Ganapatipule

A small town, located in the North of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Ganapatipule is a tourist destination that attracts travellers to its sandy beaches fringed by coconut palms, mangroves and the Ganapatipule Mandir. Apart from other places to visit in Ganapatipule, people especially come here to visit this temple. The long stretch of serene beaches makes Ganapatipule an ideal place to get soaked in the hues of nature. Untouched by urbanisation, the place still maintains its virgin charm. The confluence of the river and the beach, mountains in the background and the presence of a Ganapatipule mandir make the whole set-up look divine. Places to visit in Ganapatipule are also known for adventure activities and hence attract adrenaline junkies from far and wide. Places to visit in Ganapatipule are perfect for pilgrims, nature lovers and adventurers.

Ganapatipule Overview

Best Time to Explore Places to visit in Ganapatipule

Located in the Konkan belt, Ganapatipule experiences high rainfall and the climate is hot and humid. November to February is the best time to enjoy the places to visit in Ganapatipule as the weather is comparatively cooler. You will be able to enjoy the beaches and water sports during this season

How  to Reach the Places to Visit in Ganapatipule

You can take a flight to Mumbai or Pune to reach Ganapatipule as these two cities are well connected to all the major cities in the country. A cab from Mumbai or Pune airport will take you to the places to visit in Ganapatipule. Ratnagiri airport is the closest airport to Ganapatipule. You can take a flight to Ratnagiri also. Ratnagiri railway station is just 50km from Ganapatipule. If you are planning to travel by train, you can take a train that will drop you at Ratnagiri. Ganapatipule is well-connected to nearby cities through roadways. The route is scenic, and you can enjoy your road trip in a bus, taxi or car. You will get buses from Mumbai, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, Swarget (Pune), Miraj, Chiplun and Deorukh. You can hire a cab to go around the places to visit in Ganapatipule.

Things to See & Do in Places to Visit in Ganapatipule

Ganapatipule Mandir

This 400-year-old temple is famous for housing the naturally formed monolith of Lord Ganesha which was discovered 1600 years ago. Ganapatipule Mandir, also known as Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, attracts many visitors throughout the year. The number of visitors increases during Hindu festivals like Diwali and Ganeshotsav. According to a legend, it is believed that Lord Ganapati was offended by a local lady and moved to Pule from his original abode at Gule. This place got its name from there. The idol faces the west unlike other Indian deities in the temples who face the east. So, it is believed that the deity protects the western direction and hence it is known as Pashchim  Dwar Devta as well. After offering your prayers at the most revered places to visit in Ganapatipule you can do a parikrama(go around in a circle) of the hillock and pay your respects to the two Ganesha idols resting here.

Prachin Konkan Museum

Prachin  Konkan Museum is an open-air museum that walks you through the lifestyle of the Konkan people 500 years ago. It displays life-sized sculptures that re-enact the village life and culture. The museum aims at enlightening people about the rich cultural heritage and natural history of the Konkan region. The museum occupies a huge area and is set in a natural environment. It is one of the most unique places to visit in Ganapatipule. Exploring other places to visit in Ganapatipule becomes more interesting once you get to know about the history and the lifestyle of the Konkan people at this museum.

Aare Ware Beach

Aare  Ware Beach is a natural wonder formed millions of years ago due to the convergence of a mountain into the sea. These twin beaches, Aare and Ware are two sides of a single mountain. Located at a distance of 12 km from the famous Ganapatipule Temple, these two beaches look like two crescents on the edge of the ocean. The natural beauty of this place sets it apart from other places to visit in Ganapatipule. Aare-Ware beach is a point where the ocean meets the mountain, and the beauty of this meeting point will stay in your memories forever.

Jaigad Fort

Located  in Jaigad village, which is at a distance of 19km from Ganapatipule, Jaigad Fort is one of the most popular places to visit in Ganapatipule owing to its significant history. The fort was built on top of a cliff and offers a gorgeous view of the open bay and the sea. The construction of the fort started in the 14^th century and was completed by the Sultan of Bijapur. The fort is protected by a deep moat and strong bastions. Within the fort, there is a Ganapati temple, 3 wells and a government rest house. The British built a lighthouse near the fort which is made out of cast iron. The fort and the lighthouse are an important inclusion in your list of places to visit in Ganapatipule as they offer a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea. There is a small temple called Karhateshwar Temple located very close to the fort . This shore-front temple is believed to be constructed during the reign of Shilaharas. You can trek to a small stream flowing nearby for a quick dip.

The  Memorial of Keshavsut

This memorial is dedicated to famous Marathi poet, Keshavsut, alias Krishnaji Keshav Damle. He was born in 1886 in Malgund, in this house which is just 2.5km from Ganapatipule. This is one of the places to visit in Ganapatipule that gives an insight into Marathi literature. The memorial throws light on the life and works of this great poet. His house has been converted into a memorial and you will see copper utensils and other things that were used by him. This is a must-visit place for people who are in love with literature.

Food  to Try in Places to Visit in Ganapatipule

Food in Ganapatipule is influenced by Malwani cuisine. Being a pilgrimage destination, it is difficult to get non-vegetarian food in this region. However, some of the restaurants sell non-vegetarian food. If you are a seafood lover, then dont miss the local fish curry and rice. You must try kokum curry with rice at the places to visit in Ganapatipule. Other famous dishes include batata vada, sabudana khichdi, sol kadi and sweet modaks. If you are looking for a scrumptious vegetarian meal, then you can try wholesome vegetarian thali at any of the restaurants near places to visit in Ganapatipule.

Things  to Buy in Ganapatipule

The tastiest cashew nuts, coconuts and kokum sherbet can all be found in places to visit in Ganapatipule. Get your hands on some of tastiest variety of mangoes, like Devgad hapoos, if you are travelling during the mango season. In any case, there are canning facilities where a range of mango and mango products, such as ambapoli (pancakes made of dried and crushed mangoes) and phanspoli (thin dried and crushed jackfruit) are available. Find some handmade mango and gooseberry pickles by asking the locals.

Ganapatipule is home to serene beaches. You will love the festivals, beaches and water sports. The tranquil vibe of Ganapatipule will instantly calm your mind.

If you're craving for a great vacation, you should plan a trip to Ganapatipule, where most of the travellers go in the months of November, December, January and February. And you will have perfect attractions to explore like Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, Prachin Konkan and Beach trekking across Aare Ware beach. Scheduling your trip around the moderate season in the months of July, August, September and October, you will cherish heavy rainfalls. If you wish to have a grasp of their culture and practices closely, travel around these months: (August September, October, and October November. You will be able to witness their grand festivals: Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, and Diwali. Take a break from your mundane routine and unwind in Ganapatipule to make some lovely memories!

Conclusion

Plan a trip to places to visit in Ganapatipule and discover the beauty and calmness of beaches lined up on the coast. Explore the rich Konkani culture, indulge in watersports and pay your respects at the famous Ganapatipule Temple and feel enriched. Disconnect from the humdrum of city life and relax in the lap of nature. This trip will remain etched in your memory forever.