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Kolad

State
Maharashtra

Kolad, situated at the backdrop of the majestic Sahyadris, is a tiny village in the Mahad region and is blessed with natural foliage and luxuriant greenery. It is famed for plenty of waterfalls, its rugged topography and Rocky Mountains. The greatest attraction of this charming village is the ‘Kundalika River’, which is one among the fastest flowing river in South India. It is a spectacular location to experience the pleasure of white water river rafting. Apart from river rafting this river offers other excellent ventures like kayaking, paragliding, and river crossing.

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest major airport is Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, which is nearly 125 km from Kolad.

By Rail: Kolad railway station is in the Konkan rail line, which is connected to Mumbai VT station. Kolad is connected to all major cities in India through Mumbai railway station.

By Road: Kolad is well connected to other cities in and around by state owned public transport buses.

Things to do

Rafting: Kolad is a spectacular location to experience the pleasure of white water river rafting. Kundalika river’s 14-kilometre stretch of exciting rapids will provide one and a half hours white water rafting. Rafting through the river calls for extreme courage and bravery. Water rafting in the river reaches its zenith during monsoon season since the water levels are high.

Location
Kolad is reached on the Mumbai-Goa highway (NH 16), about 128 km from Mumbai.
STD Code
021444
Topic
Upcoming
Best time to visit
October to March

Karjat

State
Maharashtra

Karjat is a beautiful hilly town, located on Bhor Ghat in Sahyadri Mountains of the Western Ghats and close to Neral and Matheran. It lies on the banks of the river Ulhas at the foothills of the famous hill station Matheran. The hilly area and steep slopes make Karjat the perfect destination for a number of adventurous activities including a variety of water sport activities one of them being river rafting.

Image Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/preshit/3517459527/

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest major airport is Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, which is nearly 90 km from Karjat.

By Rail: Karjat is a main railway station under the Mumbai railway division.

By Road: Karjat is well connected to other cities in and around by state owned public transport buses. Many private owned buses also provide transport service between Karjat and neighboring cities, including Mumbai and Panavel.

Accommodation

Karjat boasts of many health resorts and has both budget and high-end accommodation on offer. River Gate Resort, Prakruti Farms, Piccadily Country Club and Resort, Sada Anand Resort, Mohili Meadows Resort nad Pineeood Resort are some of the places that offer comfortable accommodation. Be sure to make advance bookings.

Things to do

River Rafting: Karjat on the banks of the Ulhas River is a perfect place for many water sports activities. River Ulhas tempts the tourists to have a great experience of river rafting in the most exciting cool and calm waters

Perfectly blended with nature, Karjat’s river rafting is really an adventurous experience; with many of the visitors offer themselves for the passion.

Trekking: Karjat is also a trekking destination: it offers plenty of trails, ranging from medium to very demanding. The undulating hilly terrain and lofty slopes make it an ideal spot for trekking enthusiasts. The three prominent trekking trail leads to Matheran via Rambagh point, Peth Fort, and Chanderi Fort.

Karjat is a renowned area for trekking due to its undulated hilly terrains and slopes. Karjat offers medium to very demanding adventurous trekking trails. The adventurous trekkers can get the required level of challenge from the trekking tracks in Karjat. These trails are mostly unexplored and unspoiled. The cool and calm ambience makes it a perfect place for nature trekking.

The main trekking trails from Karjat lead to Matheran, Peth and Chanderi fort. The villages in Karjat namely Sandshi, Kondiwade and Khandpe are offers good trekking facilities to enthusiastic travelers. Many domestic and foreign tourists visit this place just to enjoy the trekking adventure.

District
Raigad
Location
located on Bhor Ghat in Sahyadri mountains of the Western Ghats and close to Neral and Matheran.
STD Code
021482
Topic
Upcoming
Best time to visit
October to May
Famous For
Well known for trekking, Karjat is surrounded by steep slopes

Kamshet

State
Maharashtra

Kamshet is a small village, located 16 km ahead of the twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala. It is better known as the ''Para-glider''s paradise''. The picturesque Kamshet is surrounded by paddy and sunflower fields, and bounded by hills and serene lakes. Soar high and glide over the beautiful scenery below.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/madpai/246630676/

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest major airport is Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, which is nearly 110 km from Kamshet. Pune domestic airport is 60 km away from Kamshet.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Lonavala railway station in the Konkan railway region. It is connected to Mumbai and Goa.

