Nov 25, 2002 12:31 PM
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(Updated Jan 24, 2003 11:03 AM)
People in Maharashtra, probably, do not need introduction to this lovely tourist place.
Ganapatipule is located on the west coast of Maharashtra, in Ratnagiri district.
Religious Importance
Ganaptipule is considered as one of the most importnat seats of Ganapti, in Maharashtra. It has very old temple located right on a sandy beach. Speciality of the temple is that the idol is ''Swayambhu'' (it has come out of the ground by itself) and ''Gabhara'' (sanctum sanctorum) is such that one who wants to do parikrama (going around the sanctum sanctorum) has to go around the small hill itself.
The distance o parikrama is just more than a km. In old times this path of parikrama was full of bushes and stones. However, after the recent renovation an proper path, made of local red stones has been laid.
One finds big crowds inGanapatipule, especially on Chaturthis (Fourth day of lunar month).
Tourist Attractions
Ganapatipule is blessed with lovely sandy beach and good accomodation facilities.
Number of private hotels and MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) accomodation are available. For those, who prefer homely and budget accomodation, number of Brahmain families arrange food and accomdation for visitors.
Very near to Ganapatipule, is another nice, sandy and relatively quiet beach called Bhandarpule.
In fact, this has become so popular with tourists lately, that some of the tourists forget to go to temple (probably an effect of Permit rooms and bars in the locality!).
There are number of good beaches within 20-25 kms., if one has a vehicle. Jaigad Fort, Kanakeshwar Temple near Jaigad, Light house near Jaigad, Vishnu temple at Kolisare (nicely entrenched between small hills), Pavas are some of the possible places on ecan visit.
How to reach
The best way to reach Ganapatipule is by your own vehicle. However, it is well connected by ST buses from Ratnagiri, Pune, Mumbai and Sangameshwar (nearest rail head on Konkan Railway.
If one wants to mix nice holidays with a dash of religion, this is a lovely place to visit. You can visit https://shubhyatra.com/htm/maharashtra/beaches3.htm#Ganapatipule for more details. You can also get more information at http://www.ganapatipule.com
