13 Monsoon Destinations in Konkan for Rainy Retreats

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Looking for the best monsoon destinations in Konkan for a nice monsoon weekend getaway? While heavy rains can be an inconvenience they can also provide the right kind of relief. Summers in India are hot and humid making it extremely uncomfortable for people to manage their routine.

People living in cities like Mumbai and Pune often look out for weekend holiday destinations where they can unwind. However, even destinations like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar do not offer respite from the heat. However, when the Southwest Monsoon hits Maharashtra it begins from the southern Konkan coast and eventually heads north.

Hence, by the end of June, the monsoon magic in Konkan is quite evident. This is the time when you can head to Konkan and spend quality time with your family and loved ones. Konkan during monsoon transforms into a magical space which you should experience at least once in a lifetime.

Konkan is one of the places to visit in Maharashtra during rainy season. If you are planning to visit Konkan this rainy season here are some places you should look out for.

1. Alibaug

One of the most popular monsoon destinations in Konkan is Alibaug. Located just south of Mumbai and west of Pune, Alibaug is easily accessible via road and ferry. This coastal town in Konkan is known for its beaches and one can have a great time here. With ample hotels, resorts, and Airbnb properties accommodation in Alibaug is no problem at all. Like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, Alibaug is also one of the great weekend holiday destinations close to Mumbai. Most ferries are operational even during the monsoon season. However, they are subject to cancellation or rescheduled in case of severe weather.

Apart from beaches, Alibaug is also known for its historical heritage and temples. If you are planning a monsoon weekend getaway in Konkan you should Alibaug. With less than 3 hours to reach from Mumbai or Pune, you can save a lot of transportation time.

2. Bhambhatmal

Not too far from Mahabaleshwar, Bhambhatmal is a hidden gem that not many people know about. While this is not a coastal town in Konkan it can provide you with a great opportunity to enjoy the monsoon in the hills. Konkan in the monsoon can provide you with plenty of small towns where you can relax and unwind. While there are limited accommodation choices you can always look for the ones that suit your preferences and budget.

Bhambhatmal is around a two-hour drive from Pune which also means that you can always stay in Pune and explore Bhambhatmal via car. Also, you can reach Harihareshwar in four hours via Bhambhatmal and this allows you to access some of the popular beaches in Konkan.

3. Thoseghar

One of the monsoon destinations in Konkan that you should not miss is Thoseghar. Flanked by lofty mountains, Thoseghar is home to the much popular Thoseghar Waterfalls. This is one of the highest waterfalls in India and during the monsoon season, it is a major attraction. You can look for accommodations in Satara which is only an hour’s drive from the waterfalls.

There are plenty of resorts in the region and this means you can have a great time holidaying in the mountains. While you are staying in and around Satara you can drive to Chiplun which is 3 hours away. You can further drive an hour and reach the coast and explore Guhagar and Guhagar Beach.

4. Ratnagiri

One of the best monsoon destinations in Konkan is Ratnagiri. This coastal town in Konkan is a perfect hub which allows you to explore more places and do more activities. If you intend to cover more beaches and places in Konkan, Ratnagiri is where you should stay. Staying in Ratnagiri allows you to access various beaches and historical spots in the vicinity. Also, with ample hotels, resorts and Airbnb properties you can find a decent accommodation of your choice and budget.

While you are in Ratnagiri you can explore the Ratnadurg Fort, Kalbadevi Beach, Aare Ware Beach, Wayangani Beach and Mirya Beach. You can also visit the nearby town of Ganapatipule which is an hour’s drive from Ratnagiri. Here you can visit the 400-year-old Ganesha Temple located on the beach which is a major tourist attraction.

5. Sindhudurg

Sindhudurg was formerly a part of the Ratnagiri district and is one of the places to visit in Konkan coast. If you have plans of romancing the rains in Konkan this is one of the best places you can choose from. Here you can find accommodations in Tarkali, Devgad and Vengurla which are popular coastal towns. You can also stay in Amboli and enjoy the rolling hills and lush greenery that this place has to offer.

Towns like Vengurla are perfect for couples looking for a private weekend getaway where they can enjoy the rain. While you are here you can explore Khavane Beach and Vengurla Beach. However, make sure that you have excellent accommodation and transport options available. This would ensure that there are no last-moment issues that can spoil your monsoon holiday plan in Konkan.

6. Amboli

Better known as the Mahabaleshwar of Konkan, Amboli is tucked in the Western Ghats. If you are looking for rolling hills and picturesque monsoon landscape, Amboli won’t disappoint. Ideal for those who want to escape the urban chaos and routine, Amboli is perfect for nature lovers. It has a cool and pollution-free climate that will cheer you up instantly. There are beautiful waterfalls which you can explore if you are looking for a monsoon adventure.

However, heading to Amboli will require planning as it is quite a distance from Mumbai and Pune. Also, this is not an ideal monsoon weekend getaway place in Konkan because you will end up spending more time in your car than in your room. However, if you are planning a trip for at least five days in Konkan, then Amboli sounds like the right choice.

