The moment the word "Trekking" strikes up in our mind, a picture of traversing through the mountain trails paints across our minds. But do you know the coastal lines of India have a plethora of phenomenal trekking routes coupled with scenic beauty and a mystic environment? The treks are comparatively moderate compared to those at the mountains and are quite comfortable and less stressful to complete.
1. Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach, a lively and attractive beach in Havelock island of Andaman and Nicobar, is a perfect choice for adventure sports. Trekking is one of the most popular activities one can venture to in this beautiful beach and enjoy the clear blue waters and the whitish sand.
The trekking path towards the beach is quite excellent and enchanting, crossing through stretches of marshlands and mangrove forests. Trekkers can immerse in the enthralling cool breeze in the air and walk alongside the wide stretch of trees in the forests.
One can avail of any professional tourist guide to assist through the entire journey as it is very essential to be aware of the route to the beach and not get lost within the marshlands. If you are quite adventurous and want to go solo, then it is preferable to either carry a map or be thoroughly aware of the curves and bends within the route.
Trekkers Know-How
October to January is the best season for trekking.
It is recommended to start the trek at 8:00 AM in the morning as the temperature is quite moderate at that time. Trekkers can either opt for only trekking or some can also combine trekking and snorkeling. Enthusiast visitors generally love to enjoy both and soak themselves into the waters to discover the stunning marine world with the coral reefs.
The entire trek lasts for approximately 30-45 minutes. After reaching the beach one can soothe the eyes with the refreshing view of the sparkling waters or go snorkeling. The best time to return from the beach is 1 PM as the weather starts to become quite hot and due to the forests and marshy areas, there may be danger of poisonous bugs and insects.
It's better to carry some light food and water along within a bag pack as one may feel hungry after the walk. Since the trek is along with grasslands and dense forests hence wearing appropriate covered shoes is a must. Generally, it's recommended to wear swamp boots or waterproof boots. A cotton shirt and shorts or hiking trousers are the best options to wear as it prevents overheating and one can move through the marshy areas with ease.
The Journey
The trek stretches for approximately 300 meters with a serene and captivating view of the flora and fauna around. The calm and tranquil environment imbibes enthusiasm within the nature-loving trekkers and hence tourists every year are tempted to visit this wonderful place.
There are options of renting scooters too if one doesn't prefer walking along the coastal path. The path is a bit steep but the greenery encompassing the journey relieves the tiredness and revives the soul with new energy.
Wildlife and nature enthusiasts will love the lush green forests where one can get a glimpse of komodo dragons, crabs, mud keepers, and the spreading roots of the mangroves. The cutout tree trunks seem to instill a scenic difference in the beauty of the place.
The EndPoint
The endpoint of the trek is quite amazing as one is greeted by the glittering sea waters with the flowing waves, the coral reefs, soothing greenery, the sea animals, and fish near the shore. The vastness of the sea with its crystal clear waters generates a positive feeling within, as one gets encompassed by the cool breeze and the scintillating atmosphere in the freshness of the Elephant Beach.
2. Bekal Beach
Bekal beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in God's own country "Kerala". The serene beautiful beach waters surround the Bekal Fort, the largest fort in Kerala shaped like a giant keyhole. A long walkway along the beach offers the most enthralling and picturesque experience along with its wide lineup of trees and the soothing cool sea breeze. It is one of the exhilarating coastal trekking routes in India.
The exotic ambiance of the beach attracts many tourists who want to indulge themselves in the relaxing landscape. It's a wonderful place to trek alongside the mystic sandy shores and the enchanting array of coconut and casuarina trees. You can enjoy a quiet evening on the beach while being tranquilized by the stunning views of the sunset.
Trekker's Know-How
The best season for the trek is November till March when the weather is pleasing and calm along the beach.
The total duration of the trek is approximately six hours covering a distance of 7 km, starting from the Bekal Fort and then passing through the Udduma fishing village, the Kappil beach, and eventually reaching the village of Chambrika.
One must make sure to carry some food and water in a backpack and also rainproof jackets for an emergency. Make sure you have good waterproof shoes and trousers as you need to wade through backwaters during the trek or alternatively you can wear shorts and cross the waters on your feet. Since it's a long walk, one must keep oneself dehydrated throughout the journey.
