Around Ratnagiri Important information

Tourist Acctration in Around Ratnagiri

• Ganapatipule
• Tarkarli Beach
• TarkaliCreek
• Sindhudnrg Fort

Ganapatipule (50 kms.)

Gorgeous Ganapatipule, the famous pilgrim site is endowed with splendid scenic beauty. A 400-year old temple at the foot of green hillock enshrines an idol of Swayambhu (self-originated) Ganapati. The presiding deity is considered to be the 'Paschim Dwardevta' or the Western Sentinel God of India. The beautiful beach here is perhaps the most spectacular on the konkan cost and noted for its virgin beauty and greenery.

Tarkarli Beach

Beautiful Tarkarli, set at the mouth of the Karli river is one of the loveliest beaches of Maharashtra. The swaying casuarina trees, crystal clear water and blue skies enhance he beauty of the virgin beaches here.

TarkaliCreek : Home to a rich variety of resident and migratory birds. An angler ‘s paradise.

Sindhudnrg Fort : The famous island fort has a temple of Chhatrapati Shivaji and several relics ot the warriorking.

REACHING THERE     

Air Port: Kolhapur ( 160 kms.)

Railhead : Kudal ( 45 kms. )

Road : Connected by road. 200kms south of Ratnagiri.

Ratnagiri Important information

Ratnagiri

The beautiful town on the charming Konkan coast is the birth place of Lokmanya Tilak, the famous freedom fighter. It is the largest town on the south-coast and the main transport hub. Ratnagiri abounds in fruits typical of the Konkan and the luscious mangoes produced here are popular all over the world. It is also an important port. Lokmanya Tilak Smarak: A small museum here commemorates Lokmanya 

Tourist Acctration in Ratnagiri

• Tilak. Thibaw Palace
• Patit Pawan Mandir
• Bhatya Beach

Tilak. Thibaw Palace : Thibaw, the last king of Burma,was incarcerated here by the British in 1885.

Patit Pawan Mandir : The famous shrine is the first place of worship built for non-brahmins by Veer Savarkar, a revolutionary leader.

Bhatya Beach : This pleasant site lies on the outskirts of the town.

REACHING THERE

Airports : Kolhapur (120kms.), Belgaum  (280kms.),  Mumbai (334kms.),   Dabolim   (Goa) (355kms.)

Railhead : Ratnagiri lies on the  famous Konkan Railway.

Road: Connected by road.

Around Pune Important information

Tourist Acctration in Around Pune

• Ahmadnagar
• Alandi
• Bhatghar Dam
• Bhimashanker
• Jejuri
• Karla
• Lonavala
• Khandala
• Mahabaleshwar
• Panchgani
• Pratapgad
• Purandar
• Raigad
• Satara
• Shree Kshetra Mahuli
• Shivneri
• Sinhagad (Lion Fort)

Ahmadnagar (120 kms.)

It was founded by Ahmed Nizam Shah and has a 400 year old fort, which witnessed my battles. Later on, freedom-fighters were imprisoned here. Other attractions are landbibi Mahal or Salabatj ang 's Tomb and Farah Bagh.

Alandi (21 kms.)

The pilgrim centre on the banks of river Indrayani is famous for the sacred samadhi of ; Saint Dnyaneshwar, who wrote Dnyaneshwari, a Marathi commentary on the lagawad Gita. Two fairs are held here annually - one on Ashadhi Ekadashi and the tier on KartikEkadashi. Other attraction is the temple of Vithoba -Rakhumai.

Bhatghar Dam (40 kms.)

The dam on the river Velvandi is one of the highest dams in India. It is also a good iliday resort and picnic spot.

Bhimashanker (95 kms.)

The beautiful Shiva temple here was built by Nana Phadnis, an eminent statesman. It shrines one of the 5 jyotirlingas of Maharashtra. A large fair is held on Shivratri. The wn is also noted for its scenic beauty and bracing climate. Other places worth visiting e - Bombay Point, Gupta Bhimashankar (the originating point of Bhima river), inuman tank andNagphani point etc.

