Ratnagiri is a coastal town in Maharashtra, India, that boasts of many attractions such as beaches, forts, temples, and mangoes. But one of the most prominent landmarks of Ratnagiri is its lighthouse, which stands tall on a hill near the Ratnadurg Fort. The lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the town, and is a must-visit place for anyone who loves history and nature. Here is everything you need to know about the Ratnagiri Lighthouse. Best Tourist Place In Ratnagiri.
Location of Ratnagiri Lighthouse
The Ratnagiri Lighthouse is located on a hill near the Ratnadurg Fort, which is about 4 km from the Ratnagiri Bus Stand and 5 km from the Ratnagiri Railway Station. You can reach the lighthouse by cab or auto, or by walking from the fort. The road to the lighthouse is shown on Google Maps, but it is easy to miss as it is only a single track concrete path. You can also park your vehicle near the fort and then walk up to the lighthouse.
Timing/Entry Fees Ratnagiri Lighthouse
The lighthouse is open for public from 4 PM to 5 PM on all days except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for children.
How to Reach Ratnagiri Lighthouse
You can reach Ratnagiri by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Mumbai, which is about 350 km away. You can take a flight to Mumbai and then a bus or a train to Ratnagiri. Alternatively, you can also drive to Ratnagiri from Mumbai or Pune, which are about 6 hours away by car. The nearest railway station is Ratnagiri, which is well connected to Mumbai, Pune, Goa, and other major cities by Konkan Railway.
Things to Do/Must See Ratnagiri Lighthouse
The main attraction of the lighthouse is the view from the top, which is breathtaking and mesmerizing. You can see the vast expanse of the blue sea, the green hills, and the colorful town from different angles. You can also spot some boats and ships sailing in the water, and some birds flying in the sky. The lighthouse itself is a beautiful structure that has a white tower and a red dome. It was built in 1867 by the British and has a height of 16 meters. It has a powerful light that flashes every 15 seconds and can be seen from a distance of 22 nautical miles.
The lighthouse is also close to other attractions such as the Ratnadurg Fort, which is a historical fort that was built by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. It has a horseshoe shape and covers an area of 120 acres. It has three bastions named Siddha, Ganesh, and Bhagwati, and houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati inside. You can also visit the Gateway of Ratnagiri, which is an arch-shaped structure that was built by the British in 1913. It has a plaque that commemorates the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911.
Significance of Ratnagiri Lighthouse
The lighthouse is a significant landmark that symbolizes the maritime history and culture of Ratnagiri. It has been guiding the sailors and fishermen for over 150 years and has witnessed many changes in the town and the sea. It also represents the colonial legacy and the freedom struggle of India, as it was used by the British as a watchtower and a prison for some freedom fighters such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
The lighthouse is also a popular tourist spot that attracts many visitors who want to enjoy the scenic beauty and the serene atmosphere of Ratnagiri. It is a great place to relax and unwind with your family and friends and have a memorable experience.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the best time to visit the lighthouse?
A: The best time to visit the lighthouse is in the evening, when you can enjoy the sunset and the cool breeze. You can also see the lighthouse light up in the dark and create a beautiful contrast with the sky and the sea.
Q: What are some of the nearest tourist places to Ratnagiri Lighthouse?
A: Some of the nearest tourist places to the lighthouse are Mandavi Beach, which is a clean and calm beach that offers a view of the lighthouse; Thibaw Point, which is a hilltop that offers a panoramic view of Ratnagiri and the sea; and Tilak Ali Museum, which is a museum that displays the belongings and writings of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a freedom fighter who was imprisoned in Ratnagiri by the British.
Conclusion
The Ratnagiri Lighthouse is a splendid attraction that offers a glimpse into the past and present of Ratnagiri. It is a place where you can admire the natural beauty and learn about the historical significance of Ratnagiri. If you are planning to visit Ratnagiri, make sure you include this lighthouse in your itinerary.
