A Scenic Road Trip to Ganpatipule and Ratnagiri

If you are looking for a refreshing coastal getaway in Maharashtra, a road trip to Ganpatipule and Ratnagiri is an ideal choice. Nestled along the scenic Konkan coastline, both destinations offer a perfect blend of spirituality, history, nature, and local culture. 

There's something magical about driving through the winding roads of the Konkan region. Surrounded by lush greenery, coconut trees, and glimpses of the Arabian Sea, our trip to Ganpatipule and Ratnagiri turned out to be the perfect blend of spirituality, history, and coastal beauty.

During our trip, we explored the famous Ganpatipule Temple and Beach, followed by a visit to Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Temple, Fish Aquarium, and Ratnagiri Museum .

Day 1 - 8 March 2024 - Travelling to Ganpatipule and visiting Ganpatipule Temple

We started from Pune around 6:00 AM, excited for a weekend filled with coastal views, historic landmarks, and spiritual experiences.

The drive through the Western Ghats and the scenic Konkan roads was enjoyable. After a leisurely drive with a few refreshment breaks along the way, we finally reached Ganpatipule around 2:00 PM.

After checking into our hotel and freshening up, we took some time to relax and recharge from the journey. The peaceful coastal atmosphere and the sound of the waves instantly helped us unwind.

Around 5:00 PM, we headed to the famous Ganpatipule Temple for darshan. Located right beside the Arabian Sea, the temple offered a serene and spiritual experience. 

As we entered the temple premises, the peaceful atmosphere instantly brought a sense of calm. The sound of the waves in the background and the devotion of the pilgrims created a truly memorable experience. The evening ambiance, with devotees chanting prayers and the cool sea breeze flowing through the temple, made the visit truly special. After offering prayers, we took some time to admire the stunning seaside views around the temple.

For anyone planning a visit to Ganpatipule Temple, I would recommend arriving early in the morning for a peaceful darshan and cooler weather.

Ganpatipule Temple

Happy faces after blessing :)

Ganpatipule Temple

After seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha, we spent some time exploring the temple surroundings before walking over to Ganpatipule Beach. Just a short walk from the temple lies the beautiful Ganpatipule Beach. As the sun slowly began to set, the beach came alive with shades of gold, orange, and pink.

We returned to the temple for the 7 PM aarti. The atmosphere was filled with devotion, the sound of bells, and soulful chants. After the aarti, we received a simple yet delicious prasad of pulav, sheera and pickle, which felt especially satisfying after a spiritually uplifting experience.

Day 2 - 9 March 2024 - Enjoying at Ganpatipule Beach

After a peaceful night by the coast, we started our second day in Ganpatipule with an early morning visit to the Ganpatipule Temple. The morning atmosphere was calm and less crowded, making the darshan even more special. The gentle sound of the waves from the nearby beach and the serene surroundings created a truly spiritual experience.

After seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha, we returned to our hotel and decided to take it easy for the rest of the day. Unlike our usual packed travel itineraries, this day was all about slowing down and enjoying the tranquility of Ganpatipule. 

We headed out for lunch at Mehendale's Swad Dining, one of the popular dining spots in Ganpatipule known for its authentic Maharashtrian and Malvani flavors.

The restaurant offered a warm and welcoming ambiance, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon meal. We treated ourselves to a delicious spread of local specialties that reflected the rich culinary heritage of the Konkan region. Every dish was freshly prepared, flavorful, and packed with traditional tastes that complemented our coastal getaway perfectly.

The lunch break turned out to be one of the highlights of the day. Good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the unhurried pace of our vacation made it a memorable experience. After enjoying the meal, we returned to the hotel and spent the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the peaceful coastal vibe, and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Veg Thali at Mehendale's Swad Dining, Malgund

As evening approached, we made our way to Ganpatipule Beach once again. The beach had a different charm compared to the previous evening. The cool sea breeze, rhythmic sound of the waves, and the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea made it the perfect place to unwind.

The golden sand, clear waters, and refreshing sea breeze made it the perfect place to unwind after our temple visit.

We spent the evening strolling along the shoreline, watching children build sandcastles and enjoying the mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea. The beach was clean, less crowded, and ideal for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ganpatipule Beach

Ganpatipule Beach

As evening approached, the beach transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The golden sand reflected the warm hues of the setting sun, while the gentle waves of the Arabian Sea created a soothing soundtrack to the spectacle.

