Diveagar and Harihareshwar - Perfect Weekend Trip in Konkan

Diveagar is on the western coast of India in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is one of the safest beach in the Konkan region. Diveagar is extremely popular for its beautiful beaches.  

We are looking for 2 days quick trip before summer vacation ends. The first 3 weeks of May were very busy with various summer camps. There was no activity in the last week and since it was our wedding anniversary, we planned a trip on 29th May. Considering time and distance, we decided to visit Diveagar and Harihareshwar as it is 4 hours drive from Pune. And Aaravya (my son) had to go there since, the famed 'Golden Ganesh Temple' Diveagar got back its gold idol on the auspicious Angaraki Chaturthi on Tuesday 23rd November 2021, which was stolen in a daring temple heist after killing two security guards in March 2012.  

Date – 29th May 2022 

We began our journey @ 8 am after having breakfast at home and reached Diveagar around 2 pm after having few quick stops at Tamhini for Karvand (berry-sized fruits). The route is amazingly beautiful especially during and after monsoons. Road is in good condition except 1-2 rough patches in tamhini ghat. 

The route to reach Diveagar is Pune – Paud – Tamhini Ghat – Mangaon – Mhasala – Diveagar. 

If you do not want to drive and only want to go to Diveagar, then there is a ST for Shivaji Chowk, Divegar from Swargate, Pune. It leaves Swargate at around 2 pm, reaches Diveagar at 7pm. The same ST leaves Diveagar for Pune the next day at 5:30 in the morning.

Somewhere at Tamhini Ghat

It was my second visit to Diveagar and third to Harihareshwar. 

Click here to read to my previous Diveagar travel blog. 

We had brought food with us as my in-laws were accompanying on this trip, he was on medication so didn't want to miss his mealtime. We booked 2 rooms at Aai resort as the booking was done just a day ago, AC rooms are not available, so we booked non-AC rooms. We wanted to stay at Aai resort as our previous stay was very comfortable there. Nowadays in Diveagar, few new hotels are built up and available for accommodation.  After some relaxation in the afternoon, we went to the beach at 5:30 and enjoyed swimming and water sports. 

We @ Diveagar Beach

The beach is on walking distance of 10-15 minutes, almost a kilometer away. The beach was not very crowded though it was Sunday, but more people were there than usual. The beach is a broad, sandy, and clear water; it is separated by a road. The climate was not very pleasant, but it was fine as expected at end of summer.       

Sunset @ Diveagar beach

We came back to the resort around 8 pm. After freshening up, we visited the resort and its surroundings and chatted with the resort owner and other guests in the courtyard. We had dinner at Aai Resort and the food was good. If you want to dine at any hotel or khanaval in Diveagar, you have to let them know in advance.

Date – 30th May 2022 

We got up around 7am as we don’t want to visit the beach in the morning. Our plan was to visit Suvarna Ganesh and Rup Narayan temples in the morning and then to Harihareshwar. We went to Roop Narayan temple first as Suvarna Ganesh temple opens at 8am.  

Rup Narayan temple is located close to the beach. It is a very old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Temple is made up of laterite red bricks and it is beautifully sculpted, and idol is carved meticulously on black stone in a way that all ten avatars (Dashavatar) of Vishnu are visibly seen in a clockwise direction. The Lord Vishnu idol is with Sankh, Chakra, Padma and Gada in four hands and is so beautiful and mesmerized. One can feel good positive vibrations in this temple. There is another temple adjacent to it, it is of Lord Sundar Narayan. There is a well in front of the temple with very well constructed steps to go inside.  

Beach is at a walking distance from this place, the road to this place is very narrow so better to park the vehicle behind on the main road. 

Roop Narayan Temple, Diveagar

Roop Narayan

Deepmal

Sundar Narayan

When we reached Suvarna Ganesh temple it was opening. Good parking space available opposite Ganesh temple. We parked our car and move toward the temple. There was not much crowd but were only 15-20 people waiting for the temple to open along with us. As soon as we entered the temple, we felt very pleasant. The Ganesh idol in this temple was made up of gold, hence the name "Suvarna Ganesh". This temple earlier had a gold statue of Shri Ganesh, unfortunately it was stolen in March 2012. Thieves killed two security guards there. Later thieves were captured but gold idol and ornaments were melted. But it has now been replaced with another similar gold statue in November 2021.  

This Temple is reconstructed with beautiful design and the premise is very calm. It is situated at approximately 1 km from the beach. 

History of Suvarana Ganesh temple is quite fascinating and interested one. 

It was special day of Sankashti Chaturthi of Hindu Calendar on Dated 17th November 1997, there was found a copper box in a coconut farm while doing cultivation. The Box was Muddy as it was buried and looked ancient. It has some words written from the old Sanskrit. This incident attracts the interest of entire Village people of Diveagar. The box had a sculpture of Lord Ganesha made of pure gold along with Gold ornaments of it. It was then that god was named as Suvarna Ganesh. It is believed that Lord Ganesha idol is approximately 400 years old.     

Suvarna Ganesh Temple, Diveagar

The temple atmosphere is very calm and clean. It’s a small, peaceful but a divine place. After spending half an hour there we went back to the resort as we placed an order Ghavane and chutney for breakfast there. Unlike Pune, in Diveagar, tea or breakfast is not available early in the morning; you need to wait till 9 am.  

At 9 o'clock we were very happy to get white-soft-big ghavane and spicy chutney, the tongue is satisfied with authentic konkani menu and we were served hot tea after that.  

