Nisargnaad Offbeat: Panhalgad-Pawankhind

History remembers the thrilling escape of Shivaji from the siege of Fort Panhala. The dramatic chase by Bijapur forces and the valiant stand at the Battle of Pawankhind, where Baji Prabhu Deshpande and 300 Marathas made the ultimate sacrifice, are etched in legend. Adding a layer of emotional depth is the story of Veer Shiva Kashid, a barber who selflessly disguised himself as Shivaji, knowing it meant his own demise.

The escape route, stretching 75 kilometers across Kolhapur district, Maharashtra, from Panhala to Vishalgad, remains largely unchanged. Pawankhind lies roughly 55 kilometers from Panhala. Today, the landscape retains its rugged beauty, marked by few roads and quaint villages inhabited by Maratha farmers and Dhangar shepherds.

This historical route has become a pilgrimage for adventure groups in Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, and Sangli. Trekkers embark on this annual journey, replicating Shivaji’s escape, typically in July and August during the monsoon season, mirroring the conditions of the original operation in 1660. Join us on this 26 KM Trek to Vishalgad from Panhalgad and Pawankhind (Now rest of the route is a Tar road covered by a vehicle)