Dapoli
The sunlight filters through the leaves of tall coconuts, making a pretty mosaic on the red soil. Quaint cottages, with thatched, sloping roofs and neat courtyards peak out of the groves, as birds coo a melody, fluttering in the canopy of the trees. The wind steals through the leaves, bringing with it the fragrance of the sea. Somewhere, a temple bell clangs, resonating in the tranquility and you can hear snatches of joyful laughter. Such is the beauty of the idyllic town of Dapoli. Located in Konkan, Dapoli offers the best of both worlds – shimmering sea, pristine beaches, but a cool climate that will remind you of Mahabaleshwar! Indeed, Dapoli has often been called Konkan’s Mahabaleshwar for precisely this reason. Located about eight kilometres from the coastline, Dapoli is a small, sleepy town that has stepped into the 21st century without letting go of the old world sentiments.
Dapoli exemplifies Konkan’s spirit. Lush, verdant coconut groves populate the region, and the shimmering sea laps the pristine beaches, which stretch for miles. Though the town of Dapoli itself is quite charming, there are a lot of other places of interest around it.
One of the best spots to visit is the Panhalekajhi caves. More than 1000 years old, these rock cut caves are a testament to our glorious history. Located alongside the bank of the river Kotjai, these caves – 29 in number – are vaguely reminiscent of the architectural marvels of Ajanta. They belonged to various Hindu and Buddhist sects. During the monsoons, waterfalls cascade down the rock face, framing the caves in frothing showers. Dense forest surrounds these caves, and the river, though not exceptionally swift is said to be the abode of a few crocodiles. Nothing like a hint of danger, we say! Don’t forget to visit the Chandika Mata temple, located some distance away from these caves. Said to have been constructed in the time of the Pandavas, this ancient temple is beautiful, and utterly enchanting.
Murud, a small village is located closeby to Dapoli. It has the same name as Murud, the town where the fort of Janjira is located, and hence is often referred to as Murud-Harnai. Coconut trees line the meandering roads, and dolphins can be spotted cavorting, in the sea. The ride lasts for about an hour, in which you are taken into the sea, near the places where dolphins are usually spotted. Most of the men, who run this business are strongly committed and will not end the ride before you spot at least one dolphin. The dolphins are extremely beautiful, majestic creatures, which leap and dive with an amazing speed, making it very difficult to capture them on camera. Hence it is often better to tuck away the camera and surrender to the amazing experience of the dancing dolphins, with the sun on your cheeks and the wind in your hair.
Another must visit spot near Dapoli is Harnai. If you are passionate about fish, you cannot afford to pass this up. This coastal village depends on fishing for its livelihood, and hosts spectacular fish auctions. Varieties of pomfret, mackerels and lobsters, prawns and squids are sold here in great amounts. There is an option of entering into the fray to bid on succulent, fresh catch, which can be dished up later as your dinner! Near Harnai, are the forts of Suvarnadurga and Kanakdurga. Built during the reign of Adil Shah, but later captured by Shivaji Maharaj, the forts are glorious reminders of the naval prowess of Shivaji Maharaj. Suvarnadurga is a sea fort, and is located on a small island in the Arabian Sea, while Kanakdurga is the land fort. There are rumours of a secret tunnel which connected these two forts earlier on; it is also that the secret tunnel is now defunct. While no regular boats convey visitors to this desolate, but enticing sea fort, many fishermen are willing to convey you from the land to the fort.
Near Dapoli is the exotic beach of Ladghar. This unique beach is known as ‘tamas teerth’, because some part of the sea appears red in colour. Untouched by the rampant commercialism we see in more popular destinations, Ladghar is a throwback to the simpler times. Dolphin rides are also available here! It is a wonderful experience to lounge on the grainy sand, and watch the sun set, and the sea shimmer, as if thousands of rubies have been strewn on its surface.
Near Dapoli lies the beautiful temple of Anjarle. Anjarle beach is quite famous for its unspoilt beauty. It’s fine white sand, and turquoise waters make it an instant favourite with the tourists. Tall palms populate the area near the beach, enhancing its beauty. It is easily accessible from Harnai village. The renowned ‘Kadyawarcha Ganpati’ temple is located here. Literally meaning ‘Ganpati on the cliff’, this magnificent temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The trunk of the idol is curved to the right, making it extremely rare. Dense groves surround the temple, enhancing its beauty.
Another famous temple located near Dapoli is that of Parshuram, the immortal sage. It is located between the villages of Ade and Kelshi, both of which have superb beaches. Built during the reign of the Peshwas, the temple is a magnificent piece of architecture.
Dapoli has something to offer everyone – clean beaches, tranquil temples and thick forests. This gem of the Konkan coast is an ideal weekend destination, or can be explored over a whole week at length. Delicious konkani cuisine, the gentle lullaby of the sea, and lazy afternoons on the fine sandy beaches – what more can one want? Come with us to Konkan, to live the laidback life of the past! Explore a beautiful region that remains a well-kept secret for the few who have been lured into silently visiting this region again and again.
Image credits: Wikimedia commons – AshLin, Munz007, yogayogganpatipule.com, westernroutes.com, flickr