We found a quiet spot along the shoreline and watched as the sun slowly descended toward the horizon. The sky changed from bright blue to shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a picture-perfect scene. Every few minutes, the landscape seemed to paint itself with a new combination of colors, making it impossible to stop taking photos.

The silhouette of swaying coconut trees, the reflections on the wet sand, and the dramatic colors of the sky provide countless opportunities for stunning photographs.

As the last rays of sunlight disappeared into the Arabian Sea, a sense of calm settled over the beach. It was one of those travel moments that reminds you to pause, appreciate nature, and simply enjoy the beauty around you. Capturing the sunset at Ganpatipule Beach was not just about taking pictures; it was about creating memories that would stay with us long after the journey ended.

For photography enthusiasts, sunset is undoubtedly the best time to visit Ganpatipule Beach.

Sunset at the beach

Sunset at Ganpatipule Beach

Day 3 - 10 March 2024 - Exploring Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Temple and Ratnagiri Museum

The next day, we headed to Ratnagiri, eager to explore its rich history. Our first destination was the iconic Ratnadurg Fort, perched on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea.

The drive up to the fort itself was scenic, and once we reached the top, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Standing on the ancient fort walls, watching the endless coastline stretch into the horizon, was a moment I'll never forget. 

Built during the Bahamani period and later strengthened by the Marathas, the fort carries immense historical significance. Walking through its ancient walls and bastions feels like stepping back in time.

Spread across nearly 100 acres, the horseshoe-shaped fort is surrounded by the sea, creating stunning panoramic views from every corner. Walking along its ancient laterite stone walls, we could see the endless blue waters of the Arabian Sea, fishing boats in the distance, and the beautiful coastline of Ratnagiri.

The fort's historical significance and natural beauty make it one of the best places to visit in Ratnagiri.

Located within the fort premises, the Bhagwati Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike throughout the year. Due to the presence of this shrine, Ratnadurg Fort is often referred to as Bhagwati Fort.

The temple's peaceful atmosphere provided a welcome contrast to the rugged fort surroundings. Surrounded by greenery and overlooking the sea, it is a wonderful place to pause, reflect, and soak in the spiritual energy of the location.

Many locals and tourists visit the temple to seek blessings while enjoying the spectacular sea views nearby. We spent some quiet moments here soaking in the peaceful environment before continuing our Ratnagiri exploration.

The temple becomes especially vibrant during Navratri, when devotees from across Maharashtra gather here to celebrate and seek blessings from Goddess Bhagwati.

One of the most enjoyable parts of our Ratnagiri visit was exploring the Fish Aquarium and Marine Museum. The aquarium showcases a variety of colorful marine species found along the Konkan coast.

Watching the vibrant fish and learning about marine biodiversity was both educational and entertaining. It is a wonderful attraction for families and children, making it a must-visit stop during a Ratnagiri sightseeing tour.

On the way to Bhandarpule beach

Day 4 - 11 March 2024 - Return Journey

As our memorable road trip came to an end, we began our journey back to Pune through Kumbharli Ghat route. The drive itself became one of the highlights of the trip, offering a completely different experience from the coastal landscapes we had been exploring over the past two days.

The winding ghat roads, dense forests, rolling hills, and refreshing mountain air made the drive incredibly enjoyable. Every turn revealed stunning views of the Western Ghats, reminding us how diverse Maharashtra's landscapes truly are. The route was calm, scenic, and perfect for anyone who enjoys long drives amidst nature.

After a few hours on the road, we stopped for lunch at Hotel Rau near Umbraj, a popular spot among travelers heading towards Pune and Satara. The meal was the perfect way to conclude our Konkan adventure.

We were welcomed with authentic Maharashtrian hospitality and treated to a wholesome traditional lunch. The menu featured freshly prepared local dishes bursting with flavor and homemade goodness. From hot chapatis and fragrant rice to flavorful vegetable curries and classic Maharashtrian accompaniments, every bite felt comforting and satisfying after the long drive.

The simple yet delicious food, combined with the rustic atmosphere, gave us a true taste of rural Maharashtra. It was one of those unplanned stops that unexpectedly became a memorable part of the journey.  

Masala Padad

Maswadi Rassa and Bhakri at Rau Hotel

And, we finally reached Pune around 7:00 PM.

