Ganpatipule - the almost virgin beach!

2016 had its amazing start with Lord Ganesha's blessings. The 'Swambhu' Ganpati temple is the most prominent temple in Ganpatipule frequently visited by devotees. It is known for its unique Ganpati idol which opens up to the beautiful beach (a little crowded too). Commutation is pretty tough. We took a train from Mumbai to Ratnagiri, reached there by 7.30 p.m. There were a lot of autos outside the station and we took an auto to the Bus stop which is around 20 minutes far. ( Would cost 100Rs per auto or 30Rs per person if sharing). Once we reached the bus stop, we immediately found an ST Bus that goes through Aare Ware to Ganpatipule (Less time taken compared to the other routes). We reached Ganapatipule by 8.30. Immediately checked into Bhakti Niwas in a dormitory for 50Rs a day. When my friend had told me about this place, I thought it would be a little shady but I was surprised to see the way it was maintained, totally commendable. Though for people who have issues with shared bathrooms, it's going to pose a problem. Otherwise there are a lot of families who are on their spiritual quest. And it's pretty safe. They would need your ID proof for check-in, which is necessary. Then we headed out for dinner. Being a chicken lover, I didn't really look forward for some amazing sea food. But it was quite good. Oh I almost forgot to mention, it's going to be a nice little trek back to the dorm since it's situated pretty much far from the beach. A sky full of stars and favorite people beside you, things just get better every second. Mumbai has a dearth of stars and here there are plenty. Meanwhile, we've downloaded one app that would tell us what constellation it is if we focus on that star. Somehow that whole app worked in a weird manner.

We woke up in the morning. Went to the temple and immediately took off to Aare Ware Beach in an auto. It was beautiful. That beach was definitely a sight for the sore eyes. I wish I am good in describing this beauty. We were lazing around, putting in all our efforts to find shells. Took some crazy pictures. Around 4, we realized we've to be back to Ganpatipule beach for the sunset. 30 minutes of waiting and there was no sign of an auto or a bus. With no option left, we took a lift in a pickup truck. One of my firsts and it was exciting :P

Back to the Ganapatipule Beach for the sunset. Since morning we've been trying to book a train ticket but none of them were available. So we took a general ticket and asked the TC to convert it by paying some bucks but couldn't get a seat confirmed because it was full. So we had to sleep on the floor. Two and a half men accompanied me to kill time while I sat and thought about all the good times this trip has given me. In no time I fell asleep.

This trip has made me realize that life is not about living in luxury. It is only about being content with what you've got and enjoying every moment.

So Miles over Myles, Always! (For those whoid not get the reference, Myles self driven car from Carzonrent.com)