Jejuri (50kms.)

The pilgrim centre is famous for the temple of Lord Khandoba, the family deity of many aharashtrians. A large fair is held here during the month ofMagashirsha.

Karla (66 kms.)

The famous Buddhist rock cut cave lines in the Western Ghats have a large Election of Chaitya halls adorned with tricate carvings. The caves were ;cavated between 2n century B.C. and h century A.D. and are considered to be beautiful as the world famous Ajanta-llora. A 45 metres long Chaitya hall here considered to be the most perfect of its nd. An inscription at the entrance attributes its excavation to Bhutapal of Vaijayanti. The caves with Viharas were xavated for the Buddhist monks, who used to gather here during the monsoons. Tiile at Karla, the Bhaja and Bedsa caves are worth a detour. The Bhaja Caves set in a sh valley are as old as the Karla caves and its Cave No. 12, a large Chaitya hall sembles to the one at Karla. Another cave has a magnificent stilted vault. The last cave a treasure house of rich carvings. To the south of the main cave is an amazing group ot \ Stupas. The Bedsa Caves are another set of excellent rock cut caves. One of them has fine Chaitya hall with ribbed roof, supported by 26 octagonal pillars. he 18th century Lohagad and Visapur forts are located just 6 kms. from Karla. Another traction nearby are the hill resorts of Lonavala (10 kms.) and Khandala (14 kms.) lumbai is 114 kms. from Karla. 204

Lonavala (66 kms.)

The beautiful hill resort on the Mumbai - Pune road lies 104 kms. from Mumbai and is easily accessible by road and rail. The must visit sites are - the Lonavala Lake, Bushi Dam, Tiger's Leap, Barometer Hill, Valvan dam, Tungarli Lake etc. Lonavala is also famous for its chikki, a local sweet.

Khandala the charming hill resort just 5 kms. from Lonavala. The famous points here are - Rajmachi Point and the Duke's Nose, named after the Duke of Wellington, for its uncanny resemblance to his nose. The Kune Point, located midway between Khandala and Lonavala affords picturesque views of the surroundings.

It is a convenient base for visiting Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves.

Mahabaleshwar (120 kms.) Mahabaleshwar, the 'Queen of the Ghats' is one of the best known and the highest hill resort of Western   India.   It   was developed by Sir John Malcolm in   1828.   The   beautiful   hill station teems with orchids, lies and luscious strawberries and has three silvery falls – Dhobi Falls,   Chinaman   Falls   and Lingmala Falls. Excellent view points   like   Wilson   Point, Babington Point, Kate Point, Elphinstone Point, Bombay Point and Arthur's Seat provide  great views  of the  Krishna  and  Koyna valleys.  The  old village  of Mahabaleshwar is held sacred by the Hindus and is known for the Panchganga temple, said to contain five streams including the River Krishna.

Panchgani (98kms.)

This small and attractive hill resort is situted along a ridge atop the Parasni Ghat. The picturesque resort overlooks the scenic Krishna valley and is endowed with rich floral wealth. There are also a number of excellent educational institutions.

Pratapgad (137kms.)

An impressive fort here was built by Shivaji, to command the route from the Deccan. The Afzal Buruz tower in the fort marks the spot where the Mughal general Afzal Khan was killed by Shivaji. There is a famous Bhavani temple in the fort. An equestrian statue °f Shivaji has been erected in the fort.

Purandar (38kms.)

Purandar was the capital of Marathas for a brief period and has a magnificent fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji, set atop a hill. It is also the location of National Cadet Corps (NCC) Academy. Buses are available from Pune and Saswad.

Raigad (126kms.)

The hilltop fortress here was almost impregnable capital of Shivaji for over 15 years, ^hivaji was crowned and also died here. Within the fort is the samadhi of Shivaji and the remains of his palace. There is also a large lake amidst scenic surroundings.

Satara (106kms.)

