India's spectacular Konkan Coast starts
south of Mumbai in Maharashtra and extends for more than 700 kilometers to
Goa's border with Karnataka. The Konkan
Coast in Maharashtra offers a bounty of beautiful beaches, which are among the
most pristine in the country. Delightfully off the tourist trail, they are
devoid of much commercial development and many are practically deserted. In
this regard, the best time to visit is during January and February, when the
weather is warm (not hot), and it's the low season for domestic tourism. During
peak season (May school holidays, long weekends, and Indian festival season)
water sports, camel rides, and horse cart rides proliferate on the popular
beaches.
The beaches below, which are are listed in
order of proximity from Mumbai, are some of the most notable. Yet, you won't
have to look far to find many lesser-known ones where there is not a soul in
sight.
1. Tarkarli, Malvan, and Devbag Beach
If you're prepared to travel the distance, you'll by amply rewarded when you visit these beaches. The area is reminiscent of Goa decades ago before development set in. Its narrow, palm-fringed roads are lined with village homes, and locals can often be seen unhurriedly riding bicycles or walking to get around. The many beachfront homestays and guesthouses make it an appealing and inexpensive area to stay. Plus, the serenity of the beaches is preserved by the fact that water sports take place on a nearby island.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 500 kilometers.
Travel time: Around 10 hours via National Highway 17/66.
2. Bhogwe
One of the most secluded beaches on Maharashtra's Konkan Coast, Bhogwe is situated where the Karli River meets the Arabian sea. Although it can be seen in the distance from Devbag beach, it still goes virtually unnoticed by visitors as its overshadowed by the popularity of Tarkarli. For an unforgettable stay amid nature, don't miss Maachli.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 520 kilometers.
Travel time: Around 10.5 hours via National Highway 17/66.
3. Vengurla
Located only 30 minutes from the Goa border, semi-circular Vengurla beach is surrounded by lush hills. The road leading down to the beach provide dramatic vistas. Attractions in the area include a lighthouse, a jetty where fishermen return with the evening catch, and Vengurla Rocks (also known as Burnt Island) which is excellent for bird watching.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 520 kilometers.
Travel time: Around 10.5 hours via National Highway 17/66.
4. Alibaug
Alibaug is a sought after weekend
destination for people living in Mumbai, and many of the city's rich and famous
own bungalows there. The town has got quite a bit of history behind it.
Established in the 17th century, there are numerous old forts, churches,
synagogues, and temples all waiting to be explored. The main beach at Alibaug
isn't very appealing though, so most people head to the surrounding beaches.
There are all kinds of accommodations ranging from resorts to simple
guesthouses.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 100
kilometers.
Travel time: 1-1.5 hours by ferry, plus
another 30-45 minutes from there. Driving time via National Highway 17/66 is
around 3 hours.
5. Kashid
A little further down the coast from
Alibaug, Kashid is more isolated but growing in popularity. Its long, wide
beach is lined with casuarina trees, snack stalls, and hammocks. Two of the major attractions in the area are
Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary and Janjira Fort. While the beach is quite empty on
weekdays, it receives an influx of visitors on weekends. Family owned cottages
and guesthouses provide most of the accommodations as there are only a few
hotels in the area.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 130
kilometers.
Travel time: 1-1.5 hours by ferry, plus
another 2 hours from there. Driving time via National Highway 17/66 is around 4
hours.
6. Diveagar
Diveager is a relatively unknown beach
that's not too far from Mumbai. It's bordered by dense forestation. Make your way though it and you'll be greeted
by a wide, clean beach with fine sand. Exotica Beach Resort is one of the top
places to stay (it's a Maharashtra Tourism hotel, albeit privately managed,
opposite the beach). Rainbow Cottages, in the thicket of coconut trees, is
cheaper and also recommended. The town used to have a Ganesh temple with a
golden idol but thieves stole the idol in 2012. It's since been replaced by a
silver one.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 200
kilometers.
Travel time: Around 5 hours via National
Highway 17/66.
7. Shrivardhan
The standout feature of Srivardhan beach
is its thoughtfully developed promenade, with benches, rubbish bins, and decent
public toilets. This is rare at beaches in India. The beach itself is nothing
special though and the main drawback is that the accommodations are situated
away from the beach. One exception is this guesthouse, which has basic
beachfront cottages and gets varied reviews.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 200
kilometers.
Travel time: Around 5 hours via National
Highway 17/66.
8. Harihareshwar
Many people head to Harihareshwar,
neighboring Srivardhan, to visit its Shiva temple that houses an ancient Shiva
linga. There's a pradakshina route around the temple, along the sea shore. A
rocky outcrop, accessible only during low tide, makes the beach particularly
distinctive. The beach is actually split into two parts, north and south of the
temple. You'll find a Maharashtra Tourism resort on the south part but there
are other better places to stay.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 210
kilometers.
Travel time: Around 5 hours via National
Highway 17/66.
9. Murud and Karde
Murud and Karde form what is apparently
the longest stretch of beach on the Konkan Coast. Hotels and homestays have
mushroomed in the area, and there are many options for a beachfront stay. The
main attraction is dolphin watching, especially during the winter when
sightings are frequent. A little further north, Harnai is renowned for its
massive daily fish market. Buy some seafood and get the locals to cook it up
for you! Suvarnadurg Fort can also be visited.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 240
kilometers.
Travel time: Around 6 hours via National
Highway 17/66.
10. Ganpatipule, Malgund and Aare Ware
Ganpatipule is famous for its Ganesh
temple, located right on the beach. Due to the number of devotees it attracts,
the beach is not pleasant for swimming or relaxing. If you're looking for a
more serene stay, Malgund beach (a few kilometers before Ganpatipule) is a
better option. Alternatively, there are a few pricey resorts located away from
the temple as well. Untouched Aare Ware
beach, south of Ganpatipule, is a must-visit beach. The sea views from the
cliffs and road above it on either side are sensational.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 340
kilometers.
Travel time: Around 8 hours via National
Highway 17/66.