Our initial plan was to visit Harihareshwar in the morning and come back to Diveagar and check out in the noon after some rest, so we placed lunch order in Bapat Khanaval for veg thali with modak and solkadhi. But considering distance and time to travel to Harihareshwar and of course the bright sunlight we changed our plan and decided to travel Pune directly from Harihareshwar. The distance from Diveagar to Harihareshwar is 35 km which requires almost 1.5 hours due to narrow and rough road. 

After breakfast we packed our bags, checked out the resort and headed towards Harihareshwar. 

Harihareshwar village in Shrivardhan taluka of Raigad district of Maharashtra, it is know for Lord Shiva and Kalbhairava temples. The place is also known as Dakshin Kashi. This temple is most ancient, and the main deity of the temple was the ‘Kuladaivat’ of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the great Maratha Empire. 'Pradakshina Marg' around the temple was built by Chandrarao More. Even in 1674, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has also visited the Harihareshwar temple. Later, the temple was even renovated completely in 1723 by Bajirao Peshwa I after having been almost destroyed in a fire. 

The road is not in good condition but drives along the sea is pleasant. We stopped a few times to buy Mango, Karwand and Jamun and reached Harihareshwar in an hour. It was very hot at that time, after parking a car and you need to walk a little to get to the temple and there are steps in some places. My father-in-law would not have been able to walk so much hence they both stopped at a restaurant and three of us went to the temple.  

The architecture of the temple is unique and attractive. Inside the main sanctum of the temple, there are idols of Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu and Brahma in the shape of a linga. Quite close to the temple, there is are other two temple - Lord Kalbhairav and Goddess Yogeshwari.  

There was little rush due to Monday as it being lord Shiva’s day, few people doing abhishek and pooja. We could take blessings in 15-20 minutes and then went to halfway of the pradakshina path. We have enjoyed tides and photography there but due to bright sunlight we were feeling exhausted. There are few Sharbat stalls available where you will get nice drinks, we enjoyed cold buttermilk which was must needed that time.  

 A pradakshina path goes around the temple, along the seashore. It is not advisable to go on this route during high tide. The day we were there was exactly the new moon(amavasya) hence pradakshina path was closed due to high tide. 

High Tide @ Harihareshwar Beach

Pradakshina Path during High Tide

After spending an hour there, we left and done some shopping and came to the place where my in-laws had stopped. As it was almost 12.30, we wanted a good veg meal. We enquired there and got to know about Ashokvan, a place for pure veg meal which is a kilometer away from the parking. Actually, we wanted to eat modak, solkadhi and rice bhakari but you need to place an order for this menu a day before.  

We stopped at ‘Ashokvan Pure Veg’ after seeing the board at left side while travelling from Harihareshwar to Diveagar/Mhasala. The place is a bit inside, it is not easily noticed from the road but there is a board at the roadside. You need to park your vehicle near the board and walk 2 minutes to reach the house where the food is served. It is a simple place with simple setup, a typical Konkani house where a buffet is arranged. Everyday menu is written on the board there. They start serving food @ 1 pm sharp, we had to wait as we reached there around 12.40pm so we roamed their wadi which is very beautiful.

Mangoes!!

The crowd started to grow as soon as it was 1 o'clock. We also started the lunch which was delicious home-made food. The taste was awesome, typical brahmani food, we all really enjoyed it. Their charges are Rs. 200 unlimited food for adult and Rs. 100 for kids. This place is 100% must visit when you are in or near Harihareshwar and of course a vegetarian.       

Veg Thali @ Ashokvan Pure Veg

We didn't expect it to be so crowded but in next 15 minutes only there were almost 20 people were waiting and almost 40-50 people were already dining. Better do prior booking on the previous day. They serve Modak but you need to tell them a day prior.  

After having a hearty meal and filling stomach, we talked to them for few minutes only as he was very busy in arranging the food and table for those who were on waiting and of course we complimented them for the taste of food.  

We left around 3pm, headed towards Pune and reached home around 9 pm only after a pit stop at Tamhini Ghat for tea.

Highlights -

Trip duration - 2 days (29 May 2022 and 30 May 2022)

Distance travelled - 400Km

Budget - 15K

Useful contacts - 

1. Aai Resort, Diveagar 

2. Ashokvan Pure Veg, Harihareshwar

Revdanda Retreat - Discovering Alibaug’s Coastal Secret

Revdanda, a charming coastal village located near Alibaug in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, is one of those offbeat destinations that perfectly blends peaceful beaches with rich history. Nestled along the western coastline, this serene getaway is known for its uncrowded shoreline, swaying coconut trees, and historic forts, making it an ideal escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

For us, this trip had been a long time coming. After days of planning and multiple cancellations, mainly due to not having a car (since we had recently sold ours), traveling felt like a challenge. Many weekend plans were discussed but never executed.

Meanwhile, little Aaravya was getting quite bored with the routine, and that’s when we finally decided, no more delays! We planned a spontaneous weekend getaway covering Mahad, Pali, and finally Revdanda. To make things easier, we quickly booked a self-drive car on ZoomCar, setting the wheels in motion for a much-awaited family trip.

Sunset at Revdanda Beach

We left Pune at 6:30 AM on Saturday and reached Mahad by 8:30 AM, just in time to begin our Ashtavinayak temple journey. The Mahad Ganpati Temple, also known as Varad Vinayak, is one of the revered eight Ganpati temples in Maharashtra, located in Khalapur taluka near Karjat and Khopoli.

Since I had an online parent-teacher meeting scheduled at 9:30 AM, we immediately joined the darshan queue upon arrival. Thankfully, the crowd was minimal, and we completed darshan within 15 minutes, followed by a few peaceful moments sitting in front of Bappa. The temple reflects a simple yet peaceful architectural style, featuring a traditional tiled roof that adds to its old-world charm. It is believed to have been built by Subhedar Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar, giving it historical and cultural significance.

