Junnar Grape Festival of Maharashtra Begins on February 18

Junnar, about 100km by road from Pune, is a popular base for exploring some of Maharashtra&rsquos famous forts and caves and trek routes. But did you know that Junnar is also climbing the charts as a grape-growing region Why not head to this historic town during the three day Grape Festival starting on February 18 this year to enjoy a weekend of farm and winery visits along with exploring some of the historical and architectural attractions of the region

The Junnar Grape Festival is being organised by the state tourism and other agencies. The main idea is to promote agri-tourism in the area based on the vineyards located here. According to the organisers, the festival will provide a great opportunity to local farmers, self-help groups and local artisans to showcase their work to tourists.

Supriya Karmarkar, Deputy Director of Pune region said, tourists will be able to enjoy a special tour where they will be able to consume farm-fresh grapes, purchase freshly-plucked grapes directly from the farm, purchase beverages, and observe the wine-making process. There will be a variety of grapes and grape products, such as raisins, black currants, grape juice etc. &ldquoIt is an excellent way of helping the grape harvesters extend their reach, while giving a chance for them to meet and exchange experience with tourists, experts and business enterprises,&rdquo she said.

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Apart from grape farm and winery visits, visitors will be able to participate in a host of activities, including attending a Junnar Heritage Walk, go on horse rides, bullock cart rides, etc., pay a visit to the local weekly market, attend cultural and food festivals. Participants will have to register (by February 18) and pay an entry fee of Rs 100 per head at the venue.

Surrounded by the Malshej hills and twisting Ghat roads, Junnar is also the base for visiting many forts, including the famous Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Incidentally, the first day of the festival coincides with his birth anniversary. According to records, Junnar was the first capital of the Satvahana dynasty dating back to the first century BC. From Junnar, you may go on a trek to Naneghat, an ancient trade route cutting through the Western Ghat hills, connecting Deccan Plateau with the Konkan coast.

During the festival, you may visit the two of the Ashtavinayak temples &ndash Ozar Ganpati Temple and the Lenyadri Ganpati Temple, Tamhane Museum Amba and Ambika caves, etc.

For registration (by February 18) and details of accommodation, see here