After saying goodbye to Harihareshwar, I took Ro Ro from the jetty to Bankot. It was the first jetty ride of my life. From the moment I set foot in Bankot the picturesque scenery here gave me a glimpse of the heavenly Konkan.
Today, I’m excited to share my incredible journey to the picturesque coastal town of Ratnagiri. Trust me, this place is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your travel list. I felt a warm embrace from both the locals and the environment. The salty sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the shore immediately put me in a relaxed state of mind.
History:
Ratnagiri is a history buff’s dream come true. Way back in ancient times, people were talking about Ratnagiri. It’s been around for ages, even during the Maurya and Gupta empires!
Guess what? It was also part of the Maratha Empire, which was a huge deal back in the 17th and 18th centuries. Like, it was right in the thick of it! Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, this big-shot freedom fighter, was born right here in Ratnagiri! His old house is now a museum and it’s a big hit with visitors.
Then, the British came into the picture in the 19th century. Ratnagiri was part of the Bombay Presidency during that time. Lots of changes happened!
And let’s not forget the brave folks from Ratnagiri who fought against the British. They were right there in the thick of the freedom struggle!
With its coastal vibes, Ratnagiri was a happening place for trade and mingling of cultures. And you know what? Even today, it’s known for its arts, crafts, and awesome festivals that show off the amazing diversity of Maharashtra!
Here are some awesome spots to check out:
Beaches: Ratnagiri is home to some of the most stunning beaches I’ve ever seen.
- Anjarle Beach
- Ganpati Pule Beach: Ganpati Pule Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is a haven for beach lovers. The peaceful ambiance here is perfect for a lazy day of sun-soaking and soul-searching. It is Famous for its clean sands and a cool temple.
- Aare Ware Beach: A quiet, peaceful spot with a great view.
- Guhagar Beach: A bit far, but super peaceful and pretty.
- Kasheli Beach
- Devghali Beach
Historical Places and Forts:
- Bankot Fort : It is Also Called Himmatgad
- Kanakdurg
- Ratnadurg Fort (Bhagwati Fort)
- Gopalgad
- PurnaGad
- Vijaydurg Fort
- Jaigad Fort
Interesting Places:
- Thibaw Point: An old palace with a cool history.Stepping into Thibaw Palace felt like taking a step back in time. The royal architecture and the stories of the exiled Burmese King added a layer of intrigue to this historical site. It’s a must-visit for anyone curious about India’s rich past.
- Maharshi Smruti
- Parshuram Bhumi
- Prachin Konkan
Mango Mania:
Oh, and let’s not forget the Alphonso mangoes! Ratnagiri is renowned for producing the juiciest, most flavorful mangoes in the world. Make sure you savor this local delicacy – it’s an experience in itself!
Local Flavors:
The food scene in Ratnagiri is a delight for foodies. From lip-smacking seafood to authentic Konkan cuisine, every meal was a taste bud-tickling adventure. Please don’t leave without trying the fish curry and Sol Kadhi – they’re simply divine.
Warmth of the Locals:
What struck me the most was the genuine warmth of the locals. They welcomed me with open arms, sharing stories and recommendations that made my trip all the more special. It’s this hospitality that truly makes Ratnagiri feel like a home away from home.
Reaching Ratnagiri is a breeze, with various transportation options available. Once you’re here Trust me, the views along the coastal roads are worth every pedal.
So there you have it, folks! Ratnagiri, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, stole a piece of my heart. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this coastal paradise. Until next time, happy travels!
