Fringed with swaying palms, gorgeous white sand and Casuarinas groves, the beaches of Kashid and Murud-Janjira is an ideal setting for a tranquil weekend getaway. These relatively undiscovered beaches are a 4 hr drive from Bombay and are located on the coastline between Bombay and Goa. A drive to this place would lead you to paddy fields, beautiful hills and little rivulets through small villages. Picturesque from every angle, the monsoons are the best time to visit in its surrounding greenery. A sleepy little fishing village on the Konkan coast with a handful of huts, visit its old fortress and the Nawab’s Palace, all symbols of its glorious past.

• Janjira Fort: Located on the island of Janjira this 350 year old majestic fort is truly an architectural marvel. While once the fort boasted of 500 canons, today there are only a few left. A stone carving on the main entrance depicts six elephants trapped by a single tiger, which is the symbol of bravery of the Siddis. With its strong walls over 40 feet high standing intact, it has two natural sweet-water reservoirs set within the fort.

• Palace of Nawab’s & Janjira Caves: A visit back in time? Then head out to see the 16th century Nawab’s Palace and the Janjira caves offer another attraction that one cannot resist.

• The Temple of Lord Dattaraya: A temple dedicated to Lord Dattatraya, it sits on a hill and offers a complete view of the entire bay.

• Nandgaon Beach: Renowned for its magnificent Ganpati temple, you can stop by here for a visit to pay respects. Especially visit it in February when a fair is held in honour of the god.

• Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread across 52.71 sq. km, the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must see. Primarily a bird sanctuary, Phansad is also home to a whole array of insects, amphibians and mammals. It is surrounded by the gentle hills and mangroves and a number of endemic flora and fauna species are found here.

Not too many restaurants, though there are a few places that would offer you a scrumptious variety of cuisine. Kashid Beach Resort offers a multi-cuisine restaurant where you can relish Chinese, Continental and Konkani cuisines. The MTDC Resort also offers a large variety of delicacies. In addition, there are numerous stalls on the beach and small eating joints in the village.

Text text text