The Konkan belt in Maharashtra - an offbeat Indian beach and fort trip
Offbeat destination and one of India's hidden gems that very few people know about, the Konkan Belt is located in the western region of Maharashtra state. This region is blessed with beautiful unmarketed beaches, historic forts, scenic drives, jungles, villages, and relaxing nature. Don't know how to get there? Don't worry, the places in the Konkan belt are well connected by road. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool and less humid. You can start your tour from Mumbai or Pune and drive to Murud Janjira Fort (around 4.5 hours drive).
From there, you can take a small detour and drive around 2.5 hours to visit the strategically constructed hill fort of Raigad. From Raigad Fort, continue your journey along the Konkan Coast to Harihareshwar Beach (approximately 2.5 hours drive). Visit the ancient temple of Ganesha on your way to Ganpatipule (approximately 5.5 hours drive). The temple is located directly on the beach. Explore Sindhudurg Fort, temples and beautiful beaches when arriving from Ganpatipule in Sindhudurg (around 3.5 hours drive). You can end your Konkan Belt tour in Goa (approximately 3.5 hours drive) and return to your hometown from Goa. So, let's explore what this region of India has to offer.
Located near the village of Murud, this majestic fort is a magnificent representation of the fort's architecture in western India. The 17th century Fort Murud Janjira is considered one of the strongest forts in India. For most of the 17th to 18th centuries, the fort was under the control of the Abyssinians who were migrants from today's Ethiopia. This fort was attacked by the Marathas, the British and the Portuguese, but remained undefeated.
The fort is a testament to the wonders of ancient engineering, as it is fully intact even today, despite the ravages of wind and tide. This offshore marine fort is accessible only by ferry (approximately 5-10 minutes each way). Rajapuri Jetty is where you can hire boats to go to and from Fort Murud Janjira. Inside the fort, you can see the Darbar (the courtyard), the bastion, the lakes, the temples, the mosques and the school. Placed inside the fort, discover the three heaviest cannons in India named "Kalal Bangdi", "Landa Kasam" and "Chavri" weighing over 22,000 kg with a range of 12 km and are heat resistant . In monsoons, from June to September, the fort is closed to visitors due to rough seas and strong waves. This magnificent fort which has withstood many invasions is worth a visit.
Raigad FortLocated in the Sahyadri mountain range, Raigad is a hill fort built by King Maratha Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He made this fort his capital in 1674 when he was crowned king of a kingdom of Maratha. Upon arrival at the foot of the fort, buckle up for a fascinating hike to the fort on the narrow path, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the mountain range.
Climb up to 1,475 steps to reach the massive fort. You can also reach the fort by cable car. Inside the fort, one can see Samadhi (Tomb) of Jijau & Jijau Palace (Mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj), Tiger Cave, Chitta Darwaja, Maha Darwaja (Entrance to the Fort), Iron Pole, Elephant Tank, Jagadishwar Temple , Samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, storage of weapons and armor, Ganga Sagar lake, and much more. Raigad Fort carries the legacy of the ancient Marathas. The huge entrance to the fort, the stone carved art all around the fort and the rock solid structure amazes how perfect the geometry skills and architecture of the bygone era were.
HarihareshwarHarihareshwar is famous for the Harihareshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is this place where the Savitri river crosses the city and meets the Arabian Sea. Harihareshwar also has religious significance as it is home to many temples of various deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. The oldest temple in the state of Maharashtra is the Kalbhairav temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hence, Harihareshwar is also called "House of God". The highlight in town is Harihareshwar beach which will definitely soothe your soul. Take a refreshing early morning boat ride on the beach or if you want you can indulge in water sports. You can also visit the nearby village of Bagmandla, historically linked to that of Peshwa. Here you can enjoy a ferry ride and visit Fort Bankot. In the evening, you can spend a relaxing time on secluded Shrivardhan Beach near Harihareshwar.
Ganpatipule is home to a 400-year-old Ganesha temple, Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, located directly on the beach. It is believed to be a self-manifested monolith of Lord Ganesha and is believed to have been discovered 1600 years ago. The specialty of this temple is that the deity is placed in such a way that at the time of sunset a ray of rays of the sun illuminates the idol. Explore and understand the traditional Konkan way of life at the Prachin Konkan Museum. The museum is located in 3 hectares of lush greenery. Stroll through this heritage museum and learn about Konkan's original culture. Enjoy a coastal stroll and relax on the beautiful, pristine Aare Ware Beach. Experience the magnificent view of the sunset over the golden sands of this beach.
Home to the old Sindhudrug Fortress, built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1664 AD, Sindhudurg is making a leap in Konkan tourism. This fort has witnessed many battles and has remained with the Marathas for many years and therefore has an important place in history. Another major attraction in Sindhudurg is the Sawantwadi Palace. The palace houses a museum that displays the silver throne of the royal Bhosale family. You can also see Ganjifa art at the palace which is still being done for generations. Take a walk to the peaceful Moti Talav (lake) or if you wish you can also enjoy a boat ride or have a relaxing time in the nearby garden. Also visit 15 e century Bandeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the village of Banda near Sindhudurg. Spend your evenings at Malvan Beach or go scuba diving.