The capital of the Marathas witnessed the most glorious chapter of Maratha history luring 1707 to 1749, under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. The palace, fort and museums lere display the relics of the golden era.

Shree Kshetra Mahuli (112 kms.)

The pilgrim centre is near the confluence of the rivers Krishna and Venna is known for the temples of Yavateshwar, Mangalai Devi and other Hindu deities.

Shivneri (93kms.)

Chhatrapati Shivaji was born here at the seven-tiered fort atop a hillock. On the sides of the hill are about 50 Buddhist caves.

Sinhagad (Lion Fort) (24 kms.)

It was one of the most impregnable forts of Western India. Shivaji captured it in 1670, but lost his ablest commander Tanaji Malusare over here. The fort is built at the edge of a sheer precipice, which was scaled by Shivaji's men with the help of iguanas and ropes.

Pune Important information

Pune

Picturesque Pune, the 'Queen of the Deccan' nestles in the scenic iahayadri ranges, on the edge of the Deccan plains. This 'Cultural Capital if Maharashtra' was once the glorious apital of the Maratha empire and the entre of the Maratha awakening. It booms  with  all Corollaries of  modernisation and also retains the rich cultural heritage. According to the Pune Hazetteer, the word Pune is derived from 'Punya' or a holy place, as the city stands on the sacred a confluence (sangama) of two rivers. Pune became the base of Chhatrapat shivaji, the great Maratha emperor, whose exploits against the Bijapur army and Viughal king Aurangzeb are legendary. The Maratha emperors were followed by the Peshwas. In 1818, the British captured the city after the battle of Koregaon. The city also played an important role in the freedom struggle and was the nerve centre of national politics during the lifetime of Lokmanya Tilak. Pune is also known as the 'Oxford of India' for its world renowned educational and research institutions.

Tourist Acctration in Pune

• Aga Khan Palace - Kasturba Gandhi Memorial
• Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute
• Bund Gardens or Mahatama Gandhi Udyan
• Kesari Wada
• Parvati Hill & Temples
• Pataleshwara Caves
• Peshwe Udyan (Zoo)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
• Shanwarwada   Palace  
• Shindyanchi Chhatri
• Tribal Museum
• Vishrambaug Wada

Aga Khan Palace - Kasturba Gandhi Memorial : It was built in 1908, by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the spiritual head of the Ismailiah Khoja community. Mahatama Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi and private secretary Mahadeobhai Desai died on 15th August 1942 and Kasturba Gandhi passed away on 22nd February 1944. Their bodies were cremated here and later on two marble samadhis were built in their memory. Khadi or cotton handloom garments and textiles can purchased at a shop here.

Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute : It is housed in a beautiful oriental style building and has over 20,000 manuscripts from the collection of Bolhar, Kielhorn and Bhandarkar.

Bund Gardens or Mahatama Gandhi Udyan : The well laid out gardens on the right bank of the Mula-Mutha rivers is a popular evening spot. It has boating facilities and has a well-designedjogging track.

Kesari Wada : The famous Kesari newspaper was started here by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who advocated 'Self Rule'. The Ganapati festival was started in the courtyard of the Wada by Tilak.

Parvati Hill & Temples : Parvati hill located in the south-east corner of Pune has the historic temple   of  Goddess   Parvati   and   Lord   Shiva (Devadevesvara). It can be reached through a flight of 108 steeply rising steps. The Parvati museum here displays portraits of Peshwas, old manuscripts, weapons and coins. The hill affords a panoramic view of the Pune city.

Pataleshwara Caves : The 8th century rock-cut cave temples at Sivajinagar on the Jungli Maharaj Road are dedicated to Lord Pataleshwar (Shiva), the God of the nether world. The exquisitely carved caves have a shrine of Shiva in the centre, with a huge lingam and the Nandi bull in front under a circular canopy. There is a small museum near the caves. A grain of rice exhibited here is engraved with about 5000 characters and finds place in the Guinness Book of World Records:

Peshwe Udyan (Zoo) : It located near Saras Baug and has a rich variety of wild animals. Other attractions are a toy-train ride, an elephant ride and boating.

