When the days were normal without the covid fears. During the time of easy and stress removing trips, instead of stress giver. When the road trips were a usual weekend thing. Also, when I followed my happy times everywhere I went. During such a magical moment, I had one sudden weekend break in Nashik which added a magical spark to my life. Nashik turned out absolutely stunning and more than I could imagine.
Nashik was my one little pitstop on my long Maharashtra tour. Known for the city of Jyotirlinga and Kumbh for the pilgrims and the ‘wine factory’ for the young party lovers. This city has all. I sensed a ‘mini Bombay effects’ too!!
The Spiritual Morning in Nashik
The reason I admired Nashik way too much could be the kings of weather- monsoon. It beautified the littles lanes of greens. We had a morning start with the darshan (visit) at the ‘Triyambakeshwar Mahadev’, one from the twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’. Jyotirlingas are the most auspicious Shiva temple which is highly visited by Hindu pilgrims. The aura of the temple was magical enough to dive into the positive energies. Though the ‘darshan’ at such auspicious Shiva temple in the holy month of Sawan (month according to the Hindu calendar) is a challenging task. But Shiva gave us that lucky sighting and we could pray in front of the ‘Shivlinga’ without much difficulty. I can still have that incredible sight of the temple in my heart. For me, the energies of the temple holds are more important but we can not ignore the beauty of this temple. It was a beautiful structure standing strong amidst the hills of Western Ghats and neighboring the source of the holy river Godavari. No doubt, the monsoon made the views extraordinary.
Day Drives
The magic of such pretty weather could be best explored through driving by the lanes surrounding the beauty of Western Ghats. The natural waterfalls all through the way prove the real beauty of nature. The greens not only brightened my eyes but also freshened my soul which still retains in my heart. I have seen many pretty mountains and hills but that Nashik drives make me feel awestruck. I know it was all the magic of the weather. Chai and pakoras added spice to my plate of happiness!
Vineyards Evening at Sula
Sula Vineyards is the primary visit in Nashik if you love wines. Though the place demanded time of at least a day to see it all, I just had an evening to spend. Only I could feel, what all I missed at this place. So, I would suggest either a full day or a night-stay reserved for it. If you are a party animal, somewhat like me, then the Sula Festival is perfectly our choice for once. Though parties are always ‘on’ there if you have a great group to celebrate on the shots of wine and a lot many different drinks on trials. Other than the bottles of wine, the vineyards are the perfect example of how we grow amidst nature. Place confidently celebrates and presents itself with all the interior telling you about wines and history. Learn to drink in a better way here! Also, don’t forget to shop for some souvenirs for your favorite people. It could be the perfect gift, I assure you.
Sum-up of my one good day!
Though it was short Nashik for me but more than I could expect. I cannot deny the fact that the city was way more perfect than I thought it to be. Maybe the reason was the perfect company I got to take me along their hometown with such enthusiasm. Also, the fun-loving people, I could cherish all my life.
Nashik had a blend of all. Be it the motivation, we require to start our day better. Or the loudest nights to end it on the best beats of music.
Are you looking for a secluded beach getaway but do not want to burn a hole in your pocket? Then, Ganeshgule will provide the answer to your search. Also, don’t forget to check our list on how you can save money while travelling.
As a working couple, we were in dire need of a break since we hadn’t had one in a while. Just as we were searching for places nearby, I recollected this place suggested by a friend. Ganeshgule ticked all our boxes since it is near to Mumbai, it is within budget and it is quiet and peaceful.
Ganeshgule is literally a small village about 30 km from Ratnagiri along the Konkan Coast in Maharashtra. But despite it’s remote location, it gives you an experience worth cherishing for a lifetime.
Ganeshgule is in a polar opposite direction to Ganpatiphule, a popular temple town off the Ratnagiri Coast. While Ganpatiphule is a commercialized spot, Ganeshgule is its exact opposite. It is untouched, unaltered and pure. Here are the complete details from our experience closet.
How To Reach Ganeshgule ?
