Ganpatipule

Traveling with pets is an adventure filled with joy and memorable moments, especially when the destinations are as picturesque as Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule. My husband and I, along with our furry companion Sophie, embarked on a 4-day road trip through the serene coastal towns of Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule.
To read the previous blog on Day 1 & 2: Ratnagiri, click here.

Here’s how our journey unfolded:

Day 1: Ratnagiri	Pune to Ratnagiri.
Day 2: Ratnagiri	Ratnadurg Fort, 6 temples in Kasba Sangameshwar, Bhatye Beach
Day 3: Ganpatipule	Datta mandir in Kolambe, Thiba palace, lokmanya tilak birthplace. Travel to Ganpatipule – Jai Vinayak Temple, Jaigad Fort.
Day 4: Ganpatipule	Ganpatipule to Pune

Day 3: Ratnagiri to Ganpatipule

We started our journey to from Ratnagiri to Ganpatipule in the afternoon and waited for a quick stop at Aare Ware beach. This beach is a breathtakingly clean and scenic destination. One of its highlights is the mesmerizing drive to the beach, offering spectacular views that make the journey truly unforgettable. The beach itself is tranquil, with a serene ambiance and opportunities for adventure, such as ziplining. Street parking is available, ensuring convenience for visitors. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds. There are some shacks available on the road adjacent to the beach.

Heading to Ganpatipule, we had lunch at Hotel Grand Ganesha before visiting the beautiful Jai Vinayak Temple, managed by JSW Steel. JSW Jai Vinayak Mandir is a picturesque and tranquil temple situated around 15 km from Ganpatipule, easily accessible via a well-maintained road, making for a smooth half-hour drive. The temple exudes an ancient charm, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. A small water kund enhances its beauty. The premises are clean, well-kept, and equipped with essential facilities like toilets. Visitors can also explore Kaladham, an arts and crafts exhibition stall, which is worth checking out. With ample parking available, it ensures a hassle-free visit. A must-visit destination if you’re in the area. Pets are not allowed at this place. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene natural setting. There’s a lovely fish pond and a well-maintained garden adding to its charm. No tickets are required for entry.

Our next stop was Jaigad Fort . Jaigad Fort is situated in Jaigad village, Ratnagiri District, Maharashtra. Perched on a cliff where the Shastri River meets the Arabian Sea, it is surrounded by water on three sides. The fort lies 14 kilometers north of Ganapatipule village and is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Open to visitors during the day, the fort once housed the palace of Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre and a Ganapati Temple. Currently undergoing restoration, the fort was originally built by the rulers of Vijapur in the 16th century and spans an area of 13 acres. This fort is completely pet friendly and entry is free of cost. There is nothing much to see at the fort. However is offers mesmerising panoramic views of the sea.

We checked in at Hotel Grand Ganesha, Ganpatipule. The location is ideal, with shops and the temple just a short walk away. The rooms and washrooms were clean, and the service was prompt and attentive, making us feel safe and well-cared for. The owner and staff were incredibly kind and accommodating, even extending our check-out time without hesitation.

Hotel Grand Ganesha is a great place to stay in Ganpatipule and is pet-friendly. The owner has a pet cat and also feeds 5–6 stray dogs in the area, all of whom are very friendly. However, parking space is limited. There is no lift, and the dining area is located on the rooftop. Breakfast is not included in the tariff, and their restaurant may not be suitable for strict vegetarians. For a pure vegetarian breakfast, Bapat Niwas Homestay is a great option, while Mehendale’s Swad Dining is recommended for lunch and dinner. Both are within walking distance of the hotel.

The day ended with a delicious Konkani meal at Mehendale’s Swad Dining. Mehendale’s Swad Dining is located in Malgund, just 3–4 kilometers from Ganpatipule, making it easily accessible if you have your own vehicle. If you want to experience authentic konkani cuisine, you should surely visit this place . They served an unlimited veg thali at Rs. 135 . Sweet dish has to be purchased separately. Modaks have to be ordered atleast 3 hours prior. Be sure to try the sweet delights like Modak, Amrakhand, or Aamras, which are offered at an additional cost. The Aamras, in particular, is a must-try and comes highly recommended! This place is ideal for those seeking authentic and delicious food in a warm and welcoming ambiance. Expect some waiting time during peak hours, but it’s definitely worth it. The premises also feature clean washrooms, a waiting area, and parking facilities. Ample dedicated parking is available.

Day 4: Ganpatipule to Pune

Our final morning began with a short walk to Bapat Niwas Homestay, where we enjoyed a traditional homemade breakfast. Bapat Niwas Homestay is a bed and breakfast. Mr. and Mrs. Bapat manage the kitchen by themselves and the cleanliness in the dining area is worth appreciating. They also have a pet cat called Shivali. If you want to have breakfast at Bapat Homestay, the owner has to be informed one day prior. After checking out, we attempted to visit the famous Ganpatipule Temple, but the crowd was overwhelming, so we decided to skip it.

Breakfast at Bapat Homestay, Ganpatipule

On our journey back to Pune, we stopped at Amraban Snacks Centre in Chiplun for a quick lunch. They allow pets on request in the outdoor dining area.

A tea break at Lakshman Hotel near Gold Valley in Tamhini Ghat was the perfect end to our road trip. We reached Pune by 6:00 PM, feeling rejuvenated by the coastal charm and cherishing the memories made with Sophie.

Our road trip was a reminder of the joy pets bring to travel. From beaches to ancient temples, Sophie’s wagging tail was a constant companion, making every moment unforgettable.