_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Navigation - Home Know India  - Maharashtra - Beaches
Travelogues/Travel Logs of Roadtrips

Hit the road with the summary guides of our trips to various places in India. Any information feel free to drop a mail at info@visitindia.org.in
Get online driving directions, route guides, weekend planners, and customised itineries. Check out a few of our favorite user road trips, then start an adventure of your own.....Explore India by Road


Find us :-
Travelogues   l    Photologues    l    Maps & Directions   l   Know India   l    Theme India   l   Top 10 Destinations    l   Travel guide  l   Blog   l   Travel tips   l   Our Neighbours
Home   I    About us    I    Contact us   I   Query   I   Plan an itinerary     I   Ask an expert
Copyright         visitindia.org.in 2011-12.  All Rights Reserved.
Beaches in Maharashtra
Travelogues   l    Photologues    l    Maps & Directions   l   Know India   l    Theme India   l   Top 10 Destinations    l   Travel guide  l   Blog   l 

Travel tips   l   Our Neighbours   l   Disclaimer   l   Sitemap
In Raigad

Shrivardhan
Shrivardhan one of the oldest cities in Maharashtra boasts of a 200 year old history replete with glorious tales of Maratha warriors and their valour for Hindavi Swaraj. The famous Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath who was chosen as the firts Peshwa by the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj was born here. One of the draws of Shrivardhan apart from the Shiva temple and Peshwa architecture is Shrivardhan beach. It is bestowed with a majestic white sand coastline, speckled with palm groves and mango plantations. With its pristine white sand and natral beauty, Shrivardhan beach makes for a perfect unhurried getaway for the entire family.

After a visit to the beach, tuck into mouth watering local delicacies especially sea food and pay a visit to the fame temple of Shiva, Kusumdevi and Laxmi Narayan. Visit Sri Dashabhuj Laxmi Ganesh Devastha, Bhraman Gal & Dabhol Power Project or hire a boat o explore the North bay.

Places to see
Kondivli beach, Shankar temple, Kalbhairav temple, Diveagar beach.

How to reach
  • Mumbai airport is 215 kms away and Pune airport is 185 kms way
  • Mangaon is the nearest railway station around 65 kms away
  • Shrivardhan is well connected to all neighbouring cities by Government owned buses. Buses connect Mumbai, Pune, Harihareshwar(20kms).


_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

HARIHARESHWAR

Harihareshwar which translates to the abode of Lord Shiva is also reffered to as Dakshin Kashi due to its renowned temples and their spiritual significance to Hindus. The beach here is a magnificent stretch of calm and serene waters with unpolluted cool breeze wafting along the sea shore. The beach is flanked by beautiful hills, lush greenery and historic temples which add to its attraction. On a clear morning look out for dolphins, chasing ships and gambling in the sea. Indulge in water sports by hiring a water scooter or by opting for a peaceful boat ride or after relaxing beach side walk, visit the famed Harihareshwar temple, a ten minute walk from the beach.

Many resorts and hotels around the area provide sea facing room facilities and the splendid view of the calm sea, with the soothing sound of waves is a pleasure to any city bred ear.

Places to see
Ganesh gully, Kalbhairav temple, Bagmandal

How to reach
  • Mumbai airport is 190 kms and Pune is 175 kms away
  • The Mangaon rail station is 65 kms away
  • Buses ply from Mumbai and Pune. The largest town ie Mangaon is located at about a distance of 58 kms from where buses to all major routes can be hired.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DIVEAGAR
Diveagar is a refreshing get-away from the hustle and bustle of the city life with a 6 kms coastline of white sand and clear calm waters. The beach is unpolluted, clean and uncrowded. It is also home to a sanctuary for migratory seagulls which adds to the beauty of the place. You can see starfish on the shores in winter, beautiful patterns left behind on the sand by crabs in summer. Dotted with picturesque Suru and Belu trees, the scenic landscape is a treat for the eyes. A must visit is the famed Suvarna Ganesh temple. The Suvarna Ganesh is a replica of Lord Ganesh in gold, by a local in her betel-nut cultivation around a decade ago. The replica is made of pure 24 carat gold and is estimated to be around 1000 years old.

