Think about tourist destinations in Maharashtra and instantly Matheran, Alibaug, Ratnagiri etc. will cross your mind. Contrary to the common believe Konkan region of Maharashtra is rich in many undiscovered beaches, forts, hill stations and temples. Let's take a closer look:
Murud-Janjira
About 165 kms from Mumbai, is Murud Janjira, which is popular for its alluring beach and whispering casuarinas, coconut and betel palms. The Murud-Janjira fort, which took 22 years to build, was one of the most impregnable forts. Despite being battered on all four sides by the sea, the walls of the fort are still intact.
Kuda Caves
Situated in the Raigad District, the thirteen Kuda Caves are an architect's delight. The first cave is a stupa (typical of Buddhist architecture) with ancient inscriptions on the walls. The caves are protected by a rock carved structure of an elephant standing as a guard at the entrance. Should you feel the need to catch a quick nap during your visit, you could consider the rock carved benches used by the monks!
Diveagar Beach
Diveagar beach is approximately 200 kms from Mumbai. The beach derives its name from the temple in Dive village, which does not need a lamp, because the soft rays of the evening sun and the strong rays of the morning sun illuminate the temple. Hence, the name "Diveagar" (Dive as in light and 'agar' as in place) came. Considered one of the safest beaches in the Konkan, bird watchers can look forward to catch a glimpse of the flocks of migrating seagulls.
Raigad Fort
Raigad fort, which is about 210 kms from Mumbai was the crowning glory of the Maratha Empire. Raigad remains a trekker's paradise. You can also visit Gangasagar Lake or pay homage at the nearby Jagadishwar Temple.
Suvarnadurg Fort
Famous as the first sea fort from where Maratha power surged to glory, the Suvarnadurg fort was cut out of solid rock with huge square blocks used to raise the ramparts. The postern on the western side allowed the Marathas to make a stealthy entry from the sea. The main gate of the fort was hidden and opened on the coastal side towards the east. The Suvarnadurg Fort served as the base for the Maratha ship building facility. It was linked to the land fort (Kanakdurg) by a secret under-water tunnel. The history buff in you ought to check it out.
Dapoli
Popularly known as 'mini Mahableshwar', the British selected Dapoli as their military camp. If the cold at 800 feet above sea level gets unbearable, you could take a dip in the natural hot water springs at Unhaware village, 10 kms from Dapoli. A bath in the hot sulphur water springs believed to have curative properties.
Murud Harnai
South of the old Harnai fort, the palm-fringed 3 km Murud beach is probably the flattest on the coast. In winter, you might see a few dolphins. Don't leave without visiting Goa Killa and the famous rock-cut monument at Panhale Kazi.