Imagine enjoying the beautiful colours of sunset with your loved ones at one of the most tranquil and magical places. Located not more than 4 hours away from the bustling city of Mumbai, Nandgaon Beach is usually on a must-visit-locations bucket list of every Mumbaikar. There is a unique charm to this place. From the alluring landscape to the tall coconut trees, from the golden sands to the calm waters, Nandgaon is an ideal destination for those craving an escape from the monotony of city life. Plan your trip to this very aesthetically pleasant place today!
Explore The Beauty Of Nandgaon Beach
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Nandgaon is located in the Murud taluka of Raigad district of Maharashtra. Apart from its coastal marvels it also has a great cultural and historical significance. The “Siddhivinayak Temple” is a prominent pilgrimage site. The tourists delve into the rich heritage and culture of this place. One cannot fully experience the culture without trying out the local cuisine. Nandigram offers delicious local seafood cuisine prepared from the sea using the special Konkani spices that will leave your mouth watering. You can also enjoy various water activities available on the beach to make your trip full of adventure.
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Places To Visit In Nandgaon Beach
Nandgaon is a scenic place nestled in the heart of Maharastra. This place is filled with cultural and historical importance. Here are the curated list of places to visit in Nandgaon Beach:
1. Shri Ballaleshwar Ashtavinayaka Temple, Nandgaon
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Shri Ballaleshwar Ashtavinayaka Temple is a sacred temple located near Nandgaon Beach, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is located in the town of Pali in the Raigad district. It is one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples. The deity here is called Ballelashwar, meaning Lord of Ballal. This temple is known for its unique ancient architecture and the grand ‘Maghi Chaturthi festival. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for all the tourists visiting the Nandigram Beach. The temple features great architecture, having intricate carvings on its pillars and arches. During Ganesh Chaturthi, the temple is visited by millions of devotees.
2. Kashid Beach
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This is another and rather more popular beach located to the north of Nandigram Beach. It has been famous for being one of the cleanest beaches in Maharashtra for several years. The white sand and the clean waters attract numerous tourists. Adventure enthusiasts are also driven here due to the availability of various water sports and fun activities. One can also enjoy sunbathing, or camping on the beautiful white sands of the beach. The beach is easily accessible from Nandgaon Beach. It is about a three to four-hour drive from Mumbai via the Mumbai-Goa Highway.
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3. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
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This is another hidden gem in the heart of Nandgaon Hills. Located about 20 kilometres away from Nandgaon Beach, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place, to explore the vast biodiversity of this place, from flora and fauna to mammals such as the wild boar to the sambar deer to birds like the crested serpent eagle, the Indian pitta. Reptiles, snakes, lizards and various varieties of birds found here are a major attraction. This place is full of natural wonders. Visiting Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary along with Nandgaon Beach offers coastal beauty and wilderness.
4. Murud-Janjira Fort
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Located close to Nandgaon Beach, on an island off the coastal village of Murud, Murud-Janjira Fort is a beautiful piece of ancient architecture. The fort was originally built by local fishermen and was later fortified by the king of Ahmadnagar Sultanate. The magnificent structure of the fort provides an insight into the unimaginably talented architects of ancient times. An impressive view of the Arabian Sea, the beautiful beaches and the clear skies is a must-have experience here.
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Fun Activities To Do At Nandgaon Beach
Nandgaon Beach offers opportunities for various fun activities along with the beautiful view and the serene environment. Different activities are enjoyed by people of various interests as well as age groups. Here is a list of some activities you can do while in Nandgaon.
Beach Activities
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If you are a beach person and have a profound love for swimming, you can take a dive into the clear and clean waters of the Nandgaon beach and have a good swim. If you don’t enjoy swimming, don’t worry! You can take a peaceful sunbath on the coast while your friends get soaked. There are various comfortable spots also available for family time and picnicking, for you to enjoy the beautiful hues of the sky during sunset with your loved ones.