The best way to reach Ganeshgule is via train. The nearest railway station is Ratnagiri (30 km). All the important trains heading towards Goa and Kerala like Matsyagandha Express, Netravati Express, Marusagar Express, Tejas Express etc halt here. From Ratnagiri, you can either hire a Tuk-Tuk or board state transport bus. The frequency of the state transport buses from Ratnagiri to Ganeshgule is every 2 hours. So if you are on a budget tour, our advice would be to choose the later. Anyhow, the journey time is the same, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Staying Options in Ganeshgule
Currently, there’s only one stay option available at Ganeshgule, and we opted for the same. Oceano Pearl, a property of hospitality firm O’Nest, that gives you the comfort of a hotel at the cost of a home stay. You have options of different types of rooms, we selected a standard room that costed us around 2500 bucks for a night.
The place has its own restaurant that serves good Konkani/Malvani cuisine along with the regular North Indian food. They also have decent sea food options, we tried Pomphret Fry there and we liked it. The restaurant, however, does not have liquor serving license. Hence you’ll have to make arrangements for alcohol. The nearest town where you’ll find liquor shop is in Pawas, 6 km from Ganeshgule.
Our Itinerary for Ganeshgule Beach
Day 1
As this was a last minute plan, we boarded a Holiday Special Train from Bandra Terminus on previous night at 11.30 PM and reached Ratnagiri in morning at around 9.00 AM. We had our check-in at 12 in the noon, so we had breakfast at Ratnagiri station before starting our journey towards Ganeshgule. We took an auto ride which costed us around 400 bucks. The auto guys will quote exorbitant rates, it all depends on how well you can bargain and strike a deal. The journey wasn’t too great, nor it was too boring. In between, you will find yourselves driving parallel to the ocean and the very next moment you will be in dense forest.
We reached the hotel at around 11.00 AM and after freshening up a bit, headed straight to the beach walking past the palm trees and betel nut trees in the property. On Google Maps, you will find the demarcation of the beach as Ganeshgule Beach. However, it serves as a private beach to the property.
We sat on the beach for some time, taking in the fresh oxygen in our face and soulful rhythm of the waves crashing on the shores before we headed for lunch. As mentioned earlier, the in house restaurant serves some good sea food. Even if they didn’t, you don’t have other option, except you are a Gujju like me, and carry heap loads of ‘snakes’. (P.S. I was carrying only Theplas this time)
There are many ways to pass your time at the property. You can indulge in board games, read books, play carom or outdoor sports like football, badminton and volleyball. The hotel staffs are friendly and courteous. Their service is also quick and efficient.
Beach Experience
As the evening approached, we were again at the beach and it looked beautiful than ever before. The golden hours cast a spell in the environment like Midas Touch, turning everything to Gold. We walked up and down the beach, feeling the softness of the sand beneath our feet and cool mild breeze in hair. The experience in itself was so soulful, it felt as if the time just stands still.
Sunset was at its usual best, as the skies kept on changing its shades till the moment the sun went past the mighty ocean. It was both surreal and pristine, so much so, we didn’t move away till the last bit of light faded off.
Day 2
We made an early start to the day as we decided to climb the cliff by the shore we discovered the previous day. The temperature was pleasantly cool and it helped the small trek pretty enjoyable. Once atop, the view offered was just mesmerizing. The sound of the waves crushing against the rocks of the cliff was similar to the ‘riyaz’ of musical maestro.
And then there was this magical moment when the sun made its presence felt. It was a sight to behold as the sun emerged from behind the palm trees to awaken the mighty ocean. The sight was similar to that from a picture postcard.
After spending some time on the cliff, we returned to our base and had fresh Neera straight from the palm trees. We had our complimentary breakfast at the restaurant and had a few hours in hand before the arrival of the local transport bus. We utilized the same in doing some odd stuffs like playing carom and failed attempts at climbing the palm trees.
All good things come to an end, and so did our little trip to this unexplored beauty off the Konkan coastline. In my opinion, taking these short trips to uncharted places really helps in rejuvenation of mind and soul. Also find out what is your travelling activity before heading for your next trip to make it sorted. On that note, we bid adieu with the search of unexplored places being on.
‘Gadh’, literally means stronghold, have been an integral part of the erstwhile kings and princes in India. It is strategically located across various parts of the country. The forts were the arsenal of rulers to deploy the forces when under attack. Maharashtra has over 300 such forts that played an important role during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s reign. However, one fort holds a special place in the history of Maratha Empire owing to its architectural genius and the folklore attached to it. If your travelling activity accounts for history and architect, then Pratapgadh Fort is your destination. Here’s the account to the valour of Pratapgadh Fort- a testimony to genius, marvel and victory.
