Almost everyone loves to explore the beauty of nature and for that they like to visit various places. Ganapatipule is one of nature’s gifts; situated along the western coast of Maharashtra, India. Ganapatipule is a small village and it is famous for its serene beach and the 400-year old Swayambhu Ganapati temple. The name ‘Ganapatipule’ is made up of two words ‘Ganapati’ suggesting the temple and ‘pule’ means sand which suggests the beach. One can observe the special types of houses, various types of trees, narrow roads, red soil etc. along the road. The people who live in a concrete jungle will definitely get a sense relief on seeing this.
The Ganapatipule Beach is well maintained. The color of the sand there is silvery white. The waters of Ganapatipule are crystal clear and pristine. If one were to go to the beach at night, you will be able to hear the best sound in the world, the best song ever heard which is nothing but the sound/song of the sea in that complete silence of the night. Through the day the sea looks like a treasure or a monk whose life is only for people, who has so much to give to the people like happiness, satisfaction, realization etc. One can enjoy collecting sea shells and of course one can enjoy swimming a well, but the beach is not very safe given large stretches of rocks. This beach is regarded as one of the most important beaches of Maharashtra.
The ‘Swayambhu Ganapati temple’ is also very famous in Ganapatipule. The temple is around 400 years old. It is situated at the foot of one of the two ticketed hills and next to a glorious beach. Its location and construction is such that at sunrise and sunset, a beam of golden light comes in the Garbhagriha and illuminates the idol.
Also there are some more places to visit like – Marleshwar which is very famous for its Shiva temple. It is also famous for its waterfall. Marleshwar is 60 kms away from Ganapatipule. Malgund which is a kilometer away from Ganapatipule is famous given it is Marathi poet, Keshavsoot’s birthplace. Jaigad Fort is 35 km away from Ganapatipule and it is situated at the entrance of the Sangameshwar River. Ratnagiri is also nearby. It is the birth place of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a great freedom fighter. Other places include Derwen, Parshuram and Pawas. All the places are rich in natural beauty and scenery.
The climate here is coastal climate; which is mostly hot and humid but it is healthy and devoid of pollution. Temperature is at its peek in the month of March. So it is advisable to visit this place during October - February.
Ratnagiri is the nearest airport and also railway station. It is 50 km away from Ganapatipule. If you want to go by road then there are regular as well luxury buses running from Mumbai which is 375 km away and Pune which is 144 km away from Ganapatipule. Government resorts offer a wide range of facilities including dormitories and A.C suites. Also various hotels are here. Tents and water sport facilities are also available.
The place is fit for the entire family to enjoy a holiday or a vacation.
Shweta Durge
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