Nestled between the Vashishti river and Jaigad creek, Guhagar is a tiny town located in the coastal Maharashtra. The coastal Maharashtra region, also called the Konkan coast, is well-known for its pristine beauty, virgin beaches, and abundant natural beauty. This Konkan beauty, Guhagar, lives up to the fame.
Guhagar meaning a 'cave house', when translated in the local language, is a popular weekend destination from the nearby cities and towns. The combination of white sandy beach, glistening turquoise waters and a golden sunset makes it a perfect holiday destination. In fact, the place has a promenade built to witness the stunning sunset at the beach.
Guhagar is famous for its secluded beaches. It is the first beach along the Konkan coast, with textured white sand, unlike any other in the region. Guhagar, with its gourmet Konkani cuisine and tropical fruits like Alphonso mangoes, cashew nuts and jackfruits, is a popular destination for food lovers as well.
The town held a significant place in the political history of Maharashtra, connecting it with the Peshwas, who were the Prime Ministers in the Maratha Empire. Along with a rich history and culture, Guhagar is also known for its heritage temples. There are numerous ancient temples across the charming town.
Getting There
Guhagar is well-connected by road with Mumbai, Pune, Ratnagiri and Chiplun. The nearest airports are in Mumbai and Pune, at a distance of 300 km and 290 km, respectively. The nearest railway station is at Chiplun, which is at a distance of around 47 km from Guhagar. Regular State Transport buses shuttle between these cities and Guhagar.
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Best Time To Visit
Due to its proximity to the sea, Guhagar experiences a moderate and humid climate through most time of the year. Summers get pretty hot and humid and is generally avoided by tourists. Many travellers visit the place during monsoon for a magical experience. Winter is pleasantly cool and is the most preferred time to visit Guhagar.
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Places To See
Guhagar Beach
The pristine Guhagar Beach has a long stretch of white sandy shore, laced with shady Suru trees. It is almost a 6 km long beach spread between two hillocks. Walking on the clean, silky white sand of the Guhagar beach is a riveting experience. Although, there are many entry points, the main entry to the beach is from behind the Vyadeshwar Temple.
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Vyadeshwar Temple
The Vyadeshwar Temple is located right in the centre of the town and is around 100 metres away from the Guhagar bus depot. It is an ancient stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the main pilgrimage centres. There are numerous temples in Guhagar that can be visited.
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Durga Devi Temple
Located about a kilometre from the Guhagar bus depot, is another beautiful temple complex. Known to be one of the oldest temples dedicated to goddess Durga, it has been recently renovated. The temple is set amidst a very beautiful lush green location. Devotees flock in large numbers here during the Navratri festival each year.
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Hedvi
About 17 km from Guhagar is a small village of Hedvi, which is famous for its beach and a Dashabhuja Ganesh Temple. The temple is perched atop a hill and carved in white stone. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the idol here has 10 arms. The Hedavi beach is also famous for its natural gorge, which transforms into a tall cascade during high tides.
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Anjanvel Lighthouse
Perched atop a steep hillock, the Anjanvel Lighthouse is located about 14 km from the Guhagar bus stand. The lighthouse offers beautiful, panoramic views of the sea and the town below. It is especially mesmerizing to view the sea at sunset from here. Another ancient temple called the Talkeshwar Temple located near the lighthouse can also be visited.
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