SIGHTS TO SEE

The Sindhudurg Fort, also known as the Ocean Fort, epitomized Maratha power during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Indeed, this naval bastion is a marvel of architecture. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1664, approximately three kilometers out to sea on an island personally selected by the warrior-king, Sindhudurg Fort took over 4000 mounds of iron for casting, and had its foundation firmly grounded in solid lead.

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One approaches the fort by taking a boat from the mainland. Within the fort complex are temples of Maruti, Bhavani, Mahadeo, Jarimari, Mahapurush as well as Chhatrapati Shivaji - the latter being the only such shrine in the country.

Sawantwadi: Here, you might like to visit Shilpagram village and the Tourist Reception Centre. Fill your shopping bag with an array of handicrafts, curios, toys and objects de art, which reflect the artistic spirit of the region.

Malvan City: Situated approximately six kilometres north of Tarkarli is the old Settlement of Malvan, virtually hidden by palm trees. Once a maritime trading center, the place is famous for its saltpans, Chinese clay pottery and, most especially. for its spicy Malvani cuisine, which features seafood and sol kadi. a digestive drink made from coconut milk and kokum.

Tarkarli Beach: Located at the confluence of the Karli River and the Arabian Sea, this idyllic getaway is defined by infinite stretches of golden beaches fringed by lush greenery. Indeed, it is a measure of Tarkarli's escapist appeal that the American luxury cruise ship 'Herbridean Spirit' makes this place a regular port of call.

Redi Ganesh Temple: Folklore has it that Lord Ganesh visited a miner in a dream and asked him to search for an idol of the deity in the mines of Redi. A search revealed a mammoth idol with only two hands as well as a sculpted mouse (Ganesh's traditional form of transport). The Redi Ganesh Temple has been built to commemorate the find.

Vijaydurg: Vijaydurg, or Victory Fort, was fortified during the early 17th Century by Chhatrapati Shivaji, to whom it owes its finest features - the triple line of walls. The numerous towers and the massive interior structures.

Kunkeshwar Temple: Built around AD 1 100 by the Yadava rulers, the exquisitely carved Kunkeshwar Temple is a paragon of sculptural excellence and is surrounded by coconut, palm and mango plantations. The place is worth exploring and is a popular holiday destination.

Amboli: Situated 690 meters above sea level, this verdant hillstation in Sawantwadi makes a great summer retreat. Proudly referred to as the "Mahabaleshwar of the Konkan" Amboli draws visitors to its waterfalls (especially impressive during the rains) and the sea-view point, which offers a panoramic view of the Konkan coastline. The neighbouring Manohargad and Mansantoshgad forts are also worth visiting.

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Location: Sindhudurg Fort is located on the southernmost edge ofthe Maharashtra coast.

Languages spoken: Marathi, Hindi and English.

Climate and clothing: Dry, pleasant weather. Light cool cottons are recommended. Beachwear is a must.

WHERE TO STAY

MTDC Holiday Resort: The resort at Tarkarli has 10 cottages with 20 sea-facing double bedrooms and one houseboat.

Reservation: Mumbai and Kolhapur & other MTDC Offices.

GETTING THERE

By Air - The nearest international airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai.

By Rail - The nearest railhead is Sindhudurg nagari on the Konkan Railway. Kankavali and Kudal are the other important railway stations Nagari

By Road - Mumbai - Tarkarli: 540 km

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