The city sprawls in the Panhala fort commands a panoramic view of the valley below.

The strategic importance of Panhala, guarding one of the principal routes through the Western Ghat, can be judged from its long and varied history.

Built between 1178 and 1209, it first served as the headquarters of the Shilahara ruler Bhoja II, and subsequently passed into hands of the Yadavas.

It was a favorite outpost of the Bahamanis of Bidar; Mahmud Gawan, the powerful prime minister, encamped here during the rainy season of 1469.

However, it was re-captured in 1692 by Kashi Ranganath Sarpotdar under the guidance of Parshuram Pant Pratinidhi.

In 1701, Panhala was finally surrendered to Aurangzeb, and it was here that the Mughal Emperor received the English Ambassador, Sir William Norris.

More than 7 km of fortifications define the approximately triangular zone of Panhala fort.

The walls are protected for long sections by steep escarpments, reinforced by a parapet with slit holes.

Unfortunately, the East Gate called Char Darawaja, through which the road passes on arrival at fort, was demolished by the British.

Pavankhind, where Baji Prabhu Deshpande laid down his life to cover Shivaji's escape.

The Karvir or Kolhapur Puran, a modern (1730) compilation, mentions Panhala as Pannagalay (home of serpents).