Formation Story of the Pratapgadh Fort
Unlike other forts of Maharashtra that were majorly captured, Pratapgadh Fort was constructed by Shivaji Maharaj. It was built under the architectural guidance of Moropant Trimbak Pingle. The fort consists of 4 watchtowers in four directions, armoury, king’s quarters, army quarter, around 450 steps connecting it all. It was all constructed within a span of 2 years. Just imagine!! Around 500 years ago, without the use of heavy machinery and equipment, in a hostile environment, clandestinely stands a stronghold of Maratha bastion.
Complex Illustration
The intriguing part of the construction was that the main door of the gate is not visible from outside. As seen in the photos, an outside glance makes it look like an impregnable wall. But actually, the main gate is hidden behind the rocks, with a series of the curved staircase leading to the door. The curved staircase was an example of an ingenious construction. It protected the fort gate from being taken down by the enemy forces.
On the way up to the top, one can witness the weapons and armoury used at the time. Literally and figuratively, each of the weapons weighs about 20-30 kgs. Also, it is said that an average person then would practice with them for 6-8 hours a day. Clearly shows the strength in the limbs of our ancestors. The highest point of the fort stands on the edge of the 3000 feet high cliff, known as Punishment Point. The place was used to execute the criminals by throwing them down the cliff. A spine-chilling place even now as the cool breeze equivalent to that of an air conditioner with temperature dropped to the lowest. And the view is worth dying for!
Significance of the name given- Pratapgadh
Among all the tales, the fort is well known for one which derived its name. ‘Pratap’ means victory, and the name of the fort is dedicated to the victory of Chhatrapati over the Mughal General Afzal Khan.
Chhatrapati Shivaji’s contemporary ruler was the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. He placed a handsome bounty on Shivaji Maharaj’s head. Afzal Khan was the Mughal General in the Deccan region and he accepted the challenge to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. Setting out a message of peace proposition to Chhatrapati at Pratapgadh, Afzal Khan had planned to kill Shivaji during the meet. Afzal Khan, as it is said, was a monster among men, standing at 7 feet tall and was strong enough to flip a raging bull without breaking a sweat.
Shivaji Maharaj, on receiving the invitation of the peace proposition, went ahead to meet Afzal Khan with 2 of his trusted generals. As they met, Afzal Khan tried to kill Shivaji Maharaj by squeezing his neck. However, Shivaji Maharaj, having anticipated such move, tore open Afzal Khan’s belly using the tiger claws he was wearing on his hands. Withering in pain, Afzal Khan retreated through the tent where one of Shivaji’s bodyguards decapitated him. The trumpet of victory was blown from the fort and hence the fort came to be known as Pratapgadh Fort.
Pratapgadh Fort is just 15 km from the famous hill station of Mahabaleshwar. Also look for other destinations to visit near Pune and Mumbai. Pratapgadh Fort stands tall reminiscing the valiant tales of the glorified Maratha history.
Second capital of Maharashtra, Orange city, Tiger capital, the Geographical center of India, Winter capital…Nagpur is bestowed with many titles. Though any locale will say, Nagpur has nothing to attract the traveler unless you like highway flyovers. Rather this demonstrates the kind of workaday beauty that we miss when we go off in search of the spectacular.
Though having a predominance of students and the emergence of IT sector, Nagpur’s culture is not one of Nightlife, Pubs and Discos. The people here love a quiet and simple life. Nagpur enjoys the privilege of a fast-growing metropolis-in-the- making along with the pleasures of an idyllic and unhurried state of mind. Thus it makes Nagpur an ideal place for a family weekend gateway.
Nagpur is the geographic centre of India. If you look at the dead centre of a map of India, you are pretty much looking at Nagpur. Being in the midst of the Deccan plateau, summers in Nagpur are miserably hot – beginning sometime in March, and lasting until the arrival of the rains in June. Winter is the best season to visit Nagpur, when the temperature is pleasant and perfect to visit.
Top attractions in the City (Nagpur)
Nagpur has something for everyone. Here are the top things to do based on your personality;
The History Fanatics
For history loving people, Nagpur has a lot to offer. There’s a lot of architectural beauty to capture in your camera like High court Building, RBI building, Vidhan Bhavan etc. It was the capital of the British Central Provinces and therefore is blessed with a number of very beautiful British-era administrative buildings.
