Exploring Ganpatipule, Harihareshwar and aound. Journey more enjoyable than destination. 6

Journey is more enjoyable than destination 

Blog by

Vijay Kant Diksit 

vkdiksit@gmail.com 

All photographs by Author. 

 

   

            Travel is inherently synonymous with the spirit of exploration. Not only outside but to explore our inner space. Existence keeps on updating us with varying experience and chance to fulfill our hidden desires. For years, I had nurtured a deep fascination for Ganapatipule and its mesmerizing beach. Countless newspaper articles, magazines, and websites had painted vivid pictures of this alluring destination in my mind. However, fate had not yet granted me the opportunity to experience its beauty firsthand. The allure was not limited to just Ganapatipule; it also included the prospect of immersing ourselves in the lush greenery of Konkan particularly during the monsoon.

            The main hindrance in my journey had always been the issue of connectivity. Yet, as destiny would have it, a new chapter was about to unfold. Lady luck intervened, and it was a fortuitous twist of events that brought my brother-in-law Abhishek Trivedi and his delitful wife Richa  into the picture. They graciously extended an invitation for us to join them on a round-trip road adventure, starting from Thane and encompassing Ganapatipule, the coastal roads to Harihareshwar, and finally, our return journey to Thane.

            The prospect of exploring coastal areas with pristine beaches and the promise of witnessing breathtaking sunrise and sunset points was an irresistible call. Without hesitation, I accepted their invitation. Our travel party was now complete, with Abhishek and Richa as the vibrant young couple, and my wife, Poornima, and I, both seasoned senior citizens, forming the final duo. We finalized our plans and made reservations in MTDC resorts at Ganapatipule and Harihareshwar

              Just when everything seemed set, there were unexpected twists in our journey. A day before our departure, Abhishek had to rush to Delhi for urgent official matters, uncertain of his return time. We anxiously awaited his late-night arrival at 2 AM, unsure if our trip would proceed or if we'd be confined to our homes. Fortunately, by 11 AM next day the joyful news arrived that our trip was a go, albeit with one day less in Ganapatipule. Nevertheless, we were grateful for the chance to experience something rather than nothing.

            Our journey commenced on a Sunday, coinciding with the long weekend due to Ganesh Chaturthi holidays. We started at 7 AM ,fortunately traffic in Thane and New Mumbai was very smooth. Initially, the Pune Expressway welcomed us with smooth traffic, raising our hopes of an early arrival in Ganapatipule.

            However existence and traffic had other plans. As we turned towards road leading to Goa Highway, we encountered a massive traffic jam,inching forward at a snail's pace. Initially, we assumed it was a local issue that would soon dissipate, but our optimism waned as time passed. After waiting for 45 minutes, we decided to halt at a local restaurant for breakfast, hoping the traffic would clear by the time we finished our meal. Unfortunately, luck was not on our side, and the jam persisted for another hour. Only after we were about to reache the Goa Highway did we finally find relief from the congestion.

            As our journey unfolded, my mind transformed into an intricate canvas where the vibrant strokes of both spiritual and management wisdom began to craft their own narrative. Allow me to share some of these profound insights, while I invite my discerning readers to uncover their unique revelations.   

             Embarking on lengthy expeditions, particularly by road, demands not only a well-stocked supply of provisions but also an abundant reserve of patience. Beyond the tangible necessities packed for the journey, we quickly realized that an ample reservoir of patience is equally essential. Enduring the hours spent cocooned within a car, skillfully navigating serpentine roads, and braving the capricious ebb and flow of traffic serves as a litmus test for one's capacity to  maintain composure.

             This voyage, with its unpredictable twists and turns, unveils a profound lesson in acknowledging that some elements are simply beyond our control. It is a compelling reminder that life's course, much like a winding road, occasionally veers into uncharted territories, unveiling unforeseen challenges. In such moments, our ability to embrace these circumstances with grace and equanimity becomes an invaluable

               Journey along the Goa Highway, which often intersected with the Konkan Rail line, was a visual treat, offering glimpses of intriguing sights. One such stop was the Gandherpale Buddhist caves, a profound testament to the presence of ancient monks in the region. Regrettably, our tightly packed schedule didn't afford us the luxury of exploring these historical wonders in depth. We reluctantly pressed on, determined to reach our ultimate destination—Ganapatipule.

               As time steadily slipped away, we relied on Google Maps to guide us through the maze of unfamiliar roads. However, even with this modern technological aid, we encountered yet another challenge when we made the turn towards Ganapatipule. The route led us through the heart of a bustling main market, squeezing our vehicle through a narrow alleyway. To our astonishment, Abhishek displayed remarkable driving skills, expertly navigating through the tight space, proving that while Google Maps is a valuable asset, the ground realities of travel can often differ significantly from its digital guidance.

                Emerging from the market area, we found ourselves surrounded by a picturesque landscape adorned with lush greenery. Trees formed a graceful canopy on both sides of the road, creating a serene atmosphere. Despite the road's narrowness, the minimal traffic flow ensured our journey to Ganapatipule proceeded smoothly.

              Arriving at the entrance gate of the MTDC resort, we were met with an unexpected surprise—yet another obstacle in the form of a barrier that demanded a parking fee of Rs 20 for our car, despite our prior reservation of two suites. While this might have appeared as an insignificant charge, we reluctantly accepted it as an inevitable part of the travel experience, recognizing that sometimes such inconveniences are simply par for the course.

             Our initial disappointment, however, quickly transformed into sheer wonder and awe as we reached our cottage. These strategically positioned cottages faced the sea, affording us uninterrupted and breathtaking views of the beach right from our veranda. The stunning vista that greeted us was nothing short of spectacular, and the selfie captures from that vantage point became treasured mementos of our unforgettable journey.

             Rest of the adventure will be detailed in my next blog and believe me it will be very thrilling and interesting.