Located in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, Marleshwar is an ancient Shiva Temple where Lord Siva is believed to hadlived with legendary snakes. This cave temple is circumvented with grooves and devotees here handle venomous snakes. The temple attracts a big number of devotees every year who come here and perform ablutions as well. There is a waterfall on Bavriver, named as Dhareshwar which is another tourist attraction. Apart from snakes, this area is also famous for numerous waterfalls, especially during monsoon. 

In beginning of the 18th century, the 'Shivling' of Marleshwar Temple was in Muradpur. It was brought in the cave when tyrant Muradkhan started vexing locals of Muradpur. Located on hill and accessible by 50 km diversion from NH17, this temple has various snakes which are friendly. One can even touch them and there has been no complaint of being bitten. This temple is packed with devotes during Nag Panchami and Shravan.

There are many stories related to Marleshwar Temple which gives it a unique aura. On Makar Sankranti day, a celebration of Girijadevi and Marleshwar takes place. From this temple tourists can enjoy the beauty of Sahyadris Mountains. To reach here by bus, one has to reach Maral village which is 14 kms away. The nearest airport is Mumbai and nearest railway station is Ratnagiri and Sangameshwar.