Chiplun & Konkan Region Travel Guide

Overview

This travelogue focuses on Chiplun and the surrounding Konkan coastal region of Maharashtra, India. It highlights key attractions, local cuisine, cultural insights, and practical travel tips.

Key Locations & Activities

• Chiplun: A town on the Mumbai-Goa highway, ideal for a stopover.
• Lord Parshuram Temple: A historically and culturally significant temple, dedicated to Lord Parshuram. It features idols of Kaam and Kaal alongside Lord Parshuram, representing the holy trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh). Noteworthy for its construction being supported by people of different faiths (Hindu, Muslim, Christian).
• Amraban Resort (near Chiplun, 7 km away): Accommodation with double occupancy rooms available for Rs. 1700. Offers traditional Konkani breakfast.
• Crocodile Safari (Gowalkot Dhakka, Vashishti River): A 1.5-hour boat tour costs Rs. 1800. Best time for crocodile spotting is from November to June. The Vashishti River depth is about 12-13 feet, but reduces to 3-4 feet during May.
• Sawat Sada Waterfall: A scenic waterfall easily accessible from the Mumbai-Goa highway. Short walk from the road, path can be slippery during the rainy season.
• Govindgad Fort: A fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, visible from a distance during clear weather.
• Konkan Railways: A train journey between Chiplun and Ratnagiri, featuring tunnels, including a 7 km long tunnel.
• Ganpatipule: Known for clean beaches, MTDC accommodation is available with suites costing Rs. 5600 and rooms starting from Rs. 1700.

Food & Cuisine

• Traditional Konkani Breakfast:
  • Wade: Deep-fried, multigrain fritters made primarily from rice flour (Chawal ka Aata) and dal, often eaten with spicy coconut chutney.
  • Gharage: Made from rice flour and pumpkin puree, sweetened with jaggery and eaten with ghee.
• Lunch in Chiplun:
  • Whole Masoor Dal: Lentil dish prepared with local spices.
  • Kulth (Horsegram) Ka Pithla: A dish made from horsegram.
  • Chicken Sukka: Dry chicken dish with local spices, served with Wada and Chawal ki Bhakri (rice flatbread).
  • Bhakri: Flatbreads made from rice flour, Jowar (sorghum), etc.
• Modak:
  • Ukadiche Modak: A traditional steamed Modak with an outer layer of rice flour and a stuffing of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. Best enjoyed fresh and hot with ghee.
  • Flavored Modak (e.g., Mango, Strawberry): A modern twist on Modak, using crushed fruits and coconut, with a shelf life of approximately 20 days. Available at Ganesh Krupa shop, 45km from Chiplun.
  • Ratnagiri Haphoos (Alphonso) Mango Modak flavor

Travel Tips & Practical Information

• Location: Chiplun is located on the Mumbai-Goa highway (NH-66). Mumbai (South Mumbai) is about 240 km away, and Goa is about 320 km away.
• Best Time to Visit for Crocodile Spotting: November to June.
• Population of Chiplun: Approximately 1 to 1.25 lakh.
• Local Transport: The Mumbai-Goa highway passes through Chiplun, making it easily accessible.
• Accommodation near Chiplun: Amraban Resort.

Points of Interest

• Historical Significance of Konkan Region: According to legend, the Konkan region was created when Lord Parshuram asked the Sea God to retreat, revealing the land for his meditation.
• Mangrove Forests: Mangroves play a crucial role in preserving the soil.
• Konkan Railways Journey: The train journey between Chiplun and Ratnagiri is a scenic experience with tunnels and mountain views.