Inside, the idol of Lord Ganesha faces east, with the trunk gracefully turned to the left, symbolizing calmness and benevolence. The temple premise is thoughtfully designed, with a Gomukh on the northern side, continuously flowing with holy water, while a sacred pond lies to the west, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. The temple also houses idols of Mushika, Navagraha Devtas, and a Shivalinga, making it a complete spiritual experience. Adding to its grandeur, four elephant idols stand guard at the four directions, symbolizing strength and protection.

As there was very little crowd, we were fortunate to complete the darshan within just 15 minutes. We then spent around 10 peaceful minutes sitting in front of Bappa, soaking in the calm and divine atmosphere before stepping out with a sense of contentment.

Right after completing our temple visit, we stopped at a small local hotel for a quick and satisfying breakfast, recharging ourselves for the next leg of our journey. With a brief pause to attend the online school meeting around 10:00 AM, we soon resumed our trip, heading towards Pali.

Situated in the Sudhagad taluka of Raigad district, Ballaleshwar Temple in Pali is one of the sacred Ashtavinayak shrines and holds immense religious importance. The temple is always abuzz with devotees of Lord Ganesha, drawn by its strong spiritual aura and deep-rooted history, making it a must-visit stop on this divine trail. Ever since watching the movie Fatteshikast, we had been curious about the exact location of Umberkhind and hoped to visit it someday. Known as one of the most iconic historical sites in Maharashtra, Umberkhind holds immense significance in Maratha history. It was here, on 3rd February 1661, that the famous Battle of Umberkhind was fought in the rugged Sahyadri mountain ranges near Khopoli. The battle saw the brilliant leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose Maratha army strategically defeated the forces of Mughal General Kartalab Khan. Just passing through this region instantly transports you back in time, evoking the valor and tactical brilliance of that era.

Immersed in these historical thoughts, we continued our journey and reached Pali around 12:00 PM. The February sun had started to shine a bit brighter by then, so we quickly parked our car and headed straight towards the temple, eager to continue our spiritual exploration.

While heading towards the main temple, you will first come across the Dhundi Vinayak Temple. Many visitors often get confused and assume this is the Ballaleshwar Temple, but the actual shrine lies a little further ahead so it’s worth being aware to avoid missing the ballaleshwar darshan. The Ballaleshwar Temple stands out with its distinct wooden architecture, originally renovated in 1760, and uniquely designed in the shape of the Devanagari letter “श्री” (Shri)—a symbol of auspiciousness. One of the most fascinating aspects of this temple is its thoughtful construction, it is aligned in such a way that the rays of the rising sun fall directly on the idol during prayers, creating a divine and serene atmosphere. Adding historical significance, the temple bell was brought by Chimaji Appa after his victory over the Portuguese in the Battle of Vasai, connecting the temple to an important chapter of Maratha history.

Surrounded by two picturesque lakes, the temple complex feels peaceful and scenic, enhancing the overall spiritual experience. The calm waters, combined with the temple’s architecture and devotional energy, make Ballaleshwar Pali a must-visit destination on the Ashtavinayak trail.

After spending about an hour soaking in the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere at Ballaleshwar Temple in Pali, we continued our journey towards Revdanda, excited for the coastal leg of our trip.

The drive itself had its own charm. Somewhere along the way, we noticed a local cricket match in full swing on an open field. Like true cricket lovers, we couldn’t resist stopping for a while to watch the game. It was one of those simple, unplanned moments that added a special touch to the trip reminding us how beautiful travel can be when you slow down and enjoy the little things.

After this refreshing break, we resumed our drive and finally reached Revdanda around 3:00 PM. By then, hunger had clearly taken over, so the first thing on our agenda was to find a place for lunch. A good meal after a long journey felt absolutely satisfying and set the tone for a relaxed evening ahead. We stayed at a family friend’s home, although they don’t currently reside there, the house is well looked after by a caretaker, which made our stay smooth and convenient.

After taking some much needed rest for about an hour, we headed out to Revdanda Beach around 5:30 PM, just in time to enjoy the calm evening vibes. The beach is wonderfully quiet and less crowded, making it perfect for those looking to unwind away from the usual tourist rush. Although the water appeared a bit muddy, the overall atmosphere was peaceful and relaxing.

Revdanda is not just about the beach, it also offers glimpses of history. The Revdanda Fort, an old Portuguese fort located right along the shoreline, stands as a silent witness to the past. Another nearby attraction is the Korlai Fort, which is considered a must-visit for history.

Korlai Fort seen from Revdanda beach

However, after a long day, we decided to skip both forts this time. Aaravya was far more excited to play in the water and enjoy some fun activities, and honestly, that became the highlight for us as well. And then came the most magical part of the evening, the sunset. The sky slowly transformed into stunning shades of orange and gold, creating a breathtaking view that was worth waiting for. Sitting by the shore, watching the sun dip into the horizon, felt like the perfect ending to our day simple, peaceful, and absolutely unforgettable.

After 7 o'clock we went to cottage, we stayed at Uday Homestay which is a bit old and a budget cottage, but he is our family friend's neighbor so we preferred to stay at his place.  After freshened up and we went out to explore the surrounding area; and most importantly we wanted to find a delicious meal for the night. After inquiring, we found out that there is Fafe's restaurant in Chaul which is famous for veg food.

