Sawantwadi (: ) is a taluka (a unit of administration) in the Sindhudurg district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The taluka headquarters is Sawantwadi which has a municipal council, which is a local civic body. Sawantwadi was formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Sawantwadi, ruled by the Sawant Bhonsle royal clan of the Marathas. Until 1850, Sawantwadi was known as Sundurwadi. The name Sawantwadi came into usage because of the surname of the state's ruling family of Khem-Sawants. The palace was earlier located on Narendra hill. Khemsawant III constructed the existing palace in late 18th century (17551803), and Moti-Talav (Moti Lake) was built in front in 1874. Sawantwadi is known for its wooden toys and models thanks to an active woodcraft industry. It is also becoming a major tourist attraction.