Diveagar has a good mix of resorts of resorts and 'wadis' available for accomodation, with simple buy delicious local cusine. Whether it is a search for solitude, a getaway or a relaxed family outing.

Places to see
Lord Suvarnaganesha temple

How to reach
  • Mumbai airport is 170 kms away and Pune airport is 156 kms
  • Mangaon Rail Station is 65 kms away
  • Both state and private buses are available to cities like Pune/Mumbai from Diveagar.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

KASHID
Kashid offers everything that makes for a perfect beach holiday - silver sands, a gorgeous vists, good amenities and close proximity to historic forts, temples and wildlife sanctuaries. The sun kissed beaches with azure blue waters, white sand that takes on a silvery hue under a bright moon, makes Kashid beach special. The waves here are quite high and can reach up to 5-6 ft and is ideal for those looking at practicing their surfing skills. Kashid is also just a few kilometers from Murud beach famous for the Janjira fort, the only impregnable fort along the Maharashtra coastline to resist by both, the Portugese and the English East India Company. Other places of interest close to Kashid are the Nawab's palace built in 1885, and a fusion of Mughal and Gothic style architecture. The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to the elusive giant Indian squirrel and a wide variety of birds, insects and animals like the Pompadour Green Pigeon, Asian Paradise Fly catcher, sambar, leopards and barking deer. Temples like Birla mandir, Ganpati pule mandir and Datta mandir are also a must visit.

Places to see
Phansad Bird Sanctuary, datta Mandir, Revdanda beach fort

Getting there
  • The Mumbai airport is 170 kms away
  • Pen is the nearest staion 58 kms away
  • Buses are available for nearby cities
  • One can take a bus to Mandwa which is 50 kms from Kashid and from here the Catarmanan ferry service is available for Mumbai (Gateway of India)


In Ratnagiri


GANPATIPULE
Ganpatipule is a scenic, quaint village off the Konkan coast. It gets its name from the self formed Ganpati idol and the abundant sand dunes also known as Pune. This quiet and rustic locale provides that much needed respite to city dwellers with its breathtaking scenery and a magnificent coastline.

The beach with swaying coconut palms and Casuarina trees is a sight to behold. Clear blue sea reflecting the sky, soft white sands and the gentle sea breeze invite you to head for a cool dip or explore trails lined with cashew and mango trees. The beach ends at the base of the small cliff and offers a breathtaking view of sea with bobbling boats and clear skies.

There are many places of interest around Ganapatipule, the main one being the Swayambhu temple of Ganapati also known as Pashchim Dwar Devta. Visit this 400 year old temple, a popular destination with tourists and devotees. Sample the local cusine prepared with fresh vegetables and sea food and make sure to take back with your some fresh vegetables and fruits in season especially the coveted king of fruits the mango. The beauty of this small and simple village with hospitable locals and many interesting places to visit will make one of the memorable getaways.

How to reach
  • The nearest airport is Kolhapur
  • The nearest railhead is Bhoke on the Konkan Railway. Ratnagiri is however more convenient
  • Mumbai - Ganpatipule bis Mahad is 35 kms, Pune Ganpatipule via Satara is 331 kms and Kolhapur Ganpatipule is 144 kms.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MURUD-HARNAI
Located on the Konkan coast, Murud is a small town and is also known as Murud Harnai. The long scenic stretch of a beach with swaying palms and a beautiful ancient Durga devi temple are the main attractions here.

Soft sand makeup the beach which is perfect for walking, jogging or a relaxed holiday with family to watch the Arabian sea at its best. You can spot sea eagles, seagulls and vultures here. The Olive Ridley sea turtles have also been seen here. Murud has many beach resorts along the coconut plantations, you may have fresh and delicious sea food here or try pure Konkani veg food.

