JOIN USLast month, when I happened to be in Goa on a holiday, by sheer good fortune my trip was extended by three full days. I wanted to make the most of it, and explore the neighbouring state of Maharashtra. My enquiries suggested Amboli, just 90 km away from Goa. Packing my overnight bag, I decided to hit the road to explore this hill station. Boy, was I glad I had decided to visit Amboli!
This gem of a place in Sindhudurg (a district in Maharashtra), also known as the Cherrapunji of Maharashtra owing to the nearly 750 cm annual rainfall it receives, is a delight to visit during the monsoons. But, there I was, heading to Amboli in the heat of summer. I wasn’t sure what to expect.
No sooner had I landed in Amboli than I was smitten by the quiet charm of the place. Nestled in the pristine Sahyadri Hills, Amboli is almost 690 m above sea level. Just off the coastal highlands of Goa, this hill station is heavenly with its rich flora and fauna. The thick green cover as far as the eyes can reach, left me wondering if it’s for real. Adding to the beauty of the place are numerous waterfalls that dot the hilly terrain. A big hit with environmentalists as an ecological hotspot, Amboli has a therapeutic effect on its visitors who value the natural treasures of life.
Soaking in nature
The drive being comfortable owing to good roads, I was brimming with curiosity to explore more of the hill station. Enjoying the silence of the place that was only disturbed by the occasional call of birds, I realised how soothing the effect of nature can be. Parking myself at a vantage point that offered me a great view of the Sahyadri range, I engaged in a silent communion with nature.
The soft breeze seemed to whisper sweet nothings in my ears. Time stood still. To add to my delight, I spotted a few exotic birds, the names of which elude me.
Later research revealed that the hills of Amboli are home to a variety of bird species including the hornbill, paradise flycatcher, drongo, yellow-browed bulbul, red-whiskered bulbul, crimson-backed sunbird, orange-headed ground thrush, Indian scimitar babbler.
Home for birds
It was time for me to check into a hotel and pay heed to my growling tummy, after which I set out, once again, to befriend Amboli. Wherever I went, I spotted people peering into their binoculars and squealing in delight. They were groups of birdwatchers who had descended on this hill station to catch a glimpse of their favourite birds. I was envious of their passion for birdwatching.
My first stop was at the Nangartas Waterfall, which was just a 10-minute drive from the town. It was a sight for sore eyes. Being summer, though the waterfall was not in all its glory, it still was a sight to behold, with the water falling into a deep, narrow ravine. Even as I was clicking photos to my heart’s content, I realised how foolish I was — I can carry the images of the place, but not the serenity around.
Since it was almost evening, I decided to settle for the Sea View Point, which offered a panoramic view of a good part of the Konkan Coast. Watching the sun set from this vantage point, I was again at a loss for words.
Early next morning, following a quick breakfast, I proceeded towards Hiranyakeshi Temple, a short five-minute drive from the town. This temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, also has a shivling and a Ganapati idol. This temple is popular because the Hiranyakeshi river originates from a cave adjacent to it.
Places of interest
It was also interesting to learn that the Hiranyakeshi river is the left-bank tributary of River Ghataprabha. Though the access to the temple is a bit patchy, it’s well worth the effort. The calm of the location makes it an ideal place for meditation, attracting a lot of people wanting to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life.
The other interesting stops I made were at the Kavlesad Point, Sunset Point, Parikshit Point and Shirgaonkar Point, which offered many visual delights. And, of course, the Madhavgadh Fort, which is in a state of ruin.
It was almost evening. Time for me to head back to Goa. I reluctantly packed my bags, but I made a silent resolve to come back during the monsoons, which is believed to be ‘the’ time to embrace Amboli.