Marleshwar is a small town located in the District of Ratnagiri almost 1.5 hours away from the main city of Ratnagiri. Thousands of people visit here every year to pray in the Shiva Temple which is located on the mountains inside a cave. One needs to climb almost 500 stairs before they can reach to the entrance of the temple. On the way to the top, you are always accompanied by monkeys, scenic views of the Sahyadri ranges, mesmerizing Bav valley and plenty of small shops to keep you hydrated.
This sacred shrine is visited by believers from all over India especially during Mahashivratri and Makar Sankranti as these are considered the main festivals of the shrine. Not just that, you will find plenty of snakes in the temple complex and the best part is that these snakes are harmless. There has been no casualty till today due to snakes in this temple complex.
Right behind the temple you will find the breathtaking Dhareshwar Waterfall. This waterfall can also be seen from the temple courtyard. During monsoon season, it is always overflowing hence it is impossible to go inside the water in monsoon. However, if you happen to go during other seasons, you may get a chance to bathe in the clear water right under the waterfall. Also, beware of buying or eating any food products as the monkeys are always on the lookout for food and will snatch anything and everything that is available to eat.
It is possible to reach Marleshwar only by roadways and plenty of State Transport buses ply on this route. It makes for a great day trip from Ratnagiri city and one can take a ST bus from the Bus depot to Devrukh and from there take another bus which leads straight to Marleshwar.
If you are looking to do something offbeat in Konkan area then you definitely should head to Marleshwar. Not only will you be taken aback by the scenic beauty but also you will be rejuvenated & refreshed after visiting this place.
