Wednesday, August 15, 2007

WEL-COME TO SINDHUDURG

The Land of Culture and Natural beauty. Sindhudurg is famous for it's natural beauty like Beaches, Backwater, Waterfalls and Pilgrimage centers. The major attraction here is the long and narrow stretch of beaches. On a clear day, you can see the sea-bed through a depth of 20 ft. Then of course, there are the forts, Sindhudurg one of Maharashtra's more popular and important sea forts built in the 17th century and the famous Padmagarh fort. The name of the fort is given to the Sindhudurg district. Tourist from all over the world visit through out the year to see this Maratha glory.

Sindhudurg is in the Kokan area of Maharastra having picturesque stretch of land on the west cost of India, endowed with the beautiful seashore, picturesque Mountains and scenic natural beauty and known for tropical fruits like the world famous Alphonso mangoes, cashews, Jamuns etc.

Geographical Details

Sindhudurg district is situated between Latitudes 15.37 and 16.40 North, and longitudes 73.19 and 74.18 East. It is boarded by the Arabian Sea on the West and Sahyadri hill ranges to the East with a total area of 5,207 sq.km.Sindhudurg is in the Kokan area of Maharastra having picturesque stretch of land on the west cost of India, endowed with the beautiful seashore, picturesque Mountains and scenic natural beauty and known for tropical fruit like the world famous Alphonso mangoes, cashews, Jamuns etc.National Highway 17 passes through this area. With 7 railway stations, a 103 Km stretch of Konkan Railway line passes through this district. It has good road and rail links with Goa and Bombay.

North Latitudes 15.37 to 16.40
East Longitude 73.19 to 74.18
Geog.Area 5207 Sq.Kilometer

Climate & Rainfall :

Climate :-
Min.Temp - 16.3 Celsius
Max.Temp -33.8 Celsius

Rainfall :-
3,287mm ( Average ) Sindhudurg witnesses rain for full four months June, July, August and September

Wild life

Most of the district area covered by dense rain forest, Amboli hill station area is most suitable habitat for wild animals like leopard, wild cats, rabbits, wild hen and some times wild buffalo also appears in winter season. Wild buffalos comes down from Radhanagri forest (Kolhapur District) for search of food and water Recently Elephants are also making entry into Sindhudurg District (Dodamarg taluka) from Karnataka state through Khanapur jungle. This is the first time, elephants finding habitation in Maharashtra state. Tillari major irrigation project area(Dodamarg taluka) is covered with lush dense rain forest and most suitable for elephant habitat. But local people facing problem, as elephants are destroying crops and trees.

LeopardWeight (kg) -
30-90 Litter Size - 2-3 averageInfant Mortality - 40-50%Life Span - 12-17 yearsHabitation of Leopard covers all most whole district and its population is increasing every year. As per the 2005 wild animal survey, 18 leopards and 2 tigers were counted. Its normal preys are domestic dogs, wild boars, wild rabbits and occasionally domestic cattle. Till now, no incidents of attacking on human beings. The body of an adult leopard is about 0.91 to 1.91 m (3 to 6.3 ft) long, exclusive of the 1-m (3-ft) tail. Typically the coat is pale tan, and it is marked with broken circles of black spots.

Wild BoarWeight (kg) -
50-100Infant Mortality - 60-70%Life Span - 5-8 yearsEnemies - Leopard, HumanWild boar population is more in Sindhudurg as compared to any other Konkan district. Normally comes out from shelter in night time to search of food. Wild boar is comes under protected species. The wild boar is grayish-black and about 1.2 m (about 4 ft) long and 91 cm (36 in) high at the shoulder, with short, woolly hair interspersed with bristles forming a mane along the spine. The lower teeth grow into formidable tusks, which turn up and are sometimes 30 cm (12 in) long. They are used for defense and digging. The boar usually inhabits marshy forestland, feeding largely on roots and grain, although occasionally it kills and eats small animals. Boars travel in small groups.

