EIGHT GANESH TEMPLES IN KONKAN

1) Hedvi – Guhagar :

'Dashabuja Ganapati' In Every Month On 'Chathurthi' The Devotees Of Lord Ganesh Make A Point To Visit The Temple. The Idol Of Ganapati Was Created In Kashmir. The Idol Is Made From Marble. Goddess Laxmi Is Seated On The Laps Of Lord Ganapati. On The Body Of Ganapati There Is A Sacred Thread In The Form Of A Snake. Bow, Trishul, Club 'Modak' Chakra Lotus Are The Weapons In The Hands Of God Ganapati. This Temple Is Of The Time Of Peshwas And The Foundations Of Kelkar Swami. The Temple Was Renovated In 1956.

2) Jay Ganesh – Malvan :

Situated at Malvan Jay Ganesh Temple is now on a ‘must see’ list of tourists. The Temple is built by Shri Jayantrao Salgaonkar, an astrologer of repute and creator of very popular almanac ‘Kalnirnay’. Situated in Medha locality of Malvan on ancestral family land of Salgaonkars, the Temple has been constructed as per the holy principles of Temple architecture in India. Shri Jayantrao personally supervised the construction. The presiding deity in the Temple is Lord Ganesha, much revered Elephant God of Maharashtra. The idol is of pure gold. This main idol in the sanctum sanctorum is in the traditional pose with Riddhi- Siddhi (consorts of Lord) on both sides. Siddhi is holding Dhol (Indian traditional percussion instrument) and sword in her hand while Riddhi has pen and paper in her hands. The hall has eight idols of Ganesh carved in the ceiling. One gets a very comfortable feeling of Lord Ganesh looking benevolently from all the eight directions at his disciple. The interior of the Temple is very rich and has used soothing colors. A five-day annual festival of Ganesh Jayanti is celebrated on 4th Day of Magh (month in Hindu Calendar). This day is also the anniversary day of the Temple.
The speciality of this Temple’s architecture can be seen on the early morning of Makar Sankranti (14th or 15th of January). On this day the early sunrays fall directly on the idol and one can see the glittering and shining Ganesha bathed in sunlight. Jayantrao Salgaonkar has named this Ganesha as Jay Ganesha so that the Ganesha may bestow ‘Jay’ (success) on his disciples.

3) Redi Ganesh – Vengurla :

Temple is located approximately 30 km fromVengurla. The town in which this Temple is situated contains manganese mines and the Ganpati Idol was found in one of the mines near Rewati port in 1976. The Ganpati Idol is in a sitting position and approximately 15 meters in height. There is a small rocky beach behind the Temple.

4) Ganpatipule – Ratnagiri :

Ganpatipule is a small town located in the district of Ratnagiri on the Konkan coast ofMaharashtra. The town of Chiplun is to its north. According to local folklore, the Hindu God -Ganpati, taking umbrage by a remark made by a native lady, moved to Pulé (a few km ahead of the town) from his original abode of Gulé. Thus the region was named Ganpatipule.400 years old Ganpati idol at Ganpatipule is said to have sprung up from the soil. This deity faces the West, so as to guard the western gates, unlike deities in other Indian Temples who face the east. The Temple is at the base of a hill, and pilgrims walk around (pradakshina) the hill as a mark of respect.

5) Nandigramcha Siddhivinayak – Murud :

This Temple is about 200 years old. The idol was recovered from the soil(Mati) of flowing river water. It is 1.35m tall and the trunk is turned on the left side. One hand is in blessing posture. As per the old records it is learned that in the year 1774 during the tenure of Peshwe Savai Madhavrao, this idol was prayed.

6) Suvarna Ganesh - Diveagar :

Suvarna Ganesh (Golden Ganesha) is in Diveagar village, which is in Shrivardhan taluka in Raigad district situated near seashore, is hidden in coconut and betel-nut trees. Suvarna Ganpati’s idol (Golden Ganesha idol) was buried to save it from Arab invasion. Later on it appeared in 1997. This Golden Ganesha is of southern style from Shilahar, having uncomparable carving. Divegar village is spread in about 5 sq. km. area. Trade history in this village goes to 2000 year back. Traders used to trade with foreign countries from Shrivardhan, Rajapuri, Revdanda and Chaul etc. Harbors of Konkan coast, Mandar pattanam on Dandarajpuri creek and Palipattan on Bankot creek were prominent center of foreign trade.

