Roha Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful town of Roha in Maharashtra, India with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out about top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Roha

Roha is a small, offbeat town located in the North Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. Known for its picturesque beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique local traditions, Roha is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travel enthusiasts.

The town is located near the Sahyadri range and is blessed with abundant greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and serene mountain vistas. The town’s rich history is evident from the numerous historical sites and museums that offer visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to explore the outdoors or a history buff interested in discovering the town’s heritage, Roha has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable journey to discover this hidden gem in Maharashtra.

List of Places to Visit in Roha

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Roha Fort

Located atop a hill in the town, the Roha Fort is a must-visit historical site. The fort dates back to the 16th century and has served as a strategic military post throughout history. Visitors can explore the fort’s ruins and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hamam Khana

Hamam Khana is a bathhouse that was built during the Mughal era. This historical site is believed to have served as a public bathhouse in the past and is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and architectural details of the bathhouse while learning about the town’s history.

Jijamata Udyaan

Jijamata Udyaan is a beautifully landscaped garden in Roha that is known for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. The park is named after the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and features lush green lawns, colorful flower beds, and scenic water bodies.

Natural Attractions of Roha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kansai Waterfall

Kansai Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located near Roha. The waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff and plunges into a serene pool surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool water.

Mahad Ganapati Temple

Located on the outskirts of Roha, the Mahad Ganapati Temple is a popular pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple is located near the picturesque Gandharphale waterfall and offers visitors a serene and spiritual ambiance.

Nagaon Beach

Nagaon Beach is a picturesque beach located near Roha that is known for its tranquil waters and pristine stretches of sand. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Roha

Roha is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Roha include:

  • Roha to Kondhavi Waterfall Trek
  • Roha to Kanakeshwar Forest Walk
  • Roha to Sudhagad Fort Biking Trail
  • Roha to Anjarle Beach Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Roha: Activities and Tours

Roha offers a range of activities and tours that cater to the interests of different travelers. Some of the must-do activities and tours in Roha include:

  • Visiting the Roha Fort and learning about its rich history
  • Hiking to the Kondhavi Waterfall and enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool water
  • Participating in a farm tour and experiencing the local agricultural practices
  • Taking a dip in the natural hot springs in the nearby town of Unhere

Week-Long Itinerary for Roha

Day 1: Arrival and relaxation at a hotel or guesthouse in Roha

Day 2: Hiking to the Kondhavi Waterfall

Day 3: Visiting the Roha Fort and Hamam Khana

Day 4: Exploring the Mahad Ganapati Temple and Gandharphale waterfall

Day 5: Participating in a farm tour and experiencing the local agricultural practices

Day 6: Relaxing at the beach and enjoying water sports at Nagaon Beach

Day 7: Departure from Roha

Food and Drink Scene of Roha

Roha is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of local delicacies and beverages that are worth savoring. Some of the must-try dishes and beverages in Roha include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kombdi Vade (Chicken Curry with Puris)
  • Sol Kadi (A tangy coconut milk curry)
  • Ukadiche Modak (Steamed Rice Dumplings)

Local Beverages

  • Kokum Sherbet (Sweet and Sour Drink made from Kokum fruit)
  • Solachi Kadhi (A Spicy and Sour Buttermilk Drink)

Where to Stay in Roha: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Roha offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Roha include:

  • Roha Fort Guest House
  • Bhooshi Dam Backwater Resort
  • Sunita Guest House

What to Buy in Roha: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Roha is known for its handicrafts and textile products that make for great souvenirs and gifts. Some of the best things to buy in Roha include:

  • Kolhapuri Chappals
  • Warli Paintings
  • Handwoven Sarees

Local Culture and Customs of Roha

The locals in Roha are proud of their rich cultural heritage and maintain unique customs and practices. Some of the local customs and traditions in Roha include:

  • Celebrating festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali with great enthusiasm
  • Practicing traditional agricultural techniques like terrace farming and crop rotation
  • Maintaining a close-knit community that takes care of each other

Best Time to Visit Roha

The best time to visit Roha is between September and February when the weather is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season between June and August is also a great time to visit, as the region receives abundant rainfall, offering spectacular views of the waterfalls and greenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of Roha

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local delicacies and beverages
  • Carry comfortable shoes and clothing for hiking and biking

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing at historical sites and temples
  • Litter or harm the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Roha

Roha is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always advisable to take precautions like carrying necessary medication and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Health in Roha

Travelers are advised to carry a first-aid kit and stay hydrated, as the region can get hot and humid. It’s essential to avoid mosquito bites and take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.

Getting to Roha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Roha

The nearest airport to Roha is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is located around 100 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Roha

Roha is well-connected by road, and several state-run and private buses operate on this route from Mumbai and other nearby towns.

Other Options

Travelers can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Roha from nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Roha

Travelers can explore Roha on foot, by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available on rent for travel enthusiasts interested in exploring the region on their own.

Where to Go Next from Roha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kashid Beach

Kashid Beach is a beautiful beach located around 20 kilometers from Roha. The beach is known for its pristine stretches of sand and tranquil waters, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and water sports.

Raigad Fort

Raigad Fort is a historical fort located around 50 kilometers from Roha. The fort served as the capital of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is now a protected monument.

Diveagar Beach

Diveagar Beach is a tranquil beach located around 40 kilometers from Roha. The beach is known for its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and relaxed ambiance, making it a popular destination for weekend getaways.

Conclusion

Roha is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers interested in exploring offbeat destinations. The town’s picturesque beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique local traditions make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in discovering the hidden treasures of Maharashtra. With its range of attractions, activities, and tours, Roha has something to offer for everyone, making it a perfect destination for travelers of all kinds. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover this hidden gem in Maharashtra.