Jawhar

Jawhar is one of the tribal regions of the state with a rich cultural heritage. The place falls under the Palghar district of Maharashtra state. The city has a charming view and thus is visited by many people from all around the country. It is a hill station situated at an altitude of 518m. The Sunset Point is the best tourist attraction of the city, which was initially known as Dhanukamal as the shape of the valley resembled that of a bow or Dhanush.

The sunset from this view is mesmerizing, and one can see the Mahalaxmi Mountain. Located at a distance of about 18 km from the city, the Dabosa waterfall is an essential part of sightseeing in Jawhar. The place is surrounded by mountains and medicinal plants, and the beautiful ambiance of the place is undoubtedly breathtaking.

Another must-see tourist sight of the city is the Hanuman Point, from where you can witness the fantastic view of the Shahapur Maholi Fort. You can spot an old temple of Maruti at this location which is called the Katya Maruti. The idea of the Kasara Ghat from this point also offers a beautiful sight to the tourists. A famous historical attraction of the city is the Jaivilas Palace which was once the residential place of the royal family of Munke.

The interiors of the palace depict the lifestyle of the tribal kings. The place reflects the fine work of architecture of ancient times. The palace is made of pink stones and has a beautiful garden surrounding it. The Bhopatgad Fort is another antique site of the city that was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji. The other places to be visited during your tour here comprise the famous Shirpal, Khad Khad Dam, Jai Sagar Dam, and the Kalmandvi Waterfall.

THINGS TO DO AROUND

Jawhar is a city in Maharashtra that is very well known for its beautiful Warli paintings, a much-appreciated art form. Visit Jawhar city is incomplete if you do not buy these beautiful works of handicrafts and other art sold by the villagers. Flaunt your photography skills at the hills of the city or learn new amidst some scenic views. 

FESTIVAL OF JAWHAR

Bohada is a mask festival of the tribal, which is held for 3 days. It is celebrated every year from March and any time between Hanuman Jayanti and Gudhi Padva.

Many tribal and non-tribal people attend this festival. In this festival, 52 masks of Indian gods and goddesses are exhibited.

Mask owners wear these masks and give several performances during this celebration. Some chief mask makers, the village head, and elders organize this festival. The festival takes place in different villages in the Palghar district, in which mokhada is the birthplace of this festival.

The purpose of Bohada is to show gratitude to the village goddess (gaon Devi), including all other gods and goddesses. And also, they play tribal folk dance and many stalls of food and other things.

HISTORY OF THE CITY

Jawhar in Maharashtra was a princely state in India that became a part of the Bombay presidency during the British raj. The history of Jawhar takes back to the early 1300 A.D. Jawhar was under Warli chieftain during the first Mughal invasion in 1294 of Deccan. Pages of history books tell us that a Koli named Jayaba had a small mud fort in Mukane. He once visited a shrine at Pimpri and was blessed and saluted as ruler of Jawhar.

After that, he assembled a few Kolis and started walking towards the north. After spending seven years in Kathiawar, he returned to Jawhar. He went to the chief and requested for land as much as the bullock's hide could cover. The Warli head gave him a piece of land that enclosed the whole of the Warli chief's possessions when it was cut. Subsequently, Jayada became the ruler of Jawhar and was later known as H.H.Maharaj Jayabarao Mukne of the Mukne Dynasty.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAWHAR

The climatic condition of the city is excellent throughout the year. However, if you are planning a trip to Jawhar, it is advisable to visit between the months of September and April.

 PLACES OF ACCOMMODATION

Sunset Point Resort has dorms, cottages, and a restaurant. Symphony Lake View Resort, Hotel Pushpanjali, and Shanti Sarovar Resort are other options to explore. 

How to reach Jawhar

BY AIR:

The nearest airport is Nashik airport at around 80 km or the Mumbai International Airport 100 km from Jawhar. Once at any of these airports, hire a taxi or state bus to reach the city.  

By train

The nearest railway station is at Igatpuri in Nashik. Jawhar is about 60 km from here. Reach the railway station and hire a taxi to reach the destination. The taxi service is available 24X7 here.

By bus

The route very well connects with all the major cities of Maharashtra. You can hire a state bus or opt for a private bus to reach the Jawhar bus stand.