Panhala Fort, located near Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is one of the largest and most historic hill forts in the Deccan region. Known for its deep history, scenic views, and comfortable altitude, it's perfect for both history lovers and monsoon travelers.
Significance of Panhala Fort
Panhala Fort kaafi historic aur strategic fort tha. It was ruled by Shivaji Maharaj and was his safe place during several key moments. The fort is famous for the legendary escape of Shivaji Maharaj and Baji Prabhu Deshpande during the Battle of Pawan Khind.
Yeh fort unhi yaadon ka ek jeeta-jaagta saboot hai.
It was also used as a center for administration and military operations. Aaj bhi yahan aake log fort ki walls, bastions, and gateways dekh ke impressed ho jaate hain.
Exact Location of Panhala Fort
- 📌 Location: Panhala town, near Kolhapur City, Maharashtra
- 🗺️ Coordinates: 16.8122° N, 74.1090° E
- 📍 Google Map Location
Start Point & Base Point
- Base City: Kolhapur
- Distance from Kolhapur Railway Station: ~20 km
- From Kolhapur, you can take a taxi, bus, or even drive up to the fort
Best Route to Reach Panhala Fort from Mumbai & Pune
🚗 From Pune (~240 km / 5.5 hrs):
MSRTC buses are available from Kolhapur to Panhala every hour
- Pune → Satara → Karad → Kolhapur → Panhala
- Mumbai → Pune → Satara → Kolhapur → Panhala
- Take a train to Kolhapur Railway Station (C Shahumaharaj Terminus)
- → Then take local taxi/bus to Panhala Fort (20 km)
MSRTC buses are available from Kolhapur to Panhala every hour
Best Time to Visit Panhala Fort
- ✅ Monsoon (June to September): Lush greenery & clouds around the fort
- ✅ Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing
- ❌ Avoid Summer (March–May): Gets hot in the afternoon
Things to Do at Panhala Fort
- 🏯 Explore Rajdindi Bastion, Teen Darwaza, and Sajja Kothi
- 📸 Take photos of the massive fort walls and valley views
- 🏃♂️ Walk through Andhar Bavadi (hidden well) and Ambarkhana
- 🌧️ Enjoy monsoon clouds floating near the fort walls
- 🛍️ Visit local shops and try Kolhapuri chappals & spices
Is Camera or Drone Allowed?
- ✅ Cameras and mobile photography – Allowed
- ❌ Drone – Usually not allowed unless prior permission is taken from local authorities
Suitable for Whom?
- ✅ Solo Travelers – Historical & peaceful place to explore
- ✅ Group / Trekkers – Great walking experience through fort
- ✅ Family Trips – Good picnic spot, safe roads & nearby facilities
Facilities at Panhala Fort
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Food | ✅ Local restaurants & stalls at Panhala village |
| Water | ✅ Bottled water available easily |
| Toilets | ✅ Available near entry gate and parking zone |
| Parking | ✅ Spacious parking for 2-wheeler & 4-wheeler |
Budget (Approx. Per Person)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Travel (from Pune/Mumbai) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Food & Snacks | ₹150 – ₹250 |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Local Transport | ₹50 – ₹150 |
| Total Budget | ₹800 – ₹1,200 |
Nearby Places to Visit
- 🛕 Jyotiba Temple – On the mountain, 18 km away
- 🌇 Rankala Lake – Scenic lake in Kolhapur city
- 🛍️ Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple – One of Shakti Peethas
- 🥘 Kolhapuri Misal & Tambda Rassa – Try local spicy food
Stay prepared with our PDF guides.
🧳 Free Travel Checklist Downloads
Checklist Download Domestic Travel Checklist (India) ⬇ Download 0 downloads NRI Travel Checklist (Visiting India) ⬇ Download 0 downloads Weekend Trekking Checklist (India) ⬇ Download 0 downloads
💡 Tip: Save all three PDFs as your Travel Toolkit for India – one click, and you’re always travel-ready! For more guides & itineraries, visit: lets2gether.blog
| Checklist | Download |
|---|---|
| Domestic Travel Checklist (India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
| NRI Travel Checklist (Visiting India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
| Weekend Trekking Checklist (India) | ⬇ Download 0 downloads |
💡 Tip: Save all three PDFs as your Travel Toolkit for India – one click, and you’re always travel-ready! For more guides & itineraries, visit: lets2gether.blog
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