Panhala Fort
Content
The most significant figure in the city of Panhala is the Panhala fort located 20 kilometers northwest of the Kolhapur town. This grand fort was associated with Shivaji when he defeated the Bijapur general Afzal Khan and captured the fort.
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History Of The Place
It is said that the grand citadel was built by Bhoja II and Ibrahim Adil Shah I during the years 1178 to 1209 and was used actively till the year 1947. The grandeur of the place was such that it was further expanded during the years of 1489 to 1557, and made completely of stone and lead.
The legend also says that in the battle of Pavan Khind, nearly three-quarters of his force died and the fourth ultimately fell into the hands of Adil Shah, Shivaji finally occupying it in 1673. The Panhala Fort is an embodiment of the Kolhapur heritage, enriching it day by day. It is also said that the Panhala fort was the shelter for 15000 horses and home to more than 20,000 soldiers of Shivaji during his time at the fort.
Significance Of The Place
Panhala fort is one of the torchbearers of Kolhapur history and there’s a connection of God Parshuram with the forts in the Deccan region.
It also has a large political influence and significance as it was the home to several great rulers including Shivaji, Yadav, and Bahmani dynasties. It was the same place where Baji Prabhu sacrificed his own life for the sake of Shivaji’s escape.
Not only political and historic significance but also Panhala fort is a place to be remembered due to its cultural heritage. It is a place filled with several beautiful and culturally significant temples including Ambabaji temple, Someshwar temple, and many more beautiful temples which are a delight to the visitors’ eyes.
How To Reach There
- By Air – The aerial route is said to be the fastest route to reach the Panhala fort. The nearest airport to the Panhala Fort is the Kolhapur airport. This airport is well connected to all the major parts of the country via direct running flights on a daily basis.
- By Train – The Kolhapur railway station is located just around 30 kilometers from the city by the canal and is connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune and many other places.
- By Road – Public transport and both state and private buses have regular interactions with Panhala and are very easy to reach fron nearby places.
Things To See
Find definitive spots for youngsters in Panhala, be it water parks, amusement parks, or jungle gyms. Panhala is a great spot for adventure sport-loving enthusiasts, as it has several interesting things to do like Bungee Jumping and water sports. Also, it is one of the best places for photography lovers as well.
Bottom note
It is one of the best travel destinations with temples, and ancient Indian architecture on offer for tourists to sightsee! Enjoy Panhala as it is the perfect destination to fall in love with the Kolhapur lifestyle and good old golden days.
