Maharashtra

Shinde Wadi hills is famous among the Kamshet attractions as one of the best paragliding spots. However, it is also known for its ravishing sunrise and sunset view. One should surely visit this place early in the morning to get a look at the enthralling sunrise providing you with peace. Traverse along with the bounties of Shinde wadi hills as the greenery and refreshing cool winds will make you fall in love with this spot. Places to visit in Kamshet are numerous yet this place will never disappoint you in any way. Spotted at a height of 200 feet, the hills will enchant you with the best experience of paragliding. Location: 2 kilometers from KamshetBest Time: February-May and October-December

Cave exploration in Kamshet is incomplete without visiting the Buddhist Bedse Caves, which are said to be built in the first century. Like most caves, these also have a dark, damp, and mystic allure about them. As you enter, you will see a temple with ancient carvings of elephants, horses, etc. on the walls. A beautifully carved ceiling and pillars arch the monastery inside, which is a must-see. This is one of the best places to visit in Kamshet to spend time meditating or simply being with oneself in the silent & serene environs of the caves. Location: 10 kilometres from Kamshet.Best time: Monsoons months of June-September.

These caves, one of the oldest in Maharashtra, are one of the most popular places to visit in Kamshet. Located on a high rocky area, they are reachable through a hike on very rocky terrain. Once there, you will be rewarded with beautiful and majestic views of these intriguing caves. An ancient site for animal sacrifices, it is said that the practice is still followed here. You can even see some utensils kept here. Spend some time here taking in panoramic views of the twin forts of Rajmachi, Shrivardhan, and Manoranjan surrounded by the tranquillity of nature.  Location: The caves are located in Jambhivali, which is 20 kilometres from Kamshet.Best time: February- May, and October- December.

Uksan Lake is one of those places that promise to take you into a peaceful and blissful space, away from the chaos of city life. This is a small oasis-like place that is framed by hills and forests, lending it a beautiful appearance.It is a great place to hike, swim, night camp, barbeque, or just sit by the lakeside and hear the water rustling around you. Seeing the sunset or sunrise here is also a great experience. The lake waters swell up and the surrounding greens look even more luxuriant during and after the rains. Location: 14 kilometres from Kamshet.  Best time: The lake is best visited after the monsoon months of June-September.

Among the most popular places to visit in Ganpatipule, the stunning beach is the major attraction for tourists. Lined by verdant green palm trees and mangroves and washed by the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea, the unspoiled beach presents a mesmerizing panorama. Travellers flock to the beach all year round to enjoy a quiet time away from the bustle of the city.In monsoons, the rain-washed beach and the roaring sea waves are sure to enchant you. The fresh sea breeze blowing in the balmy summer evenings will refresh your body and mind. In the mild winters, this destination becomes the hotspot for exhilarating adventure sports.Families can bond over laidback beach games, and couples can enjoy intimate moments in the delightful backdrop of the sun and the sea. Regardless of your age and preference, Ganpatipule Beach will captivate you.Location: 37 km from Mumbai, Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra.Timings: All-day.

The town is known as Ganpatipule because Ganpati, the lord of the masses, resides on the fine white sand called ‘pule’ in the famous Swayambhu Ganpati Temple here. This temple is the principal attraction among the places to visit in Ganpatipule.Thousands of pilgrims pay homage to the naturally-created idol of Lord Ganesha, which is believed to be self-incarnate. Unlike other Hindu temples, the deity here faces the west, and is considered one of the Paschim Dwar Devatas or gods who guard the west.The sanctum of the shrine remains alluringly illuminated by the golden rays of the sun. Pradakshina or perambulations of the hill on top of which the temple is built are considered sacred. The town reverberates with the enchanting beats of drums when prayers are offered to the deity every morning and evening, which creates a deeply spiritual ambience.Location: 1km from Ganpatipule bus stand.Timing: Daily 5:00am-9:00pm.

This 16th-century fort is one of the most notable tourist places in Ganpatipule, standing tall withstanding the tests of time. The fort was built on a cliff overlooking the Jaigad creek at the confluence of River Shastri and the Arabian Sea, to protect one of the major ports of the era.The remains of this majestic architectural splendour, extending over 13 acres at an elevation of 250 feet above sea level, will spellbind you. A moat that used to be filled with water as a protection against invaders surrounds the structure.Most of the outer walls and ramparts are intact, connected by robust bastions. If you climb the stairways, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the creek from the upper fortress. In the centre of the construction lies the palace of Shivaji’s commander-in-chief Kanhoji Angre.Location: Near Jaigad Village, approximately 20 km to the north-west of Ganpatipule.Timings: 9am to 4.30pm.