The Konkan Coast is a beautiful coastline stretching across Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka’s western coasts. On the east, it is surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats, while on the west, it is surrounded by the Arabian Sea. Beaches dotted with beautiful and pristine sand, ruined but magnificent forts, mesmerising waterfalls, revered and sacred temples, and delicious food are some of the highlights of the Konkan Coast.
How to reach Konkan?
By air: Dabolim in Goa is the closest airport to the Konkan region, located 186 km away. You can also fly to the Mumbai International airport, which is 492 km away.
By train: The Kankavali railway station, located 49 kilometres away, is the main train station in the Konkan region. At a distance of 42 kilometres, the Nandgaon railway station is another well-accessible station.
By road: Since Konkan is well connected to other parts of the country, tourists can reach it by road without much hassle. You can drive from nearby places like Mumbai, Devgad, and Nandgaon Village.
13 places to visit in Konkan
Konkan Coast has plenty to offer to various tourists, whether they are history and nature lovers who want to see the virgin landscapes and historical forts or families who want to enjoy beautiful beaches. Read on to learn more about the places to visit in Konkan.
Alibaug
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Alibaug, also known as Alibag, offers the chance to explore some of the most sought-after forts on the west coast. The Alibaug Fort and the Magen Avot Synagogue are both worth a visit if you are a history buff. Every year, thousands of pilgrims flock to the Siddeshwar and Kanakeshwar Mandirs.
There are some virgin beaches to enjoy here, such as Nagaon Beach, Kashid Beach, Korlai Beach, Akshi Beach, etc. You can enjoy a wide variety of water sports at the beaches and should not miss the delicious seafood served here.
How to reach: A ferry service from the Gateway of India in Mumbai is the best way to reach Alibaug. A total of 35-40 state transport buses also operate between Mumbai and Alibaug.
See also: Tourist places in Mangalore you must visit
Ganpatipule
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As part of the Konkan Coast, Ganpatipule has some of the best beaches and attractions. Peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims seek refuge from the hustle-bustle of the city in this pleasant getaway.
The temple here is dedicated to Lord Ganesh incarnated as a Swaymbu (self-originated) idol. This deity is revered by tourists visiting Ganpatipule. If you are here in the evening, you can stroll the Ganpatipule and Aare Ware beaches or drench yourself in the crystal-clear Arabian Sea water. Additionally, you can visit the British-era Jaigad Fort and a lighthouse if you have the time to spare.
How to reach: Ratnagiri, Mumbai, and other major Maharashtra cities are accessible by road from Ganpatipule. Ganpatipule is easily accessible by bus from these cities.
See also: Places for trekking near Mumbai
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
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Within 60 km of Mumbai is the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, a popular spot for bird-watching and trekking. Providing a refreshing break from city life, it is a popular weekend tourist destination for Mumbai and nearby towns.
There are more than 140 species of resident birds at the sanctuary and around 45 species of migratory birds. Three rare birds have also been sighted at the park, including Ashy Minivets, Three-toed Kingfishers, and Malabar Trogons.
It is primarily a bird sanctuary, but you can also spot wild boars, langurs, and antelopes here. Karnala Fort, built in the 11th century, can also be found in the sanctuary.
How to reach: Mumbai-Goa Highway connects the sanctuary with other cities of the country. Panvel Railway Station, located 12 km away, is the nearest railway station to the sanctuary. Outside the railway station, you can also find taxis, buses and autos that run regularly to the Sanctuary.
Dapoli
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Dapoli, which sits approximately 215 km from Mumbai, has also been called Mini-Mahabaleshwar by some. This place was once ruled by the British but is now a melting pot of cultures. Dapoli is known for its pristine beaches and forests alike. Additionally, Keshavraj and Vyaghreshwar Temples are ancient temples worth visiting. Forest trekking and dolphin sightings are two things you should not miss here. Visiting this place in Konkan will enrich your cultural experience.
How to reach: Dapoli is 29 km from Khed, the nearest railway station. There are also good highway connections between Dapoli and other major cities. To get to Dapoli from Mumbai, take NH66 or the Mumbai Bangalore Highway.
Kashid
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A paradise closest to Mumbai, Kashid is known for its ancient forts, virgin beaches, and lush greenery. The serenity of the crystal clear Arabian Sea with the backdrop of sunset can be enjoyed at Kashid beach if Alibaug is too crowded for you. With Casuarina shrubs and trees surrounding it, the beach is one of the cleanest in Konkan.
Murud-Janjira Fort and Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary are also popular attractions in Kashid. Explore Kashid further by visiting the hilltop Datta Mandir and the Portuguese Revdanda Beach Fort.
How to reach: There are good highway connections between Kashid and other major cities such as Mumbai and Alibaug. Kashid is 90 km from Panvel, the nearest railway station.
Diveagar Beach
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Located on the Konkan Coast, Diveagar Beach is another gem worth exploring. The beach is surrounded by thick forests that include coconut trees and betel nuts, making it a great place to relax and spend time with loved ones.
Enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset while the waves kiss your feet as you stroll along the beach. For the more adventurous, there are water sports on the beach as well as horseback riding.
How to reach: Diveagar is located 50 kilometres from the nearest railway station, Mangaon. Additionally, Diveagar has good highway connections to major cities.
Harnai
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The virgin coast and warm hospitality make this small village in Dapoli stand out. As the village is never crowded and has little footfall, this place is a great choice for a quiet holiday away with all the comforts of a Konkani village.
Besides Harnai Karde beach, there are many other wonderful beaches nearby, including Kelshi, Murud, Ladghar, and Anjarle beaches. You can also trek to Parshuram Bhumi and Suvarnadurg nearby.
How to reach: The distance between Pune and Harnai is 115 km, and the distance between Mumbai and Harnai is 137 km. Travelling between the two locations is easy with private or rental cars.
Mahad
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Mahad is one of Konkan’s most exotic destinations. Once upon a time, this city was the capital of Shivaji and is now home to Buddhist gumpas and Maratha forts. Since frequent floods have occurred here in recent years, this area resembles a triangular peninsula. A few other attractions in the area include the Gandhar Pale Buddhist Caves, Raigad, Birwadi, Pratapgad, and Warandha Forts.
How to reach: A self-drive or cab can cover the distance from Mumbai to Mahad, which is approximately 169 kilometres.
Ratnagiri
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Ratnagiri, a port city on the Arabian Sea coast, is a world-renowned producer of Alphonso Mangoes. The coast of Ratnagiri has beautiful beaches where you can relax while watching the cascading waves of the Arabian Sea. This town has a rich history, from being the birthplace of Freedom Fighter Lokmanya Tilak to being the place where the British deposed the Burmese King with his family.
Besides Ratnagiri, there are numerous other tourist attractions, such as Thibaw Palace, Ratnagiri Lighthouse, Ratnadurg Fort, Guhagar Beach, and the Marine Biological Research Station.
How to reach: There is a major railway station at Ratnagiri, and it is well connected with other cities and towns. The highways connecting Ratnagiri to other major cities are also good. Buses from major cities and towns provide access to Ratnagiri.
Sindhudurg Fort
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In the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Sindhudurg Fort is situated on a small island off the Malvan Coast. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built the historical fort in 1667. Maratha’s prudence and inventiveness can be seen in the 48 acres of the fort. This fort’s main entrance, called Dilli Darwaza, is so hidden that it is not visible from the outside at all.
Among the temples inside the fort are those dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Goddess Bhavani, and Jarimari. In addition, there is a temple devoted to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself.
How to reach: Fort Sindhudurg is 30 km from the nearest railway station, Sindhudurg. State buses and private buses run regularly to Sindhudurg from Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, and Sangli.
Kelshi
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The hidden gem of Kelshi remains unspoilt and undiscovered by the crowd. Kelshi is the perfect place if you are looking for peace, tranquillity, and beauty. Beaches are the main attraction of this small village. Furthermore, Kelshi is home to an abundance of flora and fauna. On your holiday to Konkan, you should visit this place.
How to reach: Dapoli is 35 kilometres from Kelshi Beach, and Mahad is 75 kilometres away. Mumbai Goa Highway connects Mahad and Dapoli with all major cities, such as Mumbai, Pune, and Goa. Kelshi beach can be reached by cab or auto from Mahad and Dapoli.
Dombivli
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An enchanting city in Konkan and well-connected with Mumbai and Thane, Dombivli is one of the most beautiful places in the region. Seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha at the famous Ganpati temple in Dombivli. Visitors who want to witness beautiful views in Dombivli should visit Reti Bandar, a place on the banks of the Ulhas River that offers a serene view. You must pay a visit to Kelkar Road in Dombivli and indulge a little if you are a shopaholic.
How to reach: To reach Dombivli, take a bus or a train to the railway station in Dombivli.
Shrivardhan
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Its pristine beaches and Shri Laxminarayan Temple make Shrivardhan one of the most popular places along the Konkan Coast. It is also known as the ‘Town of Peshwas’ because Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, one of the great Maratha Warriors, was born here. With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of the Arabian Sea, this beach is less crowded than many of the beaches in the region.
How to reach: Shrivardhan is 65 km from Mangaon, the nearest railway station. There is good highway access to Shrivardhan from other major cities. It is also regularly serviced by buses from Harihareshwar, Pune, Mumbai, and Panvel.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Konkan?
During the months between November and February, you can roam around Konkan comfortably in pleasant weather.
What are some of the best beaches in Konkan?
If you are travelling to Konkan, you must check out Ganpatipule Beach, Harihareshwar Beach, Guhagar Beach, Alibaug Beach, etc.
How many days does it take to explore Konkan?
It is best to explore Konkan's undiscovered charms by interacting with locals who will gladly reveal one too many secrets of the region. For the 720-kilometre-long coastline to be fully appreciated, you will need at least seven days.
