KONKAN’S UNTAMED BEAUTY – A COASTAL ROAD TRIP TO VENGURLA

As the sun descends into the embrace of the sea, sitting on the balcony of our homestay encircled by coconut trees, we pen down memories reflecting on the travel experiences of the past week. Sleep eluded us that night, as the impending return journey cast a shadow of melancholy over our spirits. The essence of this new town would soon dissipate. We stepped outside, reclined on the balcony, and gazed at the star-studded sky, marveling at the vastness of the universe. The shimmering stars pierced the darkness, and the cloudless night instilled a sense of optimism for a promising new day and further adventures to come.

Seven days ago the mood was quite different.

A motorcycle expedition was on the cards for quite some time. Steffe dedicated considerable effort to organizing the itinerary for our nine-day road trip to Vengurla in South Konkan. This included identifying attractions, activities, accommodations, and packing essentials. An Instagram reel proved helpful in securing a tranquil homestay close to Sagareshwar Beach. We looked forward with great enthusiasm to the day we would embark on our journey.

In 2022, we went on a motorcycle trip from Mumbai to Goa via the coastal road. We came up with the idea to blog about our travel experiences after this trip. Prior to that, I had traveled to Lanja, my wife’s village in Ratnagiri, by way of the coast. This was my third excursion on the road along the coast. We are very much familiar with the roads in the coastal Konkan.

WHAT IS A COASTAL ROAD AND WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE?

The coastal road in Konkan winds its way along the shoreline, occasionally hugging the coast where travelers can experience the waves and sand, while at other times it stretches several miles inland, passing through villages, forests, and open fields. In numerous locations, the road intersects with ports or jetties, where travelers must take a ferry (along with their vehicles) to navigate across the river and resume their picturesque journey on the opposite bank.

This route is not advisable for those with limited time. It is meant for slow travel. Navigating the internal roads requires both time and patience. Although the coastal road increases the distance, the experience is gratifying. If you have several days available, regardless of your mode of transportation, the coastal road offers a valuable experience.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO KONKAN?

The Konkan region is extensive and picturesque throughout the year. It is enriched with natural beauty, bordered by the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. The rugged coastline of Konkan spans over 700 kilometers, connecting various cities across Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka.

A significant number of Maharashtrians residing in Mumbai have their homes in the villages of Konkan. During festive occasions such as Ganeshotsav, Holi, and Diwali, they travel to Konkan with great fervor and excitement. The Konkan railway, which winds through the ghats, experiences heavy rush during peak travel seasons.

Embarking on a road trip through the diverse regions of Konkan offers an immensely rewarding experience. A single visit cannot encapsulate the extensive beauty of Konkan. Numerous locations await exploration, each providing unique experiences. In the years ahead, we intend to undertake several more road trips to this captivating region.

In this travel article, we recount our nine-day journey to the town of Vengurla in South Konkan, traveling via Guhagar. If you are passionate about road trips, this account is certainly worth your attention. You might find yourself inspired to hit the road soon.

Date of travel	22nd Feb to 02nd March 2025
No. of days	09
Total KMS	1500
Accomodations	3
No. of ferries taken	2
Mode of transport	Motorcycle (Royal Enfield Standard 350)
Petrol cost	Rs. 4,040.00

DAY 1 – MUMBAI TO GUHAGAR

Route – Mumbai~Panvel~NH66 till Mangaon~Mandangad~Dapoli~Dabhol~Dhopave~Guhagar (275 kms)

Ferry point – Dabhol to Dhopave (from 6:45 am every 45 min)

Accommodation – Kisan Niwas Homestay, Guhagar

The plan was to begin the ride at 6:00 am. Mounting the luggage, including 2 rucksacks, 1 backpack, camera bag, footwear, and water, to the bike took 45 minutes of our time. Properly securing the luggage is an essential aspect of any road trip.

We made our way along the Mumbai-Goa highway (NH 66) until we reached Mangaon. From here, we took a right to reach Dapoli via Mandangad. From Dapoli, we made it to Dabhol jetty, where we boarded a ferry to reach Dhopave on the opposite side of the Vashishti river. Guhagar was just a few miles away.

