Vishalgad Fort
Vishalgad near Gajapur, Kolhapur district
If you are looking for a vast fort tied to the Pavankhind story, Vishalgad is a great choice. Formerly called Khelna, the fort near Gajapur in Kolhapur district guarded the Anuskura and Amba passes, and memorials to Bajiprabhu and Phulaji Deshpande stand on its plateau. The Bhagwanteshwar and Amruteshwar temples, the Mundha gateway, palace ruins, wells and the Takmak cliff point fill 3 to 4 hours at 1,090 metres. Kolhapur is the railhead. October to February is the best window.
Why go
- Memorials of Bajiprabhu and Phulaji Deshpande
- Bhagwanteshwar and Amruteshwar temples
- Mundha gateway, palace ruins and Takmak point
Travel at a glance
How to reach
Reach Vishalgad by state bus or private vehicle from Kolhapur via Malkapur and Amba/Gajapur. Cross the iron bridge from the parking area and use the marked climb and return routes.
Nearest railway station
Kolhapur
Things to carry
The fort is vast, crowded near the dargah and has steep ladders, valleys and exposed points. Start early, use marked routes, avoid isolated edges and do not attempt the ladder in rain.
FAQs
What was Vishalgad formerly called?
Khelna, before Shivaji Maharaj renamed it Vishalgad.
How is it reached?
By road from Kolhapur via Malkapur and Amba or via Pandharpani and Gajapur.
Which memorials are important?
The memorials of Bajiprabhu and Phulaji Deshpande.