Tired of the overcrowded beaches in Mumbai and looking for a peaceful getaway?
Well, let me introduce you to the little-known gem of Harihareshwar Beach. Situated in the Raigad district, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Mumbai (200km to be exact).
Harihareshwar, surrounded by four majestic hills, is also known as Dev-Ghar or “the house of God”. It even has a reputation as the “Dakshin Kashi” because of its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. And let me tell you, this place is a temple and beach lover’s paradise! With accommodation options ranging from budget to luxurious, you’ll find everything you need for a perfect getaway.
Harihareshwar has two stunning beaches, each one offering a unique experience. The first is a straight stretch of 2.4 km and located in front of the temple, while the second is L-shaped, 2 km long and located in front of the MTDC Resort. And trust me, both of these beaches will leave you breathless.
Harihareshwar, along with Shrivardhan and Diveagar Beach, form the perfect weekend getaway for those in Pune and Mumbai. This place is an evergreen destination, meaning you can visit any time of the year due to its favourable weather conditions.
Not only does Harihareshwar have a well-set-up beach and temple, but it also witnesses an annual celebration of the Kal Bhairav Jayanti Utsav, a famous festival dedicated to the deity Kal Bhairav. And you know what’s even better? The entire temple complex, including the smaller Kaal Bhairav Temple and the main Harihareshwar Temple, is a feast for the eyes.
Take a walk on the Pradakshina route that goes around the temple along the seashore (just be careful during high tides). And don’t miss the stunning viewpoint that showcases the Harihar beach, the sea, the coastline, and the horizon. But wait, there’s more! The topography of the area includes a high hilly area that juts out into the sea in a horseshoe shape. As soon as you turn around the curve, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking sight of the sheer rocky drop that ends in an absolutely flat and level rocky shelf stretching 3 to 4 km from Ganesh gully to the rocky beach below the MTDC Resort.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hidden gem that’s filled with natural beauty, adventure, and history, then look no further than Harihareshwar Beach. The beautiful Sahyadri hills is there providing a scenic backdrop for all your beach adventures.
Besides a major pilgrimage center, Harihareshwar is a popular beach resort with two beaches, one to the north and the other to the south of the temple. Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation has a resort on the south beach. Harihareshwar, along with Shrivardhan and Diveagar Beach forms a popular weekend beach destination from Pune (190 km) and Mumbai (210 km).
The Kalbhairav Jayanti Utsav (Festival on Birthday of Deity Kalbhairav) was initiated by Mr. Yashawant Balawant Nagle who was Sardar of Queen of Janjira Administering Harihareshwar village. He donated quite a large part of his property for funding the Temple management.
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