Panhala Fort in Panhala
· Summer: March-May (22°C - 40°C)
· Winter: November-February (12°C - 33°C)
· Monsoon: June-October
Best time to visit:
October-May
Opening Time: 08:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 06:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Nil
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: Nil
Children:
Nil
Cameras: Nil
Video Camera: Nil
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
Nil
Children:
Nil
Cameras:
Nil
Video Camera:
Nil
Often regarded as the largest of various forts in the Deccan, Panhala Fort was constructed in 1178 AD by Bhoja II of Shilahara Dynasty. The fort later exchanged hands between many powerful dynasties and empires like Yadavas, Bahamani, Bijapur, Mughals, Marathas and British. Located in the folds of Sahyadri Range of mountains, the fort is admired for its impressive defence mechanisms, about 7 km. long fortifications, bastions and many unique structures.
The top highlights of the fort include three double gateways of Teen Darwaza, Wagh Darwaza and Char Darwaza, huge granaries of Ambarkhana and Dharma Kothi, pleasure pavilion of Sajja Kothi, temples of Someshwar and Ambabai and a number of mausoleums. In addition, there are structures like Rajdindi Bastion and Andhar Bavadi that were used as secret places by the soldiers during seize attempts by the enemy forces.
More than 100 check posts and tunnels added to the fort’s security against enemies. Roughly triangular in layout, the fort is located about 845 m. above the sea level and offers breathtaking views of the valley.
Connectivites
Road:
National Highway 204 connects the hill station of Panhala with the popular city of Kolhapur. The road is in good condition to travel in the state transport buses or taxis. The fort is located at the heart of the hill station and can be accessed on foot.
Railway:
Kolhapur Railway Station is about 21 km. from the fort, while other convenient options include railheads at Sangli (about 72 km.) and Miraj (72 km.). Taxis from any of these stations will take you to the fort.
Airway:
The airport of Kolhapur is only 31 km. away from the fort. You can rely on the taxis available near the airport to reach the fort.