Dahanu

Dahanu is a coastal town and municipal council in Palghar district, Maharashtra, India. It serves as the administrative headquarters of Dahanu taluka and forms part of the Konkan coast along the Arabian Sea. The town lies about 150 kilometers north of Mumbai and, in 2014, became part of Palghar district when the district was created from parts of Thane.

The economy of Dahanu is anchored in agriculture and fishing. The area is renowned for its chikoo (sapodilla) orchards; Dahanu chikoo is widely grown in the surrounding taluka and exported to domestic and international markets. Other tropical crops such as coconuts and bananas are cultivated as well. Fishing communities operate along the coastline, contributing to local livelihoods, while small-scale industries support agri-based trade.

Culturally, the region has a strong association with the Warli tribal community, whose traditional Warli paintings originate in Dahanu and the broader Palghar area. The Warli art form is recognized as an important facet of India’s tribal arts heritage and is associated with local villages and handicraft activities.

Transport in Dahanu includes rail and road connections. The town is served by the Western line of Indian Railways, with the Dahanu Road railway station providing access to Mumbai and other coastal towns. Road networks connect Dahanu to Mumbai and other centers in the Konkan region through regional and state highways.

Tourism and environment: Dahanu’s coastline, beaches, and palm-fringed shores attract visitors, while the surrounding agricultural and coastal landscapes sustain local communities. The area also offers opportunities to explore Warli art and regional culture.