A Travel Guide to Tarkarli Beach

Introduction

Unspoilt virgin beaches with white sand and clear blue waters, dolphin spotting avenues, water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling, backwaters of the river Karli, delectable Konkani cuisine and exotic delights like the Alphonso mangoes, Tarkarli Beach in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

The charm of the place is heightened by its serene, laid-back vibe minus the milling tourist crowds. It is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque beaches on the entire Konkan shoreline, with waters so clear you can see the seabed up to a depth of 15 feet.

If you have been looking for a destination that is exciting and calm, unhurried and happening at the same time, this is the ideal getaway for you. Here is a detailed travel guide on everything you need to know before planning a trip:

Things to Do at Tarkarli Beach

Tarkarli Beach near Malvan is a versatile destination that brings you the best of some of most sought-after activities across popular tourist destinations in the country in an undisturbed setting.

The popular banana boats rides and parasailing of Goa, the trending tourist attraction of spotting dolphins, the houseboats ride on backwaters of Kerala, the sought-after snorkeling and scuba diving experiences of Andaman’s, this place has got it all.

Some of the top activities to indulge in during your Tarkarli Beach holiday include:

Scuba Diving

It is the only destination in all of Maharashtra where you can take a plunge deep into the Arabian Sea to witness its astounding underwater beauty, filled with exotic coral reefs and vibrant species of fish.

There are several training centers and camps scuba diving in Tarkarli that assist you in this once-in-a-lifetime escapade. You can either sign up for a short one-day training and go diving with an instructor or if you are serious about learning this skill, you can even sign up for month-long courses at different Tarkarli scuba diving centers such as Indian Institute of Scuba Diving and Aquatic Sports.

The Tarkarli scuba diving rates can from Rs 1,500 and going up to Rs 2,500.

Snorkeling

The Tarkarli Beach also makes for a great snorkeling destination, given its clear sea waters, timid waves and exotic marine life.

For those who do not feel ready for something as adventurous as scuba diving, snorkeling is the next best option for getting a look up close at the mesmerizing marine life. Besides, this is an activity fit for children, meaning you can take the plunge together as a family and build memories of a lifetime.

Houseboat Stay

The backwaters of the river Karli flanking the area is one of the many exclusive features on Tarkarli’s landscape. Soak up the serenity and calmness of this destination to the fullest with a houseboat stay.

Riding the serene backwater, tickling your taste buds to authentic local meals cooked onboard and spending some quiet time with yourself, a houseboat ride is just the perfect definition of an unwinding experience.

Dolphin Spotting

Imagine sitting at the deck of your boat, out there in the sea, gentle breeze in your hair, an all-pervading calm, and suddenly the playful, adorable sea dwellers – the dolphins – make an appearance before plunging back into the waters. It is nearly a blink-and-miss experience, where a long wait may yield a window of a few seconds to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, but it is every bit worth your while. Nivati and Achara beaches in Tarkarli are the best places for dolphin spotting.

Water Sports

Tarakarli Beach, along with other beaches in its vicinity, is fast coming up as a water sports hub. From parasailing to the banana boat ride, bumper rides, jet skiing, you name it and you’ve got it.

If you enjoy a good adrenaline rush or are looking for some fun indulgences during your holiday, these water sports must feature on your to-do list.

Sindhudurg Fort

An architectural marvel in its own right and a reminiscent of the rich history of the Malvan region, the Sindhudurg Fort deserves a spot on your Tarkarli Beach holiday itinerary.

The fort that stands tall by the mighty Arabian Sea is a symbol of Maratha valor and a hallmark of architectural brilliance that’ll leave you awestruck.

Popular Accommodation Options in Tarkarli

As with any up and coming tourist destination, this quaint little hamlet near Malvan is bustling with resorts, hotels, homestays, and guesthouses.

Here are some of the top stay options to choose from:

MTDC Resort Tarkarli

The MTDC Resort in Tarkarli comprises a cluster of cottages that are spacious, well-equipped and located right by the beach. An ideal pick for anyone looking for a plush stay facility with all modern-day amenities.

Sea View Resort Tarkarli

The Sea View Resort in Tarkarli is an intimate property with just 16 cottages that spaced out for optimum privacy. Located right by the Tarkarli Beach, the resort offers a vantage point for touristic explorations as all the key activities take place within walking distance from this property.

Blue Sea Resort

Another popular resort in the area, Blue Sea has an unmissable traditional vibe to it. The resort is clean and friendly, with cottages for every kind of traveler – single, families, couples, large groups and so on.

Tarkarli Nivas Nyahari

If you are looking for a personalized experience of a homestay at Tarkarli Beach, the Tarkarli Nivas Nyahari makes for a fine choice. Well-kept rooms, neat bathrooms, home-cooked food, warm and gracious hosts, and all this in close vicinity of the beach, make this homestay a preferred choice among tourists.

Revankar’s Family Homestay

Experience the local culture and way of life at this quaint hamlet with a stay at the Revankar’s Family Homestay that brings a personalized experience to your getaway without a hint of commercialization. It’s almost like staying over a friend’s.

Major Attractions near Tarkarli Beach

The beauty of a getaway at Tarkarli Beach is enhanced manifold by the unique landscape around it.

Here are the top attractions near the beach that you must explore during your visit:

• Deobagh, an outgrown village of fishermen, also known as God’s garden. You can rent their boats for a brief sea tour.
• Dhamapur Lake best known for its calm, still water and a pervading silence ideal for some soul-searching.
• Shree Shivchhatrapati Temple dedicated to iconic Maratha warrior Shivaji Maharaj, built by his son Rajaram.
• Padmagarh Fort, another great structure on the Konkan coastline that is sure to leave you impressed.

Kolamb Beach, about 6km from Malvan, is a lesser known destination where you can appreciate the clear sea waters by a secluded beach. The Kolamb Creek that emerges right at the end of the beach is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Getting There

Situated on the Konkan coast, Tarkarli Beach is closer to north Goa and Belgaum than to most big cities in Maharashtra.

The nearest airport is in Goa, which is about 100 kilometers from Tarkarli, and the nearest railway station to Tarkarli is at Kudal, about 35 kilometers away.

The distance of about 387 km from Pune to Tarkarli makes it an approachable getaway for long weekends from the city. If you are traveling to Tarkarli from Mumbai, you’ll have to go via Nation Highway 4 that goes through Pune and makes for a lovely drive with a scenic view all along.

Tips for Travelers in Tarkarli Beach

Knowing what to expect from a trip is the best way to get most of any destination. These few essential tips will help you live up your Tarkarli Beach holiday to the fullest:

• The weather in the region is usually hot and humid, so carrying a good sunscreen is a must.
• Traveling to Tarkarli in your vehicles makes getting around the destination a lot more convenient, as the place does not have a lot of cab services.
• Choosing an accommodation within walking distance to the beach is recommended, as it allows you the luxury to spend mornings and evening by the sea.
• Unless you are looking for an extended break to just relax and unwind, Tarkarli Beach is ideal for a long weekend getaway.

Best Time to Go

January to March and October to December are the best times of the year to visit this beach destination.

If you want to steer clear of even the minimal tourist influx that descends on this destination during these peak season, particularly on weekends, planning your visit between January and February would be ideal.