I have a special affinity to coasts for several reasons.
One being the tranquillity of the vast expanse of sea blue merging with
serenity of the endless sky blue. And then the quartzitic sand, calcareous
molluscs and gastropods and the sea breeze! Soaking in the Sun or playing with
the surf. Want to hit the beach; we would think of Goa or Kerala as the getaway
but close to home, Maharashtra is blessed with a wonderful coastline too! Right
from the wide northern beaches to urban coasts of Mumbai to rocky cliffs along
Murud to the white sandy beaches at Tarkali. From the mangroves of the estuaries to the few corals. From
overcrowded Juhu to virgin Sindhudurg stretches. A trip along the Maharashtra
coast is definitely worth every moment!
Other than the usual ‘tourist spots’, here are few ones not
to miss. Extreme north Maharashtra, the Thane region has some surprisingly
beautiful beaches especially around Nalasopara. It’s a perfect family picnic
spot with abundant shady Casuarina and wide sandy beach.
Time to be here: Sunset!
The extreme north Maharashtra coast is remarkably similar to
South Gujarat, nature suggesting that boundaries are manmade! We all know about
the Mumbai Chowpatis- the refuge for all Mumbaikars!
To munch on here: The Bhel Puri!
Furthur South, as you head towards Alibag, the road is good
enough with fine eateries and dhabas on the way! The Alibag town itself doesn’t
have a very pleasing coast but its neighbouring Kashid, Akshi and Revdanda make
up for it. The Portugese Revdanda fort ruins run along the seashore and the
waves lashing this fortification with palms fringes in setting offer a treat to
the eyes.
When not to be here: At the high tide!
As you continue your journey to Murud, the roads have started
winding by now. The Deccan basalts make their presence felt, sandwiching crescent sandy patches between its cliffs. You
realise why ‘pocket’ beaches are called so. The drive here is thoroughly enjoyable as the
road runs parallel to the cliffy coast.
It’s not just another fort; it stands tall and undefeated in
the Arabian Sea. Sadly, these ruins are in bad shape and uncared for. Spare
time here a couple of hours, as a ferry carries you from Rajapuri to the fort.
Head to Shrivardhan from here to be awed by wider beaches here (Diveagar and
Harihareshwar too can be considered). It’s a quiet seaside town but has some of
the extremely cosy and hospitable cottage stay right in the ‘wadis’.
What to do here: walk around the wadis early morning!
And if you have thought so far you have visited the best
places, then gear up, recharge your batteries and move on! Comparatively not so
good roads, and fewer roadside eatery options, be ready for some ferry rides
across the rivers. You can take a ferry ride (along with your cars/bikes) to
Velas.
Dapoli (Anjarle, Harnai) is worth the time. On the way south you will
come across Enron around Dabhol. Time for another ferry ride. And before you
reach Ratnagiri, Guhagar is the place to be and take some blessings from the
favourite God at Ganapatipule! Just outside the hustle bustle of Ratnagiri
there is a quiet beach Mirya, a good one to end the long day.
Not to forget: Ratnagiri Haapoos (if you travelling in summer). Hope you aren’t yet tired. The best is yet to come I assure!
The blue waters of Achra are intoxicating! This hue of the
Arabian Sea continues throughout the Sindhudurg coast.
Malvan is a foodie’s
paradise. And Tarkarli a sand castle builder’s! The sparkling white sand is marvellous.
The water sports lovers; Malvan is the place for you with its Scuba diving,
Snorkeling, kayaks, banana rides, jet-ski.
Must visit: the Sindhudurg fort (this also brings back a lot
of fuschite quartzite memories)
Again, spare a couple of hours for the 17th
century fort (Kurte island). The view from the top is breathtaking and the
history of the fort intriguing. Majestic gates, fresh water reservoir, coconut
tree with branch, temples, to keep you engrossed inside.
Before you decide to end this expedition spend a couple of
days at uncluttered Vengurla-Shiroda-Velagar with its pristine silver sands and
cool sea breeze.
Maharashtra’s affair with the Arabian Sea ends and Goa’s
begins! It is time to pull back inland to home.
And the last thing to know: Go unplanned and be ready for surprises!
* Don’t be disheartened with the roads. Think about the
surf, sand and sun you are going to be offered!
* Transportation best by ferries wherever possible.
* Many more places worth visiting are not mentioned. Due for
next trip :)