We wanted to visit Chaul next day as to see famous Rameshwar temple there. The Chaul region is famous for its temples. But Google Map showed 10 minutes only, so we went to Raghunandan Restaurant. On the way to the restaurant, we saw Rameshwar temple and immediately stopped there. That temple is very beautiful, a typical Konkani temple; many Marathi movies have been shot here. The temple was shown in Cycle Cinema, ever since I have wanted to visit it. We decided to come back the next day because we came to know that the hotel was crowded as it the only pure veg restaurant in the premise. 

We ordered paneer butter masala, dal tadka, garlic naan and pav bhaji for Aaravya and all the food was very tasty and not spicy at all. If you are close by the place, try this restaurant once and you will definitely like the food there. After drinking cold coffee, we reached the cottage around 10.30 pm.

Photo taken from Google

The next day began on a truly refreshing note. Kiran and I woke up early at 5:30 AM and stepped out for a quiet walk along the beach. The early morning atmosphere was simply magical filled with a gentle breeze and a soothing fragrance of the sea, creating a perfect blend of calm and freshness. We found a wooden bench by the shore, where we sat for a while, soaking in the serenity and enjoying long, heartfelt conversations. Those peaceful moments, away from the rush of daily life, felt incredibly special and rejuvenating.

Later, we took a walk towards the local market area and stopped at the popular Suruchi Snacks Center for a cup of hot tea. Already craving something authentic, we placed an order for traditional ghavane with chutney for breakfast. After placing the order, we headed back to our room to freshen up and get ready. With the promise of a delicious local breakfast waiting, the morning perfectly balanced relaxation, simplicity, and coastal charm just the way a holiday should begin.

After indulging in a hearty and delicious breakfast at Suruchi Snacks featuring kanda bhajji, ghavane with chutney, and missal, we set out to explore the nearby historic town of Chaul. Located about 15 km from Alibaug, the drive to Chaul is a treat in itself, passing through the picturesque coastal villages of Akshi and Nagaon, lined with greenery and serene surroundings.

Chaul is known for its spiritual heritage and is home to three prominent temples Rameshwar Mandir, Datta Mandir, and Hingulja Devi Mandir. However, due to time constraints, we chose to visit only the Rameshwar Temple.

As we arrived, the temple looked even more captivating in daylight, far more beautiful than it had appeared in the dimness of the previous night. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Rameshwar Temple is an ancient structure, believed to have existed for several centuries, though its exact origins remain unknown. Historical insights suggest that it has undergone multiple renovations over time, preserving its spiritual essence. 

One of the unique features of this temple is the presence of three sacred kunds (tanks):

1. Parjanya Kund – symbolizing rain
2. Agni Kund – representing fire
3. Vayu Kund – associated with air

Together, these kunds beautifully reflect the elements of nature, adding a deeper symbolic meaning to the temple’s surroundings. The temple exudes a simple coastal charm, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection, relaxation, and meditation. The peaceful ambiance, combined with minimal crowd, allowed us to truly soak in the spiritual energy. A few other visitors were present, but the place still felt calm and unhurried, ideal for anyone looking to spend meaningful time amidst history and serenity.

Rameshwar Mandir, Chaul

Rameshwar Mandir (inside)

It was honestly hard to leave the peaceful vibes of the Rameshwar Temple, the calm surroundings and spiritual energy made us want to stay a little longer. However, with more places on our list, we decided to move ahead and continue exploring.

Keeping our plan in mind to visit Nagaon Beach and the Birla Temple, we soon set off towards our next destination. Excited for another coastal experience, we began our drive, looking forward to unwinding by yet another beautiful beach near Alibaug.

Nagaon Beach

Our next stop was Nagaon Beach, but as soon as we arrived, we realized it was extremely crowded. After navigating through the rush, we somehow managed to find parking. The beach itself felt almost like a fairground, buzzing with people and activity everywhere. With the heat gradually increasing, we decided not to stay too long. Still, we made the most of our time by enjoying a few water sports, adding a quick burst of fun to the trip before leaving within half an hour.

From there, we drove towards our next destination - the serene Birla Mandir, passing once again through the charming roads of Chaul.

Located near Salav village, the Birla Mandir is a beautifully designed Ganesh temple built in pristine white marble, perched atop a small hill. A short climb of about 130 easy steps takes you to this peaceful sanctuary. 

Constructed by Vikram Ispat (a part of the Birla Group), the temple is also known as Vikram Vinayak. Its architecture stands out with a modern yet serene design, offering a refreshing contrast to the ancient temples visited earlier. The temple has polished marble floors, and the hall of the temple is open from all sides. The ceiling of the temple is transparent which allows free flow of air and ample of light to come in. At the center lies a beautifully carved marble idol of Lord Ganesha, gracefully seated in a square-shaped nave, with Riddhi and Siddhi positioned on either side. Surrounding the main sanctum are smaller shrines dedicated to Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, Bhavani Devi, and Surya Dev, offering a complete spiritual experience. Just outside, the temple complex expands into well-maintained gardens with fountains, and features a statue of Late Aditya Birla, adding a touch of legacy to the place.

The entire premise feels peaceful, spacious, and beautifully designed making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind. In hindsight, we felt this would have been even more magical in the evening, when the temple is softly illuminated, enhancing its beauty and tranquility.

Birla Mandir, Revdanda (Photo taken from Google)

Aditya Birla statue at Birla Mandir (Photo taken from Google)

 

Before planning your visit to the Birla Mandir, do keep an important point in mind that mobile phones and cameras are strictly not allowed inside the temple premise. Also, there is no locker facility available. If you are traveling alone using public transport, this might be a bit inconvenient. If you are with family, one practical option is to leave all phones and belongings with one member who can wait outside while others visit the temple. Planning this in advance can help avoid last-minute confusion and make your visit smoother.

