Are you a nature lover? Wish to contribute to environment protection? Well, there is an exciting way to do that – make your holiday eco-friendly. How? On World Environment Day we show you how to contribute to the environment while enjoying the abundance of nature.
Plant Saplings: One Seed Bears Many Fruits
Whether by a beach or in the mountains, everyone loves to rest and relax amidst abundant flora. For those escaping the crowded metros of our country, a dash of green is always more soothing than the dull greys that surround us. So, while armchair activism about fewer trees in the vicinity may provide temporary respite to the weary mind, planting saplings, especially of indigenous plants, would be a perfect long-term answer for the greater good. Take Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal for example: This lovely heritage property sits nestled in the midst of an award-winning garden, a percentage of which is the fruit of all its guests. How, you ask? Every guest SaffronStays hosts is gifted a sapling before check-out and can place it anywhere they like on the 9-acre property. Inclusion at its best, innit?
Harvest Water: Each Drop Counts
The fact that our country has to face water scarcity every summer is no news. Interior Maharashtra, the Himalayan region and Central India are some of the worst hit. But you can do your bit by saving your usage of water, and recycling what you can. While lush lawns may look visually appealing, sometimes less is more, and in case of water scarcity, absence can be sweet. The charming owner of L’attitude, Kamshet forfeit the traditional water-guzzling, ecologically disruptive short-grass lawn and planted 108 drought-tolerant trees around the home. Practicality and presentation can always go hand-in-hand. After all, 8th Grade Environmental Studies was taught for a reason, right?
Create Indoor Gardens: True Beauty Is On The Inside
Remember when your mother said ‘Looks don’t matter till you are actually beautiful from the inside’? While an acne-ridden face could not digest this statement, there is no truer line for a home. Imagine waking up to a stunning garden inside your home, rather than just around it? Fresh air, cool ambiance, branching shade and gorgeous flowers, literally at your doorstep is a perfect setting to grab your morning cuppa. While Master’s Coutryard, Gholvad has a central aangan with bed of trees, the various indoor plants sprouting within Cabo de Goa make both these holiday destinations
Source Locally: Nobody Likes A Foreign Body
Being different and trying to push an exotic concept, be it through architecture, materials or plants may not be the best approach to creating a home. Villa 270°, Dapoli is the epitome of inclusive creation: terracotta tiled roofs, structures made of local laterite stone, vernacular architecture that make the cottages charming, yet conserve the environment.
Ventilate Organically: Natural Is Normal
Summers in India are nothing short of harsh. Imagine planning a getaway and then facing the horrid heat, where even an Air-Conditioner is a mere tool against the forces of nature? But, there is a way to beat the blues organically: Create using the natural pattern of wind to maximise the breeze through windows, and curate using natural plant-based materials like Vetiver (Khas) that can provide a day’s cooling on a few drops of water. Simple and easy, right? The owner and the architect at Maya, Khadakvasla got this formula absolutely bang-on.
Have you ever seen someone’s name flash on your phone and wondered how that person became such an integral part of your life? We all have these friends who walked into our lives unexpectedly and stayed on to become much more. On this International Day of Families, we want to shout out to those ‘families’ who may not be related by blood or name, but those groups whom we cannot imagine our lives without.
Bridge-playing buddies
Friends get better with age.
Those Sunday afternoons seem so boring without the gang, eh? Ask your parents or your grandparents who their closest pals are and they’ll most likely mention the gang they play cards with at the neighbourhood club. In fact, why limit it to only a gymkhana? This International Day for Families calls for an outing with this bunch, and don’t the weekday prices at most our properties sound lucrative too?
Social Work Club
A little breather from work can work wonders.
So you and a bunch of mates rally together to produce some socially relevant difference to the world? Why not get together today and chill out over a drink. For all the work you guys have done, ya’ll deserve a little break, no? So meet up, discuss the week that was and just unwind after that last piece of activism.
MBA group
Drinks on?
If you’ve spent 2 gruelling years with a bunch of individuals who were equally intent on finding themselves and building up their careers, you will know that you all know match on that same wavelength. They say friends made during an MBA course are friends for life. Here’s your chance to put that saying to test: Make sure you and your entire gang land up at a designated bar tonight. Drinks on the last one to arrive!
