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Harihareshwar
Long, never-ending, tiring and boring days look up ahead at work, as there are no holidays in the next 2-2.5 months at least. To take a break from the monotonous routine, one may consider this heaven on earth little beach. Located 200km away from Mumbai, this little beach is the perfect little weekend getaway, for both families as well and friends. It is not connected by rail or a direct bus route, and can be reached only by car (or Bike).
The town is located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, and is the point where the Western Ghats meet the sea. It is surrounded by 4 hills – Harihareshwar, Harshinachal, Brahmadri and Pushpadri. It is the point where the river Savitri meets the Arabian Sea. Legend says that the town’s temple was blessed by the mighty Lord Vishnu himself. Hence, it is also called “Dev ghar” or the house of gods. There are 2 main beaches, on the north and south of the town. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation has developed the beach on the south side into a beautiful resort. There are excellent rooms available at extremely reasonable prices. However, one will need to make bookings in advance before setting out on their holiday. They may do so either online on the MTDC’s official website, or in any of their offices.
Due to the lack of commercialisation, the beach is spotlessly clean, and there are no annoying hawkers and vendors. It is free from pollution due to the ample greenery, and lack of plastic wrappers and glasses strewn about on the beach. Once there, you need not worry about people pestering you to buy junk jewellery, or about stepping into pools of horse dung, unlike the beaches of most major tourist spots. Once can enjoy a good cool dip in the Arabian sea, freak out with family and friends and then lay back on the beautifully clean, warm sun bathed beach, leaving behind all his stress. There are also famous temples located a little away from the beach (less than 30mins drive) where once can pay his respects to Lord Harihareshwar.
Travelling to Harihareshwar is pretty simple – after making bookings, all one has to do is gather up a pair of clothes, along with some beach wear, and set out in their car. In case you don’t have a car, you may easily rent one. It is the ultimate weekend getaway for those who love beaches, peace and quiet (read – no discos or nightlife) and want to take a break from routine life. Serene, private and comfortable – Harihareshwar is one of the most ideal tourist spots one can ever hope for.
