Saturday, October 29, 2016

Chiplun, A River Runs Through It


Chiplun, in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district, lies on the Mumbai-Goa driving route and makes for the perfect short break. Here, surrounded by unspoiled nature, you can slow down and find an antidote for city-included stress.


Chiplun is also known as the abode of Lord Parshurama and has a famous temple dedicated to him. The Vashishti river meanders through the little town, lending it a definite serenity. It looks spectacular in the morning light. Sunsets across the river are another of Chiplun's top attractions and you must catch one, too. 
On weekend trip to Chiplun visit the 300-years-old Parshurama temple, which draws scores of devotees. Go also to the Marleshwar temple. Spend some time at the Shivaji museum which showcases various aspects of the life of Chhattrapati Shivaji. 


Ten km from Chiplun, set in the Vashishti river, is the small island of Gowalkot which houses a fort dating back to 1690. This is a big draw for trekkers who reach the top of the fort to be rewarded with superb views. The route to Nageshwar Temple is also popular with tekkers and exhilarating without being too difficult. The laterite Pandava Caves  are also must-see when you are in Chiplun. With the monsoon just receding, the Sawatsada Falls, not far from the Parasurama Temple, will be in full flow and are well worth visiting as is the Koyna Dam. The Nehru Smriti Udyan is a good spot from which to take in this awe-inspiring dam.


Getting There: Chiplun is 320 km from Mumbai and makes for a hotel that has a river view.

Stay: There are local plenty of accommodation choices in Chiplun. Look for a hotel that has a river view.

Eat: Eat the local Malvan cuisine when in Chiplun. The seafood is excellent and the jack fruit chips are a speciality.



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