Co-Teachers
Nobody gets teachers the way teachers get each other.
Squabbling kids, botched education systems and immense knowledge are such a great link to connect with others. If you’ve ever been a teacher, you know exactly how important your colleagues from work are. Gather up your co-teachers and head for a relaxing weekend (sans the noise and stress) at Parsi Manor, Matheran. Consider it as a vacation for those who truly deserve it.
Train travellers
Who said train journeys have to be bad and boring?
Always catch that 9:14 local, do you? You’ll surely have a train gang then. Given this new age digital boom has left very few people getting their heads out of their devices, but when they do, you’ll see how friendly your train buddies can be. Try exchanging numbers and meeting up outside, and you now have a new group to hang out with!
Hobby class gang
Birds of a feather fly together.
Have you and your significant other signed up for a hobby or health class together? High chance is that you’ll have already formed a clique within the class. Why not plan a trip around the said hobby or health fad? Like practicing some yoga out on the porch at Verandah by the Valley on an early monsoon morning?
Kid’s friend’s parents
Why should kids have all the fun?
This gang of people is one you definitely will not be able to do without. If you’re a kid reading this, you’ll know how close your parents have become. If you’re in your mid-20s, it’s quite possible that you have been out of touch with your school pals, but your parents still get together like a house on fire. And if you’re a parent, the fact that your respective kids spend some 8 hours together, get along perfectly and won’t trouble you while on vacation makes these co-parents just the best travel buddies. Right?
Kitty Party
Head out of the city for your next kitty party!
From husband-bashing to ranting against your ma-in-law to discussing the kid’s college and your world tours. Your gang of gal pals is extremely critical for your monthly gossip sesh, and none may deny that. So after all the home and hotel kitty parties you have hosted and attended, it’s time you stepped up your game and stepped out of the city. That’s right! Host a party in a hill station or just take a vacation together. And in case you are looking at ideas for fun games and activities at your do, look no further. We’ve got you, girl.
Neighbourhood Pals
You know those familiar faces in your galli that don’t have names yet whose smiles prove to be just the best pick-me-ups after a long day at work? Next time stop and have a chat with them. Who knows you’ll probably make a new BFF and that smile could mean so much more then!
Here’s to all the small families we build outside our etched ones. Here’s to those who matter too!
Coastal Maharashtra is an untouched heaven which is easily accessible by the major cities around it. Away from the chaos of urban life, this heaven proves to be a worthwhile getaway this season. Sindhudurg, the southernmost district of the Maharashtrian coastline, offers many such getaways to rejuvenate your senses. May we add, this is the region that produces the much-revered juicy Alphonso – the king of mangoes. Here are 7 places you can visit in Sindhudurg this vacation.
Bhogwe is one of the most pristine beaches in the district. Safe to swim, and rich in fauna, Bhogwe is arguably one of the best kept secrets of the Sindhudurg. The best way to enjoy this place is to stay in this family run property, that offers traditional Konkani style bamboo-cottages. Perched atop the Bhogwe hill and surrounded by 20 acres of mango plantations, this property offers an unparalleled, magnificent view of Karli river meeting the Arabian sea, also known as the ‘Sangam’ at Devbag right across. This spot is perfect to relax and admire the view of the sheer open ocean or cuddle up with a coffee mug and a book for company. One could take quick trek down the hill to reach the lovely Bhogwe beach, where you could enjoy long walks and explore nearby Nivati fort. If you are lucky, you may also spot peacocks and black hornbills.
Goan-portuguese inspired cottages atop the Bhogwe hill
Vengurla is the south-most beach in Maharashtra, and is home to some of the most quiet and beautiful beaches in coastal Maharashtra. Sagareshwar, Shiroda, Redi, Mochemad are some of the beaches that surround Vengurla and add to its beauty. The lighthouse and Dutch wakhaar are nearby places for sightseeing. Vengurla is also known for its cashew production and the local market sells various items that the region specializes in. A trip to Vengurla is must if you are fond of quiet beaches sparred with some history. When in Vengurla, stay at this beach-side property, just 50 meters from the beach. It offers luxurious huts with sit-outs that are perfect to spend evenings with your partner watching the sun set in the azure waters.