The trek is mostly covered on flat surfaces with no steep climb hence should be easy to complete. Though a long path yet the scenic beauty rings in a captivating atmosphere around relieving the tiredness and recharging with new energy.
It's advisable to start the trek at 8 am in morning since that's the start time of the Bekal Fort and the trek demands entering the Fort as the first step.
The Journey
Enter the Bekal Fort after paying the entrance fee and walk along the western walls of the fort until you reach a gate that leads to a flight of steps made of stone. Slowly climb down the rocks to reach the Bekal beach in 3 to 4 minutes from where the long walk starts.
The first target is to reach the end of the Kappil beach via Udduma fishing village. The path curves around the crescent of the beach where you can observe the multi-colored fish boats adorning the shore side like a painter's panoramic masterpiece. Kappil beach is quite empty and the silence seems to bring in a captivating feeling. The journey traces through the sparsely populated Udduma fishing village and it takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the end of the crescent traversing a distance of 3 km.
You can rest a while watching the golden-colored sands of the beach and the waters gently embracing the shores. The next stretch extends for a distance of 4 km and it takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours of time. Midway into the second trail, you can find the backwaters of the sea lined by the tall sky hugging coconut trees. This is the point where we need to get into the waters to cross the confluence of the sea and the backwaters. In the next hour, you will come across a group of huge coconut trees which is also known as the sunset point. Passing along the groves you will reach the Chambrika village, the endpoint of the Bekal trek.
The EndPoint
The unique characteristic of the Bekal Trek is the surprisingly quiet and uninhabited beaches along with the serene calm sea and the flowing winds dancing along the tall treetops. The end of the trek is quite interesting as the trekkers will be greeted by the majestic coconut palms swaying with the breeze.
3. New Digha to Chandipur Beach
Chandipur, popularly known as Chandipur-on-sea, is located in the Balasore district of Orissa. The beach is unique of its kind because of the sea disappearing astonishingly from the shore twice during the day and reappearing with a full gush in the evening. This rare phenomenon attracts visitors, providing a marvelous opportunity to walk on the sea bed. It is one of the pristine coastal trekking routes in India.
The magic behind the receding sea waters is the alternate occurrence of the low tide and the high tide. The beach offers a serene romantic view with the sandy sea bed. It's enthralling to sit and watch the waters slowly recede in front of your eyes. And then at the onset of the setting sun, you will love to watch the waters rolling down to the seashores.
Enticing in the beauty of Chandipur, the most adventurous way to explore the sea coast is to venture on a trek towards New Digha in West Bengal. You will enjoy a unique experience of walking along the panoramic landscape dotted with small villages, lined with casuarina trees, the white sandy beaches, and the sparkling blue waters.
Trekker's Know-How
The best time to embark on this long but delightful trek is during the winters, November till March.
The trek is covered in three days, initiating from Chandipur. If you are too adventurous and can withstand the journey with small breaks, then you can even complete the trek in two days. It's advisable to start every day at 6:30 am in the morning when the weather is comfortably pleasant. Also, it will ensure arriving at the stop-over destinations early in the evening. Carry a good backpack with sufficient clothes, snacks, and water. Wear light clothes to stay comfortable since the journey is quite long. Keep your medicine box with you in case of an emergency. Wear proper shoes so that your feet don't get tired.
If you are traveling with any tour operator or a professional tourist guide, then many of the things are provided by them. But if you are traveling solo then ensure to carry a map to guide you through the journey.
Certain paper-works like the state permits should be arranged before starting off for the trek.
The Journey
Day 1 : Chandipur to Kasafal
The trek commences with a 2.5 km walk from Chandipur to Balaramgudi village. Hop on a riverboat to cross the Buribalam river, flowing across the village. The riverside is quite crowded with the fishermen and boatmen.
After descending from the boat at Majhichak village, you need to proceed towards Bahabalpur. The 9.5 km walking trail is quite enjoyable with the crabs, birds, turtles, and other marine animals and the lovely patterns on the golden sands. You can have your lunch at this place before proceeding further.