After completing our visit to the beautiful Birla Mandir, we began our journey back to Pune. We chose to return via the picturesque Tamhini Ghat, known for its winding roads, lush greenery, and stunning ghat views especially refreshing after a weekend filled with travel and exploration. Driving through the ghats added a final touch of scenic beauty to our trip, and we comfortably reached Pune by around 5:00 PM, bringing an end to a truly memorable getaway.

A perfect combination of spiritual darshan, historical exploration, beach fun, and scenic drives which making it an ideal weekend road trip from Pune to Alibaug & Revdanda.

We :) 

Highlights:

Trip duration - 2 days (12 February 2022 and 13 February 2022)

Distance travelled - 400Km

Budget - 15K

Travel Tips:

1. Please note mobile phones and cameras are strictly not allowed inside Birla Temple premise. 

2. Also, there is no locker facility available.

Ladghar Diaries - Beach Vibes & Blissful Moments

After almost three years, we finally decided to plan a proper 3–4 day family trip. With Aaravya still very young, most of our outings had been limited to short day trips around Pune and Ahmednagar, where my parents stay. But this time, we wanted something more relaxing and memorable.

After exploring a few options, we naturally gravitated towards the Konkan region—our all-time favorite destination. And with the mango season in full swing, it felt like the perfect excuse to head towards the coast once again.

After a couple of discussions (and as always, mutual agreement 😄), we finalized Dapoli as our destination. To make the trip even more special, we decided to take my in-laws along and celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary, which falls just a day before our own anniversary.

It wasn’t just a vacation anymore, it was going to be a celebration filled with family, love, and unforgettable coastal memories.

 

With our destination finalized, the next challenge was finding the right accommodation in Dapoli. Since it was peak summer vacation season, most resorts were already fully booked. To make things more difficult, I had started searching for stays just three days before our trip, as my leave approval came through at the last moment. I checked almost every well-known resort in Dapoli, but unfortunately, finding two rooms together seemed impossible. Just when it felt like we might have to rethink our plans, I decided to explore options nearby.

That’s when I came across Pears Beach Resort in Ladghar, located close to Dapoli. Interestingly, we had once planned to visit Ladghar about four years ago, but had to cancel due to unexpected work commitments. It felt like the perfect opportunity to finally make that plan a reality. I quickly got in touch with Mr. Pednekar, and to my relief, they had a few rooms available. Without wasting any time, I booked two AC sea-view cottages, and the excitement instantly kicked in!

Since Kiran had work commitments on Saturday (26th May), we planned our trip from Sunday to Tuesday, aligning with my two days of leave. Traveling with my in-laws made the trip even more special, and everyone was thrilled especially since this was going to be our first proper outdoor trip with Aaravya. What started as a last-minute plan was now shaping up into a beautiful family getaway by the coast.

Pears Beach Resort is a beautiful beachside property near Dapoli, offering a perfect blend of comfort and coastal charm. The resort features well-appointed AC and non-AC rooms, along with cozy cottages, designed to provide a relaxing stay for families and couples alike.

One of the highlights of the resort is its stunning location—most rooms offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, allowing you to wake up to the soothing sound of waves and enjoy mesmerizing sunsets right from your stay.

Date – 27th May 2018

Our much-awaited journey to Dapoli began early in the morning at 6 AM, filled with excitement and carefully packed essentials. We chose the scenic Bhor–Varandha–Mahad route, known for its breathtaking views and peaceful drive through the Western Ghats.

To make the journey even more special, my mother-in-law lovingly prepared Dadpe Pohe for breakfast. Our plan was to enjoy a relaxed roadside picnic amidst nature, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start. Armed with a mat and a variety of snacks like khakra, rajgira wadi, peanut laddoos, sonpapdi, jam, and pickles, we were fully prepared especially since this was our first long road trip with Aaravya, who is just 3 years old. We stopped near Hirdoshi village, where the roadside farms provided the perfect setting for a peaceful breakfast. Surrounded by greenery and fresh air, the experience felt simple yet incredibly refreshing.

After breakfast, we continued our journey and took a short halt at Varandha Ghat for tea and sightseeing. The misty hills, cool breeze, and playful monkeys added a touch of adventure to the drive. Thankfully, there was minimal traffic, and we crossed the ghat comfortably by 10 AM.

Somewhere along the way, we missed a turn near Karanjwadi and accidentally headed towards Khed. While the road conditions here were not very good, the unexpected detour turned into a delightful experience. We came across a small ghat stretch lined with Jamun and mango trees, and of course, we couldn’t resist stopping! Enjoying fresh jamun straight from the roadside trees became one of the most memorable moments of the journey.

From there, we followed the route:

Khed → Furus → Nargoli → Dapoli → Ladghar

We finally reached Pears Beach Resort in Ladghar at around 1 PM. After the long drive, everyone was quite exhausted, so we took some time to relax before heading for lunch. At the resort restaurant, we ordered vegetarian thalis. The food was decent, simple and satisfying, though not exceptional.

With the afternoon heat at its peak, we retreated to our cottage, where we relaxed with some TV time and card games, while Aaravya took a nap. The laid-back vibe was exactly what we needed after the journey.

As the day slowly passed, we were all eagerly looking forward to the evening. The thought of stepping onto the beach, feeling the cool sea breeze, and watching the sunset kept everyone excited.

After all, no Konkan trip is complete without a peaceful walk along the shore.

