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If you want to explore offbeat and less explored destinations in Maharashtra, a visit down to the Prachin Konkan Museum is an underrated name. It is located in the coastal town of Ganpatipule in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra and is an open-air museum, the one of its kind in the area. The museum is a celebration of traditional life and the rich history of the Konkan coastal area, meticulously reconstructed through life-sized displays, models, and artefacts. It is one of those unique museums that truly allow you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the area.
Quick Details
Prachin Konkan Museum Address: Konkan Tourism Development & Research Centre Taluka &, Ganpatipule, Maharashtra 415615
Prachin Konkan Museum Timings: 08:30 AM – 6 PM
Prachin Konkan Museum Ticket Price: ₹40
Photography: Allowed (with charges)
Best Time to Visit: November to February
About
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Prachin Konkan Museum is designed to recreate the life of ancient Konkan villages, bringing visitors closer to the region’s roots. The museum is located in the rural coastal town of Ganpatipule and was founded in 2004. To capture the essence of the Konkani villages and the homes that thrived in the region, the museum is spread across an expansive area and showcases exhibits that depict the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the Konkan people from the past. Inside the open-air museum, you get to immerse yourself in the beautiful traditional houses farming techniques and social customs.
How To Reach
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: While Ratnagiri Airport is the nearest airport to Ganpatipule, there are very limited flights to this airport. So, it is better to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and then take a taxi from there to the museum.
By Rail: Ratnagiri Railway Station is the nearest railhead to the museum. There are frequent trains from nearby cities and the station, you can hire a taxi or local transport to the museum.
By Road: You can reach Ganpatipule via the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66). Some private taxis and buses run between the cities to take you to the town nearest to the museum. From the town centre, you can hire local transport again to reach the museum.
Things To Do
1. Stroll Through Nakshatra Baug
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most unique elements inside the museum is the Nakshatra Baug, which is one of its kind. This is a unique garden that associates trees with different zodiac signs. It is believed that planting or meditating near one’s zodiac tree brings good luck and peace. If you are interested in learning more about plants and the spiritual aspect associated with them, a visit down to this forest is an absolute must. You also get to explore numerous medicinal plants that were used in ancient times, enabling you to learn about the intersection of astrology and botany.
2. Learn About Local Wildlife And Ecology
Photo: FredTC / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Beyond the homes and the culture, the ancient living of the Konkani people is also associated with the local wildlife and the ecology. You get to learn about the human history associated with the local culture and traditions. The museum has several exhibits dedicated to the flora and fauna of the Konkan region, complete with information on how people and wildlife coexist. Inside these exhibits, you also get to learn about the mangrove forests, coastal birds, and other wildlife that have shaped the region’s ecosystem, which is quite fascinating too.
3. Witness Traditional Art And Craft Exhibits
Photo: Sbzp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The exhibits inside the Prachin Konkan Museum that you can’t miss out on are the display of traditional arts and crafts. These particular exhibits depict traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, and woodcarving, which enable you to learn about the skills and intricate crafts that the locals used to boost their economy in ancient times. You can also visit the small gift shop around the museum to pick up some local souvenirs.
Places To Visit Around Prachin Konkan Museum
1. Ganpatipule Temple
Photo: Bhakti.sardesai / Wikimedia Commons
One of the main tourist attractions near the museum is the Ganpatipule Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple architecture combines traditional Konkani styles with serene surroundings that include lush greenery and picturesque beaches. Inside the temple, you can seek blessings, offer prayers and take part in the daily rituals that are conducted inside the museum. Also, the backdrop of the sea against the temple adds to the beauty of the place.
Distance From The Museum: 1.7 Km
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
2. Aare Ware Beach
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are in the mood for some relaxation and seaside fun, head to Aare Ware Beach, which is around 40 minutes from the museum. This beach features soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Unlike the majority of the crowded beaches around, this one is quite remotely located, away from the chaos of the city. There are food stalls lining the shore of the beach from where you can try some local seafood delicacies too.
Distance From The Museum: 11.2 Km
Timings: 24*7
3. Jaigad Fort
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For some historical experience, head to Jaigad Fort, which is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding Arabian Sea and the lush greenery around. The fort’s construction dates back to the 16th century and it served as a naval defence outpost for the Marathas and played a crucial role during the battles against the Portuguese and the British. The fort’s structure is resilient and features stone walls, bastions, and ruins that tell stories of the past. The sea view from the fort, especially during sunset, is nothing short of spectacular.
Distance From The Museum: 19.9 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Ankit / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The nearest town to the Prachin Konkan Museum is Ganpatipule. So, if you are planning to spend a few days exploring the nearby sightseeing spots, you can book your stay in Hotel Deepak Executive, KAULAR Atithi’s The Grand Konkan Resort, Anand Nivas, Yash Garden Residency and Yashwant Niwas Homestay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Surabhi Siddaiah / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To get a taste of the robust flavours of the Konkan cuisine, you can head to one of the many restaurants located around the museum, including Sea and Sand, Aaswad Pure Veg, Sameer, Mehendales Swaad Dinning and Konkan Spice Fine Dine Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Consider visiting between November and February for comfortable weather.
- Many places may not accept credit/debit cards, so carry cash with you.
- The museum and nearby attractions involve a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Carry water, especially in summer.
- Hire a local guide at the museum to get a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
Prachin Konkan Museum in Ganpatipule is one of the only open-air, heritage museums in the region. So, the next time you are planning your visit to Maharashtra, consider heading to an offbeat destination to learn more about the Konkani culture and its history. Plan a trip with TripXL to avail some of the best deals and discounts too.
Cover Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
