Hidden Delight: Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple, Kolisare near Ganpatipule, Ratnagiri

Hidden in the quiet village of Kolisare near Ganpatipule in Ratnagiri, far from the usual tourist routes, lies the beautiful and lesser known Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple. Surrounded by lush greenery, fresh sea breeze, and Konkan’s untouched beauty, this temple is the perfect blend of spirituality, history, and serenity.

Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple, Kolisare

We visited the Kolisare temple early in the morning, around 9 AM, starting from Ganpatipule. It is located about 20 km from Ganpatipule, which is roughly a 30 minute scenic drive through winding roads and lush Konkan landscapes. The drive itself was peaceful, with winding roads and lush greenery all around. The rural morning added its own charm, soft golden sunlight filtering through the trees, the fresh scent of damp earth, and the distant sounds of birds chirping and village life slowly waking up.

Along the way, near Sitapwadi, we came across beautiful flowing water streams by the roadside, adding a refreshing charm to the journey. The sight and sound of the gently flowing water made the drive even more memorable, perfectly setting the tone for the serene temple visit ahead. We couldn’t resist stopping there for a while, playing in the cool water and exploring the little stream made the experience even more special. The fresh, flowing water and peaceful setting made it a joyful and refreshing break during the journey. The soothing sight and sound of the gently flowing water, combined with the quiet countryside around, made the moment unforgettable.

Just flowing…

Curiosity flowing as gently as the stream

Pulled over for this calm moment

Unlike coastal destinations, this route takes you deeper into Konkan’s inland beauty, where nature feels raw, quiet, and grounding. The journey to Kolisare itself feels like a retreat. As you leave behind the busy towns and highways, the roads become narrower and more peaceful. The closer you get, the more the pace of life slows down, preparing you for the calm that awaits at the temple. It feels like stepping into a version of Konkan that remains untouched by modern chaos.

We left Sitapwadi with the winding road stretching ahead, the quiet rhythm of village life unfolding around us. At the edge of the road, we noticed a mother and her young son waiting patiently, their eyes scanning every passing vehicle. Sensing their long wait and the uncertainty ahead, we offered them a lift. What began as a simple gesture soon turned into a shared journey, filled with small smiles and quiet conversation as we drove towards Kolisare. We got know from them that transport here is scarce, just two buses a day, one in the early morning and another in the afternoon, both timed more for school schedules than for convenience. We dropped them off at a small naka nearby. The most meaningful moments of travel are found not in destinations, but in the kindness exchanged along the way.

The Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple stands gracefully amidst nature, reflecting traditional Konkani architecture and welcomes you with quiet grace. There’s no overwhelming grandeur, no crowded lines, just a clean, well-maintained temple surrounded by nature. The architecture reflects traditional Konkani style, with a sloping roof, vibrant colors, and a tranquil courtyard.

Every step brings me closer to peace

Worth every step

Lord Hanuman Temple

Lord Hanuman Idol

The temple is not just spiritually significant but also carries an intriguing historical legacy.

The idol is believed to date back to the Rashtrakuta period in Maharashtra (750–973 CE), reflecting its deep historical and cultural significance. During the era of Mughal invasions, many ancient idols were submerged in water bodies to protect them from destruction. According to local legends, devotees later received a divine vision revealing that the idol of Lord Lakshmi Keshav was hidden in Rankala Lake in Kolhapur. Following this vision, the idol was carefully retrieved from the lake. Devotees then carried it to the Konkan region, where it is believed that the deity expressed a wish to be permanently enshrined in Kolisare. Respecting this divine indication, the temple was established at its present location.

The idol was formally consecrated in 1510 by Bhanuprabhu Teredesai, a local chieftain serving under the Bahmani Sultanate. 

Today, the temple is revered as the family deity (Kuladaivat) for several Maharashtrian Brahmin families, including the Joshi, Ghaisas, and Kelkar lineages. It remains an important spiritual center, especially during festivals like Kartik Shuddha Dashami and Kartik Purnima, when special rituals and celebrations are held.

Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple, Kolisare

The idol itself is truly remarkable. Standing nearly five feet tall, it is carved from a single piece of black Shaligram stone sourced from the Gandaki River. It is beautifully adorned, and the sanctum radiates warmth and devotion. The sculpture depicts Lord Vishnu in his Keshav form, holding the Shankh (conch), Chakra (disc), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus). On either side of the main idol are finely carved figures of Goddess Lakshmi and Garuda. Surrounding the deity is a detailed halo featuring the Dashavatar, the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Lord Vishnu Idol in temple

There’s a sense of stillness here that you rarely find. You can sit quietly, listen to the rustling leaves, and simply be present. It feels like discovering a secret place that’s still preserved in its natural charm. Unlike busy temple towns, this temple offers a deeply personal spiritual experience. The simplicity here enhances the connection, you don’t just visit, you truly experience the calm.

Adding to the temple’s uniqueness, a perennial underground stream flows directly beneath it. The water from this stream is considered sacred, and devotees collect it as holy Teertha. Tucked amidst lush greenery, this natural stream adds a soothing charm to the entire experience.

The sound of flowing water blends beautifully with the quiet surroundings, creating a calming rhythm that instantly relaxes your mind. Whether you sit by the stream for a while or simply pass by it on your way to the temple, it feels like nature’s own form of meditation.

During the monsoon and post-monsoon months, the stream becomes more vibrant, flowing with fresh rainwater and adding to the beauty of the landscape. The cool air, the shade of trees, and the sparkling water make it a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

It’s not just a stream, it’s a reminder of how beautifully spirituality and nature come together in places like Kolisare. Sitting near the stream feels almost meditative. The cool air, gentle sound of water, and surrounding trees create a peaceful atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience of the temple.

Shree Lakshmi Keshav Temple is perfect for those who love offbeat, peaceful destinations, want to combine spiritual travel with coastal beauty and prefer less crowded, authentic experiences. Unlike popular temple destinations, this place is defined by silence and simplicity where no commercialization, minimal crowd and uninterrupted natural surroundings. You can spend time just sitting, reflecting, or walking around slowly, something rare in most travel spots today.

 

I’ve been here 4–5 times, but each visit offers a completely unique experience, something about this place feels new every time.

Best time to visit:

Winter (October–February) for pleasant weather

Post-monsoon (September–November) for lush greenery

It’s best to avoid traveling too late in the evening, as the temple is located in a quiet, remote area. For those accustomed to city life, the isolated surroundings and low activity after sunset may feel a bit unsettling. Plan your visit during the day to fully enjoy the journey comfortably and safely.

The morning is the best time to visit, as the quiet surroundings, fresh air, and soft sunlight enhance the overall experience of the temple and the journey.

You can also plan to visit nearby attractions along with Kolisare Temple, such as Jindal’s Jayvinayak Temple, the historic Jaigad Fort, and the Karhateshwar Temple in Jaigad. Exploring these places together makes for a fulfilling and well-rounded trip, blending spirituality, history, and scenic beauty.

In a world full of crowded tourist spots, places like this remind us of the beauty of simplicity. It’s not just about visiting a temple, it’s about feeling the calm of Konkan, hearing the silence, and taking a pause from everything fast and overwhelming. If you ever find yourself in Ratnagiri, take that extra turn toward Kolisare. You might arrive looking for a destination, but you’ll leave carrying peace.

Quick Escape to Amboli: Temples, Waterfalls & Scenic Views

Some trips aren’t planned in detail, they just happen, yet leave behind beautiful memories. Our quick visit to Amboli, Maharashtra’s serene hill station, was one such refreshing escape, filled with nature, spirituality, and breathtaking viewpoints.

We kick-started our journey to Amboli at 5:30 AM on 14th June 2024, taking the scenic route via

Pune – Karad – Kagal – Adamapur – Gargoti – Ajara – Amboli.

With the early start, the roads were calm and traffic was minimal, making the drive quite relaxing. As we cruised past Pune and headed towards the highway, the morning light and cool breeze made the journey even more pleasant.

We took a short halt at Karad for breakfast, which turned out to be a perfect break to refresh ourselves. A quick, satisfying meal and some hot tea gave us the energy boost we needed for the long drive ahead. Post Karad, the journey became smoother and greener as we moved towards Kagal and further rural stretches. The scenery gradually shifted to lush fields and quieter roads. By the time we crossed Gargoti and Ajara, the surroundings felt more serene and close to nature.

The final stretch towards Amboli was truly the highlight, winding ghat roads, dense greenery, and cool mountain air welcomed us, making the last leg of the drive absolutely memorable.