7. Vengurla

When you are thinking of holidays in Konkan, Vengurla is one of the best monsoon destinations in Konkan that must be on your list. This picturesque village in Sindhudurg offers an excellent monsoon holiday experience.

With easy accessibility, you can reach Vengurla quickly via road and rail routes. Sawantwadi is the nearest railway station if you are choosing the rail route. Vengurla is popular for its beaches. Here you can explore Sagareshwar Beach, Mochemad Beach and Vengurla Beach known for their serene environment.

Also, you can explore various temples including Rameshwar Temple and Sateri Devi Mandir. Vengurla also has historical significance because it was an important trade centre during the rule of the Maratha Empire.

The village is known for mango and cashew nut production. It is also an important place during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival and Holi.

8. Murud

Offering a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty, Murud is a coastal village often known as Murud-Janjira. This village located in the Raigad district is home to the iconic Murud-Janjira Fort, one of the historic forts in Maharashtra.

Being one of the strongest coastal forts in India, Murud-Janjira Fort attracts plenty of tourists annually. While being located off the coast it still has a freshwater lake inside the fort.

Murud is also popular for its beautiful beaches including Murud Beach where you can enjoy evening walks. You can also enjoy various water activities at the beach. During the monsoon season, you can also explore the Garambi Falls which offer a lush green landscape. Roha is the nearest railway station if you are using the rail route.

9. Diveagar

If you are keen on exploring some of the iconic Konkan beaches you have to visit the one in Diveagar. This charming village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra can provide you with stunning beaches to rejuvenate your mind and soul.

While you are here you can explore the local markets, walk the pristine beach and play various beach sports. The village is also known for its Suvarna Ganesh Temple and Rupnarayan Temple.

The village was an important trade centre during the Peshwa rule and you can still find the influence of Peshwa culture and architecture when you explore the area. While you are here make sure you enjoy the Konkani cuisine which incorporates fresh seafood dishes. Mangaon is the nearest railway station to this village.

10. Guhagar

A hidden gem, Guhagar is a perfect spot nestled on the Konkan coast for peaceful relaxing holidays. This is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and plenty of nature to soak in. Guhagar Beach is one of the key highlights of this place.

This remains one of the best Konkan destinations you should explore in the monsoon season. Apart from the beach, you can explore the local temples like Vyadeshwar Temple, Durgadevi Temple and Hedvi Ganesh Temple. The unique thing about Hedvi Ganesh Temple also known as Dashbhuja Ganesh Temple is that the idol of Lord Ganesha here has ten arms.

Guhagar is also close to Gopalgad Fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and is ideal for beginner trekkers. It is also known for its betel nut plantation, Anjavel Light House and Velneshwar Beach and Temple at a close distance. Chiplun is the nearest railway station to this coastal town.

11. Devgad

Devgad is immensely popular for its Alphonso mangoes which are in demand in April and May. However, visiting Devgad during the summer season would mean you have to handle the heat and humidity.

During the monsoon, Devgad might not offer you those delicious Alphonso mangoes, but you can enjoy the cool sea breeze, lush greenery and spectacular coastal view. Devgad Beach is known for its clear waters, golden sands and tranquil experience.

Apart from Alphonso mangoes and a pristine beach, Devgad is also known for its historical significance. Here you can explore the Devgad Fort, Devgad Lighthouse and the amazing Devgad Windmill Garden. You can also visit the Vijaydurg Fort at a close distance.

This coastal village is also home to Kunkeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kankavli is the nearest railway station to this coastal village.

12. Harihareshwar

One of the top monsoon places in Konkan is Harihareshwar in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. This small town is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Most people come here to visit the temples and spend time on the beach.

Harihareshwar Temple is the main highlight of this town. This temple of Lord Shiva is also known as the Kashi of the South Konkan. The temple is located right next to the beach.

If you are done visiting the temple you can spend some time at Harihareshwar Beach and the nearby Diveagar Beach. Nature enthusiasts can visit Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary close by.

13. Ganpatipule

The name of the town is quite obvious and derives from the Swayambhu Ganpati Temple. This temple is the main attraction of this coastal town. The word Swayambhu means self-manifested. It is believed that the idol is self-manifested and hence sacred.

Apart from the temple, Ganpatipule is also known for its clean beach. It is certainly one of the best Konkan beaches you shouldn’t miss. When you are done exploring the main beach you can head to Aare Ware Beach which is just a short drive away. Ratnagiri is the nearest railway station to Ganpatipule if you are choosing the rail route.  

Conclusion

If you are looking for a holiday where you can put your feet up and enjoy the rain you should from any of these places in Konkan. There are plenty of locations that you can choose from which allows you to enjoy the monsoon magic in Konkan. However, you must keep track of the weather at all times.

Severe weather conditions can ruin your monsoon weekend getaway. Hence, you need to be practical and flexible when planning a trip to Konkan in the rainy season. Also, book your train tickets and accommodations in advance. If you are travelling by car make sure that take the safest routes and drive responsibly. With the right monsoon destinations in Konkan, you can give yourself a break you rightly deserve.