Exploring Panhala Fort Kolhapur -

Описание: Exploring Panhala Fort

"Welcome to our exploration of one of Maharashtra’s hidden gems - Panhala Fort! Nestled in the Western Ghats, this majestic fort is not just a testament to the region's rich history but also offers stunning views and fascinating stories. Let’s dive into its history and some intriguing facts!"
"Panhala Fort, originally known as ‘Panhala’ in Marathi, dates back to the 12th century. It was constructed by the Shilahara dynasty and later became a significant stronghold for the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. This fort stands at an impressive elevation of 3,300 feet and was strategically built to control the trade routes between Konkan and the Deccan."

"Now, here are five interesting facts about Panhala Fort that you might not know!"

The Seven Stories:
"Panhala Fort is famous for its unique architecture featuring seven stories above ground and three below, with several magnificent structures, including the ‘Maha Darwaza’ and the ‘Ganga Mahal’."

Historical Battles:
"This fort was the site of many historical battles and sieges, including the famous siege by Aurangzeb in 1660, which lasted for over five months."

Caves and Water Tanks:
"Explore the many rock-cut caves around the fort, which were once used as living quarters and storage rooms, along with numerous water tanks that continue to supply water even today!"

Shaarif's Influence:
"Panhala is also linked to the poet-saint Sant Dnyaneshwar and has numerous stories depicting his life and teachings in the area."

Panorama of Nature:
"Not just history, the fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers looking for a serene escape into nature."

HOW TO REACH PANHALA FORT
Visiting Panhala Fort is easy, and here’s how you can get there by different modes of transport.
By Road:
If you're driving, Panhala is approximately 240 kilometers from Mumbai. You can take the NH 48 to Pune and then the NH 65 towards Kolhapur. The scenic drive is an experience in itself!
By Train:
The nearest railway station is Kolhapur, around 20 kilometers from the fort. Regular trains connect Kolhapur to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the fort.
By Air:
The closest airport is also in Kolhapur, with several domestic flights connecting to major cities. After landing, hire a taxi for a quick ride to Panhala Fort.