7) Kadyawarcha Ganpati – Anjarle :

In Aanjarle Village On The Seashore The Temple Built On Huge Mountain Is Known As 'Ganapati Of Kadyawar'. After Crossing The Jog River Creek, There Is Aanjarle Village. In Earlier Times There Were Two Temples In The Sea, One Of Aanjarleshwar and Other Of Ganapati. They Got Drowned In The Sea, Later On Ganapati Temple Was Built On A High Mountain. The Temple Must Be Of Madhavrao Peshve Period. There Are 250 Steps To It. There Is A Lake In Front Of It. It Has A Big Hall and A Stone Staircase. There Is Water Fountain In The Hall, There Is A Dome, Are and Many Pillars In The Temple. The Place Is Cool and Pleasant In Dapoli Taluka With Seashore and Forest.

8) Mahaganpati – Thane :

A pilgrim centre sacred twice over-for its Mahaganpati Temple and the Temple of Shri Vithoba. Another facinating Temple is the one at Ambarnath, dating back to the 11th century, and in the "Hemadpanti" style of architecture. By propitating Ganesh Idol, Consecrated by sage Kanva, Devi Shakuntala and king Dushyant came together after a long period of disagreement. Shakuntala and king Dushyant got married here only. Idol from Mahabharat period was vanished, while constructing lake peshwa saradar Ramchandra Mehendale got the present idol. The Madhavrao Peshwe consecrated this idol. If Mahaganapati is worshipped regularly marriages of desired people can be fixed easily. If Mahaganpati is propitlated properly, conflicts between husband and wife come to end. Those who desires to have son, will get son. In Mahaganpati’s Temple, there is sanctum of Lord Shivshankar towards right. In the right hand corner of the sanctum, padukas of great Ganesh devotees late Shri Vengaonkar Joshi are consecrated. Devotes should take darshan of these padukas. Since Mahaganapatis idol was worshipped properly and scientifically by sages in ancient times, today also idol looks alive. There is a Temple of Vithoba - Rukmini near Mahaganpati’s Temple. One iron tube is sent out of sanctum of this Temple. It is said that sound of Bhajans (holy songs in praise of God) going on in the Temple of Pandharpur can be heard from this tube. You can also visit nearly places like satis memorial, Jaypal Maharaj’s Samadhi, Shiv Temple in Vasundry village.

(TWO ASHTAVINAYAK GANPATI’S VIZ. PALI AND MAHAD NOT INCLIDED IN ABOVE EIGHT)

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EXPLORE RATNAGIRI WITH DEVGAD

EXPLORE RATNAGIRI WITH DEVGAD

Suggested Train

Jan Shatabdi Ex (12051) 0510Hrs. (Mumbai Cst) 1040Hrs. (Ratnagiri) All Days

Jan Shatabdi Ex (12052) 1620Hrs. (Ratnagiri) 2320 Hrs. (Mumbai Cst) All Days

 

Day 1: Pick-up at Ratnagiri Railway Station. Proceed to Nate and check-in at ganesh Agro tourism. Lunch.Rest. Evening go for boating, Fort Ambolgad and Gagangiri Maharaj Math. Dinner.

Day 2: Breakfast at 0730. Proceed for Fort Vijaydurg, Kunkeshwar Temple, Devgad Beach with Windmills, Ganesh Temple of Pokharbav. Return To Ganesg Agro Tourism. Dinner.

Day 3: Breakfast at 0830. Proceed to Ratnagiri City Darshan. Thibaw Palace, Ratnadurg Fort, Lokmanya Tilak Memorial, Patitpavan Temple and Pawas. Evening at leisure.

Day 4: Breakfast at 0900. In and around Ganesh Agro Tourism. Lunch and Proceed to Ratnagiri Railway Station for Mumbai.

Tour Concludes, But the relationship continues....................

Tour Cost is:
Rs. 5170/- Per person (for minimum 4)
Rs. 7370/- Per person (for minimum 2)
Rs. 4450/- Per person (for minimum 6)

Which includes Transportation for Sightseeing, Pick-up and drop to Ratnagiri Railway Station, Accommodation, All Meals (Vegetarian), Toll / Guide / Entrance fees.

• The Cost for the above Package is ex- Ratnagiri.
• The Cost does not include Train Fare.

For Train Assistance please feel free to call Mr. Mahesh Pendse on 9322731887.

For Package Booking please feel free to call Mr Kanchan Athalye on 9619246419.

Dates: As per your Scheduled.