On reaching Bahabalpur you need to again catch a boat to cross the Buriamari river. The place is actually a delta formed by the confluence of the river and the Bay of Bengal. From Bahabalpur the boat will take you to Kasafal. You can either stay overnight at Kasafal or continue with your journey depending upon your stamina. Day 1 journey will be completed in almost 6 to 7 hours.
Day 2: Kasafal to Dagara
The day initiates from Kasafal with a walk towards a beautiful tranquil river called Chaulti. Cross the river to reach a place called Haskara Khari. You can either have a small break at this place or continue onwards.
The walk from Haskara Khari to Dagara beach is quite awesome. The flowing breeze atop the casuarina trees and the gushing sound of the waves crashing against the shorelines create a scintillating feeling around. You will also experience the fishermen with their fishing nets and the boatmen lined up with their boats. As the sun descends down the horizon, you can witness the vibrant colors of the setting sun spanning across the sky and spreading its glittering reflection on the sea waters. It will take 7 to 8 hours to complete the entire trek on day 2.
Day 3: Dagara to New Digha
The first destination is to reach the Kankdapal village on the banks of the river Subarnarekha. You need to jump on a boat to cross the river. The scenic beauty of the Subarnarekha River is worthy of praise.
After alighting from the boat at Kirtaniya ghat, you need to proceed towards Talsari. En route the trail, you will cross a village called Matikacha. The path is across the forests. Talsari is a weekend gateway and you can find plenty of tourists flocking the place. You can refresh yourself at Talsari with lunch and drinks.
The distance from Talsari to Digha is 4.5 km. Along the journey, you will cross Udaipur at the Orissa Bengal border. To reach Udaipur you need to cross a small knee-deep river. From Udaipur, walk another 2 km to reach New Digha, the endpoint of the 3-day long trek.
The EndPoint
The trek from Chandipur to New Digha is quite long as you need two stopovers at night. But the exhaustion is completely nullified by the amazing views of the picturesque landscape. The captivating scenery will keep you energetic and enthusiastic throughout the journey. It is quite a refreshing experience to walk alongside the flowing rivers, the white and golden sands, the beautiful villages, and the sea waters with the white fluffy waves.
4. Gokarna Beach
Gokarna is a small town in Karnataka along the shores of the Arabian Sea. The Gokarna beach is a trekker's fascination. The trek along the golden sands and the overlooking hillocks is thrilling and adventurous. Though the path is relatively tough as you need to cross the rocky hills, the green scenery with the coconut trees and the sparkling sea waters will uplift your adrenal level. It is one of the thrilling coastal trekking routes in India.
The word "Gokarna" means Cow's Ear. It is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from Cow's ear at this place. The place is located at the confluence of Sayadhris and the Arabian Sea.
You need to first reach Bangalore to start your trip to Gokarna. The trek is a long one about 8 to 9 hours covering a distance of 7 to 8 km. The route, popularly known as "The Golden Route", comprises several serene beaches, huge rocks, friendly dolphins, a temple, and a fort.
Trekker's Know-How
The best months for the Gokarna beach trek are from October to February.
It is advisable to start the trek as early as possible as it's quite a long route and there are several places of attraction where you must spend and savor your eyes with nature's beauty. From Bangalore, you can hire a cab or a bus to reach Gokarna. From the Gokarna bus point, you need to walk down to Paradise Beach. The trek initiates from Paradise Beach.
You must ensure to have a sufficient amount of water and light snacks in your backpack as the journey starts from early morning till the sunset. Light Pants and loose shirts are preferable. The shoes must be strong enough to climb the rocky hillocks. If possible you can carry a pair of slippers to walk comfortably on the beach sands. Carry a small torch for safety after sunset.
The Journey
Paradise Beach is quite serene, uninhabited by humans a few years back. The beach is surrounded by palm trees. The seashore is rocky and it's amazing to watch the waters splashing against the rocks. After a peaceful and leisurely experience at the beachside, you will proceed towards Half Moon Beach.
The hike from Paradise to Half Moon is over the hillocks along the ocean side. The warmth of the beach is charming. You can see several huts and shacks near the beach. If you are super adventurous then you can climb up the high rocks to enjoy a scintillating experience of the beachside.