The intensity of the sun diminished as we transitioned onto the coastal road. Upon reaching Mandangad, we paused to relish a watermelon. The journey thus far was as delightful as the fruit itself. It had been quite some time since our last road trip, and experiencing this sense of liberation in an unfamiliar location filled us with joy.

Getting to Guhagar before dark was the primary focus of day 1. We refrain from riding motorcycles after dark. Consequently, we opted to travel some distance on NH 66 before continuing along the coastal route. This was the only viable option to arrive before dusk.

BEST MOMENT OF DAY 1

The Ferry Ride from Dabhol to Dhopave – The best moment has to be the ferry ride from Dabhol to Dhopave. We reached the jetty in time for sunset. Acquired the tickets and waited for the boatmen to let us in. The ferry is utilized by both locals and tourists who have destinations on the other side of the shore. This break was a welcome respite after a long ride. We could relax since Guhagar was just a few miles away.

The ferry left port. I took out my DSLR camera and began to capture the moments in the gentle light of the setting sun. Everyone seemed to be in a calm state of mind. The fisherwomen appeared content after their day of work. Children sat quietly on the upper deck. Photo enthusiasts engaged in taking selfies and capturing the sunset. I garnered significant attention because of my DSLR camera but was able to capture my subjects effortlessly.

The passengers at Dhopave jetty awaited the arrival of our ferry with great anticipation. The journey lasted merely 10 minutes, yet it rejuvenated us completely. We reached our homestay in Guhagar at 06:30 p.m. (approx 12 hours) which was situated in close proximity to the northern section of the beach.

We concluded the day with a homemade vegetarian meal with bhakri and succumbed to the embrace of sleep.

COMPLETE COASTAL ROUTE TO GUHAGAR (with 3 ferry rides in a day)-

Mumbai~Alibag~Murud-Janjira~Agardana~Dighi~Divegar~Shrivardhan~Harihareshwar~Bagmandla~ Vesvi~Kelshi~Harnai~Murud~Dabhol~Dhopave~Guhagar

An alternative option is to leave Mumbai early and make your way to Agardanda jetty, passing through Alibag and Murud-Janjira. This  jetty will take you to Dighi port, from where you can proceed along the road to Bagmandla jetty, traveling through Divegar, Shrivardhan, and Harihareshwar. Upon reaching Vesvi port, you should continue towards Dabhol jetty via the route through Kelshi, Harnai, and Murud. Guhagar is located 14 kilometers from Dhopave jetty.

ADVICE– We do not recommend undertaking this route in a single day, as doing so would result in a hurried journey that compromises the quality of the experiences along the way.

DAY 2 – EXPLORING GUHAGAR

As travellers in a new place, we experienced a blend of emotions: excitement, sense of freedom, the thrill of the unknown and the need to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and cultures. The sheer joy of uncovering new experiences, be it a quaint dhaba offering authentic local cuisine, a stunning temple nestled in the hills, or an engaging dialogue with a skilled artisan, can be profoundly fulfilling.

Guhagar, located in the district of Ratnagiri, along the coastline between the Sahyadri mountain range and the Arabian Sea, features a vibrant and varied natural landscape. The primary draw of Guhagar is its extensive, secluded beach characterized by fine white sand extending 4 miles till Asgoli. Additionally, it is recognized as a haven for bird enthusiasts.

After dedicating a considerable amount of time to observing the birds, we proceeded to look for an eatery to satisfy our hunger. Prior to reaching the Guhagar market, we encountered ‘Hotel Kaushik‘, a family-run dhaba offering traditional Maharashtrian breakfast. The menu featured several traditional dishes such as thalipeeth, amboli, misal and more. Additionally, they presented distinctive options including pangi, dadpe pohe, and kolache pohe. For those looking for more varieties in breakfast, should visit the market.

We subsequently ventured into the southern region of Guhagar, close to Palshet, an area characterized by its tranquility and lack of disturbance. There, we enjoyed our lunch at a local dhaba. Following our meal, we took a stroll along the serene beach, where boats adorned with vibrant flags were anchored in the sand.

