Ganpatipule Tour

Sparkling blue waters, endless stretches of golden or silver sand, sun beams dancing through the swaying palms, waves playing with the sand dunes, a cool breeze whispering sweet nothing in your ear, this is the land of Ganpatipule, one of Maharashtra's almost virgin beaches.
Nestled in the greenery is an almost 4000 year old land mark - the Swayambhu Ganapati temple (Swayambhu means 'self-made', this is a temple of the self-originated idol, Ganapati). It is flooded by thousands of devotees and tourists every year. Thus the village got its name Ganapatipule, Ganapati the lord of the "ganas" or army and "pule" which means sand dunes, Ganapatipule is one of the "Ashta Ganapatis" (eight Ganapatis) of India and is known as "Paschim Dwar Dewata" (the Western Sentinel God).
The local vegetation includes fruit bearing trees like mango, betelnut, banana, jackfruit, coconut, etc. The entire western coast is covered with these trees. The locals are as warm and cheerful as their surroundings. Ever ready to chat with the visitors and make them feel at home.
These god-fearing local devotees take a "Pradakshina" around the hill where the temple is located, not just around the temple (Pradakshina is a form of showing obeisance wherein the devotee walks in a circle around the idol of the lord or around the temple, the house of the lord), As for the tourists, they can go walking simple to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Other Places to Visit
Ratnagiri :
The Konkan is the vast, beautiful western coast. One of its districts is the well-known Ratnagiri. It is here that the great freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born. This man with a mission led the "Swadeshi Movement" in the 20th centuary against the British. His house - Tilak Smarak - is a landmark now and is open to visitors. Also the "Patit Pawan Mandir" is of importance here. It was the first temple built for the non-Brahmins by revolutionary leader, Swatantryaveer Savarkar. Other Attractions are the Bhatye Beach, The Coconut Research Center, Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Bunder (Sea Port) and The Seafood Processing Centre at Mirya. Also visit Thebaw Palace, which was built for the exiled King and Queen of Burma (now Myanmar) in 1910 - 11. They lived for five years till their death in 1916.
Malgund :
Malgund village is the birthplace of the famous Marathi Poet Keshavsoot. This small, yet beautiful village is frequented by visitors who come to take a look at the renovated and converted house of the poet, now a student's hostel. The Maratji "Sahitya Parishad" (Marathi Literature Society) has constructed a beautiful monument salled "Keshavsoot Smarak" in the memory of the great son-of-the soil.
Pawas :
Pawas is naturally beautiful and serene. The place is also prominent for the ashram of Swami Swaroopanand (a spiritual leader who influenced an entire generation of Maharashtrians).
Jaigad Fort :
The legendary fort stands high and proud on the cliff with a spectacular view of the sea. The fort is at the entrance of the Sangameshwar River.
Velneshwar :
This small and dreamy village is the place to be for water sports - thanks to its beautiful clean beach and rock - free sea. Also an old Shiva temple near Velneshwar if Frequented by pilgrims and tourists. The whole place is a mystic aura around in the presence of the master mystic, Lord Shiva.
Important Information
Geographic :
Ganapatipule lies along the Konkan coast.
Climate :
The coastal climate is mostly hot and humid but it is healthy and devoid of pollution. The temperature is at its peak (around 38 Degree C) in the month of March. The monsoon falls between June and October. The rains are regular here. The climate is pleasant in winter and the temperature often falls at night.
Languages Spoken :
Marathi is the common language here. People also know Hindi and English.
Local Festivals :
All the festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and a spirit of togetherness. Gauri Ganapati and Magh Chaturthi are the most important events in the entire Konkan region. Holi, Gudi Padva and Diwali are well celebrated here, too.
What to wear :
Loose cotton attire is suitable and comfortable. Although during winters, warm clothing is preferable. Swimming costumes are recommended for people indulging in water - sports.
