For those who want to experience the richness and vibrancy of Konkan, Ratnagiri is the best place for you! Filled with natural wonders, beaches, waterfalls, forts, caves, temples, and other places of attractions - Ratnagiri will surely make you fall in love! If Konkan is the crown of Maharashtra then Ratnagiri is one of its jewels. Ratnagiri is also famous for its religious sites, especially the various temples rich in history, mythology and heritage.
5 Best Temples In Ratnagiri
There are many temples in Ratnagiri that should be on your bucket list when you visit Konkan. These temples are among the best temples in Maharashtra. We have listed the best temples that you should visit when you come to stay at Cherilyn Monta Resort in Rajapur, Ratnagiri.
1. Dhootpapeshwar Temple
Dhootpapeshwar Temple is located 3 to 4 kilometres from the Rajapur Railway Station and it is considered to be one of the gems of Ratnagiri. It is surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. During the monsoons, the Mrudani River generates a chain of waterfalls around the temple, making it a beautiful sight.
The road towards the temple passes through lush green forests, away from pollution. There is a banyan tree which is hundreds of years old. Its aerial roots resemble the jatas of Lord Shiva. The Shiva Lingam in the temple is adorned with flowers. The temple consists of a hall, a pavilion and the sanctum.
2. Mahakali Temple
Another beautiful temple in Rajapur is the Mahakali Temple. The temple consists of five gods, Shri Yogeshwari, Shri Mahalakshmi, Shri Mahakali, Shri Mahasaraswati, and Shri Rawalnath.
The statue of Shri Mahakali is made of black stone and is said to be facing southwards. The tradition of bathing the idol of the goddess in oil and coconut milk every full moon and no moon is followed even to this day.
The Adivare Village is mentioned in records since the year 1113, and the temple came into existence in 1324. It is one of the best temples in Ratnagiri.
3. Nateshwar Temple
The Nateshwar Temple is another beautiful temple in Rajapur, Ratnagiri. Nateshwar Temple is dedicated to lord Nateshwar, the deity of Nate Village. Along with the Shiv idol, you can also see the idols of Ram, Lakshman and Sita. The Shiva Lingam is made up of Basalt.
The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, Konkani houses, betel nut plantations, and lush greenery. The Nate Village is located off the Rajapur Road in Ratnagiri.
4. Ganeshgule Temple
The famous Ganeshgule Temple is located 22 kilometres from Ratnagiri. The temple is said to be around 400 years old. The Dome of the temple is in unique style and the entire temple is built with lateritic rock. There is no idol of Lord Ganesh in the temple, instead, a self-stylized rock is worshipped as Lord Ganesh.
Near the temple, there is a well with stairs that is 70 feet deep. During ancient times, water used to flow from the cow’s mouth known as Gomukh. One day, the flow of the water stopped. The devotees believe that Lord Ganesh had left this temple and is now settled at Ganpatipule Temple.
5. Ganpatipule Temple
If you don’t mind travelling a bit further from Rajapur, then Ganpatipule Temple is the best temple in Ratnagiri. It is located on the Ganpatipule beach, making it one of the best coastal temples in Maharashtra. It is located 25 kilometres from Ratnagiri.
The deity in the temple is known as the Dwar Devata of the western region of India. The temple has a unique structure, making it one of the best temples in Maharashtra. A lamp tower called Nandadeep is in front of the temple. It was erected by Shrimant Nanasaheb Peshwa. Mahadev Rao Peshwa’s wife had also constructed a ‘Dharamshala’ i.e the resting home of the devotees.
Devotees come to the temple to celebrate the Angarki, Sankashti, and Magh festivals. The temple has emerged as a major attraction among tourists and visitors.
With so many beautiful temples in Ratnagiri and Rajapur, you will surely love exploring Konkan. Cherilyn Monta Resort is one of the best resorts in Rajapur with all the amenities you need. We are the perfect blend of comfort, earthiness, and luxury.
So what are you waiting for? Come to us to experience the best weekend getaway ever! Read more to know about the many things to do near Cherilyn Monta Resort.