The next destination of the trek is Om Beach. The walk is along a steep slope, encompassed with wild plants and trees along with the backdrop of the sea. Amidst the marvelous greenery and shining sea waters, you can rejuvenate your mind with some cool coconut water.
From Om beach proceed towards Kudle beach. On the way stop at the dolphin viewpoint to watch the dolphins playing around in the sea. Kudle beach is famous for its sunset viewpoint. Sit and watch the sky transforming into vibrant red as the sun kisses the sea waters to magically vanish behind the horizon. Relax and soothe your ears with the gushing sound of the waves.
As the night descends with the moonlit sky, start your walk towards the Gokarna beach. Gaze up at the sky to watch the blinking galaxy of stars. The trek ends at this point. After a stopover at night start your return journey to Bangalore. On the way, you can visit the Mahabaleshwar temple and the Mirjan Fort.
The EndPoint
The beaches along the trek serve a unique plethora of serenity and calmness. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it is quite a blissful experience to traverse through the scenic route.
The Gokarna beach mesmerizes the trekkers with the reflection of the moonlight on the plunging sea waves. It is one of the coastal trekking routes which you must add to your bucket list and indulge in nature's beauty.
Ocean Trek along Neuti Beach
Neuti Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, a state with an epitome of beauty. The beach is lined with huge mountains overlooking the pristine waters of the sea. The place is renowned for the Ocean trek along the Arabian sea coast. It is one of the mind-blowing coastal trekking routes in India.
The uniqueness of the Ocean trek is the superb intertwining between the scenic hillside and the enthralling view of the deserted virgin beaches. Trekking along the beach is bound to immerse you into the gushing sound of the waves embracing the shorelines.
Trekker's Know-How
The best season to visit Goa and go for the trek is from November till March when the weather is comparatively cool and clear. If you really want to be with the vibrant crowd buzz then you can opt during Christmas and New Year.
The Ocean track originates from Porvorim, a scenic village in North Goa. The best time to start is 7:00 am in the morning when the weather is calm and cool with the flowing sea breeze. Before you start on the walk alongside the sea, you need to drive to a small seaside hamlet called Kochra-Shriramwadi. The hamlet is located between two towns Vengurla and Malvan.
The Journey
Before starting on the walk, have some light snacks. Then proceed for a refreshing walk along the hilly path adjacent to the sea. After a few minutes, you will come across a deserted beach in a secluded cove. At this point, you can either sit and spend some time watching the mountains at the backdrop of the majestic Arabian Sea or you may continue with the trek.
As you move on, you will come across plenty of isolated beaches. The captivating views across the pristine sea waters will keep you enthralled throughout the journey. The mountain with its breathtaking views is a treat to the eyes. The sound of the waters splashing against the seashore and the lush green palms swaying in the air will rejuvenate and energize you. The trek along these blissfully secluded beaches is very unique unlike the exerting adventurous treks across precarious rocks and mountains.
After short wade across an estuary, you will reach the serene Neuti beach which is the endpoint of the trek. You can enjoy the coconut water and have a Malvani coastal lunch at the beach eateries to refresh yourself after the exhaustion. At 3:30 pm you can start for the return journey towards Porvorim and reach by 7:30 pm.
The EndPoint
The Neuti beach welcomes you with its treasure chest full of adventure and scenic views. You can dip yourself and let your body enjoy the soothing touch of the cool waters of the sea. If you are quite energetic and love to do something exclusive, then there is a 20 feet high giant rock on the beach from where you can dive into the waters.
You can also walk higher up to watch the historic Neuti Fort. The Fort was built by the great Maratha King, Chatrapati Shivaji. The other spectaculars of the beach are the Vengurla Rocks which is supposed to be the breeding ground for marine birds and the Bhogwe beach, said to be one of the beautiful and pristine beaches of Konkan.
The Ocean Trek is ideal for trekkers who want to indulge themselves in the vicinity of nature. It has become quite famous because of its plethora of beauty in the heart of Mother Nature. Truly one of the best coastal trekking routes in India.
Final Thoughts ....
Hope you are now charged up to start with your coastal trekking journey. Bet, it will be a thrilling and memorable experience; walking along the coastal trekking routes.