SEWAGRAM
Located just on the outskirts of Wardha, Gandhiji located his ashram at Sevagram (Seva = service, gram = village). Partially because the poverty of the area enabled him to devote himself to service of the poor. Also, because from here, he could hop on a train and be anywhere in India within 24 hours. Popularly known as ‘Bapu Kuti’, it is a great place to get an insight into the life of the Father of our Nation.
Distance: 75 km from Nagpur
HEDGEWAR SMRITI TEMPLE
Nagpur has played an important role in the political history of India. The militant Hindu nationalist Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a volunteer organization closely tied to the assassination of Gandhi and the rise of the modern Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was founded here in the 1920s. If you are curious to know more about the Indian political party RSS, then Hedgewar Smriti Temple, built in the memory of Dr. Hedgewar, is one of the hidden treasures.
Distance: 4.6 km from Railway Station
DEEKSHABHOOMI
The architect of Indian constitution Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, converted to Buddhism here. Hundreds of Ambedkar’s followers joined him in his conversion, and today there is a great stupa marking the place of conversion. Deeksha Bhoomi, the biggest hollow Stupa in Asia, is a sacred monument of Buddhism. This structure is known for its graceful design and architecture and is a memorial dedicated to Baba Saheb.
Unlike all major metros which are now concrete jungles, Nagpur has admirable green covers and almost pollution free air. It is bounded by national parks and sanctuaries and is known as the tiger capital of India. It also plays host to a wide variety of birds – both resident and migratory. Nagpur is a paradise for nature lovers.
TADOBA NATIONAL PARK
It is one of the most attractive spots in Chandrapur district and is situated in the heart of the reserved forest around 3 to 4 hours from Nagpur. The forest department calls Tadoba the real land of tigers. Also, it is the only sanctuary in the country that is open throughout the year and is the place where tiger sighting chances are very high. The vast Tadoba lake at the middle of the sanctuary is a delight. Deer and sambhar throng the banks, unmindful of the huge presence of crocodiles.
Distance: 144 km from Nagpur
Explore Tiger tales at Tadoba
DEGMA FOREST
This area has three lakes – Jhilpi, Salaimendha and Bhivkund surrounded by scrubland. The quarry is breathtakingly scenic and is an interesting place for birding. The White-eyed Buzzard, Blue Rock Thrush, Crested Swift, Great Tit, Crested Bunting and many other avian have been spotted here. If you are lucky, you may find the mesmerizing Indian Eagle Owl in the scrubland. It is advisable not to venture too deep into the forest though: Degma is the forest corridor to the Bor Tiger reserve.
Gorewada Lake is famous for winter sightings of many beautiful and rare birds and water fowls. The reservoir is surrounded by a small forest, which is lined with many streams that connect to the lake. The area is home to several tiny flycatchers, and you may also find the state bird of Maharashtra in the vicinity. The subtle waters, the birds flying to distances, the sunrise reflecting on the serene waters, helps to connect with oneself. There is a 8 km jungle trail which forms home to the many adventure seekers, nature lovers and photographers to quench their thirst of the early morning tranquility.
Distance: 9 km from Nagpur
KHEKARANALA RESERVOIR
For the nature enthusiasts, bird-lovers and photographers, Khekaranala Reservoir could be a blessing in disguise. The lake is nestled amid teak wood hills forming an ideal spot for the fauna to flock for water. The Shiva temple, located in a natural cave, is also worth a visit. It is an ideal spot for family getaways, weekend escapes, nature trails, photography and overnight camping. The place is among the most beautiful nature sites in the Vidarbha region and among the most popular places to visit in Nagpur.
Nagpur is bestowed with rich culture and golden heritage. Deem your Nagpur trip incomplete if you fail to experience its vibrant festivals and temples. Here is a look at the famous festivals and places of Nagpur that will make you fall in love with its culture and heritage.
An exclusive celebration, Marbat holds a special place in Nagpur. The locals observe this festival during the end of the Hindu month Shravan to safeguard the city by warding off all evil influences. Huge processions are taken out on the streets that carry sculptures depicting evil forces. At the end of the festival, the effigies are burnt and assumed that all evil forces will die along with it. The people of Nagpur celebrate Marbat by praying to the Almighty to grant them optimism in every aspect of life, by indulging in some retail therapy and devouring on mouth-watering food.