Upon our return, we encountered a local artisan engaged in the craft of broom-making using bamboo leaves. He demonstrated the intricate process, which began with the collection of fronds, followed by the careful trimming of the leaflets. Subsequently, he fashioned the broomsticks by extracting the thick central vein of the leaf. The final stage involved binding the broomsticks together with either rope or wire, followed by trimming the ends to achieve a uniform look. “Now, you are ready to sweep’’, he says with a smile.

BEST MOMENT OF DAY 2 –

Ashtavane Ganpati Mandir on a Hill

The town of Guhagar is characterized as a temple town, featuring narrow alleys that have been shaped from the red soil bordered with coconut trees and the quaint charming Konkani style houses with tiled roofs hidden in the lush green trees. Every house has a Tulsi vrindavan standing in its front yard. The region is renowned for its numerous ancient temples, including Shree Dev Vyadeshwar, Hedvi Ganesh, Durga Devi, and Kopri Narayan. However, we ventured to a temple that remains relatively obscure to many visitors and located on the hilltop to the east of Guhagar.

The Ashtavane Ganpati Mandir, with its pristine white pinnacle, captured our attention as it stood amidst the thick foliage of trees on a hillock. It is advisable to visit this temple in the morning, when it is enveloped in tranquility, with only the gentle sound of birds chirping accompanying the solitude. The good thing about this place is that there is no priest, no flower shops. But still the temple is clean and well-maintained. I have a personal preference for temples that are nestled within the forest. Such locations provide an opportunity to engage with nature and, ultimately, to connect with the divine.

There are two routes to access the temple. The first route is via the village road that leads to Kopri Narayan Mandir. From this point, the ascent up the hill begins with steps constructed from laterite stones. This climbing path is enchanting, flanked by trees on either side. The alternative motorable route involves traveling to Durga Devi Mandir and continuing further until reaching the base of the steps leading to the Ashtavane temple. Climbing a few more steps you reach the main temple.

Positioned at the altar beneath the modest stone canopy and the temple dome is the exquisite self-manifested (swayambhu) idol of Lord Ganesha. This saffron-hued idol stands approximately two and a half feet in height. In front of the idol, a small brass rat is depicted, indulging in a modak (sweet dumpling).

The western side of the temple provides a view of the pristine white sandy beach. Throughout the monsoon season, continuous springs cascade down the temple complex. So next time you are in Guhagar, you should definitely visit this temple.

OTHER PLACES TO EXPLORE IN GUHAGAR:-

Anjanvel & Gopalgad Fort (this is en-route to Dhopave jetty) / Hedavi / Velneshwar / Budhal Beach / Borya Bunder Port & Karul

DAY 3 – GUHAGAR TO VENGURLA

Route – Guhagar~Tavsal~Jaigad~Ganpatipule~AareVare~Pawas~Rajapur~NH66 till Kudal~Vengurla (260 kms)

Ferry Point~ Tavsal to Jaigad (From 6:40 am every 1 hour)

Accommodation – Bamboo Homestay, Vengurla

We left Guhagar at 7:30 AM after reloading our luggage once again. We faced the decision of choosing between the highway and the coastal route. Riding 250 kilometers in a single day on the internal roads is quite challenging on a bike. Therefore, we would make a call based on the time required to cover the initial 100 kilometers along the coastal road.

Our initial destination was Tavsal jetty, located 36 kilometers from our homestay. During our journey, we paused for a brief breakfast at Sarasi Guest House, where we enjoyed vegetable upma, batata vada rasa, and tea. We appreciated the guest house’s location, which was also within our budget. As we had not yet arranged accommodations for our return trip, we decided to secure a room here.

Upon our arrival in Tavsal, we discovered that the ferry had already left. Consequently, we were required to wait an additional 45 minutes. It was already 10:00 am, and we had only managed to cover 40 kilometers. Such minor challenges are characteristic of the coastal route—narrow roads with sharp bends, the necessity to navigate through hilly terrain, the need to reduce speed in villages, stopping at appealing locations, and coordinating with the ferry schedules. However, this journey offers a sense of enjoyment that is absent on the highway. Nevertheless, highways do provide significant advantages when time is of the essence, a reality we encountered during this trip.

