Maharashtra, especially the Konkan region, is filled with natural beauty. Be it beaches, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and forests - Konkan is considered to be the gem of Maharashtra. It has emerged as a major tourist attraction with visitors pouring in from across the world. One of such many places is Ganpatipule. When people think of a beach getaway in Maharashtra, they think of Alibaug and Kashid. However, Ganpatipule is one of the most underrated weekend getaways in Maharashtra.
There are many places to visit in Ganpatipule, making your weekend an exciting one. We have listed some places to visit in Ganpatipule to make your getaway a fabulous one.
1. Ganpatipule Beach
Considered to be one of the best beaches in Maharashtra, it is a perfect paradise for beach lovers. It is one of the few white sand beaches in the state. With its temple, shacks, adventure sports and several other activities, Ganpatipule beach has emerged as a major tourist attraction. It offers a calm atmosphere with soothing sea breezes and blue waters.
The main attraction of the 6 Kilometres long beach is the Ganpatipule temple. Along with it, there are numerous other things you can do on the beach such as camel riding and horse riding. It is also a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts, offering many watersports such as paragliding, swimming, motorboat, jet skiing etc.
Ganpatipule beach is one of the best places to visit in Ganpatipule and it should be on your list this upcoming weekend.
How To Reach Ganpatipule Beach:
Ganpatipule Beach is 1.5 Kilometres away from Ganpatipule Bus Stand. The Nearest Railway Station is Ratnagiri Railway Station which is 30 Kilometres away.
2. Swayambhu Ganapati Temple
Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, popularly known as Ganpatipule temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Ganpatipule and Maharashtra. The temple is said to be 400 years old and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The idol of Ganesha is said to be a monolith that was self-created and discovered 1600 years ago.
This Ganesh temple is unique because it is one of the few temples in India where the deity faces the west, to protect the Western Ghats. It is one of the Ashta Ganesh Temples of India and is also known as ‘Pashchim Dwar Devata’. Ganesh Chaturti and Magh Shuddha Chaturti are the two grand festivals celebrated at the Swayambhu Ganapati Temple.
How To Reach Swayambhu Ganpati Temple:
Swayambhu Ganpati Temple is on Ganpatiphule Beach.
3. Prachin Konkan Museum
Prachin Konkan Museum is an open-air museum located in Ganpatipule. It is one of the best places to visit in Ganpatipule. The museum is spread over three acres and it showcases the traditional Konkani way of life. It was established in 2004 by Vaibhav Sardesai. The museum not only provides information about Konkan but also provides employment to the locals.
The museum portrays various aspects of Konkan - the rural lifestyle, local deities, barter system, the lifestyle and the various professions of the people. The Museum showcases the sculptures of Maratha Empire Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and the historical moments he shaped. The entire fee is ₹40 and the timings are 8:30 AM to 6 PM.
How To Reach Prachin Konkan Museum:
Prachin Konkan Museum is 3 Kilometres away from Ganpatipule Bus Stand. Ratnagiri Railway Station is 30 Kilometres away.
4. Aare Ware Beach
Located 9 kilometres from Ganpatiphule Bus Stand, Aare Ware Beach is a lovely secluded beach in Ganpatipule. It is situated near Nevare village in Maharashtra. It is one of the best places to visit in Ganpatipule. The beach is virginal and is perfect for those who want to experience a calm secluded environment. It offers a breathtaking view of the sunrises and sunsets.
How To Reach Are Ware Beach:
Are Ware Beach is 19 Kilometres away from Ratnagiri Railway Station. It is 11 Kilometres away from Ganpatipule.
5. Jaigad Fort
Jaigad Fort is located 19 kilometres from Ganpatipule and 42 Kilometres from Ratnagiri. It is a coastal fortification located near Jaigad Village. Situated on a cliff, the fort offers a magnificent view of the open sea. It is one of the many famous historical places to visit in Ganpatiphule and is a protected monument under the Archeological Survey Of India.
The fort is said to be constructed in the 14th century and was completed under the Sultan of Bijapur. The fort was named after Jaya Mahar who sacrificed his life while building the fort. It was captured by the Marathas during Shivaji Maharaj's reign. However, the Marathas lost their fort in 1818.
Although the fort is in ruins, the outer walls are still intact. The fort is spread across 4 acres and has a palace for Kanhoji Angre - the Maratha Commander in Chief, a Ganpati Temple and three wells. The fort also has a government rest house.
How To Reach Jaigad Fort:
Jaigad Fort is 20 Kilometres away from Ganpatipule and 53.5 Kilometres away from Ratnagiri Station.
With these many places to visit in Ganpatipule, you will surely have a great weekend getaway in Maharashtra. Read more of our blogs to know more about travel and destinations!
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