Ratnagiri might be synonymous with Alphonso mangoes, but are you aware of all the natural beauty and rich history it’s blessed with? It truly won nature’s lottery card as you’ll find the Sahyadri ranges bordering the east, the west with stunning beaches, and forts that have lived some stories we’ve read so much in our history books. So, enjoy a weekend in Ratnagiri and become an expert on everything it has to offer.
Day One In Ratnagiri
- Ratnadurg Fort
- Mandavi Beach
- The Carrom Restaurant
- Thiba Palace
- Table Point
1. Ratnadurg Fort
Start your morning with a strong dose of history as you halt at Ratnadurg Fort. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, this fort gives you a glimpse of all the picturesque scenery that’s scattered around Ratnagiri.
It’s built in the shape of a horseshoe and divided into three sections. Take a stroll along the remnants and you’ll find a bastion and four cannons that are decades old. On the fourth side of the fort, there’s a lighthouse that’s open to tourists but you cannot visit the inside without permission.
2. Mandavi Beach
Before the sun is high up in the sky, visit your very first beach in Ratnagiri! Mandavi Beach is only a few minutes away from the fort and is laden with kiosks and stalls for you to have your morning snacks.
Mandavi Beach boasts a black sand shoreline, giving it the name ‘Black Sea Beach’. It’s also recognized as the gateway to Ratnagiri because of the bastion that rests at the head of the bay. Don’t be surprised if you reach a little late and find it bustling with people; it’s one of the busiest beaches in Maharashtra. All the more reason to reach here before the crowds. But yes, those with a thirst for water sports adventure must stick around this beach!
3. The Carrom Restaurant
Time to fill some empty tummies! Whether you’re in the mood for a cheesy chicken pizza, a BBQ burger, or a creamy marinara pasta, the menu here is filled with delicious items that’ll have your mouth watering even before you order. Remember that the portions here are generous, making The Carrom Restaurant an absolute value for its money. End your meal with a refreshing Green Apple Iced Tea or Mocha Frappe.
Price: Starting From INR 200
Address: Javkar Plaza, Jayastambha, Ratnagiri
4. Thiba Palace
This three-story palace was built by the British to keep Thiba, the king of Burma, hostage. One of the very first things you’ll encounter after entering the palace is the marble-floored dancing hall (very fairytale-like). It only gets better as you move past dome-shaped windows and wooden flooring.
This grand palace in Ratnagiri is now converted into a museum bearing artifacts of King Thiba during his exile. It also comes with a 27-acre garden and if you walk to the very end of the cliff, you’ll behold the Arabian Sea, Someshwar Creek, and Bhatye Beach.
5. Table Point
With so much beauty, catching a sunset should be a must! Before wrapping up for the day, make your way to the Table Point. You get to feel like you’re on top of the world with an aerial view of Bhatye Beach and the Arabian Sea. Keep your cameras ready to watch the sun sink beneath the horizon, painting the sky shades of pink and orange.
Day Two In Ratnagiri
- Cafe +
- Pawas
- Ganeshgule Beach And Temple
- Purnagad Fort
- Cafe Cloud
1. Cafe +
Out of bed yet? Head to Cafe + for that much-needed caffeine and a delicious breakfast. Order a cold coffee and pair it with a freshly prepared grilled sandwich. If you can handle spice, get the spicy corn sandwich; it’ll wake you right up. They also have wraps and snacks like cheese and jalapeno poppers, tandoori mayo fries, and chicken popcorn.
Price: Starting from INR 30
Address: Shop No. 31, Lala Complex, Gogate College Road, Rajiwada, Ratnagiri
2. Pawas
After a heavy breakfast, make your day soulful by visiting Pawas. This hidden pilgrimage is visited by plenty of devotees to pay their respects to Sri Swami Swarupanand. He chose Pawas to be the place for his Samadhi and now a temple stands on those very grounds. You can spend some time in the peaceful premises of the temple or ask around about Swami’s teachings. The locals have many stories to tell.
3. Ganeshgule Beach And Temple
If the overwhelming crowd at Mandavi went against your liking, you can now enjoy some quiet time at this isolated beach. Ganeshgule Beach is laced with small hillocks, white sands, and pristine water. Spend some time swimming in the Arabian Sea or sunbathing as you hear the waves crashing in the distance.
After you’re done, head to the Ganesh temple nearby. To acquaint you with the local lore, the Lord Ganesh idol is considered to be self-created (Swayambhu). Before moving to Ganapatipule, the idol was in Ganeshgule. His navel was a source of a stream and it was named as Gomukh which stopped one day, apparently that’s when he’s said to move. You can get more information from the amicable locals when visiting the temple.
4. Purnagad Fort
Believed to be constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Purnagad Fort is atop a mountain that’s at the confluence of Muchkundi Creek and the Arabian Sea. At the door of the main entrance, you’ll see carvings of Lord Ganesha, the Moon, and the Sun. There are also two humongous bastions next to the door. This rugged fort now houses remnants of the Killedar’s (the governor of the fort) residence and Shiva Temple.
5. Cafe Cloud
By the time you’re back, the moon would be up and your stomach would be grumbling. Go straight to Cafe Cloud in Ratnagiri and feast on pizzas with the softest crusts and full of saucy goodness. Get the Chicken BBQ Pizza if you like it loaded with toppings or the Chicken Makhani Pizza for minimal toppings. They also have vegetarian options like a Mexican Pizza and the classic Margherita.
Price: Starting from INR 90
Address: Indradhanu Apartment, Karlekar Wadi, S.V. Road Near Government Polytechnic College, Ratnagiri
Summing Up
This Ratnagiri weekend itinerary does not do justice to the amount of fun you’ll actually have following it. All of these places are full of lore, history, and a jolly good time. So, pack your bags and embrace the beauty Ratnagiri offers.
FAQs
Is Ratnagiri A City Or A Village?
Ratnagiri is a port city that is on the Arabian Sea’s coast.
Which Hill Station Is Near Ratnagiri?
Dapoli, a hill station in Ratnagiri district is nearest to the city. Dapoli offers breathtaking views and beaches.
Which Fruit Is Grown In Ratnagiri?
Alphonso mangoes, the famous fruit grown in Ratnagiri, can be hanging from the trees. Ratnagiri is one of the biggest producers of these mangoes.