We arrived in Pawas at 1:15 PM after covering a distance of only 95 kilometers. During our journey, we faced considerable challenges while riding on the exposed road under the scorching sun, where there was a lack of tree cover for an extended stretch. Our luggage became loose, a situation brought to our attention by other riders. Consequently, we spent a significant amount of time searching for shade to properly secure our belongings.

Lunch provided us with a much-needed respite. We dined at Hotel Aradhya, conveniently situated along the main road to Pawas. It is known for its delicious Konkani cuisine at reasonable prices. We opted for the komdi vade thali and took some time to relax before resuming our journey.

Covering 170 kilometers along the coastal road before dark appeared to be a daunting task. I considered taking the highway at the Deodhe junction on NH66 (prior to Lanja) and continuing on the highway to Vengurla. However, I decided it would be prudent to check with a local, who kindly directed me to an alternative route that led us away from Pawas towards Rajapur.

This turned out to be an excellent choice, as it reduced our travel distance by 30 kilometers. Additionally, we were able to enjoy over 50 kilometers of a beautiful coastal route through charming villages such as Gaonkhadi, Kasheli, and Adivere. We relished the ride along this scenic path until we reached NH66.

BEST MOMENT OF DAY 3 –

The Ride on Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66)

The most enjoyable part of our journey was undoubtedly the pleasant drive along the Mumbai-Goa highway (NH66), which enabled us to traverse 120 kilometers in just three hours. The stretch from Rajapur to Goa is exceptionally well-maintained. The experience of driving on this highway is particularly delightful when the sun is shining warmly. We continued our ride until Kudal, where we turned right onto the Kudal-Vengurla road, ultimately arriving on time at our homestay in Sagareshwar.

I swiftly unpacked the luggage and engaged in a brief conversation with our host, Prathamesh, whose mother had prepared a meal for us. We enjoyed a delightful home-cooked vegetarian meal that featured my favorite dish, shepuchi bhaji (a vegetable made from dill leaves), along with a sweet treat of kheer. 

As day three concluded, we arrived in the new town of Vengurla, where we would take our time to explore over the next four days. It was a pleasure to be here, feeling at home despite being away.

DAY 4 – EXCURSION TO SAWANTWADI

The homestay in Vengurla was encircled by coconut and betel nut trees. The koel continued to sing its enchanting melody, while the barbet emitted its repetitive call. We have yearned for a morning such as this. The gentle rustling of leaves, sunlight streaming through the coconut fronds, the sound of waves, and the melodies of birds filled the air.

Today’s breakfast featured ‘ghavane chutney,’ a simple yet fulfilling option commonly enjoyed in the Konkan region. Many households in Konkan prepare this dish at least once a week, often pairing it with tea or a spicy coconut chutney. We perched on the parapet, savoring this delightful dish while enjoying the view of the coconut trees.

On this day, we set out to explore Sawantwadi, a town rich in historical significance and artistic heritage.

SAWANTWADI PALACE

Sawantwadi, often referred to as the land of artists, is a significant area within the Konkan region located on the mid-western coast of India. The Sawantwadi Palace, constructed by Khem Sawant III during his rule from 1755 to 1803, is a source of pride for the city. This Royal Palace is an exceptional example of architecture, seamlessly combining English arches with indigenous craftsmanship and the striking red laterite stones.

The area surrounding the palace features expansive gardens and trees, along with the splendid edifice that gracefully occupies the center of this landscaped environment. The palace’s strategic positioning, with the coconut grove overlooking Moti Talav, enhances the commanding presence of the Royal Residence. The artificial lake, constructed in 1874, is situated in the city’s core and offers a stunning panoramic vista.

What struck us most about this palace is not merely its status as a historical museum, but rather its function as a vibrant center for art and craftsmanship. Here, painters and artists, supported by the royal family, continue to create and showcase their talents.

The interior of the palace is embellished by vintage furniture and is worth discovering. The royal artifacts and traditional wooden carvings are truly commendable. The magnificence of the palace showcases the profound history and culture of the Sawant Bhonsale dynasty.

