Things To Do
in Pen
Pen is a tranquil Konkan town perched near the Raigad coastline, where rivers meet the Arabian Sea. It blends rural charm with coastal scenery, offering a gateway to nearby forts, beaches, and evergreen hills. The town's Malvani-influenced cuisine and friendly locals add warmth to every visit.
Visitors come for relaxed days, scenic vistas, and easy access to nature without the crowds of larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and take a scenic drive to Pen. Check into your local accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
Visit the beautiful local temples such as the Sri Venkatesh Mandir, capturing the architecture and vibrancy of the area. Explore the local markets and grab a bite at a street food stall before continuing your cultural immersion. Take time to interact with local artisans to learn about the craftsmanship unique to the region.
As the sun sets, stroll along the banks of the Bhira Dam that offers stunning views. Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Maharashtrian cuisine. Engage in conversations with locals, soaking in their stories and folklore to end your day.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Bhira Fort, where you can hike and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cool morning air and chirping birds create a refreshing backdrop for your explorations. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning vistas.
After descending from the fort, head over to the Pen Museum to delve deep into the art of pen-making, a traditional craft of the town. You can even try your hand at creating your own pen, guided by local artisans. A light lunch at a local eatery will replenish your energy for the next activity.
Wind down with an evening visit to a local dance performance featuring Lavani, a traditional Maharashtrian dance form. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats will leave you enthralled. Conclude your day with a quiet dinner, reflecting on the rich culture you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $15-40 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/handicrafts | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and relaxed pace
- Proximity to beaches, forts, and nature
- Friendly local hospitality
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Monsoon season can disrupt travel and trekking
- Smaller town infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Krupa karun" - Please
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Ho / Nahi" - Yes / No
- "Maaf kara" - Sorry
- "Mi Marathi bolto" - I speak Marathi
Places to Visit in Pen
Visit one of these nice places.
A long, quiet stretch of sand where fishing boats glow at dawn.
Riverside lanes and old boats provide reflections and golden-hour shots.
A short hike to a hilltop with views over the Konkan coastline and lush valleys.
Food in Pen
Pen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut-rich curry with local fish, served with steamed rice or bhakri.
Must-Try!
A cooling coconut and kokum drink, perfect after a spicy curry.
Crispy, shallow-fried fish seasoned with a tangy spice mix.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes offering vada pav, bhajji, pav bhaji, and other quick bites perfect for a street-food taste of the region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly Namaste is common; remove shoes before entering homes and some religious spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Pen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; 5–10% is typical if you are happy with the service.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in towns; mobile wallets and UPI are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is hot and humid with temperatures often above 30°C. Hydrate, wear light clothing, and seek sea breezes by the coast.
June to September brings heavy rains and lush greenery. Trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and be mindful of rising tides and local weather advisories.
October to February offers mild, pleasant weather—great for outdoor sightseeing and market visits. Evenings can be cool, so a light sweater helps.
Pen at Night
Hiking in Pen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular 2-3 hour hike near Panvel with panoramic views of the coast and forests.
A car-free hill station nearby offering scenic viewpoints and easy trails.
Airports
How to reach Pen by plane.
Mumbai's main international airport, about 90-120 km from Pen depending on route.
Alternative airport about 140-160 km away, useful for connecting flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and culture in Pen; family-oriented town life.
A mix of people from nearby regions contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schools and local grounds.
Common on beaches and open fields; weekend games are a local favorite.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries provide Marathi thalis with vegetables, lentils, and rice; look for dal and sabzi options; request milder spice levels if needed.