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NINE IMPORTANT DEVIS (GODESS) IN KONKAN

 1) Chandika – Dabhol : Dabhol town is located on the south-west border of Dapoli tahashil. Vashishthi River flowing from Chiplun merges into the sea at Dabhol and is called as Dabhol creek. Chandikadevi Mandir (Temple of Goddess Chandika) and a fishing jetty are the major attractions here and have made it increasingly popular as a tourist destination in Konkan. The idol of Godess Chandika here, believed to be have formed naturally on its own (Swayambhu) and the Temple is underground in a natural cave. To reach the diety, you have to pass through a low darkened passage. No light is allowed inside except that of oil lamp. There is a live spring of fresh water nearby which water all around the year has. Every year pilgrims throng here during Navaratri. This Temple is very ancient and used to be frequently visited by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

  
2) Bharadi - Malvan : Bharadi Devi(Goddess) is one goddess one just can’t think of missing when one is in Malvan. This is the famous “Active Goddess” situated at Anganewadi, 14 kms from Malvan. Angnewadi is the small hamlet of Masure village. The Bharadi devi (goddess) is very famous for her wish-fulfilling power. Devotees express their wish before her and once the wish is fulfilled they come to express their gratitude.

3) Bhagwati – Ratnagiri : A magnificent Temple located inside the massive Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Mandir is a famous pilgrim center in Ratnagiri. Bhagavadti Temple is one among the ancient Temples in the state of Maharashtra.
The deity is adorned beautifully and the Temple architecture is marvelous. Other deities like 'Veer Vignesh' and 'Ashtadashbhuj' Ganapati are unique for their sculptural works. This Temple is crowded with devotees during Navratri festival, which is one of the sacred festivals celebrated all over India. In Devi Bhagavathi Temple, Navarathri festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and vigour and big yatras are conducted as a part of the festival.

4) Navdurga – Redi : This goddess originally belonged to the town “Gavasi ” (or Gawasi )of Tiswadi District , near Madkai village in Goa. It is really very interesting to know how this goddess reached Kanyale –Redi ( in Maharashtra) from Goa.The original idol was as old as of 10th Century. It is not known who had installed this idol in Gavasi . It is told that About 400 years back , during the 16th Century , Portuguese ruled Goa and destroyed many Hindu Temples and carried out many conversions forcibly .The then devotees of this goddess , who got afraid of these ruthless destruction and conversions to christianity decided to shift this deity from Gavasi. The idol was carried by a Servant on his head along with the other devotees. The devotees had planned to re-install it at Vengurla (in Maharashtra ) ,which was a major port and business centre. On the way , while travelling , they took a halt at Redi for taking some rest. Naturally the idol was kept on the ground. After their rest period was over , they decided to move further towards Vengurla , and hence tried to lift the idol from ground. But to their astonishment , the idol just could not move even an inch from its place , as if magnetised. They tried a lot to move it but just failed. The devotees who strongly believed in “Prasad” , asked for Kaul (order ) from the then Shri Mauli Devi , of Redi. They were curious to know why the goddess was non-coperative in moving further (towards Vengurla ).The Mauli goddess gave an explanation that Devi NavaDurga wished to stay at Kanyale-Redi only and that she should be installed there itself. Obeying the goddess’s orders , the devotees purchased land there and built her Temple there. From then till to date , the goddess is staying in Kanyale peacefully and the devotees have been worshipping her there. It is not known exactly why this goddess is called NavaDurga (having 9 names) but some guess that it could be that there existed perhaps 9 such Temples in Gavasi , and hence the name.

5) Bhagwati – Dhamapur : Bhagwati Temple at Dhamapur is a famous Temple of Goddess Bhagwati situated mid-way between Kudal and Malvan. Malvan is surrounded by various forts and Temples. The Temple in this vicinity and deities residing in it are known as “vigilant or active deity” [Active deity: It is a faith of the devotees that such deities bestow their blessings and fulfill the vows of the devotees]. As a much of respect and joyalty, devotees fulfill the promise made to deity by making “offering” to the deity. It is a sort of “repayment for fulfilling the vow. In local language it is known as "Nawas Phedane". Bhagwati Temple of Dhamapur is one such “active holy place”
This Temple has also become famous because of a legend associate with it. The legend is the big lake in front of the Temple. The lake is known as “Dhamapur lake” or “Lake of Dhamapur”. The legend associates with this lake runs as: In the post on the occasion of marriage, poor villagers of this village (Dhamapur) used to dip the basket full of flowers in the lake. When this basket was later taken out the flower were turned in to the ornaments. The condition was these ornaments were to be returned to lake once the marriage ceremony was over. This legend has made this deity very famous in the surrounding region. Many devotees of goddess Bhagawati still visit the Temple for the “Darshan” Dhamapur is easily accessible from Malvan and Kudal the tehsil places in the district. The devotees as well as tourist should visit this place for the beautiful Temple, the wonderful lake and scenic beauty around it.