Road to Amboli Village

Not all roads need a destination

Just 5 minutes before reaching the resort, we had a beautiful and unexpected encounter. A fox appeared by the roadside, quietly standing still and staring straight at us. For a few seconds, everything slowed down. The calmness of the moment, mixed with a hint of curiosity in its gaze, made it truly unforgettable. And then, like a scene from a movie, it gently walked away into the greenery.

Sorry for the quality...Wasn't ready for the shot but the moment was worth it!

We reached Rainhills Holiday Home, Amboli around 2:00 PM, just in time to soak in the calm, misty vibe of the hills. After the long but scenic drive, hunger kicked in almost instantly, so we didn’t waste any time and ordered a hearty local lunch.

Somewhere in Amboli Village

Rainhills Holiday Home Amboli

Our meal was simple yet incredibly satisfying: Kaju Masala, rich and flavorful with soft cashews; Nachni Bhakri, warm and rustic with that earthy taste; and Aluwadi, perfectly spiced and steamed. The combination felt authentic and comforting, exactly what you’d want after arriving in the cool weather of Amboli. It was the perfect start to our stay, setting the tone for a relaxed and refreshing getaway.

Lunch at Resort

After enjoying our delicious lunch, we took a quick power nap for about an hour, which felt absolutely refreshing in Amboli’s cool weather. Feeling recharged, we headed out to Kavalesad Point. As expected for a popular spot, there was quite a rush, and we had to struggle a bit before finally finding a parking spot. It was raining steadily, and within minutes we were completely soaked, but honestly, that just added to the whole experience! Standing there in the rain, surrounded by mist and greenery, felt magical. The view from the point was mesmerizing, even though the thick fog covered most of the valley. While we couldn’t see the entire landscape clearly, the glimpses we got were enough to imagine just how breathtaking the valley must look on a clear day. Despite the rain, crowd, and limited visibility, the moment felt incredibly special, one of those experiences where the weather doesn’t ruin the plan, but actually makes it more memorable.

View from Kavalesaad Point

Road trips + Rain + Bhutta = Happiness

After soaking in the misty views at Kavalesad Point, we continued our journey towards Chandgad, excited to meet one of our friends there. The drive itself turned out to be full of little surprises. On the way, we stumbled upon Nangartas Waterfall, conveniently located right by the roadside. It was one of those unplanned stops that made the journey even more special. With the rain adding to the charm, the waterfall was in its full glory, gushing water, lush greenery all around, and that soothing sound of nature. We couldn’t resist stopping for a while, clicking a few pictures, and just enjoying the moment.

Sometimes, it’s these unexpected finds on the road that become the most memorable parts of a trip.

Nangartas Waterfall

We were back at the resort around 8 PM, tired but content after a day full of rain, mist, and unexpected finds. Just when we thought the day had ended, nature had one last surprise for us. Right near the road, we spotted a troop of wolves crossing quietly in the darkness. For a moment, everything felt still, we just watched in awe, not wanting to disturb the scene. It was one of those rare, surreal experiences…a reminder that Amboli isn’t just about scenic views and waterfalls, but also about being so close to raw, untouched nature.

Prafull Gawade, a resort owner was extremely warm and welcoming. We had a lovely conversation with him about the diversity of Amboli village and the ghat, from its rich greenery and wildlife to the unique charm it holds during the monsoon season. It was insightful and made us appreciate the place even more.  He advised us to visit the Hiranyakeshi Temple only after 8 AM, as it is located deep inside a forest area, and early mornings could sometimes bring sightings of wild animals nearby. Taking his advice seriously, we planned our visit accordingly, adding a small layer of excitement and caution to our peaceful morning plan.

After dinner, we relaxed for a while, reliving the moments from our day, and then called it a day, wrapping up an eventful and memorable Day 1 in Amboli.

The next morning, we started our day on a peaceful note. Around 8:30 AM, we visited the Hiranyakeshi Temple, one of the most serene spots in Amboli. Surrounded by lush greenery, the temple has a calm and spiritual vibe. What makes it truly special is the origin point of the Hiranyakeshi River, which flows gently from a cave nearby. The sight of clear water emerging from the rocks, along with the soothing sound of nature, created a very tranquil atmosphere. It was the perfect contrast to the previous day’s adventurous and rain-filled experiences—quiet, refreshing, and grounding. We spent some time there just soaking in the peaceful surroundings before continuing our day.

Prafull also warned us to be careful of leeches around the Hiranyakeshi Temple, especially during the monsoon season. Since the area is densely forested and moist, leeches are quite common there.