Enjoy quality time with your partner at this romantic beachside property
If you are a nature lover, Devbag is the place to head to. It is a piece of land that juts out from the mainland of Malvan into the sea. As you drive right to the tip of Devbag, you can see the Karli river flowing on one side to meet the sea and the vast Arabian sea on the other side. One of the must-do’s is taking a boat ride that starts from the Karli river leading up to the point where it meets the sea, known as the ‘Sangam’ and then into the open sea to spot dolphins, with a stop-over on the ‘Tsunami island’, a small stretch of sand that is visible only during low tides. Enjoy your stay at this homestay, located on the Devbag shore, with sea-side hammocks and cosy sit-outs for the guests to chill by the beach. Surrounded by coconut plantations, this place is a paradise for beach lovers.
Located close to Malvan, Chivle beach is a place where you can relax away from the busy crowds that throng Malvan. The serene beach allows you to have peace and yet be close to an important tourist destination, the old sea fort of Sindhudurg. Foodies can pamper their tastebuds as Chivle rustles up some of the famous Malvani dishes. One can experience the simple rustic Konkani life in this homestay, merely 50 meters away from Chivle, complete with brown Mangalore-tiled roof and picket fence. Enjoy scrumptious Malvani home-cooked meals and strolls on the empty stretch of beach.
Enjoy the rustic life in this charming homestay in Chivle
If you thought Sindhudurg was just about beaches, think again. This little quaint village stay amidst thick, dense plantation, is a perfect break from your beach conquests. The lush greenery and water stream that runs through this homestay throughout the year ensures there is no need for an a/c even during summers. Beach lovers can also visit numerous beaches as this home stay is located at around 15-30 minutes drive from number of pristine beaches.
Enjoy simple village life in this plantation stay in Parule
Another hidden gem in this stretch, Kolamb beach still remains empty and untapped , even as Tarkarli sees significant increase in the crowds. The only sound you will hear is the waves hitting the shore. A secluded beach in Malvan, Kolamb beach with the a creek at one end, is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for some alone time. There are a couple of simple homestays almost hidden by the coconut plantations that surround them. Perfect hide-away, eh?
Tarkarli, named so because the village can be reached after crossing the Karli river, is a must-visit place if you are travelling to Sindhudurg. The beautiful, white beaches and clear, blue waters appeal to every person coming here. Tarkarli is a favourite haunt of water sports enthusiasts. There is a wide range of water sports like scuba-diving, snorkeling, dolphin watch rides etc. to tempt visitors in this place. Whether it is a vacation for two or an outing with a family, Tarkarli pleases the traveler and nature lover inside you easily. This homestay is one the oldest homestays in this region and is famed for its hospitality, located within a walking distance of the beach on one side & a hillside on the other, for trekking.
Enjoy the famed hospitality of this homestay in Tarkarli
About the author: Rucha Devarchetti has had only two obsessions in life- food and travel- and is always in the quest of finding one or the other. Armed with books which are her window to the world, she aims to see the beautiful sights of the world, one destination at a time. She is the classic example of the saying’don’t judge a book by its cover’.
We recommended 10 of our offbeat properties a few weeks ago (Read: 10 Offbeat Weekend Getaways from Mumbai ) and overwhelmed by your response, we decided to hand-pick ten more Farm Houses and Villas that you could consider for a weekend getaway from Mumbai.
Select, book and drive away for a break with your loved ones!
#1. Luxury Farm house with a private lake in Karjat
This beautiful farm house, with a man-made private lake circling the property, is spread across 15 acres of verdant land in Karjat, a 2 hour drive away from Mumbai. Skillfully designed by an interior designer, a landscapist and an artist, the farm house is a work of art of its own – there are handcrafted stone sculptures and lanterns, potted plants, and handpicked furniture adding to the charm of the four bedrooms and the rest of the property. There are a number of verandas, artist studios, an inviting pool with space for outdoor lunch, and a foliage-shaded trellis. You can also choose to spend your time biking or fishing.