The palace also contains an art gallery that features traditional Ganjifa card paintings, lacquerware, and various local crafts. These elaborate art forms reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Sawantwadi Palace stands as an enchanting location that seamlessly combines historical magnificence, cultural richness, and scenic beauty. It caters to a diverse audience, whether one is passionate about history, appreciates art, or seeks a tranquil retreat. The palace is more than just a tourist spot; it is a journey through time, culture, and heritage.

OTHER ATTRACTION IN SAWANTWADI –

KSR GLOBAL AQUARIUM – Experience India’s first fish theme park located in Kesari-Phansavde village, close to Sawantwadi. The park is a treasure trove of marine wonders, allowing visitors to fully engage with the splendor of sea life and forge unforgettable memories with their families and friends. The park boasts a variety of attractions, including the fish aquarium park, agro-tourism opportunities, a bird park and a reptile section, making it a rich destination for tourists.

DAY 5, 6 & 7 – EXPLORING THE UNTOUCHED BEAUTY OF VENGURLA

Vengurla is a small town in Sindhudurg district known for its virgin beaches, making them an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts seeking a tranquil getaway. In addition to relaxing on the shore, visitors can explore ancient temples, historical forts, and charming villages, all nestled within the verdant countryside.

It is renowned for its cashew trees, which are a significant aspect of the local agriculture. Additionally, mango trees are prevalent in the area, enhancing the region’s fruit production. The landscape is further characterized by the presence of coconut trees, particularly along the coastal areas.

Vengurla is less populated and serves as a passage to North Goa from the Konkan coastline. It offers a cleaner and more tranquil alternative to the typical Goa experience. This is evident as we observed foreign visitors enjoying serene moments on the secluded beaches of Sagartirth and Redi. Additionally, a group of five foreigners chose to camp overnight in the village adjacent to Mochemad beach.

A diverse range of accommodation options is available in this coastal town, encompassing resorts, homestays, cottages, villas, apartments, and farmhouses. Numerous residences are built using laterite stones (locally known as ‘chira’), featuring wooden floors and roofs, with certain structures employing coconut tree framing.

We spent three days in Vengurla, allowing ourselves ample opportunity to explore the area. Life in Vengurla is still slow. We found people to be very humble and willing to take the time to engage in conversation.

Below is a summary of our three-day experience in Vengurla.

#1 Morning Walk in the Village and Engaging in Photography

Walking through the surroundings is the most effective way to experience the local culture. This mode of exploration facilitates interaction with the locals and provides insight into their lifestyle.

The coastal scenery was bathed in the golden hour light. The sunlight streaming through the coconut groves produced a gentle yet striking ambiance. By observing the finer aspects such as the texture of the sand, the rhythm of the waves, and the hues of the sky, one can truly appreciate the beauty of mornings along the coast.

As said earlier, our stay was to Sagareshwar beach, which on the map comes under the village of ‘Ubhadanda’. After clicking some nature photographs, we engaged in street photography. The morning scenes were quite pretty. Children rode their bicycles on their way to school, while shops were yet to open. The road was devoid of traffic. A woman collecting water from the well adjacent to the roadside greeted us with a smile. Her vibrant pots created a striking contrast against the red stone. The arrival of the ST bus (fondly known as ‘lal pari,’) on the deserted road brought a unique sense of joy.

While having breakfast at a roadside stall run by a elderly couple, we engaged in a conversation with them. They appreciated us upon knowing that we rode all the way from Mumbai on motorcycle. They also guided us about sightseeing in Vengurla and also asked us to visit the Ganpati Mandir of Ubhadanda.

In contrast to the majority of Ganpati temples that observe festivities during Ganesh Chaturthi, the Ubhadanda Ganpati Mandir honors Lord Ganesha during the Lakshmi Puja of Diwali. The idol is crafted within the village, and on the day of Lakshmi Puja, a mud idol of Ganesha is ceremoniously brought to the temple for installation. Unlike the traditional practice of immersion after 5 or 11 days, this idol is immersed on the day of Holi. Following the immersion during Holi, a picture of Ganesha remains in the temple, where it is venerated until the subsequent Diwali.

Similarly, there are so many stories waiting to unfold and there exist locations that have yet to be charted on any map. The only way to discover them is through conversations with locals, who serve as the most knowledgeable guides for their region.