Bear:-
The bear, found in Sindhudurg district, gets its name from its sluggish movements. Related to the Asiatic black bear, the bear can weigh up to 140 kg. Bears are well-adapted for extracting insects, especially termites, from holes: The five claws on each foot are very long, to help in digging; the hair on the face is short; the lips and snout are flexible;and the nostrils can close. Young bears often ride on their mothers' backs, clinging to the long hair. The mothers can be aggressive, but they seldom pose a real threat. The young stay with their mothers at least until the second year. Except for family groups, bears are solitary.

Mongoose:-
The Mongoose is found in most of the areas of Sindhudurg. The head and body of a typical mongoose are a total of 23 to 65 cm (9 to 26 in) long and grayish or brownish in color. The animal has a tapered head, long tail, and short feet. Mongooses live about 7 to 12 years in the wild. They have one to four young in each litter. They subsist on rodents and snakes and are renowned for attacking even the largest and most poisonous snakes to whose poison they are not immune by an agile avoidance of their strikes.

Rabbit:-
Wild rabbits are commonly appear in all parts of the district, and even seen on the road at night while driving. Some time creates problems for farmers eating their crops and seeds at sowing season. The Rabbits have a life span of about 2-5 years. These animals, which weigh from about 1 to 5 kg (about 2 to 11 lb) and attain a length of about 30 to 60 cm (about 12 to 24 in), feed mainly on herbs, tree bark, and vegetables. They prefer to live in regions where the soil is loose and dry and where brushwood offers shelter.

Gaur ( Wild Buffalo ):-
Gaur found in dense forests of Dodamarg taluka and in periphery of Choukul village near Amboli. The adult is reddish-brown to blackish-brown; the legs from above the knees to the hooves are white. The thick, curved horns are covered with white hair at the junction with the broad forehead and are black-tipped. The adult male is 1.6 to 2.2 m (5.4 to 7.2 ft) high at the shoulder and reaches a length of 2.5 to 3.3 m (8.2 to 11 ft) from nose to tail. The gaur feeds on grass and shoots of bamboo and trees.

Elephants:-
Recently Elephants are also making entry into Sindhudurg District (Dodamarg taluka) from Karnataka state through Khanapur jungle. This is the first time, elephants finding habitation in Maharashtra state. Tillari major irrigation project area(Dodamarg taluka) is covered with lush dense rain forest is most suitable for elephant habitat. Elephant, a huge mammal characterized by a long muscular snout and two long, curved tusks. Highly intelligent and strong, elephants are the largest land animals and are among the longest-lived, with life spans of 60 years or more. Healthy, full-grown elephants have no natural enemies other than humans. The elephants live in grassy regions.. Dark gray in color, bull (male) elephants stand about 3.4 m (11 ft) tall and weigh about 5.4 metric tons, while cow (female) elephants stand 2.8 m (9 ft) tall and weigh about 3.6 metric tons. They have no sweat glands, so they like to cool off by rolling in ponds and streams. The mud that dries on their skin protects it from the sun.

Macaque Monkey:-
Red faced Macaque monkeys habitat covers whole district area. Monkeys population is more at Amboli Ghat and they entertain tourists, tourists feed them banana, pea-nuts, bread etc.

If you have luck, can see dolphins group near Arawali, Nivati and Bogave beaches. Normally dolphins comes to sea shore by racing folk of small fish to prey them. Morning 9.00 AM and evening 5.00 PM is dolphins deserved timings on sea shore. Dolphins are aquatic mammals that are closely related to whales and porpoises. There are almost forty species of dolphin in seventeen genera. They vary in size from 1.2 m (4 ft) and 40 kg (88 lb) (Maui's Dolphin), up to 9.5 m (30 ft) and ten tonnes (the Orca). They are found worldwide, mostly in the shallower seas of the continental shelves, and are carnivores, mostly eating fish and squid. The family Delphinidae is the largest in the Cetacea, and relatively recent: dolphins evolved about ten million years ago, during the Miocene. Dolphins are considered to be amongst the most intelligent of animals and their often friendly appearance and seemingly playful attitude have made them popular in human culture.