6) Mahakali – Adivare : Adivare is a very small settlement but very famous for its Mahakali Temple. It is a small well-maintained Temple, which is a home for 3 goddesses viz. Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati.

 7) Mahalaxmi – Kelshi : Located at the base of the Utambar hill, enclosed in a stone wall fortification, this Swayambhu Mahalakshmi Temple was built during the Peshwa regime. It also houses the idols of Lord Ganpati and Lord Shiva. Beautiful, fully blossomed lotus flowers in a pond near the Temple are an enchanting sight to watch! The sanctum lies beneath two huge domes. You can enter the sanctum through three doors. The dense woods of the hill form a picturesque background.

8) Somjai – Shriwardhan : Somjai Devi Mandir is known for its miraculous healing power. It is believed that person with snake bite can be cured when taken to Somjai Devi Mandir. This Mandir is situated at the centre of Shriwardhan city.

9) Shri Sateri Temple (Bilwas): 12 Kms away from malvan, in Bilwas is situated on Masure road. An old and huge Temple at the bottom side of Bilwas mountain is a great attraction of tourist. Shri Sateri is residency deity of Bilwas. This Temple with huge sabhamandap built in 12-13th century. This Temple was surrounded with lake water, so it’s called ‘Jalmandir’. But now days, only mud is spread over in the lake.
Legend behind the Temple : In old days, Bilwas was a part of Masure village. A Lake with clean water spread with greenery on its bank. Cattels were come across there to drink water. One day at noon, two buffalos started fighting in lake, suddenly a buffalo struck the anthill present in the lake, and bleeding started from that anthill. When cattle men knew about it, they got surprised and decided to built a Temple on anthill. The lots of tourist and devotees come from Maharashtra and even from Kerala, Karnataka to worship and pray the diety.

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KELSHI

ANJARLE BEACH

Further North From Anjarle, Near The Border Of Raigad District, Is Another Small Town Known As Kelshi. This Village Is Frequented By Pilgrims Who Come To The Mahalaxmi Temple Here, Built During The Rule Of The Peshwa Dynasty. Other Than The Mahalaxmi Temple, There Are Other Temples Here Dedicated To Rasha Krishna, Beleshwar And Ganesha, To Name A Few.Just Outside Of The Village Is A Lovely Beach, Which Stretches For 2.5 Kms And The Sunset Is Said To Be Spectacular From This Beach.

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THE PLACES WORTH VISITING IN AND AROUND MANDANGAD

MANDANGAD FORT
The Mandangad Fort Or Chitradurga Fort Is About 2 Km From Mandangad Town. This Fort Was Captured By Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj In The Battle With Aadilshaha. There Is A 400 Years Old & 8.4 Feet Long Tof (Cannon Or Great Gun Or Artillery) On The Fort. The Fort Constitutes A Ganapati Temple And A Tank. The Tank Is Called As Thorla Talav.

VELAS

The Coastal Place Velas Is At The Distance Of About 36 Km From Mandangad. The Unique Turtle Festival Is Celebrated Here. The Festival Is Aimed At Conservation Of Marine Turtles. Velas Is Also The Birth Place Of Nana Phadanvis Alias Balaji Janardan Bhanu, Who Was The Influential Personality In The History Of Maratha Empire. Nana Phadanvis House And Mahalaxmi Temple Are The Main Attractions In Velas. Gokulashtami Festival Is The Important Event For Velas People.

BANKOT OR HIMMATGAD FORT
It Is Also Called As Victoria Fort. The River Savitri Approaches The Sea At Bankot. Bankot’s Importance Is Also Associated With The Holy Place Harihareshwar In Neighboring Raigad District.

KELSHI BEACH
Kelshi Is A Small Village In Neighbouring Dapoli Taluka. Along The Mahalakshmi Temple, Kelshi Has Got A Scenic And Unfamiliar Beach, Which Is A Very Calm And Quiet Place. Another Place Worth Visiting Here Is Uttambar.




PANDERI
Is The Important Irrigation Project On The Savitri River In Mandangad Taluka. Apart From The Agricultural Importance Of The Dam, Of Late, Panderi Has Become A Picnic Spot.

AMBAVADE

Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar, The Chief Architect Of The Indian Constitution Was Born In Ambavade Village, Which Is About 20 Km From Mandangad. There Is A Monument In This Village In Commemoration Of Dr.Ambedkar.

PALGAD
This Is The Place Where The Great Marathi Author, Freedom Fighter And Social Activist Pandurang Sadashiv Sane, Affectionately Known As Sane Guruji Was Born. His Famous Work In Marathi Literature Includes Shyamchi Aai (Shyam's Mother) & Dhadapadanari Mule (Struggling Children).