Pears Beach Resort, Ladghar

Our cottages were perfectly located right in front of the beach, offering stunning sea views and easy access to the shore. The rooms were clean, well-maintained, and designed in traditional Konkani style (kaularu cottages), giving the stay a rustic coastal charm. The hospitality was impressive, with the hotel staff being extremely polite, friendly, and always ready to help making the experience even more comfortable for our family. The resort itself has ample open space, making it ideal for both relaxation and family time. Kids have plenty of room to play and explore, while adults can unwind in the serene surroundings. One of the highlights was the presence of multiple hammocks across the property, along with two swings right by the beach, perfect for soaking in the ocean breeze and enjoying peaceful moments.

The only minor drawback we noticed was that the food prices were slightly on the higher side compared to nearby local restaurants. However, the overall experience more than made up for it. Overall, it was an amazing and memorable stay, and I would highly recommend Pears Beach Resort to families looking for a peaceful beachside getaway near Dapoli.

Around 5:30 PM, we headed to the beach, and to our surprise, it was pleasantly uncrowded, with barely 15–20 people around. The peaceful atmosphere made the experience even more special and relaxing.

For Aaravya, this was his first-ever encounter with the sea, and his excitement was truly priceless. Watching his joy as he explored the beach was one of the most memorable moments of the trip. He especially loved trying out a few fun beach activities like a bike ride and even a camel ride, which added a playful touch to the evening.

Although Ladghar Beach is known for its beauty, we noticed that the water wasn’t as clean as some of the other nearby beaches, possibly due to the seasonal conditions. So, instead of stepping into the water, we chose to simply enjoy the surroundings.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea, followed by a calm walk along the shoreline. After sunset, we sat on the beach for a while, chatting and soaking in the serene vibe before heading back to our cottage around 8 PM.

It was a simple yet beautiful evening filled with joy, calmness, and unforgettable family moments.

Sunset at Ladghar Beach

Date – 28th May 2018

We started our day early, waking up around 7 AM, and by 8 AM, everyone was ready and headed straight to the restaurant for a quick breakfast. Our plan was to explore nearby attractions like Tamastirth Beach and Parshuram Bhumi before the sun got too harsh.

Although we were tempted, we decided to skip the dolphin-watching boat ride due to time constraints. This is one of the popular activities in Dapoli, where local fishermen take you into the sea on special boats to witness dolphins jumping and playfully flipping through the waves an experience that’s definitely worth trying if you have the time. With our itinerary in mind, we set off for a day filled with scenic coastal views and spiritual landmarks.

Our breakfast spread was simple yet delicious, featuring local favorites like poha, thalipeeth, and ghavane. Among these, the ghavane paired with chutney stood out—soft, light, and incredibly flavorful. It was one of those authentic Konkani dishes that truly elevates the whole dining experience, and I absolutely loved it! 

We then visited Parshuram Bhumi, located around 10 km from Ladghar, one of the most unique attractions near Dapoli. Perched on a scenic hilltop, this place is known for its impressive 21-foot-tall statue of Lord Parshurama, standing majestically atop a globe representing the Earth. The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tamastirth Beach, making it a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty.

Inside the globe, there is a meditation chamber, where the calm and peaceful atmosphere creates a deeply positive and refreshing experience. It’s an ideal spot to sit quietly for a few moments and absorb the serenity of the surroundings. From the top, we could also witness the distinct reddish hue of the seawater at Tamastirth, which is quite unique to this region. In hindsight, visiting during the evening would have enhanced the experience even more, as the sunset would cast a beautiful orange-red glow over the sea, making the view truly magical.

Parashuram Statue at Tamastirth 

After spending about an hour at Parshuram Bhumi, we began our journey back towards Tamastirth Beach, reaching there within a quick 10–15 minutes. However, upon arrival, we found the beach to be unfortunately quite littered and not well-maintained, which took away from the overall experience.

Without spending much time there, we decided to head straight back to the resort. On the way, we made a lovely stop to pick up a few boxes of fresh, juicy Konkan mangoes—a must-do during the summer season!

Once back at the resort, we took a short, leisurely walk around the property, soaking in the calm surroundings. A delightful surprise awaited Aaravya when he spotted a bullock cart passing by, he couldn’t resist taking a ride, and it turned out to be one of the most fun and memorable moments for him.

After relaxing for a while in our cottage, we stepped out again for lunch, eager to try something different. While returning from Tamastirth towards Ladghar Beach, we came across a restaurant named “The Kitchen”, and decided to give it a try.

After reaching to the restaurant, we ordered 4 veg thali. The thali included okra sabji garnished with grated coconut, black dry peace (kalya vatana) usal, dal rice and rice bhakri. Since bhakri takes time to prepare fresh, we ordered dal–rice and papad for Aaravya first, so he could finish his meal without waiting. The wait for the bhakri was about 20 minutes, but it was absolutely worth it. Once the meal arrived, we were delighted by the freshness and flavors especially the kale vatane usal and soft, warm bhakri, which turned out to be the highlights of the meal. The food was so delicious and satisfying that we all instantly decided to return here for our remaining meals during the trip.

After indulging in such a delicious and fulfilling meal, a short nap was absolutely essential! We took a refreshing two-hour rest, followed by evening tea at the resort’s restaurant. Re-energized, we headed to Karde Beach, located conveniently between Murud and Ladghar. Known for its wide shoreline and calm environment, Karde is one of the best beaches near Dapoli for relaxation and water activities. 

The beach had a pleasant, moderate crowd, making it lively yet not overwhelming. The soft sand and open space made it perfect for some fun time, we ended up playing a game of cricket, which turned into one of the most enjoyable moments of the evening. Karde Beach is also an ideal spot to witness stunning sunsets, with the golden hues reflecting beautifully over the Arabian Sea. It’s truly a place to slow down, relax, and detox from daily life.

