🗿 Ratnagiri Geoglyph & Heritage Immersion

Before temples.
Before kingdoms.
Before language took written form.

The laterite plateaus of Ratnagiri hold engravings believed to be thousands of years old. Massive geoglyphs. Animal motifs. Human forms. Symbols still debated by archaeologists.

This three day trip explores explores the prehistoric petroglyph sites of Ukshi, Chave, Nivali, Kasheli, Barsu and more, along with temple architecture and coastal heritage. A journey into 10,000-year-old stories etched in stone. It is designed as a thinking and walking experience rather than a rushed sightseeing tour.

Small groups. Pre-history walks. Context-driven storytelling.

You return with perspective, not just photographs.

  • Dates: –
  • Intercity Departure on previous night.

Tourism ≠ Just Sightseeing

Immerse, Experience, Belong.

Behold.

Yum!

Ancient Finds

Aare Ware

Interpreting the Konkan Geoglyphs

Geoglyphs are scattered across the Konkan region, but identifying them is only the beginning. What truly matters is context. This trail is led with expert interpretation and curated by passionate local leaders who work closely with the landscape. Each site is deliberately selected for its unique characteristics, allowing participants to witness the full range of geoglyph typologies in just three days, including sites included in ongoing World Heritage nomination efforts.

Itinerary

Day 0

Finding the right transport? We'll help you.

If you’re joining from Pune, Mumbai, Hyderabad, or Bangalore, most guests book overnight buses or trains that depart the evening or night before the trip. This helps you arrive rested and ready to begin.

Our Pickup is from Ratnagiri City, and we’ll help you with route guidance and travel planning so you can choose the most comfortable option for your journey.

Nearest Airports: Malvan Airport | Mopa Airport

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Day 1 | Stone & Dynasties

Day one introduces the central cluster of petroglyphs and builds the foundation for understanding scale, carving techniques and symbolic thought. You learn how to see.

 + Pick-up: We will arrange transportation to pick you.

 + Tea-Breakfast at the Stay

 + Trip Captain Briefing: Meet your trip coordinator for the briefing and get a glimpse of the journey ahead.

 + Heritage Walk at Konkan Geoglyphs & Heritage Research Centre: Orientation to Konkan geoglyph discoveries & an expert viewpoint on history of civilization. Meet local researchers, learn about the discovery, documentation and conservation of petroglyph sites in the Ratnagiri region and how they relate to human history over millennia.
+ Road trip to Kasba-Sangameshwar, a melting point of historical events and medieval temples
 + Authentic Malvani Lunch along the way 
 + Karneshwar Temple, Sangameshwar:
A 12th-century Shiva temple attributed to the Shilahara dynasty. Known for its stone mandapa, carved pillars and Hemadpanthi-style structural features. A key example of early medieval temple architecture in coastal Maharashtra.

 + Chalukya-period Temple Ruins (Nearby Region):
Stone temple remains showing early Deccan architectural influence along the Konkan coast.  

 + Sardesai Wada: A historic and sobre landmark linked to the capture of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in 1689. 

  + Sapteshwar Temple & Step well: Ancient Shaiva shrine integrated with a seven-spring hydraulic system. Features stepped kund architecture, T-shaped water channels and monolithic Nandi. A rare example of sacred architecture designed around natural water engineering.

 + Ukshi Petroglyph Trail:
Protected prehistoric site featuring one of the largest geoglyph figures in Ratnagiri. Study carving depth, motif scale and plateau selection.

 + Return to Ratnagiri

 + Dinner & Rest

Hidden Pond ratnagiri

Day 2 | Northern Petroglyph Belt & Beach!

This day is dedicated to the northern Deod petroglyph belt, followed by a hidden trail to a natural freshwater pond & the beachscapes of Ratnagiri.

+ Early Breakfast at Stay.

 + Deod-Ganpatipule Petroglyph Cluster Trail: Explore multiple plateau sites within the Deod region featuring large-scale geoglyph engravings, animal motifs and geometric carvings spread across exposed laterite surfaces.

 + Gem Blue Pond Hidden Trail:
A short guided trail through the forest leading to a deep natural freshwater pond. Beat the heat at this natural paradise.

+ Authentic Lunch 

+ Aare Ware Beachscape: Set between the Aare & Ware Villages- A scenic drive and short walk along one of Ratnagiri’s most dramatic coastal ridges. The laterite cliffs open into uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea, offering perspective on how plateau settlements overlooked maritime routes and fishing grounds.

 + Ganpatipule Beach Temple Visit: Visit the revered Swayambhu Ganpati temple located along the Arabian Sea. Or you can also choose to spend relaxed time at the beach near your stay or one of our handpicked beaches.

 + Authentic Malvani Dinner at the Stay

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Day 3 | Southern Petroglyph Belt & Kasheli

The final day focuses on the southern plateau clusters where carving patterns vary and the landscape feels more intimate.

 + Breakfast at Stay.

 + Rundhe Petroglyph Plateau:
Rugged laterite surface with clustered engravings and varied carving depths.

 + Devi Hasol Petroglyph Site:
Important plateau cluster featuring geometric and animal motifs. Discussion on preservation and ongoing documentation efforts.

 + Barsu Plateau Cluster:
Dense engraving zone offering comparative understanding with Deod and Ukshi sites.

 + Authentic Lunch at Stay.

