Teen Darwaza
Teen Darwaza is the most significant and grand entrance of the historic Panhala Fort. Built during the Adil Shahi era, this gate is a masterpiece of military engineering and architectural beauty. The name "Teen Darwaza" refers to the three consecutive gates that an intruder would have to cross to e nter the main citadel. This strategic design was intended to trap enemies in a small courtyard between the gates, where they could be easily attacked by soldiers from the ramparts above. It gained legendary status during the Maratha period, especially during the siege by Siddhi Johar when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj stayed at the fort. The gate features intricate carvings, including motifs of Lord Ganesha and Persian inscriptions, reflecting the mixed cultural history of the region. Today, it stands as a silent witness to the bravery of Baji Prabhu Deshpande and the strategic genius of the Maratha empire. The surrounding atmosphere is misty and cool, as Panhala is a hill station located at an altitude of over 3,000 feet.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Fort / Historical LandmarkEntry Fees:
Entry is Free: There is no specific fee to visit Teen Darwaza or Panhala Fort. However, parking fees for vehicles may apply (approx. 30-50 INR). ...Entry is Free: There is no specific fee to visit Teen Darwaza or Panhala Fort. However, parking fees for vehicles may apply (approx. 30-50 INR).Timing:
Regular Timings: The fort is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM is best to experience the fog and avoid the tourist crowds. ...Regular Timings: The fort is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM is best to experience the fog and avoid the tourist crowds.Special Events:
Shiv Jayanti: The birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in February is celebrated with great pomp. A "Palki" (palanquin) procession passes through Teen Darwaza, accompanied by traditional drums and "Tutari.
" Independence Day: Fl...Shiv Jayanti: The birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in February is celebrated with great pomp. A "Palki" (palanquin) procession passes through Teen Darwaza, accompanied by traditional drums and "Tutari.
" Independence Day: Flag hoisting occurs at the nearby bastions, attracting locals and tourists alike.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Archway: Framing the second gate through the first arch provides a sense of depth and history.
The Ganesha Carving: A close-up of the deity carved in stone represents the Maratha heritage.
Sunset Point...The Main Archway: Framing the second gate through the first arch provides a sense of depth and history.
The Ganesha Carving: A close-up of the deity carved in stone represents the Maratha heritage.
Sunset Point: The area near the gate offers golden hour views of the Masai Plateau.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Historical Photography: Capture the three layers of the gate and the intricate carvings of Ganesha. The symmetry of the arches is a delight for architectural photographers.
Guided Walk: Hire a local guide to explain the military strategy behind the "trap" design and the story of Shivaji Maharaj's escape.
Visit Nearby Granaries: Walk from Teen Darwaza to the Ambarkhana (granaries) to see how the fort survived long sieges.
Trekking: Use the gate as a starting point for a walk along the fort's 7-KM long perimeter wall.
Enjoy Local Corn: Eat roasted corn (bhutta) sold by local vendors near the gate while enjoying the view of the Sahyadri range.
Study the Inscriptions: Bring a flashlight to look clo...
Information
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Why Famous:
Siege of Panhala: It is famous for being the gateway that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj passed through during his daring escape to Vishalgad. The gate was the primary target during the 5-month long siege by the forces of Bijapur.
Artistic Fusion...Siege of Panhala: It is famous for being the gateway that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj passed through during his daring escape to Vishalgad. The gate was the primary target during the 5-month long siege by the forces of Bijapur.
Artistic Fusion: It is one of the few places where you can see Persian inscriptions alongside Hindu deities, showcasing the transition of power between the Bahamani, Adil Shahi, and Maratha dynasties.
Panoramic Views: The location offers a strategic view of the valley, making it a favorite for photographers. -
Architecture:
Indo-Islamic Military Style: The gateway is a prime example of the Bijapuri style of architecture blended with Maratha influences. It consists of three double-walled gates with a central courtyard. The outer gate features heavy iron spikes to prevent elephant charges.Indo-Islamic Military Style: The gateway is a prime example of the Bijapuri style of architecture blended with Maratha influences. It consists of three double-walled gates with a central courtyard. The outer gate features heavy iron spikes to prevent elephant charges.
Dimensions and Motifs: The structure stands approximately 35 feet high. The walls are made of massive lead-infused basalt stone blocks. You can find a beautiful carving of Lord Ganesha on the inner lintel, which was added by the Marathas to signify their rule.
Strategic Trap: The design includes "Kill-holes" and "Machicolations" through which boiling oil or arrows could be launched at intruders. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Kolhapur Airport is 22 KMS away.
By Train: Reach Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus (Kolhapur) and take a bus or taxi.
By Road: A well-paved mountain road connects Kolhapur to Panhala. -
Near Tourist Places:
Sajja Kothi (1 KM), Andhar Bavadi (0. 5 KM), Ambarkhana (1 KM), Jyotiba Temple (18 KMS), Rankala Lake (22 KMS), Masai Pathar (5 KMS), Pawankhind (50 KMS), Vishalgad (60 KMS), New Palace (23 KMS), Mahalakshmi Temple (22 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The stones can be slippery in the monsoon; wear shoes with good grip.
Packing: Carry a light jacket even in summer, as it gets chilly.
Cash & Connectivity: Mobile signals are decent; a fe...
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