The Panhala to Pawankhind trek is a historically significant and adventurous trail in Maharashtra, India. This trek retraces the legendary escape route taken by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his forces in 1660 AD, when they fled from Panhala Fort to evade the besieging army of Siddi Jauhar. The trek covers approximately 50 kilometers, passing through rugged terrain, dense forests, and scenic plateaus, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for trekkers.
The journey begins at Panhala Fort, situated near Kolhapur, known for its historical structures and panoramic views. As you traverse the path, the route leads through Masai Pathar, a high plateau that provides stunning vistas and a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Western Ghats. The trail continues through various hamlets and undulating landscapes, gradually descending towards the narrow mountain pass of Pawankhind.
Pawankhind, originally known as Ghod Khind, is renowned for the heroic stand of Baji Prabhu Deshpande and his band of Maratha warriors who fought against overwhelming odds to delay the pursuing Bijapur forces, allowing Shivaji to reach the safety of Vishalgad Fort. The pass, now a symbol of Maratha valor and sacrifice, offers a poignant moment for trekkers to reflect on the historical significance of the location.
The Panhala to Pawankhind trek is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey through a vital part of Maratha history, filled with tales of bravery, strategic brilliance, and the indomitable spirit of Shivaji Maharaj and his followers. Trekkers undertaking this route can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage while enjoying the natural beauty and the sense of adventure that the trail provides.
About Trek -
- Max Elevation - 2772 ft
- Trek Distance - Apx 50km
- Duration - 8Hrs walk Daily(2 Day)
- Grade - Moderate
- Stay Village - Ambewadi / Karpewadi
Upcoming Batches -
July : 26-28 (12 Seats left)
Aug - 09-11 | 14-16 | 23-25
Sept - 20-22
- Walk on the Historical Path.
- Learn the History associated
- Around 50 KM walk through rice paddies, jungles, hills, water streams, waterfalls.
- Stay in a typical small village.
- Basic Village Food
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Participants from Mumbai should catch the Deccan Queen or Pragati Express and alight at Chhatrapati Shivajinagar Railway Station in Pune. They will join the Pune group, and together we will travel in a private bus.
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9:00 PM: Our journey begins in a private bus from Pune. Pickup points include:
- Nashik Fata
- Shivajinagar
- Swargate
- Katraj
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5:00 AM: Arrive at Panhala Fort. Freshen up and prepare for the trek.
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6:00 AM: Have breakfast and attend a briefing session about the day’s trek.
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7:00 AM: Briefly explore Panhala Fort before starting the descent towards Pawankhind.
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10:00 - 11:00 AM: Reach Masai Pathar, a plain plateau. Visit Masai Devi Temple along the way and continue trekking. Masai Pathar is renowned for its blooming wildflowers.
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12:00 PM: Pause for lunch in a village or find shade to eat. Lunch will either be packed or provided by a village home. Rest for a while.
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1:30 PM: Resume the trek towards our base village, crossing numerous rice paddies and water streams.
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4:00 PM: Arrive at Karpewadi (Ambarde), our base village for the night halt.
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5:00 - 6:00 PM: Enjoy some tea, change clothes, and rest. Accommodation will be arranged in local homes or tents, depending on availability.
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8:00 PM: Dinner is served. Retire for the day.
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5:00 AM: Wake-up call to get ready for the day's trek.
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6:00 AM: After breakfast, continue the trek towards Pawankhind (approximately 24 km). For those opting out of the trek, transportation to Pawankhind will be arranged from the base village.
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9:00 AM: The bus will depart Karpewadi for Pawankhind for those not trekking.
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2:00 PM: Arrive at Pawankhind. Take blessings and explore the historical pass.
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3:00 PM: Lunch is served.
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5:00 PM: Begin the return journey to Pune by bus. Mumbai participants will be dropped off at Kolhapur Railway Station to catch the Mahalaxmi Express to Mumbai at 8:00 PM.
