Raigad district in Maharashtra has a rich historical background and an abundance of natural beauty spread across its diverse landscape. Raigad is famous for its grand forts, serene beaches, dense greenery, and architectural marvels. From hilltop citadels to coastal retreats, the district caters to history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife explorers alike.
With its scenic coastline, majestic forts, and ancient temples, Raigad promises a complete travel experience. Some of the most popular things to do in Raigad include fort trekking, waterfall picnics, temple visits, beach adventures, and cultural exploration.
Best Time to Visit Raigad District
Because summer is extremely hot and humid, one may consider taking a trip between November and March as the weather is pleasant during this time. In the aforementioned months, one may also explore all the top attractions of the Raigad district to the fullest.
History of Raigad District, Maharashtra
Kolaba was the former name of Raigad. Historians claim that the name was changed to Raigad when Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured the place and made it the capital of the Maratha Empire in 1656. In the 19th century, Raigad separated from Thane district but the native communities with surnames such as Naik, Bhagat, Patil, Mhatre, and Thakur stayed in Raigad district.
The hilly areas of Raigad are a part of the Sahyadri range of Western Himalayas and are a major attraction for tourists from across the globe. Madhe Ghat Waterfalls and Diveagar Beach are the two highly popular tourist spots located in this district.
Major Attractions of Raigad District
1. Raigad Fort
This majestic and captivating fort was seized by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1656 and was then known as ‘Rairi’. The fort features several gates that still manage to amuse the visitors. Some popular gates are Nagarkhana Darwaja, Maha Darwaja, Palkhi Darwaja, and Meena Darwaja. The ropeway facility will take you to this hill fort in just a few minutes from the ground. The fort remains open on all 7 days from 8 am to 6 pm. Indian tourists are required to pay an entry fee of Rs10, while foreign tourists are required to pay Rs100 to explore the fort.
Things to Do:
- Ride the ropeway to enjoy stunning aerial views
- Explore Shivaji Maharaj’s throne and palace ruins
- Visit the Samadhi (memorial) of Shivaji Maharaj
- Take guided tours for historical insights
- Watch the sunset from the fort walls
2. Jagadishwar Temple
This Hindu temple is dedicated to Sri Jagdishwara. Locals claim that Shivaji Maharaj was a staunch Hindu follower and used to visit the temple daily. A striking feature of the temple is its dome-shaped top that gives a hint of Mughal art and architecture.
Things to Do:
- Observe the intricate carvings and Mughal-style dome
- Meditate in the peaceful temple courtyard
- Attend morning or evening prayers
- Learn about the temple’s link to Shivaji Maharaj
- Explore the surrounding serene forested area
3. Madhe Ghat Waterfalls
Set amidst lush green hills and under the infinite blue sky, the waterfalls will make you fall in love with it at the very first sight. The waterfalls are located approximately 850 meters above sea level from where one can clearly see the Raigad fort. Madhe Ghat Waterfalls is amongst one of the most visited destinations in Raigad.
Things to Do:
- Trek to the waterfall through forest trails
- Have a picnic near the falls
- Capture panoramic views of the valley and Raigad Fort
- Enjoy birdwatching around the ghat
- Visit during monsoon for full waterfall glory
4. Diveagar Beach
Diveagar Beach is situated in the Diveagar town of Raigad District. This charming and calm beach is a perfect weekend location to relax with family and friends. The view of sparkling water, golden sand, and the greenery at the shores is magical enough to let you forget all the worries. Tourists can also enjoy various water sports such as surfing, parasailing, jet ski, bumper ride, and banana ride by the beach. Diveagar Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Maharashtra.
Things to Do:
- Try water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana rides
- Relax and sunbathe on the clean sandy stretch
- Taste local seafood at shacks nearby
- Go beachcombing and photography at sunrise
- Take a short walk to the nearby Suvarna Ganesh Temple
Beaches in Raigad District
- Alibag Beach: This main beach of Alibag is known for its flat stretch, making it ideal for long walks. Its proximity to Mumbai makes it a popular weekend getaway, offering serene views and a tranquil environment.
- Diveagar Beach: Situated about 6 km from Raigad, Diveagar Beach is a quaint shoreline known for its pristine sands and tranquil ambiance. One end of the beach hosts a fishing settlement, while the other serves as a sanctuary for migrating seagulls, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences.