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MANDANGAD

 Mandangad Is The Taluka (Tahasil) Head Quarter In Ratnagiri District Of Maharashtra State In India. The Place Is Situated At Extreme North Of Ratnagiri District. In Terms Of Geographical Features, Mandangad Is A Hilly And Coastal Zone The Taluka Was Neglected For Years, Now It Has Emerged As A Significant Zone In View Of Its Natural Beauty, Seashore, Lush Green Jungles And Pleasant Weather Conditions. The Taluka Is Almost Surrounded By Hills, Ghats And Valleys. Mandangad Is Absolutely Free From Air & Sound Pollution The Arabian Sea Is About 35 Km From Mandangad. There Are Villages Named As Devhare And Konhavali, Which Are Famous For Tasty Alphonso (Haapoos) Mangoes.

Also read Places Worth Visiting In And Around Mandangad

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Konkan Ghats

 A road with lots of curves in a mountain is called as “Ghat” Two mountain ranges of southern India, separated by the Deccan Plateau. The Eastern Ghats extend about 1,448 km (900 mi) along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. The Western Ghats extend about 1,609 km (1,000 mi) along the coast of the Arabian Sea.

KONKAN GHATS

• Kashedi ghat – Mumbai  to  Goa

• Parshuram ghat -
• Karnala ghat -
• Kamthe ghat -
• Nivali ghat - Here one nice waterfall can be seen while passing through
• Watul ghat -
• Akeri ghat near Sawantwadi
• Insuli ghat near Banda
• Sukeli ghat - near Sukeli
• Dahanu ghat - Nasik through Javhar ghat

GHATS CONNECTING KONKAN AND DECCAN

• Khandala ghat - Mumbai- Khopoli - Lonavala-Pune
• Kumbharli ghat - Chiplun to Umbraj towards Pune
• Amba ghat - Ratnagiri to Kolhapur
• Varandh ghat - from Mahad to Pune via Varandh & Bhor
• Ambenali ghat to Mahabaleshwar from Poladpur
• Amba ghat to Kolhapur from Ratnagiri
• Phonda ghat to Kolhapur from Phonda Kankavali
• Anuskura ghat to Kolhapur from Rajapur
• Amboli ghat to Kolhapur-Belgaum from Sawantwadi
• Bhuibavda ghat to Kolhapur - Bhuibavda via Vaibhavvadi
• Kashedi ghat Mumbai to Goa between Khed - Poladpur
• Karul ghat via Vaibhavwadi to Gaganbavda -Kolhapur
• Tamhane ghat - Mangaon to Pune
• Kasara ghat - Mumbai - Nasik
• Malshej ghat - Kalyan - Alephata - Junnar

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DAPOLI

 Dapoli Is Hill Station In Ratnagiri District.There Are So Many Places Around Dapoli - Beaches - Temples, Caves, Forts. It Is A Small Yet Nice Place. It Is At A Height Of 700 To 800 Feet From The Sea Level. Dapoli Is A Cool  Pleasant Place. As It Is Located At A Height, It Is Surrounded By Beautiful Natural Surroundings. People Are Attracted To Dapoli Village Because Of Its Natural Beauty. In Summer Holidays & Christmas Holidays, People Especially From Mumbai & Pune Come To Spend Their Time. The Britishers Selected Dapoli As The Place For Their Military Camp Being Cool Place. So It Came To Be Known As Camp Dapoli.
The Camp Consists Of Dapoli, Gimhavane, Jogale & Jalgaon. In The Year 1880 Alfred Gaddne Started A High School (A.G.High School). Many Well Known People Were The Students Of This School. Bharat Ratna, P.V. Kane & Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Had Studied From This School.

World famous Agriculture College called as "Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth."

PLACES TO SEE NEAR BY DAPOLI:

• HARNAI BEACH AND SUVARNADURG FORT -  15KM
• LADGHAR BEACH - 10 KM.
• ANJARLE BEACH & GANPATI TEMPLE - 20 KM.
• DABHOL-GODESS CHANDIKA & ENRON - 28 KM.
• DAPOLI - KONKAN KRISHI VIDYAPITH - 0 KM
• PANHALEKAJI CAVES - 40 KM
• KANAKDURG SEA FORT - 15 KM.
• MURUD BEACH, SANEGURUJI BIRTH PLACE - 11 KM.
• KESHAWRAJ TEMPLE - 8 KM

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TWELVE SHIV TEMPLES IN KONKAN

Shiv Temples in Konkan VIEW SLIDE SHOW DOWNLOAD ALL

VELNESHWAR :
Located at 16 Kms. from Guhagar, Velneshwar has a beautiful beach and an Ancient Shankar Temple. The Temple complex has three four different temples and the secluded beach behind the temple is very beautiful and clean.

