Dapoli

Dapoli is a coastal town and taluka in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, located on the Konkan coast. It serves as the taluka headquarters and is a regional center for agriculture, education, and tourism. The town is known for a relatively mild climate compared with inland areas and is a popular weekend destination for residents of Mumbai and Pune.

Geographically, Dapoli lies along the Arabian Sea with the Western Ghats to the east. The region experiences a tropical, monsoon-influenced climate, with heavy rainfall during the southwest monsoon and a milder winter season. The landscape includes coastal beaches, small hills, and rural villages.

The local economy traditionally centers on agriculture and fishing, with crops such as coconuts, mangoes, and paddy. The area is home to Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapith, a state agricultural university focused on coastal agriculture, horticulture, and related disciplines. Tourism also contributes to the economy through beaches, scenic viewpoints, and heritage sites.

Popular attractions include Ladghar Beach, Anjarle Beach, and Karde Beach, which draw visitors for swimming, water sports, and sunsets. Anjarle is known for the Anjarle Ganapati temple and surrounding coastal villages, while nearby coastal forts and lighthouses reflect the region’s maritime history. The Dabhol and Harnai ports lie to the south and support fishing and freight activity.

Dapoli is connected by road to Mumbai and other major centers; the nearest railway stations are in larger nearby towns, and air travel is available through Mumbai or Pune.