Travel Information: Exploring the Sindhudurg District

Overview

This journey explores the Sindhudurg district in Maharashtra, focusing on Devgad, Kunkeshwar, Achara, Tondavali, and Tarkarli. The trip highlights beaches, temples, mangrove forests, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.

Destinations & Activities

Devgad

Devgad Sea Beach: Visit the beach to observe the golden and white sand.
Windmills: Located by the sea near the beach. 8-10 windmills are present, with most functioning.
Devgad Fort (Devgad Qila): Located on the other side of the plateau from the beach.
Plateau Region: Characterized by laterite stone and abundant Alphonso mango crops.

Kunkeshwar

Ancient Shiva Temple: A historic temple with unique architecture (a mixture of Dravidian and Nagar styles) dating back to the 11th century, reconstructed around 400-500 years ago. Photography and videography are prohibited inside. The deity is 'Swayambhu' (self-appearing) over laterite stone.
Kunkeshwar Beach: Located near the temple.

Achara

Shri Rameshwar Temple: An ancient temple, possibly 1000-1200 years old. It was renovated around 1584. The architecture belongs to the "Faansana style." The outer structure is about 250-300 years old.
Jamdul Island: Located 3 KM from the temple.
Achara Mangrove Forest & Backwaters: Sindhudurg's largest mangrove forest. Offers boat safaris through the mangroves. It has 20 species of mangroves out of the 40 found in India, some unique to Achara.

Tondavali

Tondavali Beach: A secluded beach with backwaters nearby. The village is situated between the beach and the backwaters.

Tarkarli

Tarkarli MTDC Beach Resort: Accommodation available.

Food & Cuisine

Malwani Cuisine: Known for both fish and vegetarian dishes.
Dishes Mentioned:
- Bangda Fish Chutney
- Javla (dry fish preparation)
- Lal Maat ka Sabzi (red leafy vegetable dish)
- Raawas Fry
- Kalva (Oyster)
- Traditional Fish Curry (Tikkla) - gravy made with red chili powder paste and coconut.
- Patoli - dessert made of rice flour and steamed in haldi (turmeric) leaf.
Ingredients & Cooking Styles: Cooking is often done in clay pots. Coconut is a key ingredient. Local spices are used.
Solkadi: A regional specialty drink, consumed after meals to aid digestion. Taste varies based on the type of coconut used.
Bhakri: Flatbread made of rice flour and Jowar flour.

Travel Tips & Insights

Best Time to Visit Mangroves: High tide is preferable for mangrove safaris.
Mangrove Benefits: Mangrove trees absorb CO2, release O2, provide habitats for aquatic life, and prevent soil erosion. They have extensive root systems that protect against cyclones.
Homestays: Consider staying at local homestays for an authentic experience and home-cooked meals.
Road Along the Sea: The road from MTDC Kunkeshwar to Devgad offers scenic views, running alongside the sea for 4-5 KM.
Deviation to Tondavali: The route change can give a more scenic experience.
Tarkarli MTDC Beach Resort: Accommodation tariff is Rs. 2500 per night.
Tsunami Island and Sindhudurg Fort: Places to cover near Malwan.

Additional Notes

The coastal region between Goa and Sindhudurg shares similar food cultures.
Achara is a significant place for devotees, with celebrity artists participating in events during festivals.
Potential for tourism development in smaller villages with boat rides and mangrove tours.