Image courrtsey - by MTDC

Approximately 375 kilometers south of Mumbai along the Konkan Coast, the name of this picturesque town is derived from the temple of Lord Ganesh or Ganapati which is built on the fine white sand of the beach. The idol of Ganesh, carved from a massive rock, is ‘swayambhu’ (self-originated) and the temple itself is almost 400 years old. What makes the temple all the more interesting is that the sanctum sanctorum is daily lit by the golden rays of sunrise and sunset that also illuminate the idol.

The beach at Ganpatipule is one of the most relaxing getaway places for those who wish to spend a weekend or even a few days in peace. With the temple adding an amazing backdrop to the beach, this is where spirituality and nature come together in a harmonious whole. This experience grows upon you even as you travel by road to Ganpatipule with the Western Ghats forming a chain of green hills along the coastline. Situated in the evergreen ranges of the Sahayadri, Ganapatipule is rich in flora and has an abundance of trees like the mango, cashew, betel nut, jackfruit, coconut, palm and casuarinas, to name just a few.

The tiny town with just about 100 houses is mainly marked by neatly drawn roads, red soil and roofed houses which have clean boundaries. Apart from the beach, Ganapatipule offers many other interesting spots for the tourists to explore, as for instance, the backwaters. Also, the MTDC offers a variety of water sports like row boats, motorboats, aero boats, pedal boats, etc. for recreation. Tourists can even enjoy paragliding. Meanwhile, the cuisine too is what adds to the appeal. Fish curries and the ‘kokam kadhi or sol kadhi (a pink–coloured digestive drink) are the specialty of the region. ‘Modak’, a sweet (and a favourite of Lord Ganesh), is a ‘must try’ delicacy.

Ganapatipule is one of the most spectacular beaches along the Konkan Coast – an idyllic getaway that attracts peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims alike.

The temple of Swayambhu (self-originated) Ganesh is much frequented by thousands every year.  The God is considered to be the Paschim Dwardevta (Western Sentinel God of India), and those who visit Ganapatipule, make it a point to pay their respects to this great deity.

Aside from its clean beach and clear waters, Ganapatipule is rich in flora, including mangroves and coconut palms.  Here, you can leave the hectic world behind as you laze around on golden sands or explore the many trails that lead from the beach.

Study the History : ‘Pracheen Konkan’ is a museum in Ganapatipule worth a visit for it depicts life as it was in the earlier years on this coastal belt. Set up by Vaibhav Sardesai with the help of the state government, it imparts information about the region to the tourists.

Visit Ratnagiri : The birth place of the great freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Ratnagiri is located about 25 kilometers away from Ganapatipule. Tilak’s house, now called ‘Tilak Smarak’, is a landmark and open to visitors. Also of importance is the Patit Pawan Mandir. It was the first temple built for the non-Brahmins by revolutionary leader Swatantryaveer Savarkar. Some of the other attractions are the Bhatye Beach, The Coconut Research Center, Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Bunder (sea port), the Seafood Processing Centre at Mirya and Thiba Palace which was built for the exiled king and queen of Burma (now Myanmar) in 1910-11, which is now converted into a museum.

 Visit a fort : Located 35 kms away from Ganapatipule is the Jaigad Fort, situated at the entrance of the river Shastri. This 17th century fort offers a commanding view of the sea and is also famous for a unique view of Konkan’s village life.

Do Some Shopping : Ganapatipule offers a variety of local preparations like ‘ambapoli’ (thin pancakes of crushed and dried mango) and ‘phanspoli’ (thin pancakes of dried and crushed jackfruit). In summer, tourists can buy the world famous ‘Devgad Hapus’ mangoes.

Gorge yourself on local cuisine : The variety of fish preparations are a ‘must have’ as is the ‘modak’ – a sweet dumpling which is lord Ganapati’s favorite dish.

 Malgund : Just 2 kilometers from Ganapatipule is a small village called Malgund - the birthplace of Keshavsut, one of the greatest Marathi language poets. Krushnaji Keshav Damle was his real name. The original residence of Keshavsut is now converted into a memorial where you will find on display his books as well as poems carved on marble slabs in the courtyard. The seashore of Malgund is wonderful too.  

Velneshwar : The beautiful village of Veineshwar, situated north of the Shastri River, has its own peaceful, coconut-fringed beach, where one can relax in tranquility.  The village comes alive each year during the Maha Shivaratri fari, when pilgrims in large numbers visit the Old Shiva Temple.

Pawas : Besides its scenic natural beauty and serenity.  Pawas is well-known for the Ashram of Swami Swaroopanand (a spiritual leader who influenced an entire generation of Maharshtrians).  A visit to this place is truly a journey through time.

 Marleshwar : 60 km. from Ganapatiple, is famous for  its Shiva temple and waterfall.  Derwan, 85 km from Ganapatipule, ius well known for its Shiv Shristi (and exhibition on Chhatrapati Shivaji).  Parshuram, 112 km from Ganapatipule, is known for the Parshuram temple.

Things to Do

• Study the History
• Visit Ratnagiri
• Visit a fort
• Do Some Shopping
• Gorge yourself on local cuisine
• Malgund