We then went to Vengurla Fish & Vegetable Market. The heritage market, renowned for its fresh seafood and produce, serves as a favored spot for both locals and tourists, providing a diverse selection of fish, vegetables, and other regional specialties. The local fishermen sell their daily catch here. The fish section had a fresh catch of seafood, including a variety of fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, and other shellfish. The market operates early in the morning, and it’s a bustling and colorful place with vendors shouting out their wares and customers haggling over prices.

#2. Conversation with Farmers Irrigating Coconut Palms

On one such stroll in the villages of Vengurla, we came across two farmers who were feeding water to the roots of the coconut trees through the basin irrigation method. They had constructed a basin, measuring approximately 2 meters in diameter, around the base of each tree. Water was pumped from a nearby well and directed to the tree’s base. One of the farmers informed us that each tree requires a minimum of 600 liters of water every 5 to 7 days. He elaborated that this method allows the water to pass through the soil effectively, ensuring it is accessible to the roots.

Coconut trees are vital to the Konkan region. They serve as a significant source of revenue for numerous families, with the coconut palm playing a vital role in the homestead agricultural system. Most of the people in Vengurla are successfully practicing farming, he says, as he diverts the flow of water to adjacent land abundant with coconut trees.

On a scorching day of coastal adventure, a refreshing treat awaits every traveler — generous sips of tender coconut water. Therefore, when you next visit Konkan, be sure to indulge in this nectar.

#3. Kayaking in the Backwaters of Khavane Beach

Exploring the picturesque mangroves while kayaking at Khavane Beach was a memorable experience. As it was a weekday, there were only a limited number of tourists present. We relished the tranquility of paddling through the calm, clear waters surrounded by lush mangroves and coconut trees. We hired a guide who assisted us in navigating through the mangroves and led us to a more secluded area abundant with trees, where we unexpectedly found a house. After an hour of kayaking, we took a moment to rest here, absorbing the silence this place had to offer.

To enjoy kayaking, you can easily visit Khavane Beach. Numerous shacks operated by locals offer their services at a rate of Rs. 250 per person. We made our reservation through Swami Kayaks (7499351885), which offers a discount of Rs. 50 for bookings made in advance over the phone.

#4. Enjoying the Tropical Vibes at Kondura Beach

There are many beaches in Vengurla like Sagareshwar, Shiroda, Sagartirtha, Mochemad, Redi, Nivati and Wayangani. But if there is one beach we would love to visit again and again is Kondura. This secluded paradise offers an experience that feels like a vacation within a vacation. The bountiful coconut trees enhance the picturesque charm of this tranquil beach, which features pristine white sand, striking black rocks, and a small Shiva temple.

The beach is truly remarkable. It is a visual delight to experience the sunset sitting on the huge rocks. To the left, a small hill is adorned with coconut trees, while to the right, Kondura village is nestled amidst a cluster of huts. There is no sign indicating the direction to this beach, and often, there is no internet connectivity along the route. A small lane on the right side on the way to Vengurla goes straight to the village. At the end of the road there is a narrow and steep slope of around 200 feet before the beach. There is only one shop near the beach which requires walking on a hanging wooden bridge to reach.

The gentle lapping of waves, the whisper of leaves swaying in the breeze, the distant cries of seabirds, the scent of the salt – all these promise a idyllic tropical escape at Kondura.

#5. Offering ‘Navas’ to Vetoba in Aravali

The concept of “navas” (vows to God) is deeply rooted in Hindu religious practices, where people make promises to deities in times of need or as a means of showing appreciation for the blessings they have received.

Vetoba, known as King of Ghosts, is worshipped in Konkan area of Maharashtra. He is a deity of the people in the Aravali village, noted for his footwear, which consists of large Kolhapuri chappals. The temple built on the busy Vengurla-Shiroda road is worshipped by deities and tourists alike to seek blessings for the future. Shri Dev Vetoba is considered the protector and village deity of Aravali. Apart from bananas, sweets and pairs of dhoti, the idol is offered ‘’chappals” (leather slippers) because it is believed he wears them at night to patrol the village and protect it from evil spirits. 