We couldn’t resist trying some pani puri and bhel, adding a delicious street-food twist to our evening before heading back to the resort.

For dinner, we chose something simple and comforting, kadhi-khichdi, which felt perfect after a long day. Later, we took a calm walk along the beach, enjoying the soothing sound of waves and spending quality time chatting while relaxing on the swings. These quiet moments by the sea made the day even more special. With the next morning planned for our return to Pune, we wrapped up the day and headed back to our rooms by 10 PM, ready to rest after a beautiful and fulfilling day by the coast.

Date – 29th May 2018

On our final day, Kiran and I woke up early and headed out for a peaceful morning walk along the beach. The air was fresh, soothing, and filled with a subtle coastal fragrance that made the experience incredibly refreshing. We spent nearly an hour walking along the shoreline, soaking in the calm and quiet beauty of the morning.

After returning to the cottage, we packed our bags and made our way to the restaurant for breakfast. Meanwhile, Kiran had a thoughtful surprise planned—he informed the resort manager about my in-laws’ wedding anniversary and requested a small celebration. The staff graciously arranged a delicious chocolate cake, making the moment even more special.

We celebrated their 39th anniversary by cutting the cake, and the warm wishes from everyone around made it a truly memorable and heartwarming experience. Adding to the surprise, we happened to meet Aaravya’s friend and his family at the resort! Aaravya and Shourya play together regularly back home, and though I hadn’t met them before, my mother-in-law recognized them. It turned into a delightful moment of connection and cheerful conversations. After checking out @9.30am, out return journey started towards Mahad, because we wanted to buy Aamsul, Mirgund, Pohe, Kadwe Wall, Kokam Agal etc. there. We reached at Mahad around 1 pm and did some shopping and had lunch at Samruddhi Veg. OUr order was Kaju masala, paneer butter masala and at the end sweet & thick lassi.  The food was absolutely delicious and served as a perfect ending to our memorable Konkan trip.

We resumed our return journey from Mahad to Pune via Varandha Ghat, enjoying the scenic drive once again. Just before entering the ghat section, we noticed a signboard pointing towards Shivthar Ghal. After a quick discussion and a bit of hesitation, we decided to take a detour—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip! Also known as “Sundarmath”, Shivthar Ghal is located about 35 km from Mahad and is a beautiful natural cavern nestled amidst dense green forests. Surrounded by the serene landscapes of the Western Ghats, the place offers a perfect blend of spiritual significance and natural beauty.

The peaceful environment, cool breeze, and lush greenery make Shivthar Ghal an ideal stop for travelers seeking a quiet retreat in nature while exploring the Varandha Ghat route.

Shivthar Ghal becomes truly enchanting during the monsoon season. A beautiful waterfall cascades right in front of the cave, creating a mesmerizing view that perfectly complements the lush greenery around. The sound of flowing water and the misty surroundings make it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. The ghal can be accessed directly from Varandha Ghat, especially for travelers coming via the Pune–Bhor route. A 7–8 km stretch via Parmachi village leads you through dense forest and scenic terrain. While the road condition is not very smooth, the journey through the thick greenery and peaceful jungle landscape adds a sense of adventure and charm to the visit.

Shivthar Ghal is not just a scenic destination but also holds immense religious, spiritual, and cultural importance in Maharashtra. It is believed that Samarth Ramdas Swami dictated the sacred text Dasbodh to his disciple Kalyan Swami at this very place, making it a significant site for devotees and history enthusiasts alike. Inside the cave, you can find beautifully crafted statues of Samarth Ramdas Swami and Kalyan Swami, adding to the spiritual aura. The calm and meditative environment makes it an ideal place for reflection and inner peace. According to local beliefs, this is also the historic meeting place of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Samarth Ramdas Swami, further enhancing its importance in Maratha history.

While Shivthar Ghal is serene throughout the year, the monsoon season transforms it into a breathtaking paradise. The waterfall cascading in front of the cave, combined with lush greenery and mist-covered surroundings, makes it one of the most beautiful waterfall destinations in Maharashtra.

Visiting Shivthar Ghal is a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and history, offering a peaceful escape as well as a connection to Maharashtra’s rich heritage.

While visiting Shivthar Ghal, one important thing to keep in mind is to beware of monkeys. They are quite active in the area and tend to snatch food or belongings from visitors. It’s best to avoid carrying snacks openly in your hands and strictly do not feed them, as it may encourage aggressive behavior.

After spending a peaceful hour exploring the cave and enjoying the surroundings, we resumed our journey towards Varandha Ghat. We took a short tea break amidst the scenic ghats, enjoying the cool breeze and stunning valley views one last time.

On our way back, we made a brief halt at Necklace Point in Bhor, a popular viewpoint known for its unique shape resembling a necklace. It’s a perfect spot for quick photography and soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills and backwaters. After a short 10-minute stop, we continued our drive towards Pune. There was some traffic near the Khed Shivapur Toll Naka, but overall the journey was smooth. 

We reached home safely by 8 PM, wrapping up a truly memorable Konkan road trip filled with nature, spirituality, family moments, and unforgettable experiences.