That little warning made us more aware and added a tiny adventurous twist to our visit, we walked a bit more cautiously, but it definitely made the experience feel more real and close to nature.

Hiranyakeshi Temple, Amboli

Where a river begins its peaceful journey

Hiranyakeshi River

A beautiful reminder that we are visitors here

Rainy days, cozy cuddles

After returning from the peaceful visit to the temple, we headed back to the resort and enjoyed our complimentary breakfast of Poha. Simple yet good in taste, it was the perfect start to the morning.

Soon after, we packed our bags and started our journey towards Belagavi, carrying along all the beautiful memories from the trip—misty roads, waterfalls, wildlife, and quiet moments in nature.

We took a day halt at Belagavi, relaxing before the final leg of our journey. The next day, we headed back home and finally reached Pune, marking the end of a truly refreshing and memorable getaway.

Ancient Palasnath Temple - Hidden Temple in Ujjani Dam Near Pune

Palasnath Temple, located around 120 km from Pune, is a unique seasonal destination situated in the backwaters of Ujjani Dam on the Bhima River, near Ujjani village in Madha Tehsil, Solapur district.

What makes this temple special is that it remains submerged underwater for most of the year due to the dam reservoir. The temple becomes accessible only during summer months or in periods of severe drought, when water levels drop significantly.

Palasnath Temple is ideal for travelers looking for offbeat places near Pune and rare, time-sensitive experiences.

Ancient Palasnath(Palasdeo) Temple

How to reach Palasnath Temple from Pune?

Drive through Solapur Highway - Cross Bhigwan - After a few kms, there is Palasdev village arch on left - Take a left in Village - Follow the road and park your vehicle. You may have to take a small boat ride to cross the backwater and Boats are available when the temple is accessible.

Drive through Solapur Highway - Cross Bhigwan - Cross Dalaj (both No. 1 and No. 2) -  Reach to Kalewadi No. 1 and take left  - drive through backwater towards temple. 

This route is preferred during May when there is no water  in the dam in this area. But before driving through this area please check if it is completely dry. 

The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva as Palasnath and it is situated near Palasdeo village. The temple has 1000-year-old history and its a masterpiece of architectural style. This ancient structure created in a Hemadpanthi style in 11th century, was built by Chalukya Kings.  The temple has beautiful stone carvings and temple structure is very similar to Kopeshwar temple at Khidrapur, Sangameshwar temple and Bhuleshwar temple near Pune.  

The temple is west facing and there is Lord Hanuman idol kept at the entrance of main temple (Garbhgruh - inner room where the idol is kept).

Lord Hanuman

Way to enter Mandap

Palasnath Temple

There is no Shivpindi(Shivlinga idol) in the temple, it was relocated in the village and new temple was built there during Ujjani Dam construction. 

Entrance of Garbhgruh

Garbhgruh

As per the pillar structure, temple was built under Yadav era. 

Pillar

Pillars

Carving on the pillar

You can see the beautiful carving on the walls.

Carving on the wall

Ceiling

Due to the water of the dam, the temple has been damaged a lot but still this temple in the water looks very attractive. If you look closely, you can see that the temple has been renovated during different times, during any of the renovation the 'Sharbh Shilp' sculpture made in limestone is placed there. 

The kalasa of the temple is also seen to have been renovated and newly built and so looks different than base temple. 

Sharbh Shilp

Kalas

Palasnath temple is known for its serene ambiance and intricate carvings. This temple is also mentioned in Dnyaneshwari, is a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita written by the Sant Dnyaneshwar in 1290. 

The backwaters of Ujjain Dam is also famous for bird watching, it is home to various migratory birds such as the Greater Flamingo, Eurasian Spoonbill, Bar Headed Goose, Collared Pratincole, and the Osprey, bird of prey. Bhigwan is also home to the many birds, one can find more than 230 species of birds here.

We took blessing of Siddhivinayak from Siddhetek village.  It is third Ganapati from Ashtavinayak. After darshan we had lunch at Siddhivinayk hotel, its a small shack in which they serve you maharatrian thali which includes Pithale, Bhakri, Batata Rassa, Thecha, Pickle and Dal Rice at Rs.150. Food was very tasty. There are many such hotel close to bank of Bhima river, and all of those nearly serve same menu.

We reached home around 5pm. 

Maharashtrian Veg Thali