DISTRICT MAP

Important Rivers in Sindhudurg District

1.TEREKHOL
2. GAD
3.DEVGAD
4.KARLI
5.VAGHOTAN

Brief History of Sindhudurg District

Sindhudurg district is the southern part of the greater tract known as the 'Konkan' which is historically famous for its long coast line and safe harbors. Sindhudurg district was earlier a part of the Ratnagiri district . For administrative convenience and industrial and agricultural development Ratnagiri district was divided into Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg with effect from 1st May,1981. Sindhudurg district now comprises of eight tahsils of Sawantwadi, Kudal, Vengurla,Malvan,Devgad, Kankavli, Vaibhavwadi and Dodamarg.The word 'Konkan' is of Indian origin and of considerable antiquity, though the origin of the name has never been sufficiently explained.
The seven kingdoms of the Konkan of Hindu mythology are mentioned in the 'Hindu History of Kashmir' and are said to have included nearly the whole west coast of India. The Pandavas, are said to have passed through this region in the 13 th year of their exile and had settled in this area for some time . The Raja of this region Veerat Ray had accompanied them in the famous war at Kurukshetra with the Kauravas.In the second century A.D. The great empire of Mauryas annexed all the Konkan coast. In the middle of the sixth century, kings of the Maurya and Nala dynasties appear to have been ruling in the Konkan. The district of Ratnagiri was under the Silahars and the capital of their kingdom was probably Goa and later it may have been transferred to a more central place in the vicinity of Ratnagiri or Kharepatan.
Chandrapur was one of the most ancient towns in Kokan , probably founded by Chandraditya a son of the Chalukya king Pulakeshin II.The 16th century saw the advent and rise of Portuguese power on the west coast of India and Sindhudurg was no exception. The sultan lost hold on the district in 1675 with the rise of Shivaji leading finally into the hands of Marathas. Marathas continued to the district till 1817 i.e. when the struggle between the British and the Peshvas came to an end and the whole of Konkan was transferred to the British.In 1819 South Konkan was formed as separate district with its headquarters first at Bankot and later at Ratnagiri . Three northern subdivisions were transferred to Thane District in 1830 and the district was reduced to a sub-collectorate level under Thane district .
In 1832 , it was again made a full-fledged district and named as Ratnagiri district. In the year 1945, a new mahal ( tahsil) called Kankavli Mahal (tahcil) was formed . The former Indian state of Sawantwadi was merged with the district and the taluka boundaries were reorganized in the year 1949. In the same year the new taluka of the Sawantwadi was created and two new mahals namely Kudal and Lanja were formed . With the reorganization of the states in 1956, the district was included in the Bombay state and since 1960, it forms a part of Maharashtra.The name of the district has been adopted form the famous sea fort of Sindhudurg. This was built by Shivaji Maharaj near Malwan and it literally means 'Sea Fort'. Its construction started on November 25, 1664 and after 3 years it was completed in such a fashion that it could not be seen easily by the enemy coming from the Arabian Sea.

District Profile

Sindhudurg district is spread over an area of around 5,207 sq.kms. The population of the District is 8,68,825 as per census of 2001. The modern township of Sindhudurg Nagari is the headquarters of Sindhudurg district . The district is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the east, the Belgaum District (Karnataka state) and Goa on the South and the Ratnagiri district on the North. Sindhudurg being a coastal district, the climate is generally moist and humid and the temperature variations during the day and throughout the seasons are not large. Sindhudurg is accessible by road on the NH-17 which passes through major towns of Kankavli, Kudal and Sawantwadi or by the picturesque journey on the Konkan Railway which stops at Kankavli,Sindhudurg, Kudal and Sawantwadi. The nearest airports are at Ratnagiri, Belgaum (Karnataka) and Dabolim (Goa).