KANKESHWAR :
On the Konkan coast near Alibaug, is a nice place and famous for cool climate and especially because of the old temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated on a small hill and the nearby village is Mapgaon which is almost 12 km from Alibag. The hill is almost 1200 feet high and one has to climb 700 - 750 steps to reach the temple. In the mid of the hill one can see Nagobacha Tappa (a Place of Snakes) and the famous step Devachi Payari. There is one popular story about this step that it was named because it is said that God itself stepped here after the construction of the temple and the steps. The temple of Kanakeshwar is very beautiful; it is a Hoysal style structure built in 1764. A water tank, popularly known as Pushkarni, has water almost throughout the year. The hill and the surroundings are pretty good to visit. One can see the hilly region and the forest on the hill. The other places to see near Kanakeshwar are Maruti Temple, Gaymandi (Sculpture of Cow), Temple of Devi Putrabai, Gaymukh and the plateau of Vyaghreshwar (a small temple of Lord Shiva), etc. Truly, Kanakeshwar is a place to feel the jungle and silence of the jungle and hills. If you want to see the beauty of the Arabian sea and fort of Khandevi as well as the entire hilly region, then Kanakeshwar is the place to visit and rest for 2–3 days.

VYADESHWAR :
Shri Vyadeshwar is an ancient temple of Shankar and Vyadeshwar. This temple of Lord Shiva is literally a stone's throw away from the S.T. Depot, right in the middle of the bazaar. It is the Kuladaivat of a lot of Kokanastha Chitpavan Brahmins (Surnames like Patwardhan,Godbole, Damle, Oak, Phadke, Apte, Abhyankar, Soman, Bhat, Ranade, Joglekar, Agashe, Kelkar, Deodhar, Pethe).

KARNESHWAR :
This temple was built 1600 years ago by Karna of Kolhapur. This is situated 4 km away from Sangameshwar and is one of the important places in Sangameshwar taluka. The statues and carvings of many Hindu Gods can be seen on the walls of Karneshwar temple. The great Maratha King Sambhaji Raje son of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was traped by Aurangazeb at vilage Kasba.

MARLESHWAR:
Dhareshwar is a waterfall on the Bav river which is another tourist attraction of Marleshwar.There are many stories about Marleshwar. On the day of 'Makarsankranti' marriage of Marleshwar and Girijadevi takes place. Local villagers celebrate the marriage ceremony with great enthusiasm. Besides on 'Mahashivratri' and 'Tripuri Poornima' there is fair. At the beginning of 18th century, this 'Shivling' was in Muradpur, which was brought here in the cave after tyrant Muradkhan started vexing people of Muradpur. This temple is known as 'Trambakeshwar' of Konkan. Marleshwar name may have come from Maral village.

DOOTHPAPESHWAR :
It is a famous temple in Dhopeshwar village in Rajapur taluka. This village is situated 5 k.m. Away from Rajapur city. You would always find devotees rushing here. It is on the bank of Mrudani River. It's an ancient temple. Natural beauty around it is extraordinary. At the both sides of the temple there are huge mountains and a river flows through it making it more beautiful. The Mrudani River jumps from the high mountain so there is a beautiful waterfall near the temple. Some tourists come to see the waterfall. The best period to watch this waterfall is between July to November. During the period there is plenty of water. There is huge crowd on Mondays and Mahashivaratri.



KUNKESHWAR :
An ancient Shiva Temple is located in Kunkeshwar village, 14 Kms from Devgad town. A pristine beach with a very long stretch of seashore and white sand adds to the beauty of temple surroundings. This beautiful temple near beach has alluring architecture with reminiscent of South Indian style of temple architecture. Yadav Kings built this temple in 1100 A. D. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who rejuvenated this temple many times was a frequent visitor to this temple. This temple is also famous as Kashi of South Konkan. Every year a huge celebration takes place on the occasion of Mahashivratri, which keeps religious beliefs in constant sight of the multitudes. During the festival a large number of devotees throng this place with their families and friends. This vigilant Shiva deity bestows blessings on everyone who surrenders to its feet.