Places to see
Durga devi temple, Maharshi Dhondo Keshav Karve Museum and Harnai beach

How to reach
  • The nearest airport is Mumbai 200 kms away
  • The nearest railway station is Satara 154 kms away
  • Maharashtra Govt buses run from Mumbai, Pune and Mahad.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GUHAGAR
Guhagar which literally translates to 'House of Caves', is a temple town in the Ratnagiri district. temples dedicated to various forms of Lord Shiva like Vyadeshwar, Talkeshwar, Udaleshwar, Velneshwar, Balkeshwar and a temple of Ufrata Ganapati are some of the temples here. Guhagar is located in a secnic environment with hilly terrain and lush green vegetation. It is a less explored and quiet beach.

How to reach
  • The nearest airport is Mumbai nearly 300 kms away
  • The nearest railhead is Chiplun 45 kms away
  • Chiplun is the nearest major city and is directly on NH17.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

VELNESHWAR
A sparsely populated town, this is a quiet and laidback place. The beach is clean and beautiful and dotted with palms and free of rocks, ideal for swimming or for adventure sports. The Shiva temple at Velneshwar is also a popular destination with tourists and pilgrims alike and attracts devotees from all over. Pay a visit to this temple which is a old structure with three or four different temples in the complex, and the sea as a backdrop. After unwinding at the beach you may visit the Anjanwale fort which is another popular place.

How to reach
  • The nearest railhead is Chiplun on the Konkan Railway
  • Mumbai via Chiplun and Guhagar is 370 kms away.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ANJARLE
This is a clean and unspoiled beach with white sands, sorrounded by palm trees. It is an ideal place for a family visit over a long weekend. However as there are no beach resorts or hotels at Anjarle, you would need to locate a house for rent and stay. The locals are extremely friendly and helpful and some of them readily provide rented accommodation in their homes and serve delicious home made food at low prices. Anjarle is also famous for the Kadyavarcha Ganapati (Ganesh temple situated on a cliff). This ancient magnificent Ganesh temple has an idol with its trunk curving towards the right, which is rare. Go and see the live deity who is known to respond to distress calls of its devotees. Take a magnificient view of thick coconut tree plantations, blue shimmering sea, the Suvarnadurg fort and the sorrounding hills from the temple. Also visit the small Shiva temple which is next to the Ganesh temple.

Places to see
Siddhi Vinayak Ganpati temple, Harnai beach and Wakali Unarve Spring

How to reach
  • Anjarle is around 24 kms from Dapoli which is the nearest railhead.
  • Mahrashtra government buses run from Mumbai, Pune, Mahad to Murud-Harnai from where you need to take a local transport to Anjarle.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

AREVARE
Arevare is a village blessed with a heavenly seashore and a clear view for miles across the blue waters. The road here travels past a 100ft high cliff, so look out for a spectaculer view of the waves pounding below. It also follows the seashore for a length of 7-8 kms making it a fabulous view. As of now there are no amneties available here but you can take a stop over to watch seagulls and the sunrise or sunset.

Places to see
Jaigad fort, Ganpatipule beach and Swayambhu Ganpati temple

How to reach
  • The nearest railhead is Bhoke on the Konkan Railway Coast. Ratnagiri is more convenient
  • Mumbai - Arevare is around 380 kms by road.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BHANDARPULE

Located 3 kms from Ganpatipule, Bhandarpule alo is a very beautiful place and has a very beautiful beach. Its is secluded and less crowded than Ganpatipule. The shoreline has soft sands lined with Suru trees but the sea here is dangerous for swimming.

Places to see
Jaigad fort, Ganpatipule beach and Swayambhu Ganpati temple

How to reach
  • The nearest airport is Kolhapur
  • The nearest railhead is Bhoke, on the Konkan Railway. Ratnagiri is more convenient
  • By road Mumbai Bhandarpule via ganpatipule is 380 kms

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

In Sindhudurg


TARKARLI
Tarkarli is a narrow stretch of beach with pristine waters, reffered to as Queen beach of Sindhudurg. Known as Tribhuj pradesh sur to the rare geographic combination of the Karli river and the sea of Devbagh, it has also been hailed as one of the best beaches internationally. Enjoy the sight of the transparent clear skies and the depth of the sea bed to 20ft. Take a cruise in a standard boat or a deluxe houseboat fully equipped with amneties. Snorkelling and scuba diving are done here. Pay a visit to the historic Sindhudurg fort situated nearby and head over to Tarkarli creek to watch rare species of birds and aquatic life.