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11:00 PM: Reach Pune.
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6:00 AM: Arrive in Mumbai, marking the end of this beautiful trip.
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Note: This schedule is tentative and subject to change based on weather conditions, which may cause delays or require modifications to the planned itinerary. Flexibility and preparation for unexpected changes are recommended for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
What is included in the tour
- Travel By Highback Private Bus from Pune
- Sleeper Train or Bus Tickets For Mumbai Participants
- 2 Veg Breakfast
- 1 Dinners(veg / Non veg),
- 2 Lunch (Veg)
- Stay in village Home or Tent
- Experience Trek Guides
- Certificate
- All taxes / Entry fees if any
- All entry fees
What is NOT included in the tour
- Dinner on Previous Night (wherever applicable) & Dinner on Return Journey to Pune, Cold drinks, Mineral water, etc.
- Private orders of Tea, Breakfast, Meals etc.
- Personal expenses of any kind.
- Insurance Coverage.
- Medical expenses other than “First aid”.
- Any other charges not mentioned in “Fees Include“.
- *Sleeping bags are available for an extra charge.
Mumbai Pickups -
Catch Deccan Queen Or Pragati express From Any Nearby Station And get down At Shivajinagar railway Station
Pune Pickups -
- Nashik Phata (9:00PM)
- Shivaji Nagar (09:45PM)
- Swargate (10:15PM)
- Katraj (10:45PM)
Mumbai To Mumbai - 3499/- (includes Mumbai to Pune Ticket and Return Kolhaour to mumbai
mahalaxmi Exp Train Tickets)
Pune To Pune - 2999/-
Early Bird 299/- discount Available if you Book your Seat Before 18 Days
- 2/3 liters of water
- Sanitizer (must)
- Trekking Shoes provide more grip and comfort on the trek
- Good Torch must with extra battery
- Some Dry fruits / Dry Snacks / Energy Bars
- Glucon D / ORS / Tang / Gatorade sachets
- One Day Backpack 20 to 30 liters (During Trek)
- Big Rucksack you can keot that in bus
- Sleeping Mat
- Sleepinh Bag / Blanket / Chaddar
- Rains are expected, so pack your bags accordingly to save them from getting wet
- Double pack your valuables/phones in plastic bags
- Rainwear / Poncho / Waterproof jacket etc. if you don’t want to get wet
- Sun Cap and Sunscreen
- Personal First Aid and Personal Medicine
- Identity Proof
- Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pants these will protect you from Summer Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles
Step 1 - Pay Booking amount for booking confirmation on Following Account
Google Pay / PhonePe 8097850805
Bank Details -
Bank Name :- HDFC BANK
Acc no :- 50200068359138
IFSC Code - HDFC0000175
AC type :- Current account
Name :- Maharashtra Desha
Bhim Upi - 8097850805@upi
Step 2 - Share screenshot along with Full Name / Age / location on This Number
Whatsapp Number - 8097850805
Step 3 - Share one email id (you will receive booking confirmation mail )
BOOK NOW (You can Directly Book fron Here)
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In case of cancellation from the organiser’s end (due to Lockdown, Or any Natural calamities including,snowstorms, thunderstorms, floods, landslides, earthquakes, bad weather or unexpected political unrest, terrorism activity, curfews, riots, or government orders), We will Refund the amount in 30 Days
- In case a client wishes to change the trek date, Maharashtra Desha Adventure reserves the right to do so, provided the request is made 30 daysprior to the initial departure date.
- Booking amount is Non-Refundable.
- Refunds will be made within 7-14 working days from the date of cancellation
- The refund amount will be calculated from the total fee, in case any partial payment has been made
- No refund is applicable on cancellation if Advance Amount is Paid to Book the Trek.Cancellation charges are based on the total trek fee, irrespective of the amount paid either full or partial.