INTRESTING PLACES

*HILLSTAION:-

Amboli Hill Station
Amboli is a hill station near Sawantwadi . It is quite but pleasant hill resort. It is 690 mtrs above sea level. The area is surrounded with dense forest and sea view point offers you panoramic view of a good part of konkan coast. It is 26 k.m far from Sawantwadi and 539 k.m from Mumbai. There is a big Marvelous Water-fall (30 Mtrs Hight) 1.5 K.m. away from Amboli. Most of the young lot take bathe under pouring water. In summer, weather condition is pleasant and cool.

Mansoon Pleasure :
Verdant landscape of Amboli comes live in Mansoons when cascading waterfalls are seen at different places in the mountains. At road side these pristine milky showers enable enthusiastic tourists to bathe in the streams. Amboli receives highest rainfall in India after Cherapunji 350 to 400 inches approximately.

View points :
When driving towards Amboli ghat from Sawantwadi one feels bashed by exotic beauty of pleasing green hills in low lying areas which are visible at every turn. At the top there are view points such as Purvicha Vas, Mahadevgad point, Manohargad- Manasantoshgad point, Shirgaonkar point, Kawalesat point all these points offer birds eye view of picturesque terrains below.

Sunset Point :
In the evening sunset turns horizon into shades of orange, red and pink before being extinguished into deep blue waters of Arabian sea.

Nagartas Waterfall :
For waterfall lovers this roaring beauty is just 9 k.m. away.

Hiranykeshi:
Scenic place of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva where pilgrims gather in large numbers during Mahashivratri. The Hiranykeshi river originates from mountain rock and flows down from this place. You can spend hours angling for fish in its proceedings stream. 5.5 Km away from Amboli

Adventure Caving :
Exploring this cave besides Shivlinga is a challenge for adventure sport lovers. Cave is estimated to be 300 mts. long. Lot of obstructions such as black out, biting fish, mud, dangerous Jalwa's which suck human blood and confined air come in the way when one enters inside through its narrow winding path. There are seven ponds inside. Surprisingly sunlight appears in the last pond, secret of light's source is not discovered yet. A huge throne inside is also a misty. Credit goes to group of adventure loving youngsters, who discovered these facts in January 1981.

Botanical Garden :
This historic garden is a precious treasure of Amboli.Here you can open- mindedly roam in the woods for joy and pleasure. Vanbhojan,the picnic out in the woods with family or friends will make your movement truly enchanting one.

Karvi:
This tree flowers once in a seven years. When it blossoms it adds to the beauty of Amboli mountain range.

Amboli WaterFalls:

Napne waterfall (16 k.m. from Talere):
Located at Sherpe village in Vaibhavwadi taluka this waterfall is known as Swimmers delight. A swim in its cool pool is very safe and refreshing. Here one can easily explore the secret of cascading water by reaching close to the spot from where water emerges from the top in the from of bubbles through hard and compact rocks. the area around the waterfall is also a natural habitat for the rare species of birds, specially for the Hornbills.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

BEACHES

Tarkarli Beach :
Tarkarli situated 6 Kms. south of Malvan and 546 kms. away from Mumbai on the west coast of India, is Tarkarli. The major attraction here is the long and narrow stretch of beach, with its pristine waters. On a clear day, you can see the sea-bed through a depth of 20ft. Then, of course, there are the forts, Sindhudurg one of Maharashtra's more popular and important sea forts, built in the 17th century and the famous Padmagarh Fort. While in Tarkarli, make sure to visit the konkan's favorite food restaurant for the delectable cuisine and experience something unusual-staying in MTDC's inviting tents
Getting thereBy Air : Nearest airport is Mumbai.By Rail : Nearest railhead is Kudal, 45 kms, on Konkan Railway. By Road : Mumbai-Tarkarli, 546 kms.Kolhapur-Tarkarli, 160 kms. Malvan-Tarkarli,7 kms. State Transport buses ply from Mumbai, Kolhapur, Pune to Malvan and from Malvan to Tarkarli. Rickshaws are also available from Malvan. Places to see near by Tarkarli - Malvan-6 k.m,Devbag- 5 kms