Located in the interiors of the beautiful Chaul village in Alibuag, approximately 15 minute drive from Revadanda beach, is this beautiful luxury property. Spread across 5 acres, it does not just lie surrounded by lush greenery but is also adjacent to a beautiful lake which is a hot spot for migratory birds and spotted ducks – perfect place for walks, fishing and lounging. Other than the 4 spacious rooms that guarantee a comfortable stay, the charm of the cottage lies in the décor of its living room which has been very tastefully done with antiques, comfortable sofas, a small prayer corner and some beautiful Shivaji Maharaja paintings. Outside, there are large outdoor swings, a tiled swimming pool and a large lawn. If you wish, you can even spend a night in a camp outside!
About 25 km further from Alibaug is the coastal village of Korlai where this beautiful Beach Villa lies. The Villa stands on a stretch of white sand, with the Arabian Sea in front and green mountains at its backdrop, making it a perfect getaway from Mumbai. You can see hints of Goan and Portuguese style architecture in the interiors of the large living room, dining hall and the two bedrooms, one of which comes with a bunk bed for kids. Outside, there’s a mezzanine, a veranda overlooking the sea, a garden that stretches to the beach, and the Korlai Fort just a short walk away.
Built around a courtyard, which has a 50 year old Jamun tree beautifully towering from its centre, this Villa in Lonavala makes for a perfect weekend getaway with your family or partner. The villa has two charming suits that you can choose from – one on the ground floor that opens out into the veranda and the other on the first floor that comes with a balcony overlooking the garden and the valley. There’s a living room, manicured lawn and plenty of outdoor seating where you can lounge or enjoy the meals which the in-house cook delicious whips up.
This gorgeous Villa, with a manicured lawn and swimming pool, lies a short drive away from Mandwa Jetty and a short walk away from the untouristy stretch of Awas Beach. Perfect for a large family or group of friends, the villa has four spacious bedrooms, one of which even has a separate bunk bed for kids. There’s plenty of space to unwind – a lounge room where you can play board games or watch TV, a hall that extends to the deck of the swimming pool, three outdoor pergolas where you can soak up nature or enjoy your meals, a basketball court, and an outdoor Jacuzzi as well.
#6. Cottage surrounded by 6 acres of farm near Khopoli
Located about 100 km from Mumbai and a 30 minute drive from the theme park, Adlabs Imagica, this farm house serves as a perfect culture retreat. You can opt for either the two-bedroom or the three-bedroom cottage, each of which has well-designed bedrooms, a spacious living room and porch areas where you can spend your time unwinding. The highlight of the stay is definitely the local food – the in-house cooks whip up Kolhapuri cuisine, Malvani style cuisine or the lesser known Bhusawal style cuisine as per your request. If you still want to venture out, there’s a stream nearby that you can dip into or you can trek a jungle path that leads to an ancient Jatayu temple.
Drive 100 km from Mumbai to this off the road property in Pali where the hosts have recreated all the simple elements of village life, like fields, orchards, temple, pond, waterfall, farm animals, and country homes made with natural materials, within seven acres of land. There are cottages themed and designed on the four elements of nature – Jal is a mud and brick cottage that has been beautifully painted by a Warli artist, Vayu is a bamboo cottage, Prithvi is a stone house that has been fashioned like a hunting lodge and comes with a fireplace, and Aakash is a wood cottage that stands tall on stilts. Here, you can simply relax and soak up nature or enjoy simple activities like fishing, rowing, farm visits and bullock cart rides.
If you’re looking for a place that offers you all the comfort and activity that you seek during a weekend getaway, then these Villas in Dapoli, located 5 hours away from Mumbai, are your best option. There are a number of single bedroom and double bedroom villas to pick from, each of which come with verandas, living rooms and kitchens. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy – cycles are available on rent, there are volleyball and badminton courts, rifle shooting arena, many board games to choose from, and even a guided jungle safari at night. If you want to relax, opt for a spa treatment, fish pedicure or Ayurvedic massage, all available in-house.
Located in a small fishing village about 280 km from Mumbai and 5 km from the town of Guhagar, atop a small hillock and far away from city life, is this beautiful farm house. It lies nestled between forest cover on one side and a stunning view of Guhagar beach on the other, and makes for an ideal place to experience the unique flavour of Coastal Maharashtra. The simplicity of the rooms is made up for by the large number of activities on offer. Guests can explore the village, go for walks through the forest and opt for bird watching trips with the friendly host who’ll also tell you about the efforts he’s made in the field of agriculture in his village. The 5 hour drive to Guhagar is definitely worth it.
