Panhalgad

Panhalgad History: Built by First Shilahar King Bhoj Nrupsingh. Originally known as Pannnagralya (ruled by Nag tribe). Shivaji Maharaj captured it in 18 days (Nov 28, 1659) after Afzalkhan's assassination, taking advantage of weakening Adilshahi. Adilshah briefly recaptured it, but Marathas won it back. Siddhi Johar besieged it on March 2, 1660. Famous escape: Shivaji Maharaj crossed God Khind to Vishalgad (Siddhi Johar captured the fort then). In 1673, Kondaji Farjand recaptured the fort with just 60 soldiers! Became Kolhapur's capital in 1710. British capture: 1844. A must-see historical trek!

Explore Panhalgad Fort's Must-See Spots!1. **Palace:** Maratha Queen Tarabai's residence. Features a beautiful Temple. Now houses the Municipal Corporation office, Panhala High school, and military boys' hostel. 2. **Sajjakothi:** Where Sambhaji Maharaj stayed on Panhalgad. Also hosted confidential meetings for Shivaji Maharaj. 3. **Rajdindi:** Tough escape route\! Shivaji Maharaj used this way during the siege of Panhalgad to reach Vishalgad (45 miles away). 4. **Amabarkhana:** Initially the Balle-Killa (citadel). Nearby is a Khandak. Features 3 grain storage buildings: Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarasvati. Stored Vari, Nagli, and Rice (approx. 25,000 Khandi). 5. **Char Darwaja:** Eastern entrance, vital for security. Demolished by the British in 1844. 6. **Lake Somale:** Large lake near the market. Features the beautiful Someshwar Temple where Shivaji Maharaj and associates offered 1000 Chafa flowers. 7. **Samadhi of Ramchandra Amatya:** Find two memorials here: one for Honorable Ramchandra Amatya and one for his wife, located near Someshwar Lake. 8. **Rede Palace:** Started as a horse stable, later used for cattle, hence the name (Rede Palace). 9. **Sambhaji Temple:** A small citadel located just past Rede Palace. 10. **Dharmakothi:** Spacious structure near Sambhaji Temple. Groceries were donated here for charity. 11. **Mahalaxmi Temple:** The fort's oldest structure (nearly 1000 years old). Located near Nehru Garden, outside the main Palace. Deity of Bhoj King Gandaritya. 12. **Teen Darwaja:** Western entrance with noteworthy carvings. Kondaji Farjand and 60 soldiers used this door to conquer the fort in 1676. 13. **Andarbav:** Three-storey monument with a well at the base and a secret escape route. 14. **Baji Prabhu Statue:** Not on the fort, but located near the bus stop.