Devbag Beach :

Aachara Beach :

Shiroda Beach (19 k.m. from Vengurla) :
Featuring natural beauty,privacy,sparking blue waters, long stretch of silver sands,cool sea breeze whispering through towering Cajurina plantations on the beach, amenities and salt depots around the village Shiroda is feast for the eyes of the visitors.In 1930 salt satyagraha took place in Shiroda with the order of Rastrapita Mahatma Gandhi. Police arrested hundred's of protectors ( Swayamsevaks) trying to rob salt by breaking the fence, nut they couldn't stop Swayamsevaks from looting the salt. This conflict continued till Ghandhiji had talks of equality with general Erwin. Shiroda is also said to be the land of inspiration for eminent novelist V.S.Khandekar.

Velagar Beach :
Sagartirth is a long stretch of golden beach at Velgar, whose sands are literally untouched and undisturbed.

Nivati Beach:
Offers peace and serenity to independent travellers. Fishermen seen launching their traditional boats and nets daily into the sea is an interesting feature to watch on this beach. Adjoining the beach is a twin village Kochra, which offers wonderful view of small tropical oasis on Nivati's shore.

Bhogwe Beach(29 k.m. from Kudal & 36 k.m. from Vengurla) :
Exquisitely secluded on Exotic western shores of Sindhudurg. This beach offers to the tourist wonderful view of Karli's estuary which mingles secretly with sea waters from behind Devbaug's Famous Mobar Point. The beach lures to the tourists by its stunning white sand and beautiful blue water lagoon, thus an idealist spot for swimming , sunbathing and pick nicking. Flock of local sea birds add to the beauty of serene surroundings by playing with the sea waters. You can explore much more here. A hill in the back drop offers panoramic view of Arabian sea and light house situated on the rocky island. Sunset is the peak time to watch this natures expression.

Redi Beach :

Khavane Beach :

Bagayat Beach :

Kunkeshwar Beach (19 k.m. from Deogad ) :

Mithbav Beach :

Walaval Creek(Kudal Taluka)
Offers Truly spell binding view Tarkarli creek (Estury) situated between majestic mountains that slopes down to meet its stream; but to see this view the visitor has to trek from mauli Temple to one huge rock situated towards west on the top of the hill. Here visitors turnout in large numbers in summer season. Walawal is also known for Laxmi Narayan temple. The natures amazing pecularity here is that one full moon day Lord Laxminarayan sees reflected images of both Sun and Moon in the river. That means on the full moon day when the sun is sinking towards west coincidently moon also rises in the east.

Nerurpar( Kudal Taluka )

Katwan( Deogad Taluka )

Kolamb( Malvan Taluka )