By Road: Many Maharastra Government public buses are operating between Kamshet and many cities nearby. Tourist Volvo buses are regular between Mumbai and Kamshet (110 km) and Pune to Kamshet (60 km).

Accommodation

Nirvana Adventures which offers paragliding courses and other adventure activities in Kamshet has three properties here – the Native Place Guesthouse, Nirvana Cottages and Nirvana Base Camps with accommodation and budgets to suit all tastes and budgets.

Things to do

Paragliding: Kamshet is renowned for gliding activities and flying trainings. Especially many paragliding schools in Kamshet make this place as a much sought place by beginners and novice pilots.

An sports venture of Nirvana adventures, an adventurous sports company, offers paragliding training in Kamshet. This is one of the many schools dedicated for the training of pilots and paragliding in Kamshet. It also provides training by experts in the fields of rock climbing, many earthbound adventurous activities, water sports activities and outdoor surviving skills development.

District
Pune
Location
110 km from Mumbai and 85 km from Pune
STD Code
02114
Topic
Upcoming
Best time to visit
October to June

Guhagar

State
Maharashtra

Guhagar is a picturesque village on the Konkan coast, surrounded by small hills on the other three sides, dense with green vegetation. The place is famous for the Guhagar beach and an ancient Shiva Temple of Vyadeshwar.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Guhagar_Beach_%282008%29.jpg

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest airport is Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, which is nearly 300 km from Guhagar.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Chiplun railway station in the Konkal railway region. It is connected to Mumbai and Goa.

By Road: Many Maharastra Government public buses are operating between Guhagar and Many cities nearby.

District
Ratnagiri
Location
40 km off the National Highway from Chiplun and 310 km from Mumbai
Topic
Upcoming

Grishneshwar

State
Maharashtra

Grishneshwar, also known as Ghushmeshwar, is one of the ancient pilgrim destinations with all the purities and calmness of an Indian village. The village offers unpolluted environment for a rejuvenating stay for spiritual enlightenment. The site revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva and is located at a distance of 11 km from Daulatabad near Aurangabad. Maha Shivaratri is a very important religious festival and during this festival, thousands of devotees throng to this temple town.

History

The Grishneswar temple was constructed by Ahilyabhai Holkar who also re-constructed the Kashi Viswanatha temple at Benares and the Vishnu Paada temple at Gaya. Grishneshwar is also known as Kusumeswar, Ghushmeswara, or Grushmeswara, all of the names are related legendary stories of the origin of Grishneshwar.

Legend has it that a devout woman Kusuma offered worship to Shiva regularly by immersing a Shivalingam in a tank, as a part of her daily ritual worship. Her husband's first wife, envious of her piety, murdered her son. Kusuma continued her ritual worship, and when she immersed the Shivalingam again in the tank, her son was miraculously restored to life. Shiva is said to have appeared in front of her and the villagers. The present Grishneshwar is located in and around this place and worshiped in the form of a Jyotirlinga Ghusmeshwar.

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest Airport is located at Aurangabad, which is at distance of about 29 km from Grishneshwar.

By Road: Regular bus services are available from Grishneshwar to Aurangabad.

Topic
Upcoming
Famous For
Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas

Ganapatipule

State
Maharashtra

Ganapatipule is a sleepy hamlet in southwest Maharashtra famous for its pristine beach, unbroken 6 kms stretch. The name Ganapatipule is derived from the words, Ganpati which means the Lord of Ganas or army and Pule meaning sand dunes. This is also the birthplace of Lokmanya Tilak.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/felixdance/5329462758/in/photostream

History

The locals believe that Ganapatipule is blessed. They say that in an age when men were devout and miracles were the norm, the scriptures talked of four Dwardatas (welcoming deities) to the sub-continent, and they marked Ganapatipule as the western deity.
Legend has it that during 16th century AD, a villager seeking refuge from the skirmishes around his tiny village, arduously made his way through the kerda jungles and stumbled upon Lord Ganapati's idol here, around which he made a temple. For four hundred years thereafter, generation upon generation of villagers, who came from elsewhere and started living there, cared for and added to the shrine and made it into the temple one sees today.

Accessibility

By Air: The nearest airport is the Ratnagiri airport (50 km)and the other airport is at Belgaum (300 km).

By Rail: The nearest railhead is the Konkan Railway Bhoke which is located at a distance of 35 km from Ganapatipule. However, Ratnagiri, the convenient railhead is located at a distance of 45 km.