Places to see
Sidhudurg fort, Tarkarli creek, Deo Baug Beach.

How to reach
  • The nearest airport is Dabolim, Goa
  • The nearest railhead is Kudal around 45 kms on the Konkan Railway.
  • Tarkarli is 546kms from Mumbai, Kolhapur is 160 kms awa. State buses ply from Mumbai, Kolhapur, Pune and Malvan.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BHOGVE
A beautiful beach with blue lagoon and white sands, this beach is located in the vicinity of Kille Nivati. Another well kept secret os the western coast, this is a secluded beach with a spectacular view. Nature lovers can make the most of their time here by sun bathing, swimming or simply relaxing. Dubbed as the 'stopover for seagulls' you can spot a variety of birds and playful dolphins here.

Places to visit
Dhamapur lake Tarkarli, Sawanwadi palace and Vivati beach, Lord Shiva temple.

How to reach
  • Nearest airport if Mumbai
  • The nearest railhead is Kudal 30 min drive.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SHIRODA
Located at the end of a winding hilly road, amidst a rich and verdant forest is Shiroda beach. A part of the highly scenic, but unexplored and virgin region of the Konkan coast, Shiroda is a up coming holiday destination. The sea shore of this south Konkan beach is carpeted with silvery white sands set off by inviting cool blue waters. Nestled amongst Casurina and Cypress plantations its an ideal spot for swimming. The local markets abound in fresh sea food and vegetables, cashews and mangoes.

Places to see
Lord Shiva temple, Sawantwadi palace and Sindhudurg fort.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

VENGURLA
Vengurla was a bustling trade centre during its past, it now makes waves for its scenic beauty and pristine beaches. Steeped in natural beauty with an amazing stretch of coastline, Vengurla is encircled by hillocks and verdant plantations of cashewnuts, mango, coconut and a variety of berry trees. Rich in culture and heritage, Vengurla invites you to some of the relics of the golden days such as huge warehouses, godowns, markets, trading centeres and a cement and wood jetty still capable of berthing small boats. Head up to the lighthouse located on the hill overlooking the jetty which offers spectacular view of the coastline and the iridescent sea. Make sure to stop at the Konkan Farming University and Fruit Research Centre. This multipurpose institute doubles up as a study centre as well as tourist spot. The cashew factory in the vicinity offers an interesting tour of the entire process of cashew seperation, roasting and packing.

How to reach
  • The nearest railhead is Kudal
  • Vengurla is a 9 hour drive from Mumbai.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

KUNKESHWAR
Another jewel along this coast is the beach at Kunkeshwar. The Kunkeshwar temple at the backdrop the beach has cool blue waters and green verdant mangroves and coconut palms. At night the sea shimmers with phosphoresence and you may be lucky to spot porpoises leap up with the waves in the night sky. The Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji too offered his prayers at the temple here. Built in the 11th century this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In summer you may pick up Hapus or Alphonso mangoes back home.

Places to see
Lord Shiva temple, Devgad fort and Devgad beach

How to reach
  • By air nearest airport is Dabolim in Goa and then a 3 hour drive
  • Kankavli is the nearest railhead
  • Mumbai is 8 hour drive by road.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SAGRESHWAR
Driving on the way to Shiroda from Vengurla take a right at Ubhadanda and you will come across huge stretches of sand dunes, shimmering in the sun. Trample the soft sand underfoot and a short walk later, you will arrive at the sparkling beach with crystal clear waters of Sagreshwar. This beach is just 5 mins drive from Vengurla and is an ideal place for swimming.

Places to see
Sagreshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Lord Shiva temple, Ganpati temple at Redi, Vengurla jetty, Vengurla light house and Dandoba hills forest preserve.

How to reach
  • Dabolim in Goa is the nearest airport.
  • Kudal on the Konkan Railway is the nerest railhead
  • Vengurla is a 10 minute drive and Kudal is 30 mins drive.
Maharashtra
The Less Explored in Maharashtra