Situated along the Arabian Sea, Aravali boasts a tranquil beach known as Sagartirtha, characterized by its pristine silver sands that remain untouched. The village is encircled by mountains and hills. On the roadside near the entry of Sagartirtha (Aravali) beach, there is a stall run by a Nepali woman named ‘Geeta Bhabhi’ who has made Vengurla her home for the past decade.. Her humble demeanor and engaging conversation are sure to elevate your mood. Do eat the hot ‘aloo parathas’ she offers.

#6. Visit to a Virgin Beach, Historical Fort and Famous Temple in Redi

Redi Beach is known for its tranquility and lack of crowds. It has become a much sought destination for foreigners who travel from Goa on their rented scooters looking for a relaxing escape. This beach marks the final stretch in Maharashtra, adjacent to Tiracol in Goa. On one side, it is bordered by lush coconut and palm trees, while on the other, the pristine blue waters of the Arabian Sea gently lap against its unspoiled expanse of soft sand. The beach features a distinctive coastline that, at low tide, creates a backwater ambiance. Small puddles and streams meander through the sand, while the actual waves are situated some distance offshore.

Our ride to reach the beach was quite enjoyable. Riding through the narrow lanes of the quaint village was delightful, with occasional stops to admire the peahens we encountered. The sound of the waves kept getting louder as we got closer. Apart from a few vendors, the beach is pretty much deserted. It is a perfect spot for you to set up your own beach umbrella and do what you have always dreamt of doing on a beach. Personally, I envision spending my time reading a book at noon, followed by observing the sun transition from yellow to orange and finally to a deep red hue as it descends into the ocean.

Lined along the beach stands the YashwantGad Fort, built in the 16th century, stands as a symbol of the magnificence of the Maratha Empire. Its elevated location offers tourists expansive vistas of the Arabian Sea. Those wishing to discover the historical gems of Maharashtra, the Redi fort is a must visit.

The fort consists of two levels: the lower portion, which is the more expansive section, situated at the creek’s edge features an internal freshwater well. The upper part located on a hillock was designed to oversee maritime operations. The interior of the fort is remarkably lush, with trees emerging from every corner and crevice, completely dominating the walls. The fort is seldom visited, allowing you to explore and enjoy the expansive views at your leisure.

Not very far from the beach is the ancient and famous Redi Ganpati Temple. The temple is home to a notable idol of Ganesha, which is believed to have been discovered in an iron ore mine close to Rewati port in 1976. Each day, numerous devotees come to pay their respects at the temple. The idol at Redi Ganpati Temple is particularly distinctive, measuring 6 feet in height and 4 feet in width. Unlike the typical representations of Ganesha with four arms, this depiction features the deity seated with only two arms.

Overall, an entire day can be spent leisurely at Redi beginning with a visit to the temple, exploring the village and fort, and concluding the day by witnessing the enchanting sunset at the beach.

ADVICE:- Redi has served as a hub for iron mining since 1950. The village’s lanes and houses are coated in dust due to the constant movement of dumpers transporting ore from the mines to the disposal areas and the port. It is advisable to take appropriate precautions.

#7. Playing in the Waves at Mochemad Beach

It was our final day in Vengurla, and there were numerous places still to be explored. Regardless of the number of days available, there will always be something missed to be seen. But we believe that it is perfectly acceptable to take your time and fully appreciate the present experience. It’s okay not to rush behind hastily pursuing items on your bucket list.

As the sun began to rise, we set off towards Mochemad village to enjoy the morning at the beach. On the way, we encountered a fisherman who was diligently holding his net, which he had cast from the bridge above. After several attempts, he was finally rewarded for his efforts. We engaged in a little conversation with him before continuing to Mochemad.

The beach is tucked away through a descent between the route from Vengurla to Shiroda. The way to the beach is through the village. Mochemad is a pristine and secluded beach. It has a hill at one end. There are no stalls here and is mostly visited by locals and fishermen. Therefore, making it a great place to relax and escape the crowds.

We parked the bike in the sandy area beneath a tree and walked towards the beach. A group of foreigners including men, women and kids were heading out of the beach. Having traveled from Goa, they had camped overnight in the village. The good thing was that they were carrying their waste along with them. This is a practice that everyone should adopt when enjoying the outdoors.