#10. Beach facing Bungalow in Malgund near Ganpatipule
Perfect for a long weekend with the family or friends, these beach facing Villas in Malgund are located about 32o km away from Mumbai and 4 km from the beach town of Ganpatipule. While one Villa comes with two bedrooms and the other with three, both have spacious living rooms, equipped kitchens, and large verandas where you can lounge in the comfortable chairs and enjoy the view of the beach. If you do choose to get out, the hosts readily arrange for beach sports and activities.
Which of these retreats would you like to getaway to during the coming weekends? Share with us in your comments.
About the author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog- http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.
The hustle and bustle of everyday city life wears us all down, and the end of a long working week calls for a change of scene to bring the spring back in your step. SaffronStays offers you just that with some of the most beautiful and relaxing Homestays, Villas, Bamboo huts and Bed & Breakfast that lie just a few hours’ drive away from Mumbai and make for a perfect weekend getaway.
(We’d bookmark this link if we were you!)
#1: Luxury eco property in Diveagar
The Suites enjoy their own space and privacy in the luxury eco property.
If you want to go beyond the beaches of Alibaug and explore a pristine beach about a 4 hour drive (180 km) away from Mumbai, we suggest you take a trip to Diveagar. Once there, this eco luxury property makes for an ideal stay option. There are two spacious suite rooms, with large beds, seating space, and bath tubs, where guests can enjoy their own space and privacy. There’s a dining area, open seating space as well as a common living room with large sofas for you to lounge in. The sleek décor and wooden interiors are an added reason to check in here.
#2. A Lovely Villa near Nagaon Beach (near Alibaug)
The Villa is lovely, extremely spacious and well maintained.The living room is perfect for family sessions.
Located just about a two and a half hour drive away from Mumbai, this Villa has it all –three spacious rooms, balconies as well as a beautiful living room with diwans, couches and a TV. There are hammocks in the front and back yard and indoor swings as well, allowing guests plenty of space to relax and unwind. This stunning property can accommodate a large group of people and becomes an ideal getaway if you’re travelling as a joint family or with a large group of friends. If you manage to step out of the Villa, the Nagaon Beach is a short distance away.
Charming bungalow in LonavalaWatch the sun go down from this spacious balcony
This charming little Bungalow is built on a gentle slope in the hill station of Lonavala and makes for a perfect holiday home during a getaway from the city. Done in fresh, bright colours and adorned with several paintings, the Bungalow has two spacious suites that are perfect for families and a gorgeous glass room suited for couples that has its own private entrance. The Bungalow will cater to all your needs – there are several board games to pick, an in-house library, a comfortable living room to lounge in, a kitchen and a balcony with a view!
What’s better than becoming one with nature, allowing yourself to be taken away by the scents, sounds, and sights of a farmhouse far away from city life? This property in Nagaon has 4 cottages spread over a 11,000 sq ft green farm. Its the perfect setting for a calm holiday. To enjoy the lovely sunsets, the beach is a short walk away
The charming Manor lies just 5 minutes away from Kashid Beach.
Set in the midst of alphonso and coconut plantation in Kashid is this large English countryside manor, built beautifully using black stone and with many arches. Other than 5 spacious rooms spread across two flours, it also has a manicured lawn with swings, benches and a swimming pool. You can enjoy the meals, cooked using organic farm produce, in the dining hall or one of the spacious balconies. And if you’re one for views, the master bedroom in the second floor opens up to three different terraces offering a 360 degree view of the surrounding.
The homestay lies surrounded by various shades of green.
This homestay, located at a walking distance from Shrivardhan Beach, lies surrounded by well- maintained gardens & lush farms of coconut, mango and areca nut trees. It is a 4 hour drive (140 km) away from Mumbai but you’ll have a clean, pristine stretch of beach to yourself here. There are four rooms available for guests, each being extremely spacious and comfortable, with either a large sit-out or attached private veranda. The highlight of the stay, however, is the delicious Konkani food that the hosts and the in-house cooks dish up; the seafood being a must try!