Relaxing trip to Ganeshgule, Ratnagiri

Tucked away in the serene landscapes of the Ratnagiri district, Ganeshgule is a quaint village located close to the well-known spiritual destination of Pawas. It’s the perfect place to escape the chaos of city life and reconnect with nature in its purest form.

The highlight of this peaceful village is the Ganeshgule Beach, a true delight for nature lovers and solitude seekers. Known for its mesmerizing sunset views, the beach stretches across 1.5 km, offering uninterrupted beauty and calmness. Surrounded by hills on both sides, the setting creates a secluded, almost untouched coastal experience. What makes Ganeshgule truly special is its unique landscape - a mix of rocky patches, soft white sand, and the clear emerald waters of the Arabian Sea. The beach remains relatively unexplored and less crowded, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer tranquility over tourist buzz.

Although slightly off the usual travel routes, the journey to Ganeshgule is absolutely worth it. It rewards you with a peaceful escape, stunning natural views, and a sense of calm that stays with you long after you leave. 

Ganeshgule Village (old photo taken during monsoon)

We visited Ganeshgule from Ganpatipule, enjoying a short and scenic coastal drive. If you’re planning a trip from Pune, here’s a convenient and commonly followed route to reach this hidden gem:

How to reach Ganeshgule?

Amba Ghat Route

Pune - Karad - Take right at Narayanwadi after McDonald's and drive towards Kokrud village - Reach Malkapur follow Amba ghat route - Sakharpa Town - Pawas - Ganeshgule

Varandha Ghat route via Chiplun 

Pune - Bhor - Varandha Ghat - Mahad - drive to Khed (skip Poladpur via Kashedi Ghat) - Chiplun - Sangameshwar - Ratnagiri - Pawas -  Ganeshgule

Tamhini Ghat Route via Chiplun

Pune - Paud - Mangaon - Mahad - drive to Khed (skip Poladpur via Kashedi Ghat) - Chiplun - Sangameshwar - Ratnagiri - Pawas -  Ganeshgule

Kumbharli Ghat route via Patan and Chiplun

Pune - Satara - Umbraj - follow Umbraj Patan road - Patan - Kumbharli Ghat - Kherdi - Chiplun - Sangameshwar - Ratnagiri - Pawas -  Ganeshgule

We chose the Kumbharli Ghat route, as we wanted to include visits to Dervan and Ganpatipule along the way. This route turned out to be a great decision, offering a beautiful mix of ghats, greenery, and peaceful surroundings. We started our journey early in the morning at 5:30 AM, ensuring a relaxed and traffic-free drive. By around 10:00 AM, we reached the ghat section, and to our surprise, there was almost no traffic at all, making the drive smooth and enjoyable. 

The road conditions were largely good, with just a few rough patches here and there, but nothing too difficult to manage. The winding roads through the Sahyadris, combined with fresh morning air, made this stretch particularly memorable. Continuing our journey at a comfortable pace, we finally reached Ganpatipule around 2:00 PM, where we decided to halt and stay. The long drive, scenic views, and peaceful route made the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. 

The next day, after seeking blessings at the serene Swami Swaroopanand Math in Pawas, we continued our journey and reached Rama Niwas around 2:00 PM. As soon as we stepped into the property, we were instantly welcomed by a sense of calmness and tranquility, a perfect retreat after a day of travel.

The hosts were warm and friendly, ensuring that we felt comfortable and well taken care of throughout our stay. The room was spotless, neat, and thoughtfully maintained, equipped with all the essentials needed for a relaxing and comfortable experience.

The property has a simple and cozy setup:

1. There are only two guest rooms, located on the first floor

2. The owner resides on the ground floor, making assistance easily available

However, one important thing to note, access to the rooms is via an iron staircase, which can be a bit challenging to climb. So, if you are traveling with senior citizens or anyone with mobility concerns, this might not be the most convenient option. Overall, Rama Niwas offers a peaceful homestay surrounded by nature, ideal for travelers looking for a quiet and homely stay experience near Ganeshgule.

What truly made our stay at Rama Niwas unforgettable was the exclusive private beach access. It honestly felt like having our own secluded slice of paradise, far away from the crowds and noise of typical tourist spots. The peaceful surroundings, untouched shoreline, and soothing sound of waves made every moment feel special and refreshing. We spent quality time simply soaking in the beauty, walking along the quiet beach, relaxing, and enjoying the calmness that’s so rare to find nowadays. If you’re someone looking for a serene beach retreat near Ratnagiri, this place is absolutely worth considering.