What to eat :
Since Ganapatipule is a pilgrimage destination, non - vegetarian food, fish curry, rice and kokam kadhi are on the outskirts of Ganapatipule. Vegetable curries are also very tasty, prepared with a coconut base. "Modak" the favorite sweet meat of Lord Ganesh is also available.
What to Buy :
The Konkan coast is rich in horticulture and the place is filled with delicious exotic fruits. These are also turned into sweet preparations like Ambapoli and Phanaspoli (pancakes of dried mango and jackfruit respectively). In the mongo season, don't forget to buy the world famous Devgad "Hampus" mangoes.
Best time to Visit :
Though winter is the touristy time to get to most beaches in India, Ganpatipule can be spectacular during the monsoons and just after the monsoons (June to October). Remember to carry plenty of sun-protection, dark glasses and sun-hats.

Malvan Tour

Yewa, Malvan aaplach aasa.
Malvan, located on the Konkan coast and wrapped by the Sahyadri ranges. It is most historical tourist attractions in Maharashtra. Forts, beautiful beaches & adventure activities are famous in Malvan.
Beaches In Malvan:
Malvan Beach
This is one of the most commercially active beaches in the Konkan. It is buzzing with life at the jetty where most of the fishermen anchor their boats of various dimensions and colors. There are a few bars and restaurants on the beach unlike most other seashores on the Sindhudurg coast. It is one of the friendliest atmospheres alive with banter among the locals. This beach is not a place for relaxation; however, it is close to the city centre and perhaps the most accessible beach in the area. Another promising forthcoming attraction here is a one of its kind marine park in Asia. The area of Malvan is a fortified island on the coastal reef. Coral patches have been recorded in the interstitial regions around the Sindhudurg fort.
Tarkarli Beach
A long stretch of silver sands, cool sea breeze whispering through towering Cajurina plantations on the beach, Fishermen seen launching their traditional boats and nets daily into the sea is an interesting feature to watch on this beach. MTDC has a luxury resort around the beach, inviting tourist to experience something unusual-staying. Get thrilling Experience of Water Scooter Scuba Diving & Snorkeling. Be cautious while entering the sea for swimming.
Devbaug Beach
A confluence of the Karli River flowing into the Arabian Sea. This point marks the southern most tip of the Malvan taluka. The beach lures to the tourists by its stunning white sand and beautiful blue water lagoon, thus an idealist spot for swimming, sunbathing and pick nicking. Flock of local sea birds add to the beauty of serene surroundings by playing with the sea waters. A hill in the back drop offers panoramic view of Arabian sea and light house situated on the rocky island. Sunset is the peak time to watch this natures expression, mingles secretly with sea waters from behind Devbaug’s famous Mobar Point.
Chivla Beach
This is a beautiful stretch of clean sand and clear waters bordering Malvan town from North West. It is a very small beach, calm & serene beach, in evening laze around the beach and watch the sun go down.
Tondavali Beach
This is perhaps the true manifestation of an untouched beach. It had to hike almost a km from the road to get to the shore but it was totally worth the drain. Not a single soul here and the sand had just patterns of sea wind. Fine grains of soft white particles urged everyone to feel them without footwear. Cool waters splashing away you almost feel sorry no one watches this phenomenon abundantly.
Achara Beach
This one is a paradise for swimmers and dolphin watchers. Dolphin season is between October and February. It is a few km ahead of Tondavali beach. It is quite popular during season time. There are some fishing activities around here but mostly it is a good space to chill with the sea waves.
Festivals in Malvan:
Konkan, a land of god, celebrates many traditional, religious, state and national festivals. All festivals are celebrated with abundant fervour and enthusiasm which reflects the culture, rituals & tradition of malvani people. The traditional songs, music, dance & plays add a joy with excitement to the lives of people. The love for celebration is deeply embedded in our culture and it finds expression through the various occasions. Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Malvan are as given below.