This bungalow, located just a short distance from Della Adventure, is a perfect place to spend quality time with your families. This villa comes with a large terrace to gaze into the sunset at the horizon and a pool to melt your worries. It is a newly constructed villa, and very tastefully furnished. So, call all your cousins and their families, your friends from college and MBA institute and plan for a weekend getaway to this villa. Ideally suited for large groups or families.
#8. Bamboo huts, Log huts and Tree Houses in Dapoli
The inviting Bamboo hut lets you soak up nature at its best.Lounge in your private veranda surrounded by nature.
If you want to soak up nature at its best, we suggest you head straight to this sprawling property in Dapoli that lies a 5 hour drive (215 km ) away from Mumbai. There are Bamboo Huts and Log Huts where you won’t just have a comfortable bed to sleep in but also a private veranda with hammocks and swings to lounge in. For the more adventurous of you, there are cosy tree huts as well. If you ever decide to step out of these great rooms, there’s an in-house restaurant that serves delicious local food, adventure sports to indulge in, and outdoor activities like bird watching and mountain climbing to experience. It doesn’t get better than this!
The Farmstay atop Chiplun HillsTraditional Maharashtrian meals cooked over wood-fired choolahs.
If you’re looking for an offbeat getaway from Mumbai, this farm house in Chiplun, built on an 18 acre land, on a hilltop overlooking the valley, is just the place for you. The rooms are very simple, but you’ll have peacocks and friendly dogs here for company, an inviting open pool that you can plunge into, and home-cooked Maharashtrian fares, prepared on the traditional wood-fired stoves under a mango tree, to relish. The 6 hour drive (240 km) drive to Chiplun is definitely worth it!
Enjoy boating in the Vashisht estuary
During your stay, you can spend your day floating on a boat in the Vashisth estuary and your nights either watching a star studded sky from the terrace or driving through the jungle in a jeep. Not a dull moment here! (Also read: A Surprise Anniversary Getaway )
The wooden cottages make for a great do-nothing weekend getaway.The pristine stretch of Varsoli Beach across the cottage
Located just a few kilometers further from Alibaug, these cottages by Varsoli Beach will provide you all the privacy, comfort and relaxation you need. Designed minimally but tastefully, the wooden cottages lie opposite a pristine stretch of the beach, allowing you to lounge, swim or take long leisurely walks any time of the day. Devour delicious local meals and spend the weekend resting your tired limbs – you deserve it!
Which of these retreats would you like to getaway to during the coming weekends? Share with us in your comments.
About the authors:
Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog-http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.
Alaric Moras spends most of his time reading, writing and interning with industries that read and write. He aims to become a clinical psychologist, providing therapy and catching Freudian slips during the day, writing and reading through the night. He likes all manner of animals, the smell of books, and the oxford comma.
Ratnagiri, with its beautiful beach towns and friendly locals, makes for a perfect holiday destination in Maharashtra. The Sahyadris border Ratnagiri to the east and farms of rice, coconuts, cashews and various fruits shade the roads, making it a nature lover’s haven. The region also boasts a prosperous fishing industry which allows for some excellent Konkan cuisine. What is also very interesting is the fact that a lot of locals have started family run Homestays, Bed & Breakfasts and Villas that allow guests simple yet scenic stay options during their getaway. If all this isn’t enough reason to drive down to Ratnagiri, we are sharing 8 things to do here that no one told you about before!
While driving from Ganpatipule towards the town of Ratnagiri, the sky and sea blend together to make a blue vista that will keep you company through your travels. The 25 kilometre drive is scenic and calming. A drive to Guhagar (52 kilometres from Ganpatipule) will take you through acres of mango farms and the drive further to Dapoli (46 km from Guhagar) will introduce you to more beaches, small villages, backwaters and shades of green.
Sunset in Dapoli Beach. Photo by AnuragMalgund Beach dotted by a hundred odd migratory sea gulls. Photo by Sarita
If you’re looking for clean, empty beaches, look no further than Ratnagiri. During your drive from Ganpatipule to Ratnagiri, you’ll be tempted to park your car by the road and walk towards the white stretch of white sand. There’s Malgund Beach that remains dotted by migratory birds during winter and Mandvi Beach, which is famous for Ratnadurga Fort at its other end. Guhagar and Dapoli Beach too remain relatively free from crowd and you can enjoy a number of water activities there. Make the time to lounge by the sea-side, soaking in the sun rays of coastal Maharashtra.
