| - Pragya Jhavar
Tarkarli is a narrow stretch of beach with untouched waters,
located at the convergence of the Karli river and the Arabian
Sea. This place has gained prominence because of its transparently
clear seas, where on a fairly sunny day, one can see the bed
unto a depth of 20 feet.
The Tarkarli beach presents a panoramic view with tall 'Shuru'
trees in the background. The wide river, the beautiful sailboats
and the tiny wonderful islands hamlets situated on the riverbank,
add to the picturesque beauty of Tarkarli.
Apart from its scenic beauty, Tarkarli has many places of
interest to tourists. Some of these are mentioned below.
Sindhudurg Fort:
The Sindhudurg Fort is in the middle of the sea, a ten-minute
boat ride from the harbour. The fort is a massive structure,
but most of it is in a dilapidated condition. The Archaeological
Survey of India has started some restoration work on the Fort.
The watchtowers of the Fort offer a fantastic view of the
nearby fishing villages, and also of the sunset.
Boat Ride and Dolphin Watch:
The boat ride into the sea is an opportunity to experience
the calming effect of the wind, waves and water. In the boat
ride, one is taken to the ‘sangam’ of the Karli
river and the sea. Further, about an hour into the sea is
the place where dolphins can be spotted. Watching these friendly
creatures at their playful best is an unforgettable sight.
Deo Bagh Beach:
Coming to the Deo Bagh Beach is like a visit to one of the
beaches shown on travel & tourism shows on television.
The beach is clean, the sea, blue, the trees, green and the
sand, white. The red rocks, acting as a barrier for the waves
to splash against, add to the attractiveness of the place,
which is a photographer’s delight. According to a legend,
when there were massive floods in the area a long time ago,
all islands except Deo Bagh were devastated. Thus, the name
‘Deo Bagh’ or ‘Abode of the Gods’.
Sea Gull Watch: On the way back from Deo Bagh is a small
sand island, less than 300 metres in diameter. This island
is resplendent with hundreds of sea gulls. It is an extraordinary
sight to behold.
Others:
The beaches of Tarkarli are very suitable for just lazing
around, doing nothing. Apart from these attractions, the delectable
Konkani cuisine entices food lovers.
Seasons to visit:
The best season to visit Tarkarli is between December and
February, when the temperatures are not too high.
Getting there:
By Air: The nearest airport is Dabolim (Goa).
By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kudal, 45 kms. Away, on
Konkan Railway.
By Road: Tarkarli is connected by road to Mumbai (546 kms),
Kolhapur (160 kms) and Malvan (7 kms).
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