Chiplun Tourism

Among the many famous temples of Chiplun, The Parshuram Temple is the most visited one. Situated at a height of 1000 ft. from the sea level, it is located some 10 km in the outskirts of Chiplun. This temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Parshuram, who was the 6th avatar of Lord Vishnu. Inside the sanctum, the idol of Lord Parshuram is flanked by the idol of Lord Brahma on the left and an idol of Lord Shiva on the right. The temple’s architecture is another reason why it is such a crowd puller. If noticed, it will be found that this temple displays many characteristics of Hindu, European and Muslim styles of architecture. Displaying 300 years old Hindu-Muslim mix architecture of the temple houses three idols that are surrounded by stone walls.

Some of the religious places that you can visit in Chiplun are the Sai Mandir, the Datta Mandir, the Shri Parshuram Mandir, the Gaondevi Mandir and the Mary Martha Church.

Almost 83% of the total population is Hindu, with the Islam being the second most followed religion. Around 13% are Muslims and the rest comprise other communities like Christians, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, etc. Through out the entire state of Maharashtra, Lord Ganesh is highly revered. That is why the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with much pomp and show everywhere, even in Chiplun. It is almost a week-long festival.

The Gowalkot Fort is one of the most sought after locations if you are an adventure seeking tourist. Situated at a distance of 10 km from Chiplun, this fort was built way back in 1690. In the later years it has seen many rulers and finally it was captured by the British troops. Now it is in a dilapidated state. This fort located on the top of a hill is a very good trekking option as there are few remains and a dry well inside the fort which can be explored. A breathtaking view of the river Vashishti and the valley can be seen when you reach the top of the fort.

The Koyna Dam is the biggest dam in Maharashtra. Constructed on the Koyna River, its main purpose is the generation of hydroelectric power. It also channels water for irrigation. It is the largest completed hydroelectric power plant in India. Spanning over an area of 70 km, it reaches all the way to the Mahabaleshwar. When you reach the top, you will get a splendid view of the nearby landscape and the catchment area of the dam known as the Shivajisagar Lake. Built 3000 feet above the sea level, Koyna Dam spans over an area of 70 km. You can have a splendid view of lush landscape and catchment area of the dam that is known as Shivajisagar Lake.

This region is most noted for its local cuisine which is known as the Malvani Cuisine. The fish and rice preparations are absolutely mouth-watering and should not be missed at any cost. The local cuisine here consists of the locally produced fruits and vegetables namely mangoes, kokum, coconut, cashews, varieties of pulses and rice. Tamarind is a very widely used ingredient in the local dishes and sometimes, tomato also serves as its substitute.

The Royal Palace is quite famous for its dishes inspired by the local cuisine. They are quite well known for their seafood specialties. If you are interested in fine dining then, you should visit The Riverview Restaurant at the Quality Resort. If you want something that has more local flavor, then you can choose from many of the eateries in the vicinity of the Parshuram Temple. 

Rice, with a side dish of fish and lentils, is a common, daily meal that most locals will eat. In this region, there are different varieties of fishes available, so there are varieties of their preparations as well. Rice flour popadams are also very popular among the residents of the area.

Chiplun is not known to have a very vibrant and attractive night life. However, The Riverview Resort has a restaurant and bar which is quite popular. This restaurant bar is open from 7 am to 12 pm. There is a recreation and lobby lounge as well which is open from 11 am to 11 pm.

The markets of this town are lined with several shops which offer local produce along with the other grocery items. There are well-stocked shopping complexes too which have a number of stores that cater to the residents’ and tourists’ needs. One of the departmental stores that you can visit is the Parkar Complex.

When in Chiplun, certain local items should be definitely tried. If you are visiting during summers then do not miss out on the locally grown Alphonso mangoes. These are some of the best varieties of mangoes found in the world. This tropical fruit has great demands in the international market. Also, you can check out some of the products made from these locally grown mangoes. Two of the most popular mango products are mango pulp and aam-papads. The aam-papads are a sweet delicacy. These unique, tasty mango strips are quite popular. Also, do try kokum, a fruit found only in this region. 

The River Vashishti is the main source of rejuvenation here. The river bank and the surroundings offer spectacular views to the visitors which relaxes their minds and their souls. There are several resorts along the banks of the river which offer great accommodation. If you want a laidback, relaxing holiday, Chiplun is the place for you. You can simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of the location.

Go down the trails and have a wonderful boating experience at River Vashishti. Hiking, rock climbing, Rappelling, Vertical Ladder, Para-sailing, and Burma Bridge are some other exciting things to do in Chiplun that you can go for.

Chiplun is a great place to spend some time with your family. Your children will love the natural surroundings. There is a lot of scope for hiking and trekking if your children are adventurous. If they are water babies or love making sandcastles there is a lovely beach as well nearby.

Dedicated to the works of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the museum depicts pictures and statues of the historical people and happenings, and is considered one of the best places to visit in Chiplun.

The Vashishti River is the river on the bank of which the town of Chiplun is situated. It is a very popular family outing spot for the local residents as well as visiting tourists. During the holidays it becomes a popular picnic spot. There are options to take motorboat rides on this beautiful river. On the bank of this river there are several temples which are also worth visiting. 

Situated near the Parashurama Temple, you can find Sawarsada Waterfalls that spreads its beauty in the surroundings enjoyed during the monsoon season.It is a seasonal waterfall which can only be seen in its full glory during the rainy season. Due to its unique beauty and white appearance, it is always a photographer’s delight.

Buy Chiplun tour packages, and visit this place to have a picturesque view of Koyna Dam and the reservoir.

The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is one place that you must visit. The forests surrounding the catchment area of the Shivajisagar Lake have been declared as a wildlife sanctuary by the Government. The forest cover of this sanctuary is dense and is protected by the Shivajisagar Lake on one side and the Western Ghats on the other. There is a high level of bio diversity too. The vegetation also varies accordingly. This wildlife sanctuary is home to several species of animals which are indigenous to this region. This wildlife sanctuary also shares some of its premises with the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. Tigers, leopards, barking deer, sambar deer and reptiles like pythons can be found in this reserve.

Marleshwar is one of the best places to visit in Chiplun. Situated near Dhareshwar waterfall, the presiding deity of this cave temple is Lord Shiva.