Ratnagiri is noted as the birthplace of Indian nationalist, social reformer, teacher and lawyer, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who played a key role in India's Independence Struggle. Today, his ancestral house has been converted into a museum and invites tourists for its heritage riches like his paintings and photographs. Moreover, it has some of his personal belongings like cap, glasses, hand-written documents etc. It is believed that this was the place where Tilak was born and grew up.
Maintained by the Archeological Department of India, the museum is a great spot to reconnect with national history and get some insight into the legendary leader's life. It is fringed by tall palm trees that give it a picturesque setting. The museum remains open all days except Monday and can be visited between 9:00 am and 6:30 pm.