Mumbai ⇒ Narsobachiwadi ⇒ Kolhapur ⇒ Kudal ⇒ Mumbai
One of the longest and most amazing recent trips where I could combine 2 of my greatest passions of travel and food. Away from the chaotic Mumbai to the calm-vibrant Kolhapur and then to my soul city of Kudal in Kokan, Maharastra.
We started from Mumbai by Railway late in the eve and touched the amazing super chilled place called Jaisinghpura at 5 am.
The first thing we noticed was a small roadside hotel. We were served a hot and steaming breakfast of Poha with tamato sambar (tomato sambar) and cutting aale chaha/ ginger tea.
Our first destination point was Narsobachiwadi. A calm serene religious destination that brings peace and solace.
Narsobawadi/Narsobachiwadi is a small village situated at the confluence of river Krishna and Panchganga located in Kolhapur. It is a pilgrim center as Shri Dattatreya in his incarnation known as Narsinh Saraswati lived here.
Somehow in today’s time, it has become a kind of business center so one needs to be cautious of where they stay and who they trust.
In terms of food, Narsobachi wadi is famous for kunda, and basundi. It is also known for the famous kobryachya wadya and kurdai wadya.
Our next destination was Kolhapur city.
Without the darshan of the Mahalaxmi Temple, the Kolhapur Trip is incomplete.
The beautiful mesmerizing architecture makes one wonder how come such beautiful architecture and design were possible back then when hardly had any technology.
After which we visited the Rankala, Kolhapur Chatrapati Shahu Museum, and Panhalagad which are super amazing places for history lovers.
Apart from the tourist spots, my favourite place was the amazing local market. Fresh fruits and vegetables, local food, crockery, cutlery- you will find absolutely everything right there.
On my trip to the market, I picked up super huge guavas, green peas, and carrots.
I also visited a local jaggery producer who explained the difference between natural organic jaggery and chemically processed and that was an eye-opening conversation.
When it comes to must-taste dishes of Kolhapur one should try the thecha, bhadang, missal, kandi pedhe and make sure you don’t forget the famous pandhar-tambda rassa.
Our next destination was Kudal, my hometown, followed by nearby places like Devbaug and Tarkarli which are gorgeous.
When in Malwan one should visit the local fish market where you will find a variety of fish ( fresh and dry). Try the local variety of fish and eat at small food joints or better still visit a home chef if you truly want to understand the food culture of my homeland.
Even though the travel ended a little too soon. It definitely has left a lasting mark on my heart.
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