While the homestay doesn’t provide meals, there’s a lovely arrangement right next door. A local aunty offers authentic homemade Konkani food, and this turned out to be another highlight of our trip! 

We ordered Kala Watana Usal, Rice Bhakri, Phanas (Jackfruit) Bhaji and obviously Modak. The food was absolutely delicious and simple, authentic, and full of flavor, giving us a true taste of local cuisine.

We were so tired and hungry after the journey that we completely forgot to click photos 😛 but sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you just live in the moment! 

One of the most popular choices is Oceano Pearl, a property managed by the hospitality firm O’Nest, which offers the comfort and amenities of a hotel stay. Unfortunately, during our visit, we couldn’t secure a booking as the entire property was reserved for a private event on those dates.

Another great option nearby is Megha Dhade’s “Villa Mangoes and Seashells”, located just a short walk from Rama Niwas. This place allows you to experience a stay in a traditional Konkani-style home, giving you an authentic coastal living experience.

However, if you are looking for a stay that is peaceful, comfortable, and budget-friendly, then Rama Niwas stands out as the best choice. With its simple setup, warm hospitality, and private beach access, it offers excellent value for money especially for travelers who prioritize serenity over luxury.

Ganeshgule Beach (Photo taken from Google)

After a relaxing break of about two hours, we stepped out in the evening and made our way to the Ganeshgule Beach and what a sight it was! The beach looked absolutely breathtaking, untouched and tranquil. We spent time walking leisurely along the shoreline, enjoying the soft sand under our feet and the cool, gentle breeze brushing through our hair. 

Even though it was a Saturday evening, there was hardly anyone around just us and the vast stretch of sea. That rare feeling of having an entire beach to ourselves made the experience even more magical. It was incredibly peaceful and soulful, almost as if time had slowed down, allowing us to truly live in the moment.

Ganeshgule Beach is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and solitude. It’s ideal for relaxing walks, quiet reflection, swimming, or simply soaking up the natural beauty. Unlike commercial beaches, there are no water sports available here (at least during our visit), which actually adds to its untouched charm. And then came the highlight - the sunset. The golden hour here casts an almost magical glow, like a Midas touch turning everything into shades of gold. The sky, the sea, and the sand blend into a stunning visual treat that feels almost divine. 

The beach is an isolated beach that gives a divine experience with a quiet and peaceful environment.

Sunset at Ganeshgule Beach

The next morning, we started our day early and left the homestay around 8:00 AM to visit the famous Ganeshgule Temple, located just 1.5 km from the beach. Perched on a small hill overlooking the coastline, the temple offers a calm and scenic setting that perfectly complements its spiritual aura.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is known for its Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol, which adds to its divine significance. One unique feature here is that the trunk of Lord Ganesha is turned towards the west, which is considered rare and auspicious.

Adding to its historical charm, the temple surroundings also houses an ancient well believed to date back to the Pandava era, making it not just a place of worship but also of cultural and historical importance. Surrounded by nature and away from the crowds, Ganeshgule Temple offers a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience, making it a must-visit when you are in this beautiful coastal region. 

Ganeshgule Temple Arch

Ganesh Temple, Ganeshgule

Undir mama (Mouse)

Lord Ganesh, Ganeshgule

Information Board in Temple

You are treated to a picturesque view of the surrounding village, nestled amidst lush greenery and natural beauty. The peaceful landscape, with traditional homes, swaying trees, and the distant glimpse of the coastline, creates a truly scenic and calming atmosphere. Standing there, you can simply pause and admire how beautifully nature and village life coexist, offering a refreshing escape from the busy city world.

Hill seen from Ganesh Temple

After visiting the Ganeshgule Temple, we continued to another beautiful and lesser-known spot, the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Ganeshgule. I had heard about this temple from a friend long ago and had always wanted to visit it, so this stop was quite special for me.

As we arrived, the temple instantly impressed us with its old-world charm and peaceful surroundings. Surrounded by lush mango trees, the temple blends perfectly with nature, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere. The temple structure is primarily made of wood, showcasing the essence of traditional Konkani architecture. Inside, the intricate wooden carvings and beautifully crafted pillars are truly eye-catching, reflecting the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The simplicity and elegance of the design give the temple a warm and authentic coastal feel. The place is incredibly quiet and serene, making it ideal for spending a few moments in peace and reflection.