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum : It lies at Shukarwar Peth on the Bajirao Road and is one of the major attractions of Pune. The museum is housed in a quaint Rajasthani-style building with facade of red stone and its galleries bear the stamp of the Maratha period. It exhibits historical and everyday artefacts collected over a period of 60 years by Shri Dinkar Ganghadhar Kelkar from all over the country.

Shanwarwada   Palace   : This   bastion   of Peshwa power is an icon of Pune and its rich culture. It was built in 1736 and became the seat of political  power  under Bajirao-I.   Within   the massive walls of the wada (fort)   is   the   magnificent palace of Peshwas, which was destroyed by a major fire in 1827. There are well laid out gardens with impressive fountains.A fine statue of Bajirao Peshwa -I in front of the wada is quite impressive. A Light and Sound show is held here in the evenings.

Shindyanchi Chhatri : The imposing structure at Wanawadi was built in the memory of great Maratha nobleman Mahadji Shinde, the commander of the Maratha army from 1760 - 80 under the Peshwas.

Tribal Museum : This unique museum near the Don Bosco Bridge provides an interesting insight into the life of tribal communities of Maharashtra.

Vishrambaug Wada : The three-storied mansion of the Peshwas in the heart of the city is an icon of Pune's rich culture and heritage. The Kirti Mandir museum here showcases toe glorious history of Pune.

Other places of interest in Pune are - Bal Gandharv Mandir, Bharat Itihas Samshodak ^andal, Dr. Ambedkar Museum, Film & Television Institute (FTII), National Film Archives of India, Lal Deval (Synagogue), Museum of Arthropoda, National War Museum, Omkareshwar Temple, Pune Ved Pathshala, Osho Ashram etc.

Reaching There

Airport: Lohegaon airport is about 12 kms. from the city centre.

Rail: Well linked by rail.

Road : Well connected by road. It is 170kms. From Mumbai

Around Nashik Important information

Tourist Acctration in Around Nashik

• Trimbakeshwar
• Shirdi
• Bhandardara

Trimbakeshwar (39 kms.)

This important pilgrim site is famous for the temple of Trimbakeshwar and the source of the sacred Godavari river located nearby. The temple enshrines one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in the country. A big fair is held on the occasion Trimbakeshwar Temple  Shivratri.

The massive Sinhasta fair or Kumbh Mela is also held here once in twelve years. According to mythological legends, when Amrit (the nectar of immortality) was recovered from the ocean, there was a battle between the Gods and demons for it. During the fight few drops ofamrit fell at Allahabad, Nashik (Trimbakeshwar), Haridwar and Ujjain. Since then the Kumbh Mela is organised at these places, once in every 12 years.

Shirdi (112kms.) This 'abode' of Sri Sai Baba is one of the most Baba, the great teacher and saint lived and died here and is believed to be the incarnation of Guru Dattatraya. He preached religious tolerance and universal brotherhood and is revered by devotees of all faiths. His followers from all parts of India and abroad flock to the sacred shrine round the shirdt Sat Baba year. The main temple has a life like marble statue of the saint installed on a high pedestal. Thursdays are of special importance, as on this day Sai Baba attained 'Nirvana '. Annual fairs are held here on Ramnavami, Guru Purnima and Dusshera. Other places of importance are the Gurusthan, the Kandoba Temple, Shani Mandir, Narsimha Mandir, Changdev Maharaj Samadhi and the Sakori Ashram. Kopargaon ( 15 Kms.) is the nearest railhead for Shirdi.

Bhandardara (80kms.)

