Panhala – The Largest Fort in the Deccan
There are plenty of forts all over Maharashtra. But Panhala holds a special place among them all. Panhala, also known as Panhalgarh, close to the city of Kolhapur, is the largest fort in the Deccan region. It is also among the most important ones. This is a protected monument today, and is thus in a much better condition than many other forts in the state and elsewhere in the country. You are sure to enjoy your visit to Panhala. But make sure that you have ample time in your hands. You should be seeing all the attractions within the walls of the fort. Remember, it is among the bigger forts in size in India.
The Panhala fort was founded by Raja Bhoja during the later part of the 12th century. In fact, this was his capital between 1178 and 1209. It later went to the Bahamani and the Yadava kings. The Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur took it over in 1489, and later in 1659, it went into the hands of Shivaji. Historians tell us that the great Maratha ruler was a resident of Panhala for about 500 days. The fort stayed with the Maratha rulers almost throughout since then, except for a short while, when the Mughal rulers seized it. The Kolhapur State held on to the fort just before India’s independence.
Visiting the Panhala fort
Panhala is located just 18 kilometers from Kolhapur. You should thus make the city your base for visiting the fort. The best places to stay are in the city. You can hire a taxi to reach the main gate of the fort. It’s going to be a walk from there. Trekking is however a pleasure here. You are sure to love the pollution free air and the scenic surroundings. Do also remember to visit Someshwar Tank.
Panhala fort with its 7 kilometers of boundary walls is certainly an imposing structure. There are three double-walled gates that protect the entrance. Do not miss the granary within – it stands even today. Locally it is known as the amberkhana. Also visit Sajja Kothi. This is where Shivaji had imprisoned his son Sambhaji. There is also the Someshwar Temple within the walled areas.
The Andhar Bavadi or the Hidden Well is another interesting construction. There are winding staircases, which conceal a well at the bottom. This was the main source of water for the fort and its residents. According to legends, there are hidden escape routes within the Andhar Bavadi. Some people believe that the well was concealed to hide these escape routes.
True, forts do hold many surprises.
