Konkan is of the best places to explore in Maharashtra - with its natural, religious and historical wonders. There are many things to explore in Konkan - beaches, forests, temples, hill stations, waterfalls etc. You name it - the Konkan region has it all. One of the most famous places to visit in Konkan is Ratnagiri. It is a small town in Maharashtra which overlooks the Arabian Sea.
Ratnagiri is located between the sea and the Sahyadri ranges i.e the Western Ghats. It has many beaches, temples, and other places of attraction. We have listed the top 8 things to do in Ratnagiri to experience Konkan at its best.
Ganpatipule Beach
Ganpatipule Beach is one of the best things to do in Ratnagiri. It is located 25 kilometres North of Ratnagiri and is one of the best beaches in Maharashtra. The beach has golden sands and is surrounded by pristine blue seas.
The beach is famous for the Ganpatipule Temple, one of the most famous temples in Konkan. Along with the temple, one can also indulge in adventure sports. However, it is advisable to go inside the water only after enquiry. You can also take a nice walk on the beach.
Shree Kshetra Ganpatipule Temple
Shree Kshetra Ganpatipule is one of the most popular religious sites in Konkan. The temple is believed to be 400 years old. The idol in the temple is known as Dwar Devata, meaning the protector deity of the western region of India. One of the devotees had found an idol of Lord Ganesha, and installed the idol on the foothills of a small hill on the coast.
A lot of devotees come to Ganpatipule Temple, especially during Angarki, Sankashti, and Magh Festival. There are many accommodations around this area. It is one of the best things to do in Ratnagiri.
Thiba Palace
Thiba Palace is one of the best things to do in Ratnagiri, It was the palace of King Thiba, who ruled Myanmar until 1885. After Myanmar was taken over by the British, he was transferred from Myanmar to Madras and then to Ratnagiri to ensure that he does not rebel. In Ratnagiri, the three-story palace was constructed for him in 1910.
It is built in Brahmi Style and is spread over 27 acres. The palace is decorated with wooden floors and the windows have Italian glasses.
There is a marble floor on the ground floor of the temple, and from the top of the palace, you can view the Arabian. There is an art exhibition and an archaeological museum as well. Near Thiba Point, there is the Jijamata Garden. From there, you can get a great view of the area.
Ratnadurga Fort
Ratnadurga Fort, also known as Bhagawati Fort, is situated near Ratnagiri docks. It was built in the 12th century and is one of the many forts in Maharashtra. The fort is spread over 120 acres of land. It is 1211 metres in length and 917 metres in width. The height of the fort is 100 metres and one can easily climb up. The fort also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati.
The fort is divided into three parts - Peth, Small Fort and a lighthouse. The fort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all three sides, while the lighthouse is on the fourth side. The entire fort has 29 bastions, while the smaller fort has 9 bastions. The fort has a rich history and you should visit it during your next weekend.
Lokmanya Tilak’s Birthplace
Lokmanya Tilak is known as one of the most prominent freedom fighters against the British. He was born in 1856 in Ratnagiri. For 10 years he and his family lived in a typical Konkani house in the centre of Ratnagiri. This birthplace is now preserved as a Memorial by the Archeological Department of Maharashtra.
The statue of Lokmanya Tilak is outside its premises, and his birthday is celebrated every year at the memorial. For those interested in history, it is one of the best things to do in Ratnagiri.
Ganeshgule Temple
Ganeshgule Temple is one of the most popular things to do in Ratnagiri. It is located 22 kilometres from Ratnagiri. The temple is said to be around 400 years old. It is built from lateritic rocks. There is no single Ganesh idol in the temple, instead, a rock is worshipped as Lord Ganesha.
The temple is said to have been built during the Pre - Shivaji era and the dome of the temple is of a unique style. There is also a 70 feet deep well in the temple area with steps leading toward the bottom. This temple should be on your list when you visit Ratnagiri.
Purnagad Fort
Purnagad Fort is one of the many attractions in Ratnagiri. It was built by Maratha Naval Admiral Sarkhal Kanhoji Aangre. When you will reach the fort, the main gate will not be easily visible. The main gate is a strong fine structure made up of lateritic stone. Once you enter through the door, you will see a cabin called Devadi.
There are small holes on the bastions of the fort from where the fire cannon was fired. A hanuman temple is located near the fort. It is one of the best things to explore in Ratnagiri.
Jaigad Fort
Another famous fort in Maharashtra is the Jaigad Fort. It was under the control of Kanhoji Angre from 1695. It was captured by the British in 1818 without a fight. The fort has documents dating from the 16th century. It is one of the most important things to do in Ratnagiri.
Once you enter the fort, you can see the rooms on the left side. Above the main entrance, there is a two-storied rest house built by the British. There are two Dipmalas, i.e. lighthouses. However, only one of them is in good condition. Outside the fort, a moat has been dug to protect the fort.
There is a small door along the main entrance that leads to the Jaigad harbour. If you are visiting Ratnagiri, you should explore this fort if you are a history buff.
With so many places to visit in Ratnagiri, you will surely have a great weekend getaway! Cherilyn Monta Resort is one of the best resorts near Ratnagiri. It is located in Rajapur and near to all the things to do in Ratnagiri. We also have all the modern amenities and facilities. So what are you waiting for! Book your weekend with us now!
Comments