FORTS

Huge sea rocks of Malvan has easefully shouldered the responsibility of two Forts Sindhudurg & Padmagad on their broad chest. The name of the fort is given to the Sindhudurg district. Tourist from all over the world visit through out the year to see this Maratha glory.The fort was built with the help of huge rocks on the Kurte Island which amazes people & one appreciates imaginative power of Shivaji. In 1664 shivaji erected this fort on 44 acers of land. It took 500 stone splitters & stone breakers, 200 blacksmiths , 3000 labourers & hundreds of skilled artists who toiled very hard to complete this fort in three years. This is evident from stone inscriptions. Initially 3 K.M. long outer wall (Tat) was built. Average height of wall 10 meter and 2 to 4 meter broad in which liquid lead was used in the foundation. This wall today also stands impenetrable . The trick used in the construction of entrance door seems to be mastermind work. The technique was so deceptive for the enemy that they could not even realize from where the entrance door begins. Outer zigzag wall also built in a such a way that if the enemy would come to attack it would be visible from any side so that troops inside the fort could fire their guns and cannons effectively and humble the enemy . Crores of Hones (Goldcoins) were then spent to build this wonderful fort.Maratha king Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built this fort on island of 'kurte'. In those days Malvan was used for ship building & repairing works. Then the city developed accordingly. It was a planned city with market area, Residence Offices etc. In Sindhudurg Fort there is 'Shri Shivarajeshwar temple' of King Shivaji. Also there are temple of Hanuman & Jarimari mandir and Goddess 'Bhavani Temple'. Impressions of shivaji's fingers prints found to be preserved here on one of the wall . Also lies, inside the fort worth seeing temples of Bhavanimata, Shambhu Mahadev, Jirimiri & Mahapurush. All are in good conditions.There is one rare coconut tree inside the fort which has two branches.

Vijaydurg or Victory Fort:
Sprawling over an area of 48 acres, Vijaydurg, fort of victory, was once seized by the British following a bloody battle. They renamed it Fort Augustus. A dilapidated board at the entrance of the fort relates its history. One of the best views of the fort is from the jetty. The fort stretches out into the sea and a walk inside its precincts is worthwhile. Shivaji added triple rows of huge walls, umpteen towers and spacious inner buildings to it and strengthened it in the 17th century. Vijaydurg's beach is a stretch of about a kilometre with good views of the fort at the right and a small plateau with a hut to the left. Once naval bases, Vijaydurg and Sindhudurg bear testimony to Maharashtra's martial supremacy during Shivaji's reign.

Sawantwadi Palace:
The palace was built by Khem Sawant Bhosale ruler of princely state Sunderwadi during 1755-1803. Entry gate (Lester gate) was built in 1895.

Bharatgad & Bhagwatgad Fort (17 k.m. from Malvan town)
At Maure town both this fort are located close to each close to each other but separated by an estuary. Bharatgad's outside wall is in dialogite condition today prominent feature of this fort is a more then 200 ft. deep well which has a carved door at the bottom. It is believed that the cave beginning from this door leads to Sindhudurg Fort. The temple and Masjid in proximity inside the fort is a symbol of Hindu and Muslim unity.History : Bharatgad was built by Sawantwadikar Fond Sawat in 1680 and Bharwantgad by Pant Bawadekar. Fort witnessed many clashes. To bring under its regime British commander Immelock captured this fort in 1880.
How to Reach:Bus facility available from Malvan to Masure.Shree Durga Devi & Brahmadev Temple Place: Kank 13 km from Malvan.

Sarjekot Fort ( 4 k.m. from Malavan):
Sarjekot is one amongst the chain of forts built by Shivaji in and around Malavan. Fort is situated on the mouth of Talashil Estuary which displays its splendor. The imposing sructure is encircled by ditch on three of its sides leaving one facing Arabian sea. Sunset view from this fort fascinates visitors. Sarjekot is also a natural port

Rangnagad Fort (18 k.m. from Kudal):
Situated at an altitude of 2600 ft. above sea level Rangnagad is a trekkers delight. This fort is among the fifteen forts built during the Shilahar Bhoj's regime. Shivaji captured Rangnagad in 1659 and made the fort his favourit resting place. Fresh water in lake and Rangnaidevi temple inside the fort are scenic splendors. Beware of Bision's on Rangnagad, We recommend you, not to wear colorful Cloths. When they see any person alone, they group themselves together quietly at one place and that is the danger signal for you, But these incidents are rare case.

Kille Nivati ( 35 k.m. from Vengurla):
This dilapidated fort by the seashore impress upon the visitor by its range of rocks situated at its bottom. The rippling perennial springs here content one's mind. Fort also commands the fine view of Bhogwe beach.