ACHARA RAMESHWAR :
Destinations own such historical peculiarities which sets them apart from other ones. Place named Achara is one of them. It’s a small village in Malvan Taluka. We are all aware that in historical times people were gifted with “Inams, Jagirs or Watan(land)” by kings or emperors for their achievements. Achara too is Inam or Jagir, but it’s owner or Inamdar (landowner) is not a layman. Chhatrapati Shambhu Raje of Kolhapur gave this Inam to Shri Dev Rameshwar ( i.e. Lord Shiva). Achara boasts the historical temple of Lord Shiva, popularly known as ‘Inamdar Shri Dev Rameshwar’ Architecture of the temple is grand and spectacular. It's believed that deity is vigilant/wakeful to it’s devotees’ prayers. There is no exact evidence regarding the erection of this holy place, but its historical reference dates back to even before 1684 AD. Some inscription on the wall of temple reveals that commencement of construction happened in 1684 AD. It’s historical background assures it pomp and grandeur of princely state. Shri Dev Rameshwar adorno the title of “Inamdar Shri Dev Rameshwar Sansthan Kasaba Achare”. Main structure of temple was erected in 1684 AD. In 1805 sanctuary was built. In 1830 it was reconditioned. Caravansary, Rawalnath temple was built afterwards in the same area. Till this date, this deity holds as the landowner of the whole village. Any document related to land transaction stresses this fact. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great ruler of Maharashtra had given generous donations through emoluments for the upkeepment of temple. Even Maharaj’s naval chief Kanoji Angre was also concerned about it. This arrangement was continued in the regimes of Peshwas and British. Post-independence period is not an exception. Various traditional activities are still performed with some zeal and fervour. These delightful programs are sheer promise to cheer your spirits. Ramanawami is biggest celebrations, Kartikostav, Dashahara, Hanuman Jayanti, Mahashivaratri are other fascinating functions. Twice a month, palanguin of Lord Vishnu goes around the temple, which holds another striking attributes, since temple belongs to Lord Shiva. Tamboor, drum, Chawari (special fan), Avadagiri escort the palanguin. Every Monday God is worshipped with consecration, and other rituals (e.g. ekadahanya, laghurudra etc.) Shravani Somawar is another occasion when temple is flodded with devotees . Another specialty of this small village is very famous "Gaon-Palan" i.e. deserting village by all its inhabitants including cattle too, for three days after every three years. On the fourth day villagers ask for the omen for entering into the village. After getting such omen from the very own Rameshwar, whole village returns to its daily hustle and bustle.

HARIHARESHWAR :
One of the finest sea shores in India, Harihareshwar is a nice tourist destination located in the Konkan coast in Maharashtra. Harihareshwar is renowned for its tranquility and picturesque beach. Harihareshwar is also known as Dakshin Kashi by virtue of its importance in the spiritual arena of India, especially with an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Harihareshwar, as the name suggest is an abode of Lord Shiva.

VIMLESHWAR :
Temple of Lord Shiva nestled amidst coconut and beetle nut plantations at Wada. Temple's forefront has five naked idols of stone with huge elephants guarding the temples from either side. Temple at Wada is built in Pandav era.



GIRYE RAMESHWAR :
विजयदुर्ग - निपाणी रस्त्यावर विजयदुर्ग पासून नजिकच गिर्ये येथे मुख्य रस्त्या पासून ३ कि. मी. अंतरावर इतिहासकालीन श्री देव रामेश्वर मंदिर आहे. पेशवे नाना फडणीसांचे बंधू गंगाधर भानू यांनी या रामेश्वर मंदिराची उभारणी केली. देवालय साधे कौलारू आहे. समोर खास कोकणी पध्दतीच्या दिपमाळा आहेत.
रामेश्वर देवालय खोलगट भागात आहे. मुख्य रस्त्यावरून अगर प्रवेशद्वाराच्या नजीकच्या पठारावरून हे मंदिर दिसत नाही. देवालयात जाण्यासाठी दीडशे मीटर लांब पंधरा मीटर खोल अशा जांभया दगडाच्या अखंड खडकातून खोदून मार्ग काढलेला आहे. मंदिरातील मुख्य गाभरयात शिवपिंडी आहे. बाहेरील बंदिस्त भागात सुमारे पन्नास किलो चांदीची नंदीवर आरूढ मूर्ती असलेली चतुर्भुज श्री शंकराची प्रासादिक मूर्ती आहे. ई.स. १७९२/९३ मध्ये पेशव्यांच्या आरमाराचे प्रमुख आनंदराव धुळप यांनी इंग्रजांच्या जहाजावरून पकडून जप्त करून आणलेली अजस्त्र घंटा या ठिकाणी असून ही घंटा पुढे कृष्णराव धुळप यांनी ई.स.१८२७ मध्ये श्री देव रामेश्वरला अर्पण केली. या रामेश्वर मंदिराच्या आवारातच उजव्या बाजूला मराठांच्या आरमाराचे सरखेल संभाजी आंग्रे यांची समाधी आहे. ते शिव भक्त होते. रामेश्वर मंदिर भोवतालची दगडी तटबंदी, फरसबंदी पटांगण सरखेल संभाजी आंग्रे यांनीच बांधले.

