Secret Beaches of Karnataka and Konkan
For unspoilt virgin beaches all it takes is a drive down the Konkan coast. Starting in Maharashtra and beautiful beaches stretch all the way to Karnataka, with the perennial beach party state of Goa sandwiched in between, Fortunately for avid travelers, the hype generated by Goa makes most other tourists unaware of the wonders of these gems. So if you are up for some adventure and a space to call your own, gear up for this list of some of the gorgeous secret beaches of the Konkan and Karnataka coast.
Harihareshwar: A quick getaway from Pune (merely 130 km) is the sleepy town of Harihareshwar more famous for its temple’s than being a beach lover’s paradise. With temples galore, this town has one of the most stunning beaches that you will ever have seen.
Shri Vardhan: A relatively lesser known beach town, Shri Vardhan is just 25 km away from Harihareshwar. With relics around that remind you of the long rule of the valiant Peshwas of Maharashtra, this quiet town is a relatively quick getaway from the madness of urban life. Head down to recharge your spirit.
Ganpatipule: Named after one of the most beloved Hindu deities, Ganpati, this little village occupies a place in Hindu folklore. With a Ganpati temple, this beach is packed with natives during festivals. But through the rest of the year it is quiet and peaceful. The beach and the clear waters are mesmerizing and will make you want to return to it time and again.Ganpatipule is easy to access from Chilpun on the Mumbai- Goa highway. Accommodation is available at the MTDC resort and is available in a wide range of budgets and is right on the beach. There are however a few private establishments away from the beach. Ganpatipule is 375 km away from Mumbai
Bhatye: This town lies right outside Ratnagiri and along with a splendid beach, it has facilities for water sports. This casuarinas lined beach can be further enjoyed if you choose to stay in the tent resort manned by MTDC. A gloriously isolated beach that will help you get one with nature. This oasis of calm is just 4 km away from Ratnagiri and 356 km away from Mumbai.
Reddi: a small village in the Sindhudurg district is mainly an industrial centre that was primarily focused around mining. However, it’s natural wonders are breathtakingly refreshing. A real gem in our collection of the secret beaches of the Konkan coast. This village is touching the Goa border and visitors can see the Terekhol fort, which is at the northernmost tip of Goa, just beyond the Reddi creek.
Kunkeshwar: Another marvelous beach that is more famous for its temple. This intricately carved Kunkeshwar temple was built by the Yadavs. The beach glitters in the sunlight and a walk southward from the Mumbri creek will offer you panoramic views. You can also visit the Devgad Fort which is 20 km away. Kunkeshwar is 453 km away from Mumbai.
Vengurla: Situated in the lap of nature’s bounty, Vengurla has the romantic nostalgia of an ancient bustling port city. With white sands shaded generously by the coconut trees Vengurla is a beautiful beach which can also act as your base to check out some wonderful even lesser known beaches that are around this town. These include Sagareshwar (3 km away), Aaravali (24 km away), Nivati- Kochara(16 km away), Bhogve (22 km away) and Mochemad (10 km away). So you can visit a marvelous and isolated new beach for everyday that you spend in Vengurla. Vengurla is 524 km by road from Mumbai and 112 km from the Dabholim airport in Goa.
Tarkarli: For a picture perfect holiday in a place that is practically unknown to noisy tourists, is Tarkarli which is 546 km by road from Mumbai. The clear waters of Tarkarli are its trademark and on a clear day you can see the sea bed up to a depth of an amazing 20 feet. This somnolent village has got one of Maharashtra’s famous forts Sindhudurg and Padmagarh forts close by. A lazy river, tall “Shuru” trees, a little fishing village and a stretch of the most gorgeous sea and sands that you have ever seen makes Tarkarli a place that you will never forget easily.
Gokarna: Literally means cow’s ear. This village in Karnataka is not well developed and you will not find luxury resorts here. But what you will find is unspoilt nature in abundance. This village has several beaches and is more frequented by the hippies that are sick of the hustle and bustle of Goa. So you can expect some peace, love and a lot of beauty. Gokarana has a number of beaches. They are Kudle, Om beach , Paradise and Half Moon. Gokarana is also a pilgrimage spot so stay clear of it during festivals and other celebrations. Gokarna is 60 km south of Karwar and seven hours from Mangalore. So to experience the magic of nature head out for some quiet time to this magnificent village.
Devbagh: Another undeveloped village, Devbagh is brimming with nature’s bounty. You can get a first hand view of the marvels of Marine life during a session of scuba diving or snorkeling. There are placid lagoons and a meandering river and glorious sunsets that will make this holiday completely unforgettable. Devbagh is 100 km from Dabholim airport in Goa.
So pack your bags, and set off for a journey into the secret beaches of Konkan and Karnataka and you will find yourself slowly embarking on a journey to your soul with truckloads of bliss and memories to make it just that much more worthwhile.