Anganewadi Fair
The date of annual fair at Anganewadi, in Masure known as parallel Pandharpur of Konkan, is announced in February each year. The name Anganewadi indicates predominance of people with surname Angane. According to a legend a goddess materialized in village in the form of a stone plaque, 400 years ago. Since then people have been flocking to a village for 'Darshan', every year. There is no fixed day or date for the fair. It is decided by consents.
The method of arriving at concert for the day of fair is interesting. After farming operation are over, the villagers get together to decide out the hunting of wild animal to offer 'Prasad' to the goddess. The male folks go out for hunting with a stipulation not to return till the animal is trapped down. The animal’s flesh is then cooked & distributed among the villagers who then decide on a suitable day for fair. A decision is taken sitting on a mat (made by peel of bamboo) commonly known as ‘Daali’ in Malvani lingo. The villager’s decision is then known as ‘Daalap’.
On the day of the fair, the stone plaque is adorned by mask, ornaments & apparels. The village barber then stands outside the temple & after sunrise releases reflected sunrays over the sacred plaque. In view of enormous crowd attending the festivity, the rituals now begins at 4 a.m. & ends at 10 p.m. One female member from each family then join in the mass cooking. A food thus prepared is offered as ‘Prasad’. This event is commonly known as ‘Taate Lawane (To serve the dishes)’ in Malvani. This event also marks the end of first day in fair. On next day, rituals restarted at 4 a.m. & continue till the afternoon. This day is called ‘Mode Jatra (End of fair)’. Though the fair thus officially lasts in one & half days, variety of entertainment programs like music, dramas, as a folk were continue for the next 4 to 5 days. People from all corners of Maharashtra as well as from off places in Karnataka flock the place for the duration of fair. Various theories are viewed to explain the origin of the fair. One of them is that a cow belonging to one of the villagers used to discharge milk in the green wood which turned in a plaque. When the owner went out to look for the cow, he found the matter. On same day he got a divine message in his dream. He started to worship that stone of plaque. The word sprayed and people have since been visiting the place annually. Since the plaque was found in rocky soil (Bharad) the goddess come to be known as Bharadi. Over the years, the crowds have swelled to the extent where the queue found by devotees for 'Darshan' extends up to 2 Kms.
Narali Pournima
The full moon day of the month of Shravan(August) is celebrated in different parts of Maharashtra Known as, the 'Narali Purnima' ,coconut day is dedicated to the sea god Varuna. This festival marks the end of the monsoons and is celebrated by the fishermen of Malvan. The fishermen paint their boats and coconuts are broken against them as offering to the sea god. It is said that to calm the sea fishermen offers coconut to sea. Narali Pournima also marks the advent of the new fishing season. Garlands made of flowers are also offered to the boats to mark the beginning of a new fishing season.The celebration begin at about three o’clock at afternoon, where when the prominent traders as well as common citizens gathered at the Hanuman temple in Somwar Peth, for the worshiping the coconut. The formal 'Puja' is performed by a prominent trader. The gathering then formed itself in to a passion which wends at way towards the jetty. Now comes the time to worship the sea. As per the tradition, the first coconut is offered from the peolpe of the sindhudurga fort. In the early days, a gold plated coconut was offered. Over the years a coconut wrapped in golden colored paper has taken its place. The ceremonial armed salute has been replaced by fire crackers. After the fort ritual is over, people offer their coconuts from Jetty. Thousands of people dressed in their best & youngsters with their colorful apparel forms major attraction of celebration. Many hawkers’ sells ballons, toys & chat items on jetty & people purchase these to their children.The coconut breaking contest form an interesting side light of celebration. Malvani people crowd to see the contest & enjoy the moment. The contestants who break the maximum number of rival coconut become the proud winner of the contest. Many visitors also visit Malvan to enjoy this festival.The celebration generally ends up with 'kabaddi' match played between local teams.