Hill Stations
Matheran: Renowned as one of the smallest hill stations in India, Matheran offers a peaceful retreat from urban life. With its colonial architecture, dense forests, and viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas, it's a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Notably, the Matheran Hill Railway is a heritage narrow-gauge train that adds to the charm of this hill station.
Temples in Raigad District
- Jagadishwar Temple: This temple is dedicated to Shri Jagadishwara and was frequented by Shivaji, who was an ardent follower of Hinduism. The temple's dome showcases Mughal architectural influences, reflecting the syncretic culture of the era.
- Ballaleshwar Pali: One of the eight Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Ballaleshwar Pali is a significant pilgrimage site. The temple's unique architecture and serene surroundings attract devotees and tourists alike.
Natural Attractions
- Karnala Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for bird watchers, this sanctuary is home to over 150 species of resident and migratory birds. The sanctuary also houses the historic Karnala Fort, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty.
- Madhe Ghat Waterfalls: Nestled amidst dense vegetation, Madhe Ghat Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural attraction. The cascading waters amidst lush greenery provide a serene environment, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers
How to Reach Raigad District Maharashtra
To travel here, you will need to cover a total distance of about 1,561, 2,051, 938 km from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Check out the following details on how you can reach Raigad district via the following means of public transport.
By Air
Mumbai Airport aka Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is the nearest airport situated at a distance of about 113 km. Direct and connecting flights from all major cities operate to and fro here. From the airport, consider booking a taxi or some other means of public transportation to reach here.
- From Guwahati - Board IndiGo, Spicejet, Vistara, Go Air flights from Guwahati Airport. The airfares start from INR 5,000-6,000
- From Bhopal - Board IndiGo flights from Bhopal Airport. The airfares start from INR 3,000-4,000
- From Amritsar - Board Spicejet, IndiGo flights from Amritsar Airport. The airfares start from INR 5,000-6,000
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Raigad District Maharashtra
- Delhi to Mumbai Flight
- Bangalore to Mumbai Flight
- Hyderabad to Mumbai Flight
- Kolkata to Mumbai Flight
- Chennai to Mumbai Flight
By Train
Veer Dasgaon Railway Station is the nearest railhead to reach the district. Trains from many metropolitan cities of India arrive here hence one may consider rail travel as it is budget-friendly, comfortable, and convenient. From the station, you will need to cover 50-54 km via some public transport to reach here.
By Road
Depending upon your physical location, you can consider traveling to Raigad by well-maintained road networks as well. For traveling to Raigad, you may either take an inter-state tourist bus or drive to the place in your personal vehicle. Otherwise, you can also opt for a cab.
- From Lavasa - 91 km via Tamhini Ghat Road
- From Alibaug - 107 km via NH66
- From Pune - 126 km via Mahad-Dapoli Road
Conclusion
Raigad is famous for its perfect blend of history, nature, and coastal serenity. No matter if you're tracing the footsteps of Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad Fort, enjoying the refreshing mist at Madhe Ghat Waterfalls, or soaking up the sun at Diveagar Beach, this district promises an experience like no other. The mix of ancient temples, scenic spots, and thrilling activities makes it a must-visit for history lovers, adventure seekers, and peace chasers alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Raigad District Maharashtra
Q1. Which is the cleanest beach in Raigad?
A. Diveagar Beach is considered the cleanest beach in Raigad. Its well-maintained shores, clear water, and minimal crowd make it ideal for families and solo travellers seeking peace and scenic beauty.
Q2. What are the major rivers in Raigad district?
A. The major rivers in Raigad include the Kundalika, Patalganga, Savitri, and Amba rivers. These rivers play a crucial role in the district’s agriculture and ecosystem and are often lined with scenic spots perfect for nature outings.
Q3. What is the climate in the Raigad district?
A. Raigad has a tropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rainfall. Winters (November to February) are pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and beach visits.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Raigad?
A. The best time to visit Raigad is between October and February, when the weather is cool and comfortable. This season is ideal for fort treks, beach trips, and exploring waterfalls without heat or heavy rainfall.
Q5. How can tourists explore Raigad’s history?
A. Tourists can explore Raigad’s history by visiting iconic forts like Raigad Fort, learning about Maratha heritage, and taking guided heritage walks. Museums, temples, and preserved battle sites across the district offer deeper insights into its royal past.
