Vasai-Virar Travel Guide
Introduction:
Vasai-Virar is a city located in the northern part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is a rapidly developing city that is becoming popular among tourists due to its rich history, beautiful beaches, and natural beauty. Vasai-Virar is known for its Portuguese architecture, which dates back to the 16th century when it was a part of the Portuguese empire. The city is also home to several religious sites, including temples, churches, and mosques. In this blog, we will explore some of the top attractions in Vasai-Virar.
History:
Vasai-Virar has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The city was ruled by the Mauryan empire in the 3rd century BC, followed by the Satavahanas, Western Kshatrapas, and the Guptas. In the 13th century, the city was ruled by the Yadavas, and later in the 14th century, it was conquered by the Bahmani Sultanate. The city was then ruled by the Portuguese from 1534 to 1739. During this time, the Portuguese built several forts, churches, and other structures that are still present in the city. After the Portuguese left, the city was ruled by the Marathas and later by the British.
Attractions:
Vasai Fort
Vasai Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vasai-Virar. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is located on the banks of the Ulhas River. The fort is spread over an area of 110 acres and is surrounded by a moat. The fort has several structures, including the citadel, the church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the watchtower. The fort also has a freshwater well that was used by the Portuguese soldiers.
St. Thomas Church
St. Thomas Church is a beautiful church located inside the Vasai Fort. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. The church has a beautiful altar and several statues of saints. The architecture of the church is a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles.
Jivdani Temple
Jivdani Temple is a popular Hindu temple located on a hill in Virar. It is dedicated to Goddess Jivdani, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is located at a height of 1,425 feet above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas. The temple can be reached by climbing 1,000 steps or by taking a cable car.
Arnala Fort
Arnala Fort is another popular fort located in Vasai-Virar. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is located on a small island in the Arabian Sea. The fort has several structures, including a mosque, a temple, and a palace. The fort also has a beautiful beach that is popular among tourists.
Tungareshwar Temple
Tungareshwar Temple is a popular temple located in the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at a height of 2,131 feet above sea level. The temple can be reached by climbing a steep hill, and the trek takes around two hours. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Chinchoti Waterfalls
Chinchoti Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall is located amidst dense forests and is a popular picnic spot among locals.
Kelva Beach
Kelva Beach is a beautiful beach located in Kelva, a small village near Vasai-Virar. The beach is popular among tourists and locals for its serene atmosphere and clean waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and offers a picturesque view of the Arabian Sea. The beach is also popular among adventure enthusiasts for activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Vajreshwari Temple
Vajreshwari Temple is a popular temple located in Vajreshwari, a town near Vasai-Virar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Vajreshwari, who is believed to cure diseases and fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is located at the foothills of the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Satpati Beach
Satpati Beach is a beautiful beach located in Palghar, a town near Vasai-Virar. The beach is known for its clean waters and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is also popular among fishing enthusiasts for its rich marine life.
Jai Durga Maa Temple
Jai Durga Maa Temple is a popular temple located in Vasai. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is one of the oldest temples in Vasai-Virar. The temple is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.
Food:
Vasai-Virar is known for its delicious street food. Some of the must-try dishes in the city include vada pav, misal pav, bhel puri, sev puri, and pav bhaji. The city also has several restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Italian.
Accommodation:
Vasai-Virar has several accommodation options for tourists, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Some of the popular hotels in the city include Hotel Regency, Hotel Galaxy, and Hotel Sai Residency.
Transportation:
Vasai-Virar is well-connected by road and rail. The city has a railway station, which is connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad. The city also has a bus stand, which is connected to neighboring cities and towns. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for local transportation.
Conclusion:
Vasai-Virar is a beautiful city that is steeped in history and natural beauty. The city offers a perfect blend of heritage, culture, and modernity. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, Vasai-Virar has something to offer to everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Mumbai, make sure to add Vasai-Virar to your itinerary
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