KANDALGAON RAMESHWAR :
मालवण तालुक्यातील कांदळगाव येथील स्वयंभू रामेश्वर मंदिर शिवकालीन असून मंदिराची घुमटी छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांनी बांधली असे सांगतात. या मंदिराच्या बांधकामासाठी अप्रतीम साक्षीदार कलाकुसर करण्यात आली आहे.
या कांदळगाव रामेश्वर मंदिरा समोर शिवाजी महाराजांनी वादाचे झाड लावले असे सांगितले जाते. आज तो प्रचंड वटवृक्ष "शिवाजीचा वड" म्हणून ओळखला जातो.

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DHAMAPUR TALAO ( LAKE )

A tourist reader may wonder why special mention is being made of Dhamapur lake again separately when it has been mentioned along with Bhagawti Temple of Dhamapur. This special lake deserves the special mention because of its “uniqueness”. This is the biggest lake in the district [and perhaps next only to Tadoba lake].

The lake is situated between Are and Katta village. This man-made lake was constructed in 1530 by the King Nagesh Desai [A tributary of Vijaynagar dynasty] and has beautiful scenic hill ranges on its two sides. The water is crystal clear and has dense plantation of mango mangos teen grcinia indica (kokam) coconut and areca plam. This is typical fruit of Konkan region. The dense forest and orchard surrounding the lake has made this one of the most beautiful lake in Maharashtra. Tourist easily feels the change in the atmosphere once they reach the spot. The region has also a rich verity of flaura and fauna.

Now the MTDC has made boating facility available in the lake and walk surrounding the lake the forest depth has also constructed beautiful huts on the bank to enable the tourist staying here to enjoy the panoramic view from their cottages.

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RECEIPE OF SOL KADHI

This refreshing kadhi is great with plain rice. Some people like to drink this at the end of their meal.
1 Coconut milk tin
10 Kokam pieces
2 cloves garlic
1 green chili
1 teaspoon chopped coriander leaves
Salt to taste
Soak kokam in about 3 tablespoons of warm water. The water will turn reddish pink. Grind the garlic and green chili. Mix the coconut milk, garlic and green chili paste, salt, kokam water together. Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves on top. Keep in the refrigerator. Serve chilled with hot rice and fried fish!

WHAT IS KOKAM?
Kokam is a fruit which is often halved and dried, so that the dried seeds are visible in their chambers like a citrus fruit. It is available in the dried form and it is dark purple to black, sticky and with curled edges resembling a thick plum skin. When added to food it imparts a pink to purple color and sweet and sour taste.
Similar to tamarind, kokum skins are usually infused in hot water. The deeper the color the better the kokum. Kokum especially enhances coconut-based curries or vegetable dishes like potatoes, okra or lentils. Kokum is especially used with fish curries, three or four skins being enough to season an average dish. It is also included in chutneys and pickles.
The skins are not usually chopped but are added whole to the dish. Seasoning should be checked as they are quite salty. Beware of biting on a stone as a few are often left in the skins.

It will keep in an airtight jar for about a year.
Kokam which is grown along the Konkan coast in Konkan, Malabar and Kanara regions of Western Maharashtra, not only makes for a tangy cold drink but it is also a medicinal fruit that counters acidity and indigestion. It is also an essential ingredient in the sol kadhi served in various fish joints in Mumbai.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF KOKUM :

Little is known about these tangy, purple berries native to India. Used widely in refreshing drinks and coastal curries, kokam offers a wide range of medicinal properties. Read on to find out what these pretty fruits can do for you and what you can do to max out the health benefits of kokam.

Kokam (botanical name: Garcinia indica), is a deep purple fruit that is very similar to Mangosteen. The tree is native to the Western Ghats and Konkan regions of India and the fruit is commonly used in west-Indian cuisines. Various parts of the tree such as the seeds and bark of the root are used in Ayurvedic preparations since they offer a myriad of health benefits.

Dried Kokam fruit rinds are widely used in cooking as they impart a sweetish-tangy flavor to the food. The fruits contain citric acid, acetic acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid, hydroxycitric acid and garcinol.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES AND APPLICATION:

· Kokam fruits contain rich amounts of anti-oxidants that bind with free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to body cells. They also promote cell regeneration and repair.

· Kokum juice is especially popular during scorching summer months as it has a cooling effect on the body and shields the body against dehydration and sunstroke. It also helps in bringing down fever and allergic reactions.

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