Ganesh Chaturthi
The most important and popular festival of Malvan, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in the month of August - September. This festival marks the birth anniversary of god Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom.In the days of the British Raj, Lokmanya Tilak encouraged Ganesh Chaturthi and other like celebrations to induce and reinforce feelings of nationalism amongst his countrymen. From that day, every year Maharshtrian people celebrate this festival with great enjoy.The preparations for this festival begin months ahead. Idols of Ganesha are installed and detailed arrangements are made for lighting and decoration. The festival is held for 2-21 days. Special prasad and food are prepared to mark the first day of the puja. Aarti is performed twice a day – in the morning and in the evening. Most people of the community attend the evening aarti. They actually rush home from work to take part in the festivities and gather around the brightly-lit Ganesha. People offer prasad of modaks or pedhas (a type of sweetmeat), coconut, hibiscus or any other red flower, sheaves of grass, vermilion, turmeric powder and rice. The festival comes to an end on the day of Anant Chaturthi. On this day, the idols of Ganesha are taken from various doorsteps, localities and puja rooms for a truly royal ride. The streets of Malvan are packed with multitudes as each locality comes out on the streets with its Ganesha. Amidst shouts of ‘Ganpati Bappa Moriya Pudhchya Varshi Lavkarya’ (Marathi for – Oh Ganpati My Lord, return soon next year), a sea of humanity carries the idols to the waters of the Arabian Sea. Firecrackers announce the arrival of the procession that halts every now and then for people to get a last glimpse of their favourite God and seek his blessings, for he is the remover of all obstacles. The idols are carried into the holy waters, and face the direction of the local community centres they started their journey from, till their visarjan, or immersion. In other towns and villages, folks carry the idols to the local river or tank for the visarjan ceremony.As dusk takes charge of the skies, people return to their localities and homes, awaiting Ganesha’s return the following year. Artists and sculptors start imagining how they will make an even nicer Ganesha next year. Housewives fret about making better modaks and pedas. In this country of almost a billion people, Ganesha plays his part. He generates work, adds meaning to their life and gives them hope.
Malvani Dashavatar...
Dashavtar is also known as 'Dahikala', From last 600-700 years Dashavtar is a part of Malvani culture.In Indian mythology the ten incarnations of lord Vishnu is collectively known as Dashavatar. They are Matsya (Fish) Katchha (Turtle), Varaha (Boar), Narsimha (half man half Lion), Waman (A brahman boy), Purshuram , Rama, Krishna, Budhha & Kalanki.Dashavatar is most popular art form in Malvan. Dance ritual dramas are held in most of the temples during festive occasions. Interesting characters in these dramas are Apsaras (Heavenly maidens) their roles in woman’s attire are played by the men.A from called Aatdashavatar is also highly appriciated by the locals. It is presented in two parts. Parts I begin with Ganeshstavan, Saraswatistavan, Brahmin priest’s entry and killing of sankasura (Purvarang) while part II is a proper play and includes mythological stories.
Malvani cuisine:
Non-Veg :-
Mashache Kalvan
Tisaryache Kalvan
Vade Sagoti
Kombadi Vade
Sol-Kadhi
Mori (Shark) Mutton
Veg :-
Malvani Malpua
Ghavane
Puranpoli
Modak
Climate & Rainfall :
Climate :-
Min.Temp - 16.3 Celsius
Max.Temp -33.8 Celsius
Rainfall :-
3,287mm ( Average ) Sindhudurg witnesses rain for full four months June, July, August and September

Sindhudurga Tour

Yewa, Konkan aaplach aasa. Malvnat chala Malvani mansa wangda.

The Sindhudurg is haven on the earth. The Land of Culture and Natural beauty, Sindhudurg is famous for its natural beauty like Beaches, Backwater, Waterfalls and Pilgrimage centers. The major attraction here is the long and narrow stretch of beaches. On a clear day, you can see the sea-bed through a depth of 20 ft. Then of course, there are the forts, Sindhudurg one of Maharashtra's more popular and important sea forts built in the 17th century and the famous Padmagarh fort. The name of the fort is given to the Sindhudurg district. Tourist from all over the world visit through out the year to see this Maratha glory.
