Panhala is ideal for those looking for a picturesque long weekend break from Pune/Mumbai..

She tells you why you should quickly plan a trip as the monsoons threaten to disappear soon.

Sugarcane fields and occasional hills of the Sahyadri range put up an unforgettable ‘slideshow’ on a car’s windows while we drive from Pune to Kolhapur on the NH4. The uphill road to Panhala is about 20 kms away from Kolhapur on the Kolhapur-Ratnagiri highway NH 204. The road climbing up to the fort is often covered in clouds during the monsoons, reducing the visibility to barely 100m.

Panhala is a walled settlement though parts of the wall have been demolished or disintegrated. Some of the old buildings are still functional and are used as government offices. The old palace of Queen Tararani now houses a school.

During monsoons, rain and mist are constant features. Situated at over 3000 feet above sea level, there is a strong wind blowing in almost 24x7. The entire valley is carpeted in rich shades of green with the red soil making artistic intermittent designs. The landscape glows richly in the weak sunlight that filters out occasionally between the clouds. Keep your camera ready to catch that elusive rainbow that may just appear when you are least prepared

At several spots like Pusati Buruj, the wind will tempt you to stand out facing the valley like Rose Bukater in the movie ‘Titanic.” While this is surely exhilarating, do look out for slippery moss or broken stones.

All historical sites are situated around the periphery of the plateau and can be easily accessed on foot. The less adventurous can travel in their vehicle or take a rickshaw where the driver may double up as a tourist guide.

The Sajja Kothi gives a panoramic view of the plains below. Shivaji planned several missions here and later Sambhaji was imprisoned here. The impressive huge granaries at Ambarkhana are said to have stored grains for four months for the army when Panhala was under siege by Adil Shah’s forces in 1660. The Teen Darwaja shrewdly uses architecture for defence. Though these structures are overgrown with moss or trees they are a mute testimonial of advances in construction technology of a bygone era.

There is wonderful bronze statue of Baji Prabhu Deshpande at the fort entrance. It stands proudly passing the test of time reminding us of his valour as he fought to stave off the enemies chasing Shivaji at Ghod Khind (later renamed Pavan Khind).

Retrace Shivaji’s steps to Vishalgah via Pavan Khind when he escaped from Panhala or trek up to Panhala from its foothills. The Mhasai plateau may prove irresistible as it beckons you through curtains of rain. For the more adventurous, rappelling down the rocky hill face is an exciting alternative. Do tie up for experienced guides and specific equipment. Several organisations in Pune and Mumbai can organise a trek for you. It’s a good idea to check fitness levels of your group so everyone has a wonderful time.

The Botanical garden too deserves a visit for its many old trees and an interesting model of the fort.

Panhala is reasonably clean and has many options to stay. If sightseeing or trekking is not your forte, then visit Panhala for pure unadulterated rest and let its sights and sounds completely refresh you