Malvan

Template:Infobox Indian urban area

Malvan (In Marathi: मालवण) is a town located in Sindhudurg District - southernmost district of Maharashtra. This culturally and historically important town is a Taluka place in Sindhudurg District. Achara, Jamdul, Juva, Pankhol and Sarjekot are villages in Malvan Taluka.

Geography and Climate

Malvan is a compact town situated on coast off Arabian Sea and has beautiful beaches around. Sindhudurg fort, Tarkarli beach, Kunakeshwar Temple enhance the Tourism quotient. Malvan town is bound by three small creeks viz. Karli, Kolamb and Kalavali.

Climate of Malvan can be generally classified as Warm and moderately humid. Average temeratures range between 16 - 33 Deg Centigrade while relative humidity ranges from 69 to 98%. Annual average rainfall of Malvan is 2275mm.

Location and Reaching there

Malvan is easily accessible by Road. By road, Malvan is 514 kms away from Mumbai, 200 kms from Ratnagiri. When arriving from Mumbai or Goa, take National Highway NH-17 till Kasaal and then take a State Transport bus or Rickshaw for an approximately 35 kms ride to Malvan.

Nearest railway station is at Kudal and nearest Airport is at Dabolim in Goa.

People / Demographics

This area of konkan is predominantly Hindu and the majority of these Hindus are kshatriya Marathas,Bhandaris. Common Surnames are: Khots,Parab, Gawde, Chavan, Bagwe,Sarmalkars etc. The major festival is 'Anganewadi Jatra'. People from Malvan staying elsewhere go to their native places every year during the months of August-September to attend 'Ganeshotsav". Some people here are not very comfortable with tourists and are apprehensive to help. Nevertheless, at large people are quite friendly and will easily go an extra mile for you.

Culture

Malvan has its unique culture signified by its Marathi-Konkani dialect and Food. Malvan is traditionally known for its unique dialect of Marathi / Konkani called Malvani. The cuisine of this region is popularly known as Malvani cuisine. Coconut, Rice and fish assume prime significance in the Malavani cuisine.

Education

Topiwala High School
Bhandari High School
Jeevan Vidya Vidyalaya
Industrial Training Institute (ITI)
Government Polytechnic

Tourist Attractions

Sindhudurg - A sea fort. This impressive Sindhudurg (meaning Ocean Fort), was built in 1664 by the great 17th century Maratha warrior, Shivaji on "Kurte" island to the glory of the Maratha Empire. The construction of a sea fort is a stupendous task, and at Sindhudurg no efforts were spared. Over 2000 khandis (4000 mounds) of iron were used for casting and the foundation stones were laid down firmly in lead. Even today, as one approaches the fort past a rocky reef, navigable through a narrow channel, one marvels at the transportation of such heavy material through such choppy waters.

Tarkarli - A serene beach located 8kms off Malvan town. It has a a luxury Tent resort (Tambu Niwas) around the beach developed by Maharashtra Tourism (MTDC). This beach is a favorite with sand particles devoid of any red tinge and sky reflecting waters. Further north about another 6-7km, is the Tarkarli creek and a lovely estuary. Boat ride on the Tarkarli creek highly recommended. It takes you a little out in the sea and on a lucky day, you might spot some dolphins too!