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Dategad Fort, located in Maharashtra, is a historical and archaeological site with a rich history worth exploring. It’s an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The fort sits on varied terrain, offering stunning views of deep valleys, making it popular with tourists seeking adventure. Visitors can explore its historical structures, walk around the fort, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to plan your visit to this remarkable historical site.
Location
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Dategad Fort’s location is in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India, near Kinhawali village. Approximately 300 km from Mumbai, it serves as a suitable weekend destination. The fort is perched atop a hill, providing a commanding view of the surrounding valleys and hills. Built during the Maratha period, it held military importance as a fortified structure.
How To Reach
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By Road: Dategad is easily accessible by road. From Mumbai, take the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66) and drive towards Chiplun. From Chiplun, the fort is a 40 km drive to Kinhawali village, where a short trek takes you to the fort.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Dategad is Chiplun, located about 40 km away. From Chiplun, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Kinhawali village.
By Air: The closest airport to Dategad is Ratnagiri Airport, located about 120 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the fort.
Places To Visit Around Dategad Fort
Here is a list of the top five places to visit in and around Dategad to make your trip a memorable one:
1. Ganpatipule Temple
Photo: Pdsaw / Wikimedia Commons
Ganpatipule Temple, located on the Konkan coast, is a renowned religious site dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple, situated by the beach, houses a naturally-formed idol of Lord Ganesha, known as a Swayambhu. This makes it one of the most revered Ganesh temples in Maharashtra. Beyond its religious significance, the temple is set amidst beautiful surroundings, offering a beautiful experience for visitors.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: Free
2. Thiba Palace
Photo: Kumbhar Pranav / Wikimedia Commons
Thiba Palace in Ratnagiri is an architectural delight built by the British government in 1910. It was the palace of the latter king of Burma (Myanmar), King Thibaw, who was overthrown and sent to prison along with his queen by the British. The palace is a fascinating mix of European and traditional Indian architecture, with large halls, teak wood furnishings, and a picturesque garden. Today, it houses a museum showcasing artefacts from the British period and the history of King Thibaw’s exile.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹5 per person
3. Marleshwar Temple
Photo: Pranav / Wikimedia Commons
Marleshwar Temple is a famous cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst the Sahyadri mountain ranges. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls, offering a breathtaking sight, especially during the monsoon. It is located inside a cave, and visitors need to trek up to reach the temple, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. The temple is also known for the ‘Marleshwar waterfall,’ which is a major attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
4. Ratnadurga Fort
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
Ratnadurga Fort is a horseshoe-shaped fort situated in Ratnagiri, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It was built during the reign of the Bahmani Sultanate and later controlled by the Marathas. The fort played a crucial role in coastal defence and offers a mesmerising view of the sea from its ramparts. The fort is surrounded by dense greenery and has a well-preserved structure with ancient bastions. One of the key attractions within the fort is a lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and coastline.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free
5. Velneshwar Beach
Photo: Andrew Coelho / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only
Velneshwar Beach, located near Guhagar, is an untouched gem in the Ratnagiri district. Known for its clean sands and calm waters, the beach is a great spot for relaxation and spending quiet time away from the crowds. The beach is surrounded by dense coconut groves, making it a picturesque destination. Velneshwar is also famous for its ancient Shiva temple, which draws pilgrims during the Maha Shivaratri festival.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
Where To Stay
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Ratnagiri and nearby Chiplun offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs. In Ratnagiri, you can find budget-friendly lodges like Hotel Abhishek, which offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates, and mid-range hotels such as Hotel Sanman. For a more luxurious experience, Tarakarama Beach Resort features spacious rooms with stunning sea views and upscale amenities. Chiplun also boasts the River View Resort, which provides a serene atmosphere along the river.
Where To Eat
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In Chiplun and Ratnagiri, several eateries and restaurants offer traditional Konkani cuisine, allowing visitors to savour the region’s culinary delights. In Chiplun, Hotel Radhakrishna is known for its authentic seafood dishes. Another local favourite, Aai Koliwada, specialises in coastal cuisine, with specialties like Bombil Fry and Sol Kadi. In Ratnagiri, Kamat Restaurant serves a variety of Konkani dishes, including Thalipeeth and Malvani Chicken Curry, while Hotel Prabhat offers a cosy atmosphere with favourites like Prawn Curry and Veg Thali.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Dategad is during the winter months, from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) is also a good time, as the surroundings become dense and green, but the trek to the fort might be slippery. Dategad timings are from 6 AM to 6 PM.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
The average trip cost to Dategad Fort ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per person, including travel, food, and accommodation. If you’re travelling from major cities like Mumbai or Pune, road travel expenses will be around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 for fuel or bus tickets. Basic accommodation options in nearby towns like Chiplun or Ratnagiri can range between ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night, depending on the type of stay you choose. The Dategad entry fee is free of cost.
Tips For The Travellers:
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes, as the path to the fort involves hiking.
- There aren’t many amenities close to the fort, bring snacks and drink.
- Ahead of time, especially in the monsoon, check the weather prediction.
- To avoid the midday heat, begin your walk early in the morning.
- Respect the historical site by not littering or damaging the surroundings.
Dategad Fort is a hidden treasure in Maharashtra that offers a blend of history, adventure, and nature. There is something for everyone at this location, regardless of your interest in history or the great outdoors. Its captivating views and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a memorable getaway. Plan your next trip with TripXL and explore the rich heritage and beauty of Dategad for an unforgettable experience.
Cover Photo: Julia Volk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