THE KALIDASA FESTIVAL
People from all over the world attend this festival to commemorate the great poet, Kalidasa and to know about the rich cultural heritage of India. It is held every year in the month of November for two days at Ramtek. It is the place which inspired the great poet to pen some of his works. One can find a predominant mention of the astounding beauty of this place in his literary works. This festival features some of the well known and greatest exponents of dance, drama and music from all over the country.
This place is popular for its extravagant history and its association with many myths and legends. It is supposed to have been visited by the legendary figure Rama accompanied by his wife Sita. It is popularly believed that if someone vows at the 600 years old Ramtek Temple , his/her life is blessed by the Lord. The temple at the top of Rama hill, is fortified with structures, distinctly of Mughal architecture. Nagardhan is another fort located at 10 km from here, which is a place of beauty.
Khindsi lake located nearby, is a beautiful spot for kayaking, paragliding or hot air ballooning. There is an important archaeological site believed to be the 5th-century remains of Pravarapura, located at Mansar, 7 km from Ramtek.
Ram Dham is India’s first cultural and spiritual park. It perfectly replicates the story of Ramayana with a few modern twists. The main attraction at this site is the biggest OM of the World and folk dances and the magically charming puppet show. Other attractions include a Shivling made of ice and many replicas of Indian temples such as Ashtavinayak and Vaishnodevi. you can take home idols of God as souvenirs on your visit here.
Distance: 49 km from Nagpur
For Everyone
ZEROMILE
It denotes the Center of India. It is not a big draw like Middle of the World monument in Ecuador, which is a major tourist attraction. But just a sandstone pillar with four stone horses, each horse denoting a cardinal direction. Located opposite the Assembly Hall, it is called the Zero Mile Stone and was built by the British, who used this point to measure all the distances.
Most importantly, the city is the hometown of India’s largest maker of sweets and namkeens. When here, don’t forget to savour their mouth-watering food. A must have is their utterly delicious softy which comes for a mere sum of 12 bucks!
Distance: Many branches in different parts of the city
SEMINARY HILLS
A local favourite, Seminary Hill is a small hillock located about 6 km away from the city of Nagpur. One can get an awe-inspiring view of Nagpur from here. Apart from this, the Japanese garden at its foot is one of the main attractions of this place. Telankhedi Hanuman Temple, Futala and Satpura Botanical Garden are other attractions of this hillock. Seminary Hill is an independent tourist hub in itself! Often described as the lungs of Nagpur, Seminary Hill is a sea of green and offers amazing walkways for walkers and joggers.
Featuring a landscaped garden and lush lawns, the Lata Mangeshkar Garden at Surya Nagar in east Nagpur contains a musical fountain which dances to the tunes of Indian classical music. It also houses a huge open-air theatre which can accommodate about 2500 people.
Distance: 7.5 km from the city
FUTALA LAKE
Existing for past 200 years, the Futala Lake furbished with immense finery and magnificence is one of the must visit tourist attractions for all age groups. Surrounded by lush green forest on the 3 sides, the beautiful landscaped chowpatty on the opposite side gives its aesthetic an ethereal feel.
Distance: 5.8 km from the city
How to Reach Nagpur
Nagpur airport, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport has regular flights from all other major cities of the country. Instead, Nagpur Airport is also connected to International cities such as Doha and Sharjah.
Nagpur is also well connected to other major cities of the country via regular trains. Railway Station(s): Nagpur Junction (NGP), Ajni (AJNI), Itwari (ITR), Kalamna (KAV), Khat (KHAT), Tharsa (TAR).
Also, Nagpur is well connected to major road networks. It has good and regular public and private road transport connections.
Where to stay in Nagpur
Nagpur has options of stays in all category. You may get classiest of stays with good locations and services to cheap stays at hotels in the city. You can get good options to stay in the central part of the city. Although, common areas of stay for tourists are in Ramdaspeth. You can also use services like OYO Rooms to get luxury rooms at a very low price.
Thus, Nagpur is a natural wonder ready to be explored. Cultural richness, unique sports, and genuine people make Nagpur a perfect place. Come, visit and know the city with all the titles given to it!