Konkan (Maharashtra)

Konkan is the coastal region of Maharashtra state lining the Arabian sea. It extends from north to south and is made up of the districts of Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri & Sindhudurg. The Konkan region is separated from the rest of the state by the Sahyadri mountain range also known as the western ghats. This region has remained in isolation (thankfully) for a long time for lack of proper means of transport. About ten years ago (around early 90s), this region opened up with the advent of the 'Konkan railway' - the rail route that connects Mumbai (Bombay) with the entire western coast of India. 'Konkan railway' in itself is an unparalleled achievement of engineering excellence for India involving construction of several bridges and tunnels through its entire run across the state.
 
The region boasts of a unique culture that is unlike any other region in the country. People are quite friendly and hospitable. There are several places of geographical, cultural and architectural interest in the Konkan region. Most places offer long stretches of unexplored beaches, which have a serene character without much commercialization.

Raigad District : Alibag, Eliphanta Caves, Mandva Beach, Kihim, Kankeshwar- Mangaon, Mahad-Ganpati Mandir, Pali-Ganpati Mandir, Matheran, Birla Temple, Murud-Janjira, Harihareshwar, Raigad Fort
 
Getting there :
By Air : Nearest airport is Pune, 126 kms
By Rail : Nearest railhead is Veer on Konkan Rly. (40 kms.)
By Road : Mumbai-Raigad, 210 kms. via Mahad. Pune-Raigad,
126 kms. Mahad-Raigad, 27 kms.

Ratnagiri District : Ratnagiri is located in the southwestern part of Maharashtra State on the Arabian sea coast. It forms a part of the greater tract known as Konkan. This tract is historically famous for its long coast line and convenient harbors. The surrounding area is bordered by the Sahyadri Hills on the West. The fertile alluvial valleys produce the luscious Alphanso mango, coconut and rice as the main crops. Fruits and cashew nut cultivation is also being promoted.

Places of interest: Ganpatipule, Pavas, Ratnagiri, Bhatye Velneshwar, Hedvi, Rajapur, Parshuram, Dervan, Guhagar, Chiplun, Sangameshwar, Marleshwar Dapoli, Anjarle, Ladghar, Harnai- Murud- Karde Beach,
 
By road : Ratnagiri is well connected by road transport with important towns such as Mumbai - 350 kms, Pune - 300 kms, Kolhapur - 120 kms.

 
Sindhudurg District : Rivers : Devgad, Gad, Shuk, Achra, Terekhol, Sahyadri, Kurla, Kalna, Tilari.
 
Places of interest : Sawantwadi, Sindhudurg, Banda, Redi, Shiroda, Amboli, Tarkarli, Malvan, Vengurla, Saitwade, Ozhar, Kunkeshwar, Danoli, Valawal, Mangaon, Vengurla.

Konkan Darshan
MALAVAN: Is a town of historic tradition, It is known for Sindhudurg Fort, its delicious Malavani cuisine (e.g. rice and fish curry) It is also known for Malvani Hapus Mango.

SINDHUDURGA FORT: The name of this fort is given to Sindhudurg district. Tourists from all over the world visit through out the year to see this Maratha glory. The huge sea rocks of Malvan have easefully shouldered the responsibility of two forts Sindhudurg & Padmagad on their broad chest. Sindhudura was built with the help of huge rocks on the ‘Kurte’ island which amazes people and one appreciates imaginative power of Shivaji.
 
In 1664 Shivaji erected this fort on 44 acres of land. It took 500 stone splitters and stone breakers, 200 black smiths, 3000 laborers and 100’s of skilled artists who toiled very hard to complete this fort in three years. This is evident from the stone Inscriptions.

DEVBAUG BEACH: (10 km. From Malvan) This beach is a jewel of coast of Malvan with golden sand and surf.
 
DHAMAPUR LAKE: ( 13k.m. from Malvan) Surrounded amidst rolling green hills is clean and coolest lake and most ideal picnic spot in Malvan Taluka. Also situated on the bank of the lake is ancient temple of Bhagwaty Devi. Beauty of the lake is visible from the temple.

TARKARLI BEACH: This beach is a queen of Sindhudurg’s beaches. Also known as ‘Tribhuj Pradesh’ here beauty lovers can see rare geographic combination of Karli river and sea of Devbaug. With sky, sea and sand blending in a enchanting natural harmony.
 
VAYANGANI BEACH: For traveler who is very much enthusiastic in finding a place where he can be relieved of all his fatigue and to take rest in absolute tranquility, this virgin beach is most suitable one.

SAGARESHWAR BEACH: Vengurla just turn to the right at Ubhadanda you will see the huge stretch of shiny silvery sand dunes. By trampling the sand under the foot walk short and climb the sand dune, you unexpectedly see sparkling blue waters of none other than Sagreshwar beach. The Cajurina plantations on the beach offers hospitality and pleasure to the tourists. Ideal for swimming this is a secluded beach and can be accessed by trekking.
 
NIVATI BEACH: Offers peace and serenity to independent travelers. Adjoining the beach is a twin village Kochra. Which offers wonderful view of small tropical oasis on Nivati’s shore.

MOCHEMAD BEACH: A Spectacular beach of Vengurla’s golden coast.

REDDI GANESH TEMPLE: Numerous worth seeing temples found in Reddi are Swayambhu Ganesh Temple. Dedicated to self existent two handed Lord Ganesha is a very important centre of worship in Sindhudurg. 5ft. height idol in seating position was discovered in the year 1976 in the mines of Revati Port at Reddi.
 
SAWANTWADI: Is one of the proud heritage town of India which hold distinction of preserving its own rich tradition and handicraft. Situated on the southern most point of Sindhudurg this elite heritage destination is entry point from tourist place Goa.
 
BHOGWE BEACH: Exquisitely secluded on Exotic western shores of Sindhudurg. This beach offers to the tourist wonderful view of Karli’s estuary which mingles secretly with sea waters from behind Devbaug’s Famous Mobara Point. White sand & beautiful blue water lagoon, thus an idealistive spot for swimming. Sunbathing and picnicking. A hill in the back drop offers pan oramic view of Arabian sea.

SHILPA GRAM: A art and craft village aiming to promote rural artisan of Konkan. Here tourist can watch local manufacturers displaying their Craftsmanship.
 
AMBOLI: (30 k.m. from Sawantwadi) Situated at an altitude of 690 m. from sea level Amboli is an eco-friendly hill station that promises you an experience to get lost into the spectacular beauty of nature, nurturing the poet in you one comes across roaring waterfalls, numerous view points, botanical garden, the dense forests and lovely cool climate that sprinkles upon a visitor a unique aroma of Sahyadri mountain range