Water Sports
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For all the adrenaline junkies out there, Nandgaon Beach offers various adventurous water sports for you to make your trip more enjoyable. You can enjoy banana boat rides with friends and family and enjoy the calmness of the water. There are facilities for jet skiing, with instructors so you can have a thrilling experience of high waves. You can also enjoy parasailing where you enjoy a view of the beach and the lush green landscapes from the top, making you feel like a bird exploring the land.
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Exploring The Local Areas And Cuisine
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Your trip would be incomplete without exploring the surrounding areas which have so much to offer, from the temples which give you a sense of spirituality to the neighbouring markets. You can meet the locals, participate in their traditions, and celebrate the festivals, such as “Ganesh Chaturthi” along with them. Do not miss out on the delicious seafood of Nandgaon, from the spicy fish curry to the shrimp and prawn dishes cooked with special Konkani spices, a lot of love and authenticity.
Some other activities you can do are organise a bonfire evening, go birdwatching, do yoga or meditation, and do not forget to capture the beauty of the beach with your lens.
Some culinary delights to enjoy at Nandgaon Beach are
- Kokum Sherbet- It is a refreshing beverage to start your day with. Made from Kokum fruit, it is delicious and a healthy option to go with your meals.
- Bombil fry- It is a shallow fried Bombay duck, very popular among meat lovers.
- Bhakri with fish/chicken curry– Bhakri is a popular dish from the Maharashtrian cuisine, it is a flatbread made of rice or millet flour, it is often enjoyed with spicy chicken or fish curries cooked with Konkani spices.
- Modak– For all the sweet tooths, modak is a sweet dish made of jaggery and coconut filling inside a shell made of rice flour. It is a popular dish prepared during the Ganesh puja.
How To Reach Nandgaon Beach?
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By Air: The nearest airports are Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and Pune International Airport in Pune.
By Rail: Roha on the Konkan Railway is the nearest railway station.
By Road: Nandgaon is about 140 kilometres from Mumbai and about 170 kilometres from Pune and can be easily accessed by road.
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The Best Time To Visit Nandgaon Beach
The most suitable time to visit Nandgaon beach is during the winter, from November to February. As you will experience the most pleasant weather. Owing to its location, the winters here are not harsh and ideal for your visit and all your activities.
Tips To Keep In Mind
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- If you are planning a road trip to Nandgaon, familiarize yourself with the route and use online navigation facilities for traffic-free options.
- Pack your clothes according to the season, if you are visiting in the summer, pack light and breezy clothes as you can expect some humidity there. Pack enough sunscreen to prevent yourself from sun damage while on the beach.
- Pack your swimming essentials and safety kits and do not go too far in the sea as it might be dangerous.
- Always enjoy the water sports in the presence of a guide.
- The network might be a little spotty and Wi-Fi facilities might not be available everywhere, so be prepared for such instances.
- Always carry handy first aid kits with necessary medicines and supplies in the event of an illness or accident.
- Try to keep the beaches clean and tidy and use garbage bags. Also, advice others not to litter as keeping these places clean is our social responsibility
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Nandgaon Beach is an escape for those craving a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is relatively less crowded than its counterparts, making it a perfect location for solitude. This place has something for everyone, be it nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, or foodies. The golden sands and the clear waters will soothe your eyes and mind. So, plan a trip to Mumbai to visit this pristine location and surprise your loved ones with this beautiful experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nandgaon Beach
What is Nandgaon Beach famous for?
Nandgaon Beach is famous for its white colour sand and clear waters among its other attractions.
Can I swim at the Nandgaon beach?
The waters at Nandgaon Beach are generally gentle. Hence, you can swim here as long as you like. However, be sure not to go too far and swim safely.
What languages are spoken in Nandgaon?
Marathi is the local language, however, English and Hindi are also widely used.
Are there any medical facilities available at Nandgaon Beach?
Yes, basic medical facilities are available, although you will have to travel to larger towns like Alibaug for more advanced facilities.
How can I reach Nandgaon Beach?
You can reach Nandgaon Beach via road or rail. Mumbai and Pune airports are the nearest airports.
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