Travel Information: Harihareshwar, Raigad & Dapoli, Maharashtra

Overview

This journey explores Harihareshwar in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, with a planned visit to Raigad Fort and a potential trip to Dapoli in the Ratnagiri district. The trip emphasizes experiencing local culture, cuisine, and historical sites.

Harihareshwar Highlights

• Location: Raigad district, Maharashtra.
• Accommodation:
  • MTDC Resort: Room cost Rs. 2800 + taxes. Sea view rooms are available.
  • Cottages near the resort: Tariff Rs. 3200 + taxes on weekends (availability may be limited).
• Natural Beauty:
  • Calm and serene environment.
  • Khaadi (bay) and Arabian Sea views.
  • Sangam (confluence) point of the Savitri River and the Arabian Sea. Pillars mark the river's flow.
  • Rocky beach - be cautious of slippery rocks, especially during the rainy season. Best experienced during low tide.
• Harihareshwar Temple:
  • Historical Significance: Believed to date back to Satyug; Rishi Agastya meditated here; Pandavas (from Mahabharat) believed to have visited.
  • Managed by the descendants of the Peshwa family.
  • Two temples to visit: Shri Kaal Bhairav Temple (visit first and last) and the main Harihareshwar Temple. Both are within the same compound.
  • Located next to the sea beach; waves touch the outer boundary of the temple.
  • Prohibited: Videography/photography inside the main temple.
• Best Time to Visit: During Deepawali (October/November) for the most tourists.
• Beach Conditions: Covered during high tide; visible during low tide (up to 200m uncovered).
• Parking: Large parking space available outside the temple.
• Nearby Accommodation: Sea-facing hotel next to parking: Double occupancy at Rs. 3000. 6-bed hut available for Rs. 3500 (includes 2 bathrooms).

Pachad & Raigad Fort

• Pachad: Base point to ascend to Raigad Fort.
• Raigad Fort Access:
  • Ropeway: Typically takes 5 minutes, but was closed for maintenance (3 days). Check availability.
  • Trekking: Takes 2-2.5 hours to climb on foot.
• Accommodation in Pachad: Sakshi Niwas - Double occupancy room for Rs. 1200.
• Rajmata Jijabai Smarak:
  • Jijamata Wada: Nationally protected monument (Rajwada).
  • Sadar: Where Rajmata Jijabai used to sit during sunrise.
  • Takyachi Veer: Stone throne where Rajmata Jijabai used to watch the sunset.
  • Kala Houd: Water reservoir used to store rainwater.
  • Samadhi (Tomb): Located half a km from the Rajwada. Cremation site of Rajmata Jijau.
  • Potential future developments: Laser show, light and sound show, and a museum.
• Adverse Conditions Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans.
• Waterfalls Seasonal waterfalls appear during the rainy season on the mountainside near Pachad.

Local Cuisine

• Poha: Popular breakfast item in the region.
• Pithla Bhakhri:
  • Pithla: Made with besan (gram flour) and routine spices.
  • Bhakri: Flatbread made with Jowar (Sorghum) flour.
  • Thecha: Chutney made with green chilies, peanuts, kokum, and garlic (very spicy). Red chili and coconut chutney is also available.
• Solkadhi: Drink made with coconut milk and Kokum. Homely Solkadhi is available in Pachad; Alibaug is known for a "hotel taste" version.

Travel Considerations

• Rainy Season: Expect heavy rains, especially in higher altitude areas. Pack accordingly.
• Road Travel: Travel time from Harihareshwar to Raigad Fort is approximately 2.5 hours (non-stop).
• Alternative Plans: Have flexible plans due to weather conditions. Dapoli or Guhagar are potential alternative destinations.
• Clothing Carry extra pairs of footwear as shoes may get wet during the rainy season.

Potential Future Travel

• Kolhapur-Satara region.
• Mahabaleshwar and Pratapgarh Fort.
• Revisiting this area via Mahad.