran the Maratha state, is said to have begun in Shrivardhan in 1713. That gives the small town an outsized place in Maratha history, and it explains the Peshwa links across this stretch of coast, including Harihareshwar.
The memorial is a reminder that the Konkan was not just a pilgrim and fishing coast but also a source of political talent. It is worth a short stop for visitors who want that context.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Balaji Vishwanath statue
A statue of the first Peshwa, installed in 1988, stands in the town.
- 02
Laxminarayan temple
Described as the Peshwas' main temple, a short walk away.
- 03
Peshwa-era house
A house built in 1750 by Balaji Bajirao is recorded as renovated.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Shrivardhan was the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa, who served from 1713 to 1720 and was the father of Baji Rao I. The Peshwa Smarak commemorates him, and a statue of Balaji Vishwanath was installed in 1988, according to Wikipedia.
Walk through the town centre for the memorial and the nearby Shri Laxminarayan temple, described as the main temple of the Peshwas. A large house built in 1750 by the third Peshwa, Balaji Bajirao, is also noted in Wikipedia as recently renovated.
Expect a modest site rather than a museum. Visit in daylight, keep expectations realistic, and combine it with lunch in Shrivardhan and a continuation to Diveagar.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Visit in daylight
- Check opening and condition locally
- Carry a phone torch
- Combine with lunch in Shrivardhan
- Plan onward travel to Diveagar
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Shrivardhan town centre, about 18 to 20 km from Harihareshwar
- Time needed
- 30 to 45 minutes
- Best time
- Morning or daytime; avoid evenings if power cuts affect lighting
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The site is in the town centre and largely level, with limited seating and basic upkeep. Some visitors report the interior can be dark, so take a phone torch.
- Tickets and access
- One guide lists it as open all day without entry fee; another says upkeep is poor. Check opening and conditions locally before planning around it.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Peshwa Smarak, Shrivardhan
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
The site is in the town centre and largely level, with limited seating and basic upkeep. Some visitors report the interior can be dark, so take a phone torch.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Who was Balaji Vishwanath?
He was the first Peshwa, serving from 1713 to 1720, and was born in Shrivardhan.
Is there an entry fee?
One guide says it is free and open all day, but check locally.
How far is it from Harihareshwar?
About 18 to 20 km by road, depending on the source.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.