Pavangad

Kerala, India

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Pavangad Fort is a hill fort located near Panhala in Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. It was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1673 as a strategic twin fort to Panhala, separated by a ravine and protected by steep scarped rocks and strong parapet walls.

During Aurangzeb's reign, the fort was renamed Rasulgad after it was captured by the Mughals. In 1827, Pavangad was handed to the British, and in 1844, during a rebellion, the British forces breached and partially dismantled the fort, demolishing its main entrances.

The fort has notable ancient Hindu temples dedicated to deities like Shiva, Hanuman, Narsimha, and Lakshmi, which continue to be places of worship. Despite its partial ruin and absence of water availability, Pavangad stands as a symbol of Maratha military foresight and resilience, drawing visitors interested in its history and natural surroundings.