A delicious Konkani spread . Photo Source : Mid-day.comHomestay hosts in Ratnagiri prepare some delicious local meals in a chulha. Photo by Deven
Ratnagiri is an ideal district to satisfy your craving for sea food. The Konkani cuisine that is characteristic of Coastal Maharashtra is available in abundance, and is inexpensive, too. These dishes are made by adding generous amount of spices to fares caught fresh from the sea – pompfret, mackerel, surmai, prawns – you name it, you have it. Whether you decide on a beach resort or a roadside dhabba, you will find your tastebuds encountering signature dishes like masala pomfret, Malvan chicken curry and fried prawns with a plate full of rice or stacks of chapati.
This beautiful tree hut is reason enough to visit Dapoli. Photo by AnuragEnjoy time with family and friends in the outdoors during your stay. Photo by Anurag
Playing Tarzan has always been a particularly memorable childhood fantasy for most people. Let the dreams of your infancy take root quite literally at Dapoli, where you can wake up every morning and slumber every night high in your own treetop hut. When you do decide to climb down, there are swings and hammocks in the property to lounge in, adventure sports to indulge in, and outdoor activities like bird watching and mountain climbing to experience. It doesn’t get better than this!
The stunning location of the farm house in Guhagar. Photo by AnuragWake up to this view during your stay. Photo by Anurag
Located in a small fishing village about 5 km from the town of Guhagar, atop a small hillock and far away from city life, is this beautiful farm house. It lies nestled between forest cover on one side and a stunning view of Guhagar beach on the other, and makes for an ideal place to experience the unique flavour of Coastal Maharashtra. The simplicity of the rooms is made up for by the large number of activities on offer. Guests can explore the village, go for walks through the forest and opt for bird watching trips with the friendly host who’ll also tell you about the efforts he’s made in the field of agriculture in his village.
The short ferry rides make a pleasant break between drives. Photo by AnuragBoating in the Vashist estuary is a great way to spend a few hours when in Chiplun. Photo by Deven
As a coastal district, Ratnagiri has a number of picturesque rivers along which boating is made available. Enjoy the spell of peace and tranquillity while the ferry ride progresses, leaving the heavy pulse of city life behind you at the shores. Instead of driving all the way to different beach towns, the ferry rides can be taken to shorten the length of the journey and enjoy a calm, scenic view. Ferries are available at various locations, such as the Bharja River at Kelshi, Dapoli, and along the Ganpatipule creek.
#7. Relive the Past
The beautiful Ratnadurg Fort and the vast sea that lies beyond. Photo source: maharashtratourism.gov.inThe breathtaking view from Mandangarg Fort. Photo source: konkanmotoexped.blogspot.in
Sea forts are one of the many beautiful attractions of this district. Couple your visit to Dapoli’s beaches with a trek up to Mandangad fort. Once there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley and see the centuries old Canyon that it’s known for. There’s also Ratnadurg Fort which is located in the town of Ratnagiri. Built by the Bahamanis in the 16th century, this fort later became the property of the Adil Shahis. It is situated about 4 kilometres from the town’s centre and again, offers a great view of the town and the sea surrounding it.
Safari in Chandoli National Park. Photo Source: bbc.com
Located at the junction of the Sangli, Kolhapur, and Ratnagiri District is the Chandoli National Park. The Park is home to nearly 23 species of mammals, 122 species of birds and 20 species of amphibians and reptiles; all of these residing in the forests of Chandoli. Some of these fauna include Bengal Tigers, Indian leopards, Indian bison, leopard cats, sloth bears and Indian giant squirrels, thus allowing it to take its natural place on your must-visit list while touring Ratnagiri.
What are your favourite experiences in Ratnagiri? Share them with us in your comments.
About the author: Alaric Moras spends most of his time reading, writing and interning with industries that read and write. He aims to become a clinical psychologist, providing therapy and catching Freudian slips during the day, writing and reading through the night. He likes all manner of animals, the smell of books, and the oxford comma.
