THANE
Thane is a beautiful district which is spectacularly placed in the northern part of Maharashtra. Royally flanked by the Yeoor and Parsik hills, Thane also encloses 30 beautiful lakes. Hence nature lovers proudly call Thane as a “Lake City”.
'Cacade De Tana’ alias Thane was one of the prime trading centres of the Portuguese. In 1734 Thane was taken over by the mighty Maratha kings. The British conquered Thane from the Maratha kings in 1784 and named it ‘Tana’.
The city is also famous for its chemical, engineering products, and textile industries. Apart from that its princely past is reflected in the palatial buildings, churches and fort that reminds the visitor about the richness of artistic caliber of the by gone generation. India’s first ever train ran from Mumbai station to Thane in 1853.
Thane is famous for its antique temples, scenic beauty and historic monuments. Ambernath temple is one of the ancient devotional centres which is popular for its Hemadpanthi style of architecture. Titwala Ganesh Mandir, Gurudev Sidha Peeth are some of the prime spiritual centres. Jawahar Palace, Bassein and Sudhagad forts will mesmerize you with its imposing facade. Apart from its historic grandeur, Thane is famous for its rich scenic beauty. Talao Pali and Upvan Lake offer treat to the onlookers. Kashi-Mira and the Thane Creek are a hot spot for the nature lovers. Naneghat Hills is a prime destination for the adventure buffs.
The city embraces people belonging to all religions without any discrimination. The city comes alive with loads of cultural programmes during festivals of Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Gokulashtami and Durga Puja.
Being the amalgamation of the old and the modern, Thane is a perfect destination for the people belonging to all walks of life.
PLACES TO SEE
Thane Creek : Thane Creek is one of the must see places of Thane. It is one of the prime Bird Reserve sites of India. It proudly houses 205 species of both Indian and migratory birds.
The rear species like whistling teals, golden plove can be seen. Dundil, flamingos, white stock are some of the commonly seen birds.
Har Har Gange waterfall : This spectacular man made waterfall which elegantly falls from a height of 25 mts is situated at the Suraj Water park.
Titwala Ganesh Temple : This spiritual centre which is located in a place called Titwala is dedicated to the revered elephant headed god, Ganesh. Shiva temple, Krishna-Rukmini temple is also located in the premises.
Ambarnath Temple : This ancient temple which was constructed in about 11th century is about 25 kms from Thane. Lord Shiva is the main deity.
Kashimira : Kashi and Mira are the two fabulous villages which is popular for its rich scenic beauty. These two villages are separated by the St. Jerome’s Church which was built in the year 1595. Fair is held in the church during Christmas.
Yeoor hills : This spectacular hill which is close to Sanjay Gandhi National park is a hot spot for trekkers. It is a home for about 78 species of avian flock and around 12 animal species. Lucky ones can also spot leopards as well. The main attraction here is the 150 year old Mama Bhanja temple.
Masunda Talao : It is one of the biggest and finest lakes of Thane. Tourists can enjoy boating in the calm waters along with enjoying the nature’s bounty. Water scooter facilities can be enjoyed by the adventure freaks. Masunda Talao also offers a lot to the food lovers.
Sudhagad Fort : Sudhagad fort which was constructed in about 2nd century consists of the Bhoraidevi temple. Two beautiful lakes, a house and some temples are the prominent attractions of this fort. Being a hot trekking spot it offers panoramic views of the Sarasgad, Korigad, Dhangad and Taila-Baila forts.
Kelva Beach : Kelva beach besieges the tourists with its 7km long stretch of glittering coastline. Beautifully lined by the Suru trees it provides a calm ambience to the visitors to spend the holiday joyously. Kelva fort and Sheetladevi temple are also found here.
OTHER PLACES
Jawahar Palace
Upvan Lake
Bassein Fort
Naneghat hills
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Mumbai airport is about 25 kms from Thane.
By Train : Many trains passing through the Thane station connects it to the major cities.
By Road : Thane is well connected by road to the major cities.