Sindhudurg is in the Kokan area of Maharastra having picturesque stretch of land on the west cost of India, endowed with the beautiful seashore, picturesque Mountains and scenic natural beauty and known for tropical fruits like the world famous Alphonso mangoes, cashews, Jamuns etc.
At Sindhudurg verity of beaches are here. Evening is a magical time on these beaches. As the sun nears the horizon, the beach will bath in a golden glow. The scenic drive along the coastline is blessed with sheer beauty. The coastal strip of land is surrounded by the Sahyadri Mountains on the east the Arabian Sea on the west.
Following beaches are very famous in Sindhudurga :
Tarkarli Beach, Devbaug Beach, Chivla Beach, Tondavali Beach, Achara Beach, Shiroda Beach, Velagar Beach, Nivati Beach, Bhogwe beach, Bagavat Beach, Kunkeshwar Beach, Mithbav beach, Katwan beach, Kunkeshwar beach, Mithamubari bech, Vijaydurga beach.
A long stretch of silver sands, cool sea breeze whispering through towering Conjuring plantations on the beach, Fishermen seen launching their traditional boats and nets daily into the sea is an interesting feature to watch on this beach Get thrilling Experience of Water Scooter Scuba Diving & Snorkeling. Be cautious while entering the sea for swimming. Some were a paradise for swimmers and dolphin watchers. Dolphin season is between October and February. It is quite popular during season time. Beach lures to the tourists by its stunning white sand and beautiful blue water lagoon, thus an idealist spot for swimming, sunbathing and pick nicking. Flocks of local sea birds add to the beauty of serene surroundings by playing with the sea waters.
Malvan :
Sindhudurga fort is just 1 Km away from Malvan jetty. The coastal region saw hectic activities around 1600 AD. The British as well as Portuguese persist in their intimidator tactics. To reign in their forces and to keep Them Sawant under control , Shivaji came to Malvan via Nerur par. He realized that the best way to keep the trouble & make in check to enemy, they had to fortify the defense of the coastal region. During the visit to Malvan, he came across a small Island called ‘Kurte’. Shivaji was highly impressed by the sight as thought of constructing a fort there. The works on the project start on 25th Nov 1664. Shri Bharadi Devi Aanganewadi is very famous Ttemple, also Shri Rameshwar Temple, Sateri Devi jal Mandir, Adari Ganesh Mandir, Ozer Shri Brahmanand swami Samadhi is famous around Malvan.
Kunkeshwar :
Famous temple, dedicated to lord Siva. The temple was built in the year 1100 by the yadava rulers. A classic example of Konkani sculpture and architectur, this enchanting pilgrimage center is also known as ‘Dakshin Kashi. Presence of Arabian Sea in the backdrop attributes a special charm to the serene atmosphere of this temple. Mahasivarathri an important festival of Lord Siva is celebrated here with great pomp and splendor. Lakhs of devotees gather here to attend the three days fair conducted in connection with the festival.
Devgad Fort :
A historical monument, of vital importance, Devgad Fort is located at Devgad in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. Devgad town got its name from this legendary fort. It is amazing to see that this centuries old fort has overcome the ravages of time. The walls and the structures of this fort are still intact and in good condition. Bounded by evergreen mangroves this fortified monument looks pretty good and make oneself to feel proud about the rich cultural heritage.
Vijaydurg :
Vijaydurg Fort, also known as Victory Fort, is one of the many historically important sites in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. A historic place with serene, coastal beauty, Vijaya durg fort testifies the martial supremacy of the Marathas during the reign of Sivaji. Numerous towers, the triple line of huge walls, and the spacious interior buildings of this impressive monument are added by Sivaji. Bounded by the Arabian Sea from three sides, this amazing structure covers an area of six hectares. Rameswar temple and another shrine dedicated to Sivaji are the prime attractions inside the fort. This fabulous structure is a clear proof to the architectural excellence of the ancient civilization, which certainly makes any visitor to be proud of the glorious past.
