Located in the south-western part of
Maharashtra, Ratnagiri is a district with harbours, pilgrim centers and caves. It forms a part of the Konkan tract. The Konkan tract is historically famous for its long coastline and convenient harbours. Ratnagiri District is bordered by the Sahyadri mountain ranges in the west and was once the administrative capital of Bijapur rulers. With an area of 8,208 sq km, it has a population of over 1.5 million.
Rice and coconut are the main crops. Tilak Smarak, Patit Pawan Mandir, Nivali waterfall, Hatis (holy place of Hindus and Muslims), Parashuram Temple near
Chiplun, Ganapatipule and Pawas are the major tourist attractions. Other tourist places include
Bhatye Beach, Ratnadurg Fort and Bhagwati Bunder (sea-port).
