Shrivardhan, also known as Shriwardhan, is a town and municipal council in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It has become a popular seaside resort, along with the nearby town of Harihareshwar, which is home to a famous Shiva temple. Shrivardhan is situated on a peninsula and is surrounded by several beautiful beaches, including Diveagar Beach and Kondivali Beach. It attracts visitors from across Maharashtra throughout the year. Historically, Shrivardhan was an important port and was visited by Arjuna during his pilgrimage. It is also known as the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa, with a monument dedicated to him in the town.
places to visit in Shrivardhan
Harihareshwar Beach
Harihareshwar Beach has two distinct beaches: one is a 2.4 km long straight beach in front of the Harihareshwar Temple, and the other, about 2 km long, has an L-shape and is located near the MTDC Resort. Known for its evergreen environment, Harihareshwar can be visited year-round, offering visitors a peaceful beach experience.
Diveagar Beach
Diveagar Beach is lined with suru (Casuarina) trees and has a unique cover of belu trees that are rare in the region. The beach is a popular destination for tourists, especially those visiting from nearby towns like Shrivardhan and Harihareshwar, offering a relaxing coastal experience.
Harihareshwar Town
Harihareshwar is a town in Raigad district, surrounded by three hills: Harihareshwar, Harshinachal, and Pushpadri. The Savitri River flows into the Arabian Sea here, making the town a scenic and tranquil destination, popular for its natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Peshwa Memorial
The Peshwa Memorial, built in 1988, honors the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. It features a statue of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa, in recognition of his contribution to the Maratha Empire. This memorial is an important landmark in the region.
Kondivali Beach
Located 5 km from Shrivardhan, Kondivali Beach is known for its adventure water sports activities. It’s a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
Ganesh Gully
Ganesh Gully is famous for its submerged Ganesh idol, which rests about 30 feet underwater. This place of worship attracts visitors who are curious about the unique sight of the submerged idol and its spiritual significance.
Bagmandala Village
Bagmandala is a village in the Shrivardhan Taluka, surrounded by Mhasala, Mandangad, Dapoli, and Tala Talukas. Situated in the Konkan region, the village offers a peaceful retreat with natural beauty and a traditional rural lifestyle.
Shankar Temple
The Shankar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, holds great historical significance. The temple features a lifelike statue of Nandi, the bull, guarding the entrance, and is believed to be as old as Shrivardhan itself.
Bankot Fort
Bankot Fort, originally controlled by Adilshahi and later by the Portuguese in 1548, was eventually taken over by the Marathas under Kanhoji Angre. It was then renamed Himmatgad. The fort has historical importance as it was the first residency on the southern Konkan coast for the British.
Best time to visit Shrivardhan
The best time to visit Shrivardhan is from October to March. While the summer months can get hot, with temperatures reaching up to 39°C, the monsoon season from June to September brings refreshing rainfall. Winters, from December to February, offer the most pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 31°C. This cool and comfortable climate makes winter the ideal season for a visit. It is a year-round destination, but the winter months stand out as the most favorable time.