Just beside this temple, there is also a stone-built Shiva Temple, adding to the spiritual charm of the location. The contrast between the wooden Laxmi Narayan Temple and the stone Shiva shrine makes the visit even more unique.

Why Visit This Place?

• Experience authentic Konkani temple architecture
• Peaceful surroundings with mango orchards
• Intricate wooden carvings and heritage feel
• A quiet spot away from tourist crowds

Laxmi Narayan Temple, Ganeshgule

Garud (Eagle)

Traditional Tulashi Vrundavan

Laxmi Narayan

Deepmal

For breakfast, we decided to stop at Hotel Kshanbhar Vishranti, located near Kasheli Phata. This small, humble eatery sits right beside the backwaters of the Muchkundi River, offering a beautiful, breezy, and scenic setting perfect for a peaceful morning break. The place may be simple, but it truly captures the essence of local village charm. Known for its home-style food, the menu is basic yet satisfying. We tried a variety of dishes including Cut Wada, Vada Pav, Poha, and Misal, and every item was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. The combination of tasty food, cool breeze, and quiet surroundings made the experience even more enjoyable. This small roadside eatery may not be fancy, but it’s definitely a hidden gem for travelers, offering great taste and a refreshing pause during your journey.

After a delightful breakfast, we set out to explore Devghali Beach, located in the quiet village of Kasheli, about 25 km from Ganeshgule. The journey took us roughly an hour, winding through scenic Konkan roads and peaceful village landscapes.

Devghali Beach is truly a hidden treasure, still untouched by heavy tourist crowds. While recent social media posts have started drawing more visitors (including us!), the place continues to retain its clean, raw, and scenic beauty. Kasheli itself remains a relatively unexplored village in the Ratnagiri district, adding to the charm of discovering something off the beaten path. The beach is especially famous for its stunning sunset views. If you’re planning a visit, try to spend the evening here, you can witness a spectacular sunset from the nearby hilltop, offering panoramic views that are simply unforgettable.

Travel Tips:

1. Swimming is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns.
2. Entry is restricted during monsoon season.
3. The terrain and surroundings are relatively untouched, so plan accordingly.

The beauty of Devghali Beach is something that words can hardly capture, it’s one of those places that you have to experience and feel for yourself. A perfect escape for anyone seeking peace, natural beauty, and a break from crowded tourist spots.

Devghali beach, Kasheli

Sea view from Devghali Beach

After exploring the hidden beauty of Devghali Beach, we returned to our stay around 1:00 PM. Following a quick and satisfying lunch, we checked out and continued our journey towards our next destination - Vijaydurg Fort.

With renewed energy, we set off for this historic marvel, excited to experience yet another blend of Konkan’s natural beauty and rich history.

Please check the blog for Vijaydurg Fort -https://bhaktitakalkar.blogspot.com/2024/03/quick-trip-to-vijaydurg-fort.html

Useful Info - 

Dinner at Rama Niwas, veg thali at 200 Rs. per person

Stay at Rama Niwas - 2500 Rs per day for AC room with wifi

Useful Contacts - 

Rama Niwas, Ganeshgule - 9405069665

Aunty at Rama Niwas for food - 9673249735

Hotel Kshanbhar Vishranti, Kasheli - 9403838725

O'NEST Oceano Pearl - 8378957789 

Quick Trip to Vijaydurg Fort - A Simple Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Vijaydurg fort is located in Devgad Taluka, of district Sindhudurg, Konkan region of Maharashtra. It is 350Km away from Pune. 

It is the oldest fort on the Sindhudurg coast, was constructed during the regime of Raja Bhoja II of the Shilahar dynasty (construction period 1193-1205) and restructured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

It is the largest fort on the coast and stands mighty due to its fine architecture.

How to reach? 

Nearest route to follow is via Anuskura Ghat. 

Pune - Satara - Karad - Take Right at Narayanwadi for Malkapur - Anuskura Ghat - Rajapur - Vijaydurg

We went to Ganeshgule, Pawas first and then Vijaydurg so chose Kumbharli ghat route.

Vijaydurg town and port view from the fort

Earlier, the fort encompassed an area of 5 acres and was surrounded by sea on all four sides. 

