La India is one of the exotic destinations most sought after by travelers. A place to get lost with a backpack to discover an ancient culture full of contrasts. But even if the most famous of the trips to India are the urban landscapes, the temples or its people, there must also be space to stroll along its incredible beaches.
Increasingly famous, the beaches of India attract more visitors every year. With thousands and thousands of miles of coastline, this country offers an amazing variety of beaches along the Indian Ocean, especially those on the west coast. We will find from the most secluded and peaceful paradises by the sea to the most lively and fun beaches. Here are six of the best, which are worth a visit.
Varkala
50 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram, in Kerala is where this popular beach is located. In an environment of spectacular beauty and has the peculiarity of being the only beach in southern Kerala where there are cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, with unique and truly impressive views. Varkala is the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy a relaxing stay. It is common for tourists to stay all day on the beach, waiting for the sunset, which can be seen from the beach or from the many terraces of the restaurants in the area. In addition, there are small shops to offer different products to tourists.
Tourism on this beach became greater at the end of the last century, but this was a place known by the natives due to its importance in the Hindu custom of Vavu Beli, and because its waters are said to be sacred. It is located ten minutes from the town which bears the same name and which we can easily reach by train. From the village to the beach we can take a rickshaw for just 50 rupees. And in the village we can visit the Janardana Swami temple, more than 2000 years old, a place of great religious importance.
gokarna
Located next to a little holy town north of Karnataka. Its four totally virgin beaches can give us an idea of what Goa was like before the irruption of tourism. However, it is a place where tourism is also growing, so it is advisable to visit them before they get too crowded. It is a very authentic place, and walking through the town we can see cows in the streets, pilgrims and artisans, as well as several temples that tourists cannot enter.
We have the main beach, long and clear soft sands, in which to rest and sunbathe quietly, while the dogs that roam freely in the area visit us. We can go to Kudle Beach passing a hill, and there are also others like Om Beach or Half Moon Beach, which are also reached by passing a small hill. All of them have their charm. Gokarna is about a four hour drive from Goa. You can also get there by bus from the surrounding cities.
Palolem
A thick forest of coconut palms surrounds and protects this beach in the extreme south of Goa. In the shape of a half moon, with its reddish sand and turquoise waters, it happens to be one of the most beautiful in the region. It has rocky headlands at the ends, and it is a natural bay that has a lot of tourism and the activity of local fishermen. On the beach we can also find street vendors and craft stalls with interesting things. Restaurants in the area offer Western and Indian dishes. Also, it is a good place to stay, as there are many cabanas along the beach.
As curiosities it must be said that There are usually beach parties on full moon nights and in high season. In addition, it is a famous beach for appearing in the movie 'Bourne Supremacy', as the residence of Bourne played by Matt Damon.
Baga
Located in North Goa, it is undoubtedly the fashionable beach in India, so it is usually always crowded with tourists. It is located in the town of Calanguete, and is the area where tourism began in Goa, which is now widespread. If what we are looking for is fun, this is the place. We can do water sports, spend the day trying reasonably priced meals, with fresh seafood and fish, or rent a boat to go see dolphins.
Everything at our fingertips. A taxi from the airport is only $ 15. In the area you can rent bicycles and motorcycles, and also take a taxi or a rickshaw. In addition, there are many stalls on the beach that offer all kinds of products.
marari
This area is little known, but in return we can enjoy spectacular beaches and a lot of tranquility and relaxation. Also known as Mararikulam, it is a southern coastal town, whose beaches have been chosen as one of the five best in the world by National Geographic.
We will see beaches of fine sand with beautiful coconut trees that frame the traditional houses, appearing the odd luxury resort for the most privileged. It has a beautiful promenade with small stalls and restaurants to pass the time. Nearby we can also visit the Backwaters, a network of channels parallel to the Arabian Sea that is known as the Venice of the East.
mamallapuram
This may be a last destination to enjoy culture, family atmosphere and a great beach in India. It is located in Tamil Nadu, in the south of the country. It stands out not only for its wide beach full of boats of fishermen toiling at their chores first thing in the morning, but also for its many temples and stone sculptures.
In the town we can also see many artisans who work stone, the main material of the area. And on the beach we will spend a great day enjoying how well the great families in the area who get close to her, especially on the weekend.