Ratnagiri Pincodes

About Ratnagiri

Ratnagiri, situated on the enchanting Arabian Sea coastline within Ratnagiri District in the southwest region of Maharashtra, India, is a captivating port city. Nestled in the Konkan division of Maharashtra, it’s celebrated for its delectable Hapus or Alphonso mangoes. Moreover, Ratnagiri holds historical significance as the birthplace of India’s revered independence activist, Lokmanya Tilak. The city also harbors the intriguing Thibaw Palace, a two-storied brick mansion that once served as the exile residence for Thibaw, the last king of Burma, along with his consort Supayalat and their two infant daughters. Ratnagiri encompasses a tapestry of charming villages, including Karla, Rajiwada, Mirkarwada, and more.

History

Ratnagiri, once an administrative center during the Sultanate of Bijapur, boasts a rich historical legacy. Perched on a headland near the harbor, the formidable fort, originally constructed by the Bijapur Sultanate, underwent reconstruction by Maratha king Shivaji in 1670. In 1731, Ratnagiri transitioned under the rule of the Kingdom of Satara, and by 1818, it was assimilated into British India.

This coastal town also holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Indian freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, born on July 23, 1856. At the age of 10, Tilak moved with his family to Pune, where he would later play a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence.

Demography

According to the 2011 census data, Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra, India, was home to a population of 1,615,069, which is roughly equivalent to the nation of Guinea-Bissau or the US state of Idaho. This places Ratnagiri at the 311th position among India’s 640 districts. The district exhibited a population density of 196 individuals per square kilometer (510/sq mi). Notably, from 2001 to 2011, Ratnagiri experienced a negative population growth rate of -4.96%. The sex ratio in the district was 1123 females for every 1000 males, and the literacy rate stood at 82.43%. Approximately 16.33% of the population resided in urban areas, while Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes comprised 4.15% and 1.26% of the population, respectively.

Geography

Ratnagiri is situated at coordinates 16.98°N latitude and 73.3°E longitude, nestled at an average elevation of 11 meters (approximately 36 feet) above sea level. This picturesque coastal town is defined by its unique geographical features, with the majestic Sahyadri mountains forming a natural boundary to the east. The Sahyadri range not only adds to the town’s stunning landscape but also influences its climate and ecology. Ratnagiri’s strategic location between these mountains and the Arabian Sea creates a diverse and vibrant environment, making it a captivating destination for both nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking to explore its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Economy

The economy of Ratnagiri, a district in Maharashtra, India, is primarily driven by agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. The region boasts fertile land for cultivating rice, mangoes, cashew nuts, and other crops. Fishing, particularly in the Arabian Sea, plays a significant role, with the district being known for its seafood production. The Ratnagiri Port facilitates trade and commerce, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, tourism is a burgeoning sector, with its pristine beaches, historical sites, and natural beauty attracting visitors. The government has been investing in infrastructure development to further stimulate the local economy. However, challenges such as unemployment and infrastructure gaps still exist in the region.