- If the cancellation is from the client’s end at any point of time post the.registration refund will be provided as per the details mentioned below:-
- Cancellation made 30 days before the trek/ Trip - 90% refund
- Cancellation made between 29 days and 15 days before the trek- 50% cash refund
- Cancellation made between 14 days and 1 day before the trek– No Refund,
- If the Cancellation is made on the Starting day of the trek or there is no Show on the start day of trek, there will be No Refund
- The company shall not be held liable for any additional charges incurred due to events such as accidents, vehicle breakdowns, riots, or train delays.
- Additional fees may apply if the government issues new guidelines regarding hotel stays or transportation.
- The schedule may be subject to change by the manager for the convenience of participants.
- During the trip, the manager reserves the right to dismiss any individual who disrupts the harmony of the group. The company disclaims responsibility for any sightseeing cancellations resulting from natural disasters or man-made incidents.
- Maharashtra Desha will not be accountable for any false or inaccurate information provided to government authorities.
- Any discrepancies during the tour are the sole responsibility of the customer(s).
- Customers must provide accurate and complete travel information, and any resulting consequences or additional charges will be borne by the customer.
- Customers are required to submit photo ID proof for all travelers at the time of booking.
- Final seating arrangements will be determined by the leader for the convenience of all participants.
- Smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited.
- DIRECT OPERATING TREKKING/TRIP COMPANY
- Rated 4.9 On Google
- Organising treks for more than 5000+ travelers every year
- Professional team & fun loving trek/trip leaders, guides
- Comfortable stays in decent Hotels
- 6+ Years of experience in industry
- Suitable for solo, group of friends & couple
- Certificate & trek/trip badge
- SAFE FOR SOLO WOMEN TRAVELLERS
- Delicious & hygienic meals throughout the trek/trip
- Like minded co-travellers
1. What is the Panhala to Pawankhind trek?
The Panhala to Pawankhind trek is a historical trail in Maharashtra, India, tracing the escape route of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from Panhala Fort to Vishalgad Fort via the Pawankhind pass. This trek covers approximately 60-65 kilometers through scenic and rugged terrain.
2. What is the historical significance of the trek?
In 1660 AD, Shivaji Maharaj used this route to evade a siege by Siddi Jauhar's forces at Panhala Fort. During the escape, Baji Prabhu Deshpande and a small group of Maratha soldiers made a heroic last stand at Pawankhind to delay the pursuing forces, allowing Shivaji to reach safety at Vishalgad Fort. This battle is celebrated for the bravery and sacrifice of the Maratha warriors.
3. How long does the trek take to complete?
The trek typically takes about 2 days 8hrs walk a day, depending on the trekker's pace and the route taken. It involves walking through forests, plateaus, and rugged terrain.
4. What is the best time to undertake the trek?
The best time for the Panhala to Pawankhind trek is during the Monsoon months from July to Sept, and post-monsoon from September to early December. These periods offer cooler weather and clear skies, making the trek more enjoyable and safer.
5. What is the level of difficulty of the trek?
The trek is moderately challenging. It involves navigating through hilly terrain, dense forests, and sometimes steep ascents and descents. Trekkers should be prepared for a physically demanding experience.
6. How do I reach the starting point of the trek?
Panhala Fort, the starting point, is located near Kolhapur in Maharashtra. You can reach Kolhapur by train, bus, or flight, and then take local transport to Panhala Fort.
7. What are the key landmarks along the trek?
- Panhala Fort: Starting point known for its historical significance.
- Masai Pathar: A high plateau with panoramic views.
- Pawankhind: The narrow pass where the historic battle occurred.
8. Is it necessary to hire a guide for the trek?
While it is possible to undertake the trek independently, hiring a local guide is recommended for historical insights, navigation, and safety, especially if you are unfamiliar with the terrain.
9. What should I pack for the trek?
- Trekking gear: Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing.
- Supplies: Adequate water, food/snacks, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight.
- Navigation: Maps, GPS, or a guide.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
10. Are there accommodation options available along the route?
There are limited accommodation options along the trekking route
