Ganpatipule Temple

                                                            Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is a small town located in Ratnagiri district on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. The town of Chiplun is to its north.

Origin of name

Ganapatipule is approximately 375 km. south of Mumbai, along the Konkan Coast. It is a very small town with about 100 houses, having one of the most spectacular beaches along the Konkan Coast – an idyllic getaway that attracts peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims alike. The temple of Swayambhu (self-originated) Ganesh is much frequented by thousands every year. The God is considered to be the Paschim Dwarpalak (Western Sentinel God of India),and those who visit Ganapatipule make it a point to pay their respects to this deity. In addition to its clean beach and clear waters, Ganapatipule is rich in flora, including mangroves and coconut palms.Ganapatipule is governed by the Ganapatipule Grampanchayat.

Climate

Winter (late October to mid-February) is the most pleasant season, with temperatures dropping at night. From March, the temperature starts rising but rarely crosses 30 °C. May is the hottest month, with temperatures reaching 35 °C. The monsoon lasts from June to October, when rains are usually plentiful and regular.

Demographics

Marathi is the most widely spoken language. Hindi and English are understood and spoken by many. There are Marathi medium schools run by Ganpatiphule Grampanchayat / Ratnagiri. The nearest college is at Malgund. There are many villages in Ganapatipule which are full of greenery. The main occupation of the villagers is agriculture. Rice and coconut are th most common harvests in this area. Many festivals are celebrated along the Konkan Coast. Among the most significant are Gauri Ganpati and Magh Chaturthi (the fourth day of the lunar month of Magh).

Tourism

With the development of tourism, a number of resorts and hotels opened in this small town, the most significant of which is the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporationresort near the beach.Abhishek Beach Resort and Spa is a very good mid range option having a spectacular view of the Arabian sea from all its rooms. Areopagus Spa at the resort is one of the best spas in the Konkan belt. The resort also has a multicuisine restaurant and a bar. The Blue Ocean resort and spa is 5 star luxury option in Ganpatipule, 4 km from the heart of the town near Malgund is also near the beach. There are also a few smaller hotels in this town.