Velneshwar, a coastal village enriched with natural beauty, is truly blessed by nature. Among the tourist destinations in Guhagar, Velneshwar holds a prominent place. The Velneshwar temple and the nearby beach create a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Velneshwar is located approximately 290 kilometres from Mumbai and 306 kilometres from Pune. The distance from Guhagar to Velneshwar is about 20 kilometres. While traveling from Chiplun to Guhagar, one can reach Velneshwar by taking a left turn via Modka Agar before reaching Guhagar. The history of Velneshwar is closely tied to the temple, which dates back to nearly 1200 years. The surroundings are filled with coconut and betel nut plantations, and the clean, calm beach along with the sound of waves gives this village its unique charm. ... The Velneshwar temple is located right on the seashore and is the family deity (Kuldaivat) of the Ghag, Gokhale, and Gadgil families. The name 'Velneshwar' is believed to have originated from Vela, meaning seashore, and the god residing near the shore, or because the deity fulfills vows (Navas) without delay. According to local villagers, there existed a small temple of Lord Veloba here in the 12th century. The sanctum of the present temple still dates back to that period. Around 400 years ago, a man named Gadgil reconstructed the current temple at his own expense. The temple complex is spacious and houses a 24-foot-high Deepmala (lamp tower). The Sabhamandap has a dome-shaped spire. On the outer platform, there is a brass mask of Lord Shiva with five-hooded brass serpent on all four sides. In the sanctum, there is a 3-foot-long Shivlinga, adorned with a decorative mask and a five-hooded serpent. Behind the lingam in a niche are idols of Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha. Outside the sanctum, there are idols of Goddess Kali, Lord Krishna, and Mahishasura Mardini made of Panchadhatu (five-metal alloy), as well as stone idols of Vitthal and Rukmini. Adjoining the main temple are shrines of Kalbhairav, Ganapati, and Lakshmi-Narayan. The local ritual of seeking a divine omen (Kaul) from Kalbhairav is considered a unique experience to witness. The Mahashivratri festival is celebrated here with great devotion and grandeur. Velneshwar beach is clean and peaceful, making it ideal for visitors. Tourists visiting this sacred place can find accommodation in homestays and hotels in the village, and also in the Velneshwar Bhakt Niwas, which provides excellent lodging. With its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, natural beauty, and tranquil surroundings, Velneshwar is a destination one must visit at least once.
© Suresh Nimbalkar