Tourism in Ratnagiri district is bound to a fun-filled affair. The district offers utmost opportunities for rest and relaxation to the various tourists who visit here. The seashore of Ratngiri stretches across the entire district. Thus there are a number of beaches here which the tourist can visit, such as the Mandovi beach, Bhatye Beach and Velneshwar Beach. One can rest. Relax and eeven go in for som exciting water sports at these beaches. Aprt for the many beaches, the district also offers many places of pilgrimage tourism to the visitors in the form of the Ganapatipule, Pawas and the Ganga of Rajapur. These different places of tourism in tourism in Ratnagiri district are discussed below.
Pilgrimage Tourism in Ratnagiri District
Ganpatipule
Ganpatipule is situated along the western coast of Maharashtra 375Km south of Mumbai. It lies along the Konkan coast. There is a temple of Swayambhu (Self-originated) Lord Ganesha which is much frequented by thousands every year. The God is considered to be the Paschim Dwardevta (Western Sentinal God of India), and those who visit Ganapatipule, make it a point to pay their respect to this great deity. Part from being a place of pilgrimage, Ganapatipule is one of the most spectacular beaches along the Konkan Coast - an idyllic gateway that attracts peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims alike. Aside from its clean beach and clear waters, Ganapatipule is rich in flora, including mangroves and coconut palms. Water sport facility is also available here (except during monsoon). The winter season is the most pleasant time to visit, with temperature dropping at nights, the ideal months to visit being November to January.
Pawas
Besides its natural beauty and serenity, Pawas achieved prominence when Swami Swaroopanand (a spiritual leader who influenced an entire generation of Maharashtrians) had made it his abode. The place where he used to reside is now converted into an ashram. A visit there is still like a journey through time.
Ganga of Rajapur
The "Ganga (Ganges) of Rajapur" is a natural phenomenon believed by many locals to be a miracle. Nearly every 3 years the well forms 14 small pools of water of different temperatures about 3 ft apart. It is believed that the holy Ganga Mata appears to the devotees there. Geologists have theorized that this is a rare case of a large natural siphon from a nearby mountain.
Nature Tourism in Ratnagiri District
Ratnagiri has sea shore that stretches across the district. When we visit the seashore of Ratnagiri, we witness a marvel of nature.
Mandovi Beach
The coastline area surrounded by Mandovi Port in the city has black sand and the nearby area of the Bhagvati fort has white sand so the sea here is named as Black and White Sea. It is 2 Kms from the city and 9 Kms from the Railway Station.
Bhatye Beach
Bhatye is on the immediate outskirts of Ratnagiri town and has a wonderful beach. Water sport facilities available here offer the tourists with exciting options. One can also camp across the bridge in MTDC`s tent resort amidst Casuarina trees. Join the excursion to Pawas to see the Swaroopanand Swami Ashram.
Velneshwar Beach
Velneshwar Beach170 Km from Ratnagiri is the village of Velneshwar, north of Shastri River. Its adjoining beach is clean and fringed with an array of coconut palms. Swimming and other water sports are possible there, as the beach is free from rocks. There is an old temple of Lord Shiva near Velneshwar which is frequently visited by pilgrims. Velneshwar is the focus of attention once a year in March, when the Mahashivratri Fair is held in honour of the god Shankar or Shiva.
These are the various places of tourist interest located in the district of Ratnagiri.
