Where: Often known as the gateway to Palghar, Manor is located on the banks of Vaitarna River.
What: The beaches and the people. There are two famous beaches, Mahim Chowpatty and Kelva, the latter being the popular one amongst the tourist and locals. And we agree.
When: March, 2014
How: We were on a road trip from Delhi to Goa and made a quick stop on NH 8 in the Palghar region on the outskirts of Maharashtra. We checked into Kumar Resort some 10-12 kms from the beach. Good thinking helped us and the early morning drive saved us the trouble of beating through the crowd. "It is always a party down here", said the happy-drunk boys. If you love solitude and connect with the nature well, early morning hours or late nights are ideal.
The town is popular for its earthernware. People are extremely friendly when approached. We had a crazy time trying to reach the beach, which at night, and with fewer people around, was very difficult to locate. We have it on video and we could still be lost. The town has a very goan feel and people are carefree. We bush-crashed into what appeared to be a lane, but turned out to be someone's verandah. The landlady walked out to help us with directions at 4 in the morning.
Note: Carry a Dev Anand music collection and the roads will feel smoother and the ride so much lighter, at a different level. I promise you wont be disappointed.