The beauty of Konkan is hard to explain in words and can only be experienced. It has a diversity of geographical marvels as well as heritage sites may it be the verdant serene hills or the well-maintained beaches. It is also known for its architectural beauty which can be seen in the temples located in the region.
The area has been an important site since prehistoric times and various idols of the mother goddess have been excavated which signifies how it has been a religious centre since the primordial era. Below listed are some of the most significant temples in the Konkan region:
FAMOUS TEMPLES IN KONKAN
- Shree Mahaganpati Temple, Ganpatipule
- Velneshwar Shiva Temple
- Kunkeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Marleshwar Shiva Temple
- Harihareshwar Temple
- Girye Rameshwar Temple
Shree Mahaganpati Temple, Ganpatipule
Shree Kshetra Ganpatipule is considered to be the most famous and leading holy place in entire Maharashtra. This beautiful place is situated on the sea coast at a distance of 25 kms from Ratnagiri. This pilgrimage is known as the protector deity, a ‘Paschim Dwar Devata’ of India’s western region and those visiting Ganpatipule make it a point to pay their respect to this deity. The temple of Swayambhu is frequented by thousands every year. The 400 year old Ganpati idol at Ganpatipule is said to have sprung up from the earth. The temple is situated right on the beach at the base of a hill and devotes and pilgrims walk around the hill (1 km pradakshina) as a mark of respect.
There are many luxurious hotels in this area and you can also easily find an economical home stay accommodation here.
Shree Mahaganpati, Ganpatipule
Velneshwar Shiva Temple
This is a 500-year-old shrine located near Velneshwar Beach in Konkan and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Velneshwar beach is an offbeat location not known by many, hence it provides a serene and peaceful experience. The temple’s inner chambers are decorated with paintings and scenes from the mythologies leaving the visitors in awe.
The Velneshwar Shiva temple is located right at the mouth of the way leading to the pristine Velneshwar beach. The village is built around this ancient temple. The deep stambh is the first thing that one would notice of the temple. Along with Lord Shiva, there are multiple smaller temples within the temple complex. The temple was recently painted and currently has a very contemporary and bright color scheme.
Velneshwar Temple
Kunkeshwar Mahadev Temple
It is also known as Kashi of the South and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated in Kunkeshwar village and was built in 1100 by the Yadavas and was later renovated by the Great Maratha King Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The temple is a great example of Konkani architecture and is adorned with carvings and sculptures inside and out. The Kunkeshwar beach is also located in close proximity to the temple and is known for its white sand and dolphins.
Kunkeshwar Temple
Marleshwar Shiva Temple
Marleshwar is a famous worshipping place for Shiva followers. Situated in the arms of the Sahyadri, this temple is literal heaven. The towering mountains and lush green forest surround the temple providing bewitching calmness. Roaring seasonal waterfalls add to the beauty. This sanctum and Shivlinga is in a naturaly created cave. Steps from the base to the temple are lined with shops of local vendors. The area near the temple is well-developed, and the viewing gallery catch attention of the viewer immediately. A huge crowd gathers here for the Mahashivratri festival. It has a small platform that gives a view of the Dhareshwar waterfalls.
Marleshwar Temple
Harihareshwar Temple
Harihareshwar Temple, is a Hindu temple located at Harihareshwar town in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. There are two temples adjacent to each other in the temple complex. One of them is of Lord Kalbhairav which is small as compared to the main temple but needs to be visited first and the other is the main Harihareshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva created Kalbhairava and blessed him with all the mantras. This temple is also known as ‘Devghar’ which translates to ‘House of God’ as it is said to be blessed by the Almighty himself. The Harihareshwar beach near the temple is also a must-visit as one can observe the Sahyadri hills on one side and the vast serene waves on the other.
Harihareshwar Temple is one of the most renowned temples in the Konkan region of Maharashtra and among the most famous places to visit to as part of the Konkan Tour Packages.
Harihareshwar Temple
Girye Rameshwar Temple
Just 3km from Vijaydurg, Rameshwar Temple is the place of devotional faith. Shri Dev Rameshwar Temple is located in village Rameshwar Wadi in Devgad taluka of Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India. This temple is dedicated to Hindu deity Lord Shiva, also known as Lord Rameshwar. It is a historic temple built in the 16th century. It’s chief interest is the approach about 250 yards long, cut through rock 50 feet deep. The idol, a 4-armed figure riding a bull, is made up of silver and weighs around 45 kgs.
Girye Rameshwar Temple
The temple has been renovated multiple times throughout its history, especially by the Marathas which presents a contrasting and unique style of architecture created over a long period of time.
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