By Road: The State Transport plies buses from Mumbai (375 km), Pune (330 km) and Belgaum (300 km).

Shopping

Ganapatipule offers a variety of local preparations, like ambapoli (thin pancakes of crushed and dried mango) and phanspoli (thin pancakes of dried and crushed jackfruit). Fish curries and the kokam kadi (a pink – coloured digestive drink) are also worth trying. Vegetarians can feast on simple, yet tasty, fare: dal, vegetables prepared with a coconut base and modak – a sweet (and a favourite dish of Lord Ganesh). If you’re here in summer you can also relish Devgad Hapus, the most famous variety of mangoes in the world.

Ganpatipule is not a shopping destination as it does not have any big malls or shopping centres, but the local markets can offer you a few items to take back home. Abundant household and decorative items made of sea shells are sold here which make good souvenirs too. Buy cashewnuts and kokam sherbet which are available in plenty here. Other that these, you can buy a whole lot of canned mango chutnies and pickles too. Also if you are there in the season you would not want to go back home without buying a crate of Devgad hapus mangos!

Accommodation

The villagers often provide lodging for a very nominal price. For those who wish to savour the local flavors to the fullest, they also provide simple but tasty Maharashtrian meals. For others, who want to remain in relative comfort, there are beach resorts where one can choose to live in expensive little garden cottages or low-priced dormitories.

Things to do

Water Sports
The Ganapatipule beach is a good place for water sports. It has a lagoon near by in the vicinity of the beach. There is a hot spot for water sports which is arranged by the MTDC. The water sports complex is closed between June and October. Tents on the beaches are also an attraction to the tourists. The different types of water sports that can be enjoyed here are row boats, water scooters, and motor boats. In addition to this the aero boats and the pedal boats also form part of the water sports. The beach side stalls serve delicious regional cuisine.

District
Ratnagiri
Location
375 kms south of Mumbai on the Konkan coast
STD Code
02352
Topic
Upcoming
Best time to visit
Throughout the year

Alibag

State
Maharashtra

Alibag or Alibaug is a coastal town in the the Konkan region, servers as the gateway to many beaches ahead like Akshi Beach, Nagaon Beach, Kihim Beach, versoli Beach etc. The town and its surrounding villages are the historic hinterland of Bene Israeli Jews and there is a synagogue in the "Israel Ali" area of the town. The town is also a frequent getaway for people in Mumbai owing to its proximity to the city

Image Credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dfisher81/106533544/

History

Alibaug is about 300 years old city. Alibaug was developed in the 17th century by Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre , the Naval chief of King Shivaji's kingdom.Alibaug is a town on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra near Bombay. It's best known for its historic marine forts, fine beaches and clean water.Alibaug used to be the headquarters the great Maratha Admiral, Kanhoji Angre and has the famous Kolaba fort in the sea. Kanhoji Angre created the town of Alibaug towards end of 17th century.

Legend has it that a wealthy Muslim named Ali Owned many plantations, which gave the town the name Alibaug. Alibaug is the seat of District Administration of Raigad (formerly Kolaba) district since 1852. The name Kolaba is attributed to a Sea Fort Kolaba built by Shivaji the great, in 1680 to fight the mighty naval prowess of the Siddis' (Abyssenians) of Janjira and the British of Mumbai. Kolaba fort is famous for many battles, between Siddis and Kanhoji Angre, the British and the Portugese.

Accessibility

By Air: The nearest airport is of Mumbai, 113 km from Alibag.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Pen, which is 28 km away from Alibag city.

By Road: Alibag is well connected to Mumbai and Goa through the junction Pen.

By Ferry: Mandawan is the nearest jetty and of course the original oldest one that is Rewas, which is built by British from where catamaran/ferry services are available to Gateway of India, Mumbai.

Shopping

Alibaug is hardly an hour from Mumbai hence whatever you can shop in Mumbai is available in Alibaug,too. Ofcourse variety is not much on the offer. Normally people do not go there for shopping. Ofcourse people do shop but they buy agro based items like fresh vegetables, pulses, rice, spices, fresh fruits etc in Alibaug. And if you are based in Panvel, going all the way to Alibaug for shopping is not advisable. Mumbai is a better choice for you - well connected by railways ( local trains every 20 minutes or so) as well as road ( lots of buses ply to Mumbai). Even New Mumbai is an option for you.

