Panhalekaji Fort

**Panhale Fort: Protect the Dabhol Trade Route\!** Located on the mountain between the Dhakti and Kodjai rivers, this fort protected the Dabhol port trade route. **Nearby Must-See:** Panhalekaji Caves. **The Jholaidevi Temple Ascent:** From Panhalekaji village, ascend 15 steps (carved rocks\!) to the Goddess Jholaidevi Temple. The original black rock temple is gone; the current structure is cement concrete. **Fort Path (Pranalak Fort):** Find the path next to the stage in front of the temple that leads to the cleft between Jholaidevi hill and Panhale (Pranalak) fort. Take the right path to ascend. **Inside the Fort:** * Dual fortification walls. * Cross the first wall to reach a rock-carved water tank (5 mins). Look for carved steps nearby. * Enter the fort through the remnants of the upper wall. * Due to farming, fort parts are scattered (bricks from different eras, limestone mixer stone).**Statue & Descent:** See the statue of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (erected 1994). A 4-foot pillar lies beside it. **Confusing Routes?** Take a local guide\! **Descent Route Highlights (Opposite Jholaidevi Temple path):** Find a dried-up water tank supported by built-in pillars, then return to the cleft. Descend opposite the village to find a second dried-up water tank on the right path. Finish your visit back at Jholaidevi Temple.