The Holy Gagangad ( 59 k.m. from Kankavali):
This wonderful steep rock fort was established under the regime of "King Bhoj" in 12th century. Standing at an altitude of 3000 ft. fort is advantageously located on the topmost peak of Gaganbavada. It slopes down to bottom nearly from all the sides leaving one narrow way for the visitors to enter inside the fort.

LAKES

Dhamapur Lake :
Situated in the western part of Sindhudurg, the Dhamapur Lake is well known for its clean, crystal clear waters. Spread over 5 acres, the lake area is ideal for excursions and water sports. Dhamapurlake water is very pure. Near Dhamapur lake Bhagawati Temple is there. Boating fascility also avaliable.

Moti Lake -
Sawantwadi Moti means pearl and this lake is a Pearl in the cap of picturesque town Sawantwadi it reside in enchanting landscape formed by the pleasing green hills all around baoting facilty is available in the lake. Sawantwadi town situated at the periphery of Moti talav is an unique example of peripheral city of India.

Folk Arts

Dashawatar

In indian mythology the ten incarnations of lord Vishnu is collectively known as Dashavatar. To preserve the universe from destruction Vishnu took ten defferent froms (Avatar) from time to time. They are Matsya (Fish) Katchha (Turtle)Varaha (Boar)Narsimha) (half man half Lion), Waman (A brahman boy),Purshuram , rama, Krishna, Budhha & kalanki.
In Sindhudurg Dashavatar is Most popular artform. Dance ritual dramas are held in most of the temples during festive occassions. intresting charecters in these dramas are Apsaras (Heavenly maidens) Their role in womans attaire are played by the mens.
There are nine original Dashavatar performing groups in sindhudurg and Walawalkar group is believed to be the the first. Credit also goes to pioneer Mr. shymnaikji kale who introduced Dashavatar in Sindhudurg in 11,th centuary, same Dashavatar is today known as Adivere Dashavatar in which ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu are presented one after the other on the stage.A from called Aatdashavatar is also highly appriciated by the locals. It is presented in two parts. Parts onebegins with Ganeshstavan, Saraswatistavan, Brahmin priests entry and killing of sankasura (Purvarang) while while part two is a proper play and includes mythological stories. (Uttarang 0r leelantya). The first incarnations Matsya Avatar is presented to the audiance in the theatre. The myth begings with Lord Brahma who is busy in penance. the demon named
shanrasura siezes this opportunity to steal his Vedas & shastras ( the holy Books). Lord Vishnu who is witness to this incident then promises Bramha of bringing back his vedas. Vishnu wanders in search shankarasura and when he finds him, fierce battle takes place between them. shankarasura runs from the battlefield and hides under water in a conchshell. As Vedas remained drewned in water, if was nesesary to bring them up. To retrieve them Vishnu descends into the water in the form of fish that is lower part of body like thet of fish and upper part like that of a man (A matsya Avatar) in a Bottle under the Watere Vshnu finaly defeats shakasur who surrenders and explains the motive behind stealing of vedas. That he did so with an intention to pass philosophical knowledge of Vedas from elite people to down trodden society (Bahojan Samaj) Visnu apprecieted shankarsuras courage and gave him a vow that in the tree worlds (Trailokya) before woshipping Vishnu people will worship his conchshell. Vishnu then restored the Vedas to Brahma.

ShilpGram At SawantWadi:
Traditional products manufactured by local artisans are displayed at Shilpgram.

Handicraft Emporium At Sawantwadi:

Food Special

The West coast of Maharashtra is famous for coconuts, mangoes, cashews, and rice. The region also grows a great quantity of kokum, a sweet-sour fruit. Fish is available in vast varieties and seafood is in abundant supply.

Sol-kadhi- A tangy smooth appetizer made by kokum, coconut and chilly.