The beach was entirely ours, except for a couple of fishermen doing their daily chore. We walked towards the hill located on the northern side of the beach, close to the rocks. Mirroring the carefree fun of childhood, we enjoyed the open space of the beach. It felt good to embrace the refreshing waves and play in the shallow waters.

The sound of the waves, the gentle breeze, and the vast expanse of sand and water, the changing colour of the sky can be incredibly calming. After some time we simply sat and watched the waves, allowing our mind to clear and stress to melt away. The vastness of the beach made us feel incredibly free where we enjoyed our own solitude for some time. The visit to this raw and untamed beauty of Mochemad beach was very inspiring at a time when our journey to Vengurla was about to end.

DAY 8 – VENGURLA TO WARWELI, GUHAGAR

Route – Vengurla~Kudal~NH66 till Nivali Phata~Medhe~Bhatgaon~Guhagar (245 kms)

Accommodation – Sarasi Guest House, Warweli, Guhagar

We commenced our return journey with a delightful Maharashtrian breakfast featuring ‘amboli usal‘ and ‘puran poli‘ at a quaint roadside stall operated by Narendra and Varsha Parab. Amboli, a beloved traditional Konkani dish, was accompanied by coconut chutney and usal prepared from sprouted beans. Following this, we enjoyed hot puran polis paired with a cup of milk. The flavors were exquisite. The shop is situated at the intersection of Vengurla-Shiroda and Vengurla-Belgaum roads, just a short distance from a mosque.

The fields and villages continued to unfold before us as we traveled along the roads of Vengurla for what we hope will not be the last time. The highway was just a 40 minute ride; however, I intentionally rode at a slower pace to enjoy the breeze of the village roads. Upon reaching the highway, I increased my speed until we arrived at Lanja, where we stopped for a lunch break. Following that, we continued along NH66 until we reached the Nivali junction. The afternoon sun was quite intense, prompting us to divert from the highway and head towards the coastline.

A left from Nivali junction went straight towards Aare Ware and Ganpatipule. But in between we took a detour through a new route towards Bhatgaon bridge. The ride was picturesque, flanked by trees on either side and only a handful of vehicles passing by from time to time. This route featured several sharp hairpin turns and curves that I found challenging to maneuver but managed to navigate them successfully. Road trips challenge your limitations. It is essential to exercise both patience and caution while riding.

We were enjoying the ride at a slow pace, soaking in the landscape and making numerous stops to feel the emptiness of the roads. Tomorrow, we would be traveling entirely on the highway to arrive home sooner. Thus, today marked our final day on the coastal route.

DAY 9 – WARWELI, GUHAGAR TO MUMBAI

Route – Guhagar~Chiplun~NH66 till Panvel~Mumbai (302 kms)

The final day of our road trip makes us feel gloomy as we pack our luggage. This is the hardest part of the journey. There is no excitement unlike the first day. With a heavy heart we set off towards Mumbai. Was it a post-vacation depression? Not really. It could be a combination of factors, including the loss of the road-trip experience, the stress of returning to work, and the adjustment to a regular routine. These things are a stark contrast to the freedom and excitement of being on the road.

Our encouragement came in the form of a couple in their mid-forties who approached us for a conversation in a hotel on the highway. They were travellers and just like us were driving back to Mumbai in their car. They recounted their experiences from their journey to Goa and Karnataka, and we similarly shared our own experiences from our road trip along the Konkan coast. This little conversation lifted our mood and hearing about their travels inspired new adventures and destinations.

REFLECTIONS FROM THE TRIP

The more we have traveled and the experiences we have gained, the more we have come to realize that there is much to uncover along the journey and in the spaces between destinations. We do think that there’s something special that can be found on the road, often in fleeting moments as well as in grand landscapes. The journey is something we have certainly learned to love! 

The road trip to Konkan, a tapestry woven with laughter, unexpected detours, and cherished memories, has come to an end and we’re ready to start the next chapter. It has left with us a profound appreciation for the journey and the bonds forged along the way, ready to embark on new adventures soon.

A trip that we would always look back on with fondness and nostalgia for years to come.

Keep Travelling. Happy Journey!