Tucked away from the usual tourist trail lies Maharashtra’s hidden gem, Palghar — a land where ancient forts sing tunes of the past, tribal cultures breathe life into everyday traditions, and majestic waves offer a tranquil escape. Here, time slows down, inviting you to experience a harmonious blend of heritage and culture.
The coastal calm and misty hilltops make Palghar more than a destination — it’s an enigma, one of a kind. Embrace the charm and experience what you have always wanted a vacation to be.
Table of Contents
- So, What’s the History of Palghar Like?
- What’s to See at Palghar?
- How to Get to Palghar?
- When Should I Visit?
- Wrapping Up
So, What’s the History of Palghar Like?
Palghar became Maharashtra’s 36th district on August 1, 2014, after being carved out of Thane. It holds tremendous historical significance, especially in Vasai, once under Portuguese rule before being captured by the Marathas.
With participation in key events like Salt Satyagraha and the Quit India Movement, the district is known for valour and bravery. The rich history of Palghar is best experienced through a car rental in Surat, which ensures that you feel the taste of India in the air.
What’s to See at Palghar?
Here’s a varied list with something for everyone to enjoy:
Religious Sites
For religious sites, the Maa Jivdani Temple in Virar is known to draw thousands of devotees, standing atop 1375 steps. 44 kilometres away stands Mahalakshmi Temple in Dahanu, celebrated for its lively tribal festivities like the Taarpa dance and the 15-day Mahalakshmi Yatra. Reach these sites easily by hiring a reliable car rental in Surat.
Beaches
Palghar district is home to several scenic beaches perfect for a weekend getaway.
- Kelva Beach, with its 8 km stretch, remains a peaceful retreat among Mumbai locals.
- Dahanu Bordi Beach offers 17 km of coastline, famous for chikoo orchards and a sacred Zoroastrian fire temple.
- Suruchi Beach is eco-friendly and the best for a morning jog or an evening walk.
- Aalewadi Beach near Boisar has horse-cart rides, the best food stalls, affordable hotels, and seating areas for tourists, which creates a welcoming environment.
Wondering how to get by? Use a dependable cab service in Surat and go about your beach hopping stress-free.
Forts
Home to several historic forts, Palghar echoes tales of valour and empire. Arnala Fort and Kelva Fort, both surrounded by water, were key Portuguese outposts later used by Maratha rulers. Vasai Fort, once a major Portuguese naval hub, holds political importance due to the Treaty of Bassein.
Forts like Gambhirgad, Kaldurga, Kamandurg, and Shirgaon offer rugged trekking trails, tribal culture, and panoramic views. Tarapur Fort and Shirgaon Fort preserve remnants of Maratha and Portuguese architecture.
To explore these diverse and scattered historical gems comfortably, book a trusted cab service in Surat, which takes you to the heart of Palghar.
Hill Station and Waterfall
Jawhar Rajwada, often called the “Mahabaleshwar of Palghar,” is a serene hill station known for its cool climate and lush forests. It offers a glimpse into tribal life and is especially enchanting during the misty monsoon season.
Nearby, the Kalmandavi Waterfall cascades 100 meters amidst rugged terrain. This hidden gem is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering trekking, swimming, and rock-climbing adventures.
Warli Art: A 1100-year-old Tradition
A traditional tribal art form from Palghar, especially prominent in Jawhar, Warli reflects the social and cultural identity of the Warli community. It illustrates the beauty of everyday life, rituals, and nature through symbolic and geometric designs.
Scenes of marriage, farming, dance, and festivals are commonly depicted. Artists use bamboo brushes with natural materials like rice flour, soil, and plant-based dyes.
How to Get to Palghar?
Whether you are travelling from Mumbai or nearby cities, a trusted taxi booking app offers on-time pickups and drop-offs.
You can also avail of the Mumbai Suburban Railway, which operates between Bandra and Palghar every 4 hours. The closest airport to Palghar is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai, around 90 km away.
When Should You Visit Palghar?
Palghar is easily accessible all year round. But if you ask the locals, they believe that the best of Palghar is experienced from November to February. The weather is just right around then, without the prickly heat or the heavy monsoons.
Wrapping Up
Palghar truly has it all — it is a unique cocktail of natural beauty, history, and tribal culture. Offering an immersive travel experience, there’s something for each kind of explorer.
Experience the best of Palghar with Saavari Car Rentals, an online cab booking aggregator offering customers reliable and premium comfort. With over a decade of expertise, they are proud to be India’s largest chauffeur-driven car service, making your journey through Palghar comfortable and memorable.
Create lasting memories at Palghar, and seek what’s seeking you!
