Panhala Fort

Built-in – 1178-1209 AD Elevation – 845 m. above Sea level Architect/ Built by – Raja Bhoj of Shilhara Dynasty Largest of all the forts in the Deccan area, Panhala fort carries rich heritage and cultural background under many emperors like Raja Bhoj (Shilahara Dynasty), Ibrahim Adil Shah (Sultan of Bijapur), Chhatrapati Shivaji, and Sambhaji Maharaj (Maratha Empire), Aurangzeb (Mughal Empire), etc. It is mainly famous for the Battle of Pavankhind. Somewhat triangular, this fort has more than 7km of fortifications with round bastions at intervals. Many notable elements exhibit the remarkable thinking of a ruler. The Andhaar Bavdi (Hidden Well) is a 3-storied structure that was constructed to conceal the main source of water in the fort. Kalavanticha Mahal (Courtesan’s palace), Amberkhana (Granaries), Dharma Kothi, Sajja Kothi, were some other important structures that displayed the Bijapur style of architecture. Teen Darwaja, Wagh Darwaja were some of the beautifully ornamented entrances of the fort. The premise also houses various temples dedicated to Sambhaji II, Someshwar, Mahakali, and Ambabai.

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