Kelyache Panchamrut - A sweetish medley of bananas

Tisrya-che Kalvan - Clams in thick spicy masala

Kelphoolachi Bhaji - a konkan favourite made of banana flowers.

Modak- Especially ensure that you try Lord Ganesha's favourite Bangadyachi Chatni : Its a paste made by dry "Bangada" fish and green chilly along with flavors of other spicy items like coriander, salt, ginger etc.

Vade Sagoti : Its one of the famous food item in the district, specially prepared when guests comes to home.

Kunkeshwar Temple

It is famous, both as a picturesque holiday resort and a religious place. The elaborately carved Kunkeshwar Temple was built around 1100 AD, by the Yadava rulers. Visited frequently by Shivaji, the temple is considered as a fine example of contemporary sculpture. Kunkeshwar is also renowned for its coconut, palm and mango plantations and a variety of seafood. Southwards along the coast, beyond the creek at Mumbri, is a lovely walk all along the rocky slopes. It ends at the temple of Kunkeshwar, a lonely stretch of sand that simply sparkles in the sunlight.You can approach this temple by the road that branches off at Jamsande. The drive has a grand finale when you near the temple and the panorama of undulating fields and swaying palms against the backdrop of a deep blue ocean unfolds beyond your windscreen.

Getting there
By Road : From Mumbai 453 kms.
By Rail : Near Railway Station Nandgaon.
By Air : Mumbai, Belgaon, GoaPlaces to see near by Kunkeshwar : Devgad Fort - 20 kms.

Rameshwar Temple(Achara) (23 k.m. from Malvan)

Lord Rameshwar is tutelary deity of Achara Village. A unique tradition observed here is that once in a five years village seek divine verdict of Lord Rameshwar and the occasion called "Gavpalne" takes place. In a ritual villagers and all domesticated animals has to reside outside the village for nearly three days. A strong belif is that by mercy of Rameshwar villager’s life is protected from all risks. Temple offers devotees 10 room residency in its spacious courtyard which resembles popular temples of Goa.How to Reach:16 km from Malvan. Buses are available continuously to reach the destination.

Aangnewadi (Shree Bharadi Devi) (14 k.m. from Malvan

Godess Bharadidevi of Angnewadi village is renowned all over. She has occured in a self existent rock from. It is believed that when a person asks for a favor, the godess fulfills it. Once in a year devotees from Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka come together in a village for pilgrimage.

Tradition : Here Goddess is offered 'Otti' ( Coconut and Blouse Piece) . The local people who are entitled to honor and respect come and sit together in a temple on a Dali ( Mat Made up of Bomboo) and decide a day of holding a fair. According to the rituals Mask, Saree and Ornaments are worm to the Devi; then begins offering of `Otti' which is continued through out the fair day. Women from every house on the same day quitely cook food after their bath. The food is offered to the Devi as a prasad for which devotees call Tat Lagne. The prasad is then distributed among the pilgrims who show their presence in thousands during the fair day.

How to Reach:By Bus 14 kms. from Malvan

Redi Ganapati ( Redi Village )

This place is situated at south west to sawantwadi. Some years back this place was known for bauxite and others ores of aluminium but today mining is hampered and it is dominated by Usha Ispat Company.Redi is gifted with Arabian sea to its west and it has got ancient history of Lord Ganesha. Round about 18 years back a local person named Sadashiv Kambli visualised the sclupture of Lord Ganesha in his dreams for this he persuade it for long period and with help of Local workers he dug out the sclupture of Ganesha from sea shore. Today after survey it is now clear that this was made by Panadavas during their rule the sclupture is about 6 feet in height and 4 feets in breadth whole thing was readily found in one single piece

Getting here

Distance:
Sawantwadi 39 kms.

Getting here

By Air: Nearest Airport Goa, Ratnagiri, Mumbai
By Rail: By Konkan Railway By Road: Hight 17

Other Places

Mangaon Temple
Pinguli Math
Aravali Temple