Pune and it’s surrounding towns are known for their tranquility and rich history, be it the forts. temples or just the eclectic fervour.
Bearing testimony to this is, Ganpatipule, a town on the Konkan coast. With bus fares as low as Rs 600, one can reach this place by road, rail and even by air via Ratnagiri. While the name may suggest that this is a pilgrim destination, it also houses unexploited white sand beaches, spots for water sports, flea markets, forts, ashrams and villages too.
This destination got it’s name from the Ganapatipule Beach, a white sand beach in the coastal town and Ganapatipule Temple that is adorned by intricate architecture and the unique idol of the elephant God facing west instead of the customary east. Witness the mesmerising sunset here to start your day.
The other places of religious importance are The Ganpati Swayambhu Temple that is believed to be 400 years old and is believed to have sprung up from the soil, The Jay Vinayak Temple, and the Lakshmi Keshav Temple to name a few.
With around 100 houses in the vicinity, it is ideal for a two-day break in a natural and calm habitat. With the increased focus on tourism and the development of newer resorts by The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, many other resorts and hotels have now opened to provide the visitors a comfortable stay.
Managed, by MTDC, Ganapatipule also hosts a lot of water sport options with motor boats, rowboats, water scooters, aero boats and pedal boats available during the peak season.
Just a drive away, is Malgund, the native village of the famous Marathi poet, Kavi Keshavsoot who is regarded as the poet who heralded the dawn of modern Marathi poetry. A dedicated monument and the museum is where one can find information on most of the modern-day poets of the Marathi language.
The beautiful village of Velneshwar situated nearby also has its own unexplored, coconut-fringed beach, for tourists seeking peace and tranquillity. The village comes alive each year during the Maha Shivaratri fair, when pilgrims in large numbers visit the Old Shiva Temple.
One can enjoy one of the best varieties of mango ‘hapus’, during the summers. The mouth smacking food like Amba Vadi (made of dried mangoes), Jackfruit, SoulKadhi, Misal Pao and misal chapatti are a must have here too.
At the banks of Sangameshwar river, is another tourist attraction. Jaigad Fort constructed in the 17th century offe
rs a commanding view of the Konkan belt. The Jaigad Lighthouse is also situated in one of the bastion on the western edge of the Jaigad Fort.
The flea markets at the town stock rare handcrafted items and interesting buys ranging from shoes to accessories at very cheap prices.
A perfect place for photography, a paradise for beach vacation seekers and an amazing peek into the sea of history and culture, Ganpatipule has something to satisfy every soul.
Pack your bags the coming weekend and head here !
Reach her at loveleen@pune365.com or tweet @KaurKaur18
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