 + Sunset at Kasheli Beach Point: lso known locally as Devghali Beach, this quiet stretch of the Arabian Sea shoreline lies close to Kasheli village in Ratnagiri district. It is known for its secluded location, clean sands and clear sea views, making it a peaceful place to end a long day in the field.

 + Departure: Drop back at the Station/Highway

Add-ons
Geoglyphs in Kudopi Malvan
Extend a night for a relaxed holiday
  • Accomodation: (Triple/Four Shared)
  • Local Facilities
  • KTC guiding and expertise fees
  • 3x Breakfasts
  • 3x Lunch (2 Veg, 1 Non Veg)
  • Internal transfers from Pick-up till Drop
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
  • 2 Dinners
  • Personal Purchases
  • Items with tag [Add-on]

Trip Fees

Best Price: Triple occupancy with clean, homely stays

 > Ex Ratnagiri ₹–

 > Ex Pune/Mumbai ₹– 

Double Sharing: ₹1200 Per Couple

Stays in the Trip

Highlights of the Trip

Note

  1. Please confirm bookings in advance to prevent loss of stays. Especially in rush months between Nov to Mar.
  2. Please carry water bottles and avoid buying packaged water if possible.
  3. Do not consume intoxicating substances in the Village area and public places.
  4. Please let us know if you wish to increase the budget or do cost-cutting. Your budget affects stays and activities involved. KTC convenience charge remains the same irrespective of the budget.
Network may not be available- we recommend a complete detox from gadgets. If network is a must, please let us know. Please go through the traveler responsibilities mentioned in the ‘Travelers Handbook‘ link.

FAQs

What is KTC? How does it work?

At KTC, we craft immersive tours, excursions, and camps that bring the essence of Konkan to life. Our ever-evolving catalog features a diverse range of stays and handpicked, offbeat experiences that showcase the region’s true spirit.

We don’t just have guides—we have Field Experts—trained locals who offer in-depth insights, stories, and a genuine connection to the land. Our itineraries adapt with the seasons, ensuring you experience Konkan’s ever-changing beauty—from monsoon waterfalls to summer fruit feasts and winter coastal bliss.

Beyond travel, we are building a community—one where connections extend far beyond the journey, rooted in authentic Malvani cuisine, heartfelt local hospitality, and a commitment to responsible tourism.

Which is the best time to travel in Konkan for a family or group trip?

Squeezed in the lap of the Western Ghats and the Arabian sea, every season in Konkan has something unique to offer. Summer is for exploring hidden beaches, water sporting, scuba, scenic mangrove boat safaris, fort trails, wild fruit trails, and more. Winter is for everything summer, plus a major mood for camps and a season of Jatras in Konkan. You get to witness the traditional Dashavtar live theatre in a Jatra. Monsoon is very underrated here. You could witness some of the best treks and waterfall trails in the monsoon. The Malvani cuisine also changes to adapt to seasonal variety and even the beaches hit different every season.

How far is Konkan from Pune and Mumbai, and what are the best travel options?

We are located in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra- southern part of Konkan.

  • From Pune: Approx. 7-8 hours by road; take a bus, train, or drive via NH66.
  • From Mumbai: Approx. 9-10 hours by road; overnight trains, Volvo buses, or a scenic road trip are great options.
  • Flights: The nearest airport is MOPA Airport, Goa, just 25 km from our base location.
What is the best way to travel with KTC?

We often travel in our free time, but to truly immerse yourself in the magic of Konkan, we recommend making time to travel with us. Our experiences are designed to go beyond the usual, offering curated tours that reveal the region’s hidden beauty.

We release pre-designed tours, as well as design customized trips for groups—ensuring a personalized and seamless journey. 

For a limited time, all our exclusive experiences are available at unbeatable prices—making this the perfect time to plan your next adventure!

How much time before do we need to confirm the tour?

To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend confirming your trip at least three weeks in advance for all necessary arrangements.

However, during peak travel months—November, December, January, March, and April—accommodations fill up fast due to high demand. For trips during these months, we strongly advise planning and booking several months in advance to secure the best stays and experiences.

What are the best family-friendly destinations in South Konkan?

Konkan is perfect for families! Destinations like Vengurla, Malvan, Tarkarli, Amboli, and Devgad offer pristine beaches, homestays, water sports, scenic treks, and wildlife experiences. KTC’s curated itineraries ensure a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local experiences.

How is South Konkan different from North Konkan?

South Konkan (We operaete in Sindhudurg) is less commercialized compared to North Konkan (Alibaug, Kashid, Murud, etc.), which is more accessible from Mumbai and has mainstream tourist spots. The landmass is older as you move south, this is why the beaches here are different! You will find finer sand and pristine white and golden sand beaches. South Konkan offers hidden beaches, private boat safaris, scuba diving, forest trails, and untouched backwaters. The cuisine also changes every 20 km, giving you a diverse taste of authentic Malvani flavors unique to each region. If you seek offbeat, immersive, and authentic Konkan experiences, South Konkan is the place to be!

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We specialize in designing private trips and getaways. You could experience the best of what KTC has to offer by customizing a trip with us. With our wide range of catalogue of experiences and stays in offbeat Konkan~ we ensure you a more fulfilled experience. Your immersive Konkan Trip experience is at an overnight distance from Pune, Mumbai & other major cities
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