Apart from the beautiful virgin beaches, Ganpatipule has temples of Lord Ganesha as major attractions at the Beach town on Konkan coastline. Situated in the district of Ratnagiri in the Konkan region, Ganpatipule is a small town. With a long stretch of golden beaches, it is an idyllic getaway in the lap of nature. The amalgamation of the river and the beach can be seen with the hill-like statue of Lord Ganpati. The Ganpatipule village is prominent for boasting a 400 years old Ganesha temple. Allegedly discovered some 1600 years ago, the Ganesha idol is said to be a self-created monolith of Ganpati. For peace-seekers, beach lovers and pilgrims, this place is perfect, because it is still untouched by commercialism. Water sports facilities are also available between the months of November to May. Clubbed with other small villages like Velneshwar, Malgund and Pawas, Ganpatipule is a perfect place for a small trip.
Best Time To Visit Ganpatipule
Ganpatipule is popular for its tropical climate. The weather remains pleasant throughout the year, which means you can visit the town any time you like. But the best time to visit Ganpatipule is between the months of October and March when the temperature is suitable for a beach vacation. Avoid visiting the town during the monsoon.
History Of Ganpatipule
According to a local tale, the elephant god Ganpati, taking umbrage at a remark made by an old lady, shifted to Pule, a small village located a few kilometres from town, from his previous home of Gule. Thus, changing the name of the place to Ganpati-pule. The Ganpati idol inside the temple is said to have sprung up from the land. The Ganesha statue is facing towards the west direction unlike other deities in India who face towards the east direction. The temple is situated at the foot of the hill and pilgrims walk around the temple in circles as a mark of respect.
Major Attractions Of Ganpatipule
1. Jaigad Fort
Also prominent by the name of Fort of Victory, Jaigad Fort is a 16th-century fort that covers 13 acres of land in the coastal region of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra. Located 20 kilometres to the northwest of Ganpatipule and near the Jaigad village, the ruins of the fort are still standing steadily on a cliff overlooking the Jaigad creek. The fort is the epitome of Indian engineering and fulfilled the purpose it was built for. Jaigad Fort amazes you the moment you set your eyes on it. Don’t forget to visit the Jaigad lighthouse while you are there.
2. Swami Ganapati Temple
It is said that the self-created monolith of Lord Ganesha was discovered 1600 year ago. The temple is 400 years old and is built of pule which is white sand. This temple is the major crowd puller in Ganpatipule.
3. Ganpatipule Beach
Located on the Konkan coastline in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, Ganpatipule Beach is a stunning and spectacular beach. The shoreline of the beach is undoubtedly mesmerizing and spectacular and is home to a wide range of exquisite flora including mangroves and coconut trees.
4. Malgund
The home of the famous Marathi poet, Kavi Keshavsoot, Malgund is a quaint little village in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The house of the poet is now turned into a hostel for students and is open for visitors. Built by the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, a memorial dedicated to the poet, is also located in the village.
How To Reach Ganpatipule
The nearest railway station to Ganpatipule in Ratnagiri is well connected to most of the metro cities in India. Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai is the nearest airport to Ganpatipule. A complex network of government and private buses and cabs are easily available from Ratnagiri.
- Nearest Metropolitan City. Mumbai
- Distance From Ratnagiri. 65 Kilometres
- Distance From Mumbai. 375 Kilometres
- Distance From Pune. 335 Kilometres
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By Air
From Ganpatipule, the nearest airstrips are Mumbai and Pune, which are 352 kilometres and 335 kilometres away respectively. A number of taxis are always available to go to Ganpatipule from the airports. Local buses are also available.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available To Reach Ganpatipule
By Train
Some 30 kilometres away, lies the nearest railhead, Ratnagiri railway station. This station is well-connected with cities like Pune, Mumbai, Solapur, Thane, Sangli, Kolhapur and Goa. The remaining distance to Ganpatipule can be covered via cabs or buses.
By Road
This little beach town is well-connected with cities like Mumbai, Pune, Sangli, Kolhapur, Solapur, Ratnagiri and Goa. The road network is surrounded by lush greenery.
Travel Tip
Being a religious place, most of the visitors are here for the pilgrimage. So, pack comfortable clothes and light slippers if you are there to enjoy the beach. From November to May, water sports are not available on all seven days. The village is a clean and silent place, it is advisable that we help keep it that way.
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