If you are an explorer and want to travel somewhere but are quite indecisive about it, then you might want to consider saving Chiplun on your bucket list for travelling.
Chiplun is a city in Ratnagiri, a district in Maharashtra. It is not just one of the financial and commercial hubs of Ratnagiri, but also a place of spiritual background.
An Introduction
The peace that Chiplun might provide can be figured out by the meaning of its name. Chiplun literally means ‘The abode of Lord Parashurama’, and Parashurama, as many of you know, is the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Vishnu took this avatar to remove the sins and evil doers from the earth while protecting the common people from the abuse and exploitation of the Kshatriyas. There is much more to know about the city if you plan to travel somewhere soon.
Famous Places to Visit in Chiplun
It is the perfect place for a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by lush greenery, it resides near the Vashishti River. The most amazing part of the city is that it not only has breathtaking greenery but also a beach and so much more. Let’s explore them together!
Vashishti River
It is known as one of the largest rivers in Konkan. The view is breathtaking, with hills on the sides and the huge river flowing in the middle. It might become one of your favourite views. While sipping coffee in your hotel, you can see the sparkling water under the morning sunshine. I’m sure, you will never be over the view once you see it for yourself!
Every beauty has something dangerous hiding beneath it. So beware of the crocodiles in the river! You surely would not want to get stuck in a swamp of crocodiles now.
Marleshwar Temple
Now for my religious friends, this is your abode of peace. What more can Lord Shiva’s believers ask for than having his temple right in the lap of a waterfall? I can feel the cold breeze of the waterfall, with the serenity of the temple.
The temple is located near the Dhareshwar waterfall which is located in Marleshwar. The name itself sounds like “Maheshwar” doesn’t it? It is a name attributed to Lord Shiva.
It is an ancient temple of the god which is built in a cave. If you are someone who would do anything for Lord Shiva, climbing 520 steps won’t be too much trouble right? Furthermore, you will be accompanied by a lush green view of the River Bav valley with mountains and ghats. A view worth every effort.
Lord Parashurama Temple
The Parashurama temple is nearly 300 years old. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is a mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. It is signifying the unity of the two through the mesmerising structure of the temple. It is made of stones and also has a shrine which is built for Goddess Renuka, mother of Parashuram.
Pandavaas Caves
These caves are also known as Chiplun Caves. These caves are one of the most ancient sites in Chiplun. The caves are said to have been built by the Pandavas, with many mentions in ancient books.
Guhagar beach
It is one of the longest beaches in Konkan, popularly known for its clean and enormous white sand. The beach got its name from Guhagar, which is an ancient city famous for its mangoes and coconuts. Unlike any other beach, it is peaceful and clean. People who like peace can have a lovely time amidst the scenic view.
Nageshwar Temple
For my trek lovers, the temple is a good trek with picturesque views. The temple appears in the shape of Lord Shiva’s ‘Nag’ or the cobra. It is entirely built in a rock and makes for a good photography spot too.
Sawatsada Waterfalls
It is situated near the Parashuram temple and can be enjoyed more during the monsoons. The fall looks mesmerizing. It might become your favourite place to click pictures and spend time in peace with the natural sound of water falling.
The list of famous places in Chiplun is endless, the rest I leave for you to discover for yourself.
Geography of Chiplun
If you ever decide to visit the place, it is important to know the geography. It is situated near the Vashishti River. With Western Ghats covering the east side of the city. The Sahyadri Mountains emerge on nearly all sides.
Chiplun has a tropical climate, so it rains heavily in the city. You can easily visit the place in any season but still avoid going in summer as you won’t be able to enjoy travelling and sightseeing. The best time, however, is between June and September.
In summer you can sit in your hotel and enjoy the Alphonso mangos or enjoy playing in the Sawatsada waterfalls.
During monsoons, the city is different shades of green with beautiful views. The monsoons enhance the beauty of the city and it’s the perfect time for visiting.
Chiplun’s Uniqueness
The city is famous for its white sand beaches like Guhagar beach, where the spectators can see the endless white with the water rising and falling. Apart from this, it has mango and cashew groves which adds to its uniqueness.
It is also famously known for its Malvani cuisine. Being a coastal cuisine, it includes seafood like fish curry. For people who love seafood, Chiplun might become their favourite place to visit this year.
Apart from this, due to its unique geography, it gives an all-in-one experience to the visitors. From temples to beaches, with a flowing river and mountains, you might get lost in the wonderland of Chiplun.
Maharashtra is full of uniqueness in abundance isn’t it? If you are in Maharashtra while visiting Chiplun, there are 5 most famous food of Maharashtra you must try. I’m Sure you will love it all!
A Rich History
Chiplun is the first home of the Konkanasth, also known as Chitpavan Brahmans. According to folklores, Parashuram filled the city with Brahmans and sixty ponds and sixty gardens. The temple dedicated to Lord Parashurama is an integral part of the city’s identity.
Another uniqueness of the place is it’s Gowalkot Fort, built in the 17th century by the iconic figure, Shivaji Maharaj. In the ancient texts, the city has been described as a port due to the river flowing in Chiplun.
Final Note
You will definitely save Chiplun in your list of places to travel after reading the spiritual significance it has. I’m sure you will not hesitate to plan a vacation with friends and family and visit this beautiful city in the lapse of nature. Spend quality time with your loved once amidst the beauty and abundance of peace.