The quiet little hill resort is dominated by Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak ( 1 ,646 metres) ln the Sahyadri range. The Wilson dam is probably the only one to be constructed at a "eight of 1 50 m. and the Arthur lake is the largest and loveliest lake to be situated at such a height. It is 1 85 kms. from Mumbai and 1 9 1 kms. from Pune. The nearest rail head is at Igatpuri

Nashik Important information

Nashik

Nashik, one of the most important pilgrim centres of Maharashtra is set on the banks of he sacred Godavari river. It is believed that Lord Rama stayed here for some time during lis 14 years exile. The temple town has over 2000 small and big temples and bathing lhats lining the banks of the river. Nashik is the venue of the holy Kumbh Mela, which is icld once in every 12 years. The city is also a famous educational and industrial centre.

 Tourist Acctration in Nashik

• Ramkund
• Muktidham Temple
• Kalaram Temple
• Coin Museum

Ramkund : The sacred tank built in 1696, by Chitrarao Khatarkar is believed to mark :he site where Lord Rama and Sita used to bathe during their stay over here.

Muktidham Temple (7 kms.): The famous temple has a very unusual architecture. It is believed that visiting the shrine is like undertaking the pilgrimage of four sacred dhams.

Kalaram Temple : The 70 ft. high temple built in the black stone in 1794, by Gopikabai Peshwa, resembles the famous Trimbakeshwar Temple and enshrines beautifully ornamented sandy black idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Laxman. The temple is surrounded by several smaller temples like, Vithal Temple, Ganapati Temple and Maruti Temple.

Coin Museum : It was established by the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies amidst scenic surroundings. The museum exhibits a well-documented record of the history of Indian numismatics, through photographs, artefacts, line drawings, replicas and real coins.

REACHING THERE

Airport: Mumbai (185 kms.).

Railhead: Well connected by rail.

Road : Connected by good road network. Pune (202 kms.)

Around Nagpur Important information

Tourist Acctration in Around Nagpur

• Ramtek
• Wardha
• Nagzir a Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nawegaon National Park
• Pench National Park
• Tadoba National Park
• Dhakna - Kolkaz Wildlife Sanctuary 

Ramtek (58kms.)

This legendary pilgrim centre has numerous temples dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita and Laxmana, who tarried awhile here. Kalidasa, the famous poet is also believed to have stayed here and wrote his masterpieces. Amajor 15-day fair is held in November.

Wardha (67 kms.)

It is a convenient base for visiting the two most famous centres of modern pilgrimage, Gindhiji's Sewagram and Vinobha Shave's Paunar. Wardha is a railway junction on central Railway.

Nagzir a Wildlife Sanctuary (170 kms.)

The scenic sanctuary sprawls amidst the Tirora range of Bhandara Forest Division and is me to tiger, panther, bison, sloth bear, sambar, antelope, chital etc. The best time to visit is during April and May. Nearest bus stand is Sakoli, 22 kms. away. Other nearby towns are - Gondia (45 km) and Bhandara (75 km).

Nawegaon National Park (132 kms.)

It is inhabited by a rich and varied wildlife. The Nawegaon lake is believed to have been ailt by Kolu Patel Koli in the 18th century. The Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Nawegaon home to almost 60 % of the bird species found in entire Maharashtra. Every winter ;autiful migratory birds visit the lake.

Pench National Park (70 kms.)

he park covers an area of 257.26 sq kms and comprises of tropical dry deciduous >rests, which are home to tiger, panther, gaur, sambar, chital, barking deer, blue bull, mcaque, langoor, wild boar, bear, wild dogs and civet cat. Best time to visit is from ebruary to April. It is just 35 kms. From Ramtek.

Tadoba National Park (127 kms.)

It is the best known game sanctuary of Maharashtra. The forests here teems with animals like panthers, sambars, bisons, deers etc. Bird life too is diverse and colourful.The lake in the middle of the park is held sacred by the tribals and is a haven for crocodiles. The best season to visit is from March to May.

Dhakna - Kolkaz Wildlife Sanctuary (279 kms.)

This unique sanctuary in Amravati district is located amidst the verdant valleys of the Rivers Sipna and Dolar. Dhakna is 29 km. ahead of Kolkaz. This is the Melghat Tiger Reserve, even richer in other animal and bird life.