Wednesday, August 15, 2007

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.