Contacts - 

1. Pears beach resort - 

Phone number -  8108055579

Website - http://www.pearsbeach.in/

2. The Kitchen Restaurant -

Phone number - 7066884885

Slice of Konkan Paradise - My Diveagar Journey

Diveagar is famous for the Suvarna Ganesh Temple. Lord Ganesh idol there was 400 years old which was made up of pure gold and weighed around 1.5Kg. Unfortunately, 2 years back, the idol was stolen by thieves which they allegedly melted, since then the idol has been replaced by one made with Silver. Diveagar is almost 160 km from Pune, and need 4 hours travelling via Tamhini Ghat, a mountain pass between the Mulshi and Tamhini, and is known for its scenic viewpoints & waterfalls in monsoon, Mulshi dam and lake, Kailasagad fort, etc.

Due to our hectic schedules and workload because of year(FY) end, we could not visit any of the places in last 5 months but before joining a new workplace I got a week for the much-needed trip. But one of my cousins was getting married during the same week hence had to plan only 4 days trip. We did not want to travel far and were looking for a convenient getaway. After hearing from my colleague I wanted to explore Diveagar and nearby places, I shared my wish with Kiran and he immediately agreed. 

Date – 12^th May 2014

I booked a room at ‘Aai Resort’ at Shivaji Chowk, Diveagar; which was recommended by my friend so decided to go with his suggestion. Our journey started in the early morning as wanted to avoid traffic and reach by 11 am. We were at Tamhini Ghat around 8 am, the road through the Tamhini ghat was not very good, and in monsoon, it gets worse. We had a quick stop at Restaurant Vitthal Kamat for breakfast and enjoyed soft spongy idli, chutney, spicy Sabudana Wada and hot coffee. When reached a resort around 11.30 am, it was extremely hot in the afternoon. I know summer is not the right time to visit Konkan but can’t help as we love the beaches there and for the trip, our focus was on relaxation rather than exploring the new places. We took some rest as were tired due to travelling and the hot climate. We did not have any suggestions for a veg hotel so picked the one which is in front of the resort, food was average. After going back to the room, enjoyed the TV time till 5.30 pm.

In the evening we went to the beach which is a clean & beautiful picture-perfect, white sand beach. The forestation of coconut groves and beetle nut trees is a treat for the eyes. There are various water sports activities to indulge in and relish the pleasant atmosphere. We enjoyed parasailing which was a very exciting and thrilling experience, which can make one realize his potential. In the beginning, I was very anxious, but once it started gliding smoothly in the air I felt overjoyed and had a lot of fun. This was one of my best experiences, Awesome!!

Diveagar beach

Diveagar beach

Diveagar beach

I tried to capture the sunset on my camera, the breath-taking view of the sunset at Diveagar is something never to miss.

Breathtaking view of the sunset

I am going...bye for now...see you tomorrow

Shrivardhan(16Km) and Harihareshwar(35Km) are nearby tourist places from Diveagar. The next day, decided to visit only Harihareshwar as we have already been to Shrivardhan and seen the beach. 

Date – 13^th May 2014

We got up at 5.30 am and went for an early morning walk on the beach which gave a special experience. It was a very peaceful and pleasant environment. After coming back to the room @ 7.30am, getting ready to visit the next coastal avenue.

We left for Harihareshwar around 9.30 am after finishing our breakfast. Most of the road is parallel to the seashore which offers a scenic view of the sea, avoided pit stops due to the temperature and reached there within an hour. Harihareshwar is surrounded by three hills named Harihareshwar, Harshinachal and Pushpadri. The Temple of Lord Harihareshwar(Lord Shiva) is a major pilgrimage that has ancient Shiva Linga. Adjacent to the main Harihareshwar Temple, there is the smaller Kalbhairav which is expected to be visited first, before entering the main temple. A pradakshina route goes around the temple, along the seashore. It is not advisable to go on this route during high tide. It’s an incredible place which offers panoramic views of the sea. But the beach is not considered safe for swimming, we anyway did not want to enter in the sea and after spending 2 hours there, we returned back to Diveagar.

Pradakshina Route

The Arabian Sea from the Pradakshina route 

Harihareshwar beach

We were exhausted due to the hot & humid climate and were eager to enter our AC room and ensure 3 hours long sleep post-lunch. Preferred to stay at the resort in the evening and explored the surrounding, played swings, hammocks to relax…sometimes a peaceful walk in the village gives you extreme satisfaction. 

Date – 14^th May 201

As a result of getting up late, we missed a morning walk on the beach. Went to a small stall like a snacks centre for tea and breakfast, till the time food was getting ready we went to their wadi which was full of coconut, beetle, kokum and lots of other local trees and a small well too. We had interacted with another tourist family who came from Kalyan, they were travelling towards Ratnagiri, and had a halt at the same resort as ours.

We spent the day in a resort by watching a few movies on TV and of course some headlines of the Konkan region. In the evening went to take a blessing from Suvarna Ganesh and came to know that Sundar Roop Narayan temple nearby which is on the way to the beach from Ganesh temple. This temple is pretty old but has great architecture, red stone construction is amazing. Idol is very beautifully carved in black marble. The temple was not much crowded as it is not much popular, at least we were not knowing it before our visit. You can enjoy peace and calmness there.

Roop Narayan Temple

Sundar roop Narayan

 

After enjoying some tranquil moments on the beach we returned to the room around 9pm and finished checking out formalities, as the next day was travelling back to Pune. We decided to leave early morning to reach before the sun gets brighter.

Date – 5^th May 2014

We left Diveagar around 5.30 am and reached Pune @10.30am, had only one quick stop for breakfast at the same Vitthal Kamat restaurant in Tamhini Ghat.

Diveagar is an incredible place. Worth visiting again (but preferably in winter)!! This would qualify to be a perfectly awesome cessation.

Contact: -

Aai Resort, Shivaji Chowk, Diveagar - Mr Surve (9422463066)

Thanks for reading my blog. Hope you liked it.