Sawantwadi :
Sawantwadi is situated on the southernmost point of Sindhudurg on Maharashtra Coast. It is popular known as the entry point to Goa. This colorful and elite heritage city is famous for Jagannathrao Bhosale Garden and 'Shilpa Gram', a craft village offering numerous beautiful crafts items. Other attractions here include Sawantwadi's Palace, a simple looking Palace constructed in chire (red laterite) with ivy growing up the sides, surrounded by towering palm trees. Moti Talao, the pearl-lake formed like an open oyster under the sun. Sawantwadi town situated at the periphery of Moti talav is an unique example of peripheral city of India.
Amboli Hill Station :
Amboli si Kashmir of Konkan. Amboli is a hill station near Sawantwadi . It is quite but pleasant hill resort. It is 690 mtrs above sea level. The area is surrounded with dense forest and sea view point offers you panoramic view of a good part of konkan coast. It is 26 k.m far from Sawantwadi. There is a big Marvelous Water-fall (30 Mtrs Hight) 1.5 K.m. away from Amboli. Most of the young lot take bathe under pouring water. In summer, weather condition is pleasant and cool.
Redi Ganapati ( Redi Village ) :
This place is situated at south west to sawantwadi. Some years back this place was known for bauxite and others ores of aluminium but today mining is hampered and it is dominated by Usha Ispat Company.Redi is gifted with Arabian sea to its west and it has got ancient history of Lord Ganesha. Round about 18 years back a local person named Sadashiv Kambli visualised the sclupture of Lord Ganesha in his dreams for this he persuade it for long period and with help of Local workers he dug out the sclupture of Ganesha from sea shore. Today after survey it is now clear that this was made by Panadavas during their rule the sclupture is about 6 feet in height and 4 feets in breadth whole thing was readily found in one single piece.
Food Special
*The West coast of Maharashtra is famous for coconuts, mangoes, cashews, and rice. The region also grows a great quantity of kokum, a sweet-sour fruit. Fish is available in vast varieties and seafood is in abundant supply.
*Sol-kadhi- A tangy smooth appetizer made by kokum, coconut and chilly.
*Kelyache Panchamrut - A sweetish medley of bananas.*Tisrya-che Kalvan - Clams in thick spicy masala.
*Modak- Especially ensure that you try Lord Ganesha's favourite Bangadyachi Chatni : Its a paste made by dry "Bangada" fish and green chilly along with flavors of other spicy items like coriander, salt, ginger etc.
*Vade Sagoti : Its one of the famous food item in the district, specially prepared when guests comes to home.
Folk Arts
Dashawatar
In indian mythology the ten incarnations of lord Vishnu is collectively known as Dashavatar. To preserve the universe from destruction Vishnu took ten defferent froms (Avatar) from time to time. They are Matsya (Fish) Katchha (Turtle)Varaha (Boar)Narsimha) (half man half Lion), Waman (A brahman boy),Purshuram , rama, Krishna, Budhha & kalanki. In Sindhudurg Dashavatar is Most popular artform. Dance ritual dramas are held in most of the temples during festive occassions.
District Profile
Sindhudurg district is spread over an area of around 5,207 sq.kms. The population of the District is 8,68,825 as per census of 2001. The modern township of Sindhudurg Nagari is the headquarters of Sindhudurg district . The district is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the east, the Belgaum District (Karnataka state) and Goa on the South and the Ratnagiri district on the North. Sindhudurg being a coastal district, the climate is generally moist and humid and the temperature variations during the day and throughout the seasons are not large.
Climate & Rainfall :
Climate :-Min.Temp - 16.3 CelsiusMax.Temp -33.8 Celsius
Rainfall :-3,287mm ( Average ) Sindhudurg witnesses rain for full four months June, July, August and September