Accommodation

Situated at the south of Mumbai, Alibaug is a tranquil coastal town in Maharashtra. Renowned for its sandy beaches, magnificent churches, synagogues and beautiful St Barbara tower, Alibaug remains a favorite weekend hideaway amongst Mumbaikars and Puneities. The town also draws a large number of business travellers who prefer to organize meetings and conferences in the calm and quiet environs of Alibaug.

From budget class hotels, guesthouses to deluxe hotels, Alibaug offers a wide range of accommodation options to leisure travellers. The hotels in Alibaug are mainly located near to the lovely beaches and tourist spots. Apart from the star category hotels in Alibaug, one can also choose to stay in the MTDC resort that offers comfortable rooms and tents at an affordable price. The economy hotels in Alibaug offer very basic facilities however, the services and the warm hospitality of the hotel staff assure you a comfortable stay. The luxury and deluxe hotels in Alibaug are endowed with best of the facilities. From multi cuisine restaurants to well stocked bar and gymnasium, the deluxe hotels in Alibaug offer all essential amenities to its guests.

District
Raigad
Location
113 kms from Mumbai
STD Code
02141
Topic
Upcoming
Popular Beach Destination
Best time to visit
Oct - Mar
Famous For
known for its historic marine forts, fine beaches and clean water.

Alandi

State
Maharashtra

Alandi, also known as Devachi Alandi - God's place, is mainly known for housing the samadhi of Sant Dnyaneshwar, a popular saint of Maharashtra. The city also serves as the venue of the Palakhi festival, celebrated every year in the month of Ashadh.

History

Sant Dnyaneshwar - a famous saint in Maharashtra - was born in Apegaon near Paithan. But Alandi is the place famous for his Samadhi. Sant Dnyaneshwar spent his short life here. He inspired the entire Maharashtra to worship Lord Panduranga. "Dnyaneshwari" - his famous manuscript (holy book) will always remind him.

Accessibility

By Air: Nearest airport to Alandi is at Pune which is at a distance of 25 km away from Alandi.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is at Pune which is an important railway junction connected to all major railheads in India.

By Road: Alandi is well connected by State owned road transports. Luxury coach buses are available up to Pune from all major cities in Maharashtra and Goa.

District
Pune
Location
25 km east of Pune, on the banks of the Indrayani River
STD Code
0212
Topic
Pilgrim
Upcoming
Termperature
Summer 22-40°C, Winter 10-23°C
Best time to visit
October to March
Famous For
Being home to the samadhi of Sant Dnyaneshwar

Wokha

State
Nagaland

Wokha, lies at the foot of the Wokha Hills, is identified as the land of oranges and pineapples and acts as home for the Lotha tribe of Nagaland. It is a trade and agricultural centre for the surrounding Naga Hills. It is also known for its mountain ranges and rivers and the tourists can enjoy the amazing views of the Baghty and Tehurang Valleys.

Wokha is famous for its shawls, which are handcrafted by the tribal people.

History

In 1876 the British Government occupied Wokha as the District Headquarters of the Naga Hills under Assam. By the year 1878 the headquarters was shifted to Kohima, but Wokha remained a subdivision. Later in 1889 the subdivision was shifted to Mokokchung. In the year 1957 Wokha became a subdivision again. After India had gained its independence, Wokha was created a district in the year 1973.

Accessibility

By Air: The nearest airport is at Dimapur. Indian Airlines operates Boeing services from both Calcutta and Delhi every alternate day. Guwahati and Imphal are also connected to Dimapur by air.

By Rail:The nearest railhead too is Dimapur, and the Northeast Frontier Railway runs a number of trains from Dimapur to Guwahati. Guwahati is in turn well connected to the rest of the country.

By Road: Nagaland State Transport runs buses from Dimapur to Kohima and the journey takes around 4 hours. From Guwahati, one can find a number of luxury private buses. Taxis and mini-coaches are also available, albeit at slightly exorbitant rates, from Dimapur.

District
Wokha
Location
Lies at the foot of the Wokha Hills, 50 miles (80 km) north of Kohima
STD Code
03860
Topic
Upcoming
Termperature
Summer 22-30°C, Winter 10-30°C
Best time to visit
Sep - May

Peren

State
Nagaland

Peren is popular for its rich tradition and mountain peaks. Mt. Pauna, lying to the south of Pauna mountain range grabs attention of tourists. It is a home to several tribes of Nagaland but the majority consists of the Zeliang and Kuki tribes.

District
Pheren District
Topic
Upcoming
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