Over the years the eastern trench was reclaimed and a road constructed thereon. Presently the area of fort is about 17 acres and is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides. Shivaji Maharaj extended the area of the fort by constructing three walls on the eastern side and he also constructed 20 bastions making the fort formidable.

Hanuman Temple at the fort

Indian flag

Vijaydurg Fort was called the "Eastern Gibraltar", as it was virtually impregnable. Its architecture is impressive and unique, designed to withstand attacks from enemy forces. Its locational advantages include the 40 km long Vaghotan/Kharepatan creek. Large vessels cannot enter the shallow water of this creek. Maratha warships could be anchored in this creek and yet remain invisible from the sea. It is a protected monument. and stood testimony to the naval prowess of the Marathas.

It is believed that the region around the banks of the Vaghotan River was a dock, used by the Marathas for building and repairing their ships. The port adjacent to the fort is a natural port and is still used by local fishermen.

A few years back, Oceanographic experts have discovered a submerged wall of length 100 meters east of the fort. This under-sea wall is 3 meters high, 7 meters wide and 122 meters long. The wall is composed of Laterite rock and has a depth of 8-10 meter under the sea. So when enemy ships tried to attack the fort, they collided with this underwater wall and shattered into pieces! Portuguese had lost their 2 ships in an attempt to capture Vijaydurg fort.

We visited the fort on 11th March 2024. As it was our sudden plan to visit the fort during Ganeshgule trip so we did not get much time to explore accommodation options at Vijaydurg. We booked a room at Hotel Darya (earlier name was Hotel Vijaydurg Palace), its a resto bar and we reached the place around 8pm. Honestly speaking we did not like the place and surrounding after reaching there; we felt that it was not a good place for a family to stay even for a night. But as we were not having any option as we were so tired and could not think to travel again so decided to stay as leave the place as early as possible in the morning.  

But a special thanks to Hotel owner Vivek, he understood our feelings and made us little comfortable, he interacted so nicely with us. He stays there in the same building at the top floor and told us to call him in case required.

Sunrise seen from the fort

We started exploring fort around 7am, there is no any time restriction to visit the fort. One can visit the fort anytime after sunrise and before the sunset, it is because there is no light arrangement in the fort. 

As soon as you enter you can see Hanuman temple and fluttering Indian flag at high. 

Way to main entrance 

The main entrance of the fort faces the north, and its structured like Gomukh (cow face) as you can see it once you reach near to it.  This made it difficult for enemy to find out fort entrance from long distance.   You can see cannon fireballs and some broken cannons after entering into fort area. 

Main Entrance

Jibi Gate 

Fort wall

Information board at the fort

Most of the fort walls and bastions are still intact.

Baston at the fort

Making memories with my little one

Out of the original imposing structure, some of the structures still remain including the storage area for food grains, prison, a huge water tank, and cannon. 

Grain storage

Jakhanichi Tof (Cannon)

For the supply of water there were several wells and large tanks.

Well (water storage) 

The Vijaydurg fort is considered the birthplace of helium. In the 19th century, a British scientist Sir Joseph Norman Lockyer discovered the element while observing a total solar eclipse from the fort.

Board about Helium birth

Vaghotan Creek

Nice place to spend sometime

There is a tunnel which is partially damaged now. The strong triple line of fortifications had 27 bastions, some of them two-storied. Within the citadel there were many buildings and storehouses, now all in ruins except a structure called Rest House. 

Fort wall stands strong

Most interesting fact about the fort is the underground escape way(hidden gate). There was also a 200 m long tunnel for evacuation during an emergency. Another end of this tunnel was in the Dhulap’s palatial house in the near village. Few caves like structures are also present inside the fort.

Way to hidden door

Chor Waat (hidden door)

We were back around 9.30am and pampered ourselves with lassi and ice cream at a small shop near Hotel Suruchi. 

2-3 hours are enough to explore the fort properly. Carry your own water bottle, sunglass, goggles , hat & sunscreens. There are few restaurants near the Vijaydurg fort area to have food & refreshments. 

Hotel Suruchi offers Konkani foods. 

I recommend this place to visit during the Konkan trip if you are interested in seeing costal line fort architecture. 

Useful Contacts - 

Hotel Darya (Hotel Vijaydurg Palace) - 9920986532

Hotel Suruchi - 9420789482