How I Travelled to Tarkarli from Mumbai

As an avid traveler always on the lookout for offbeat destinations in India, reach tarkarliGetting to this hidden gem from a bustling metro like Mumbai did take some planning.

Based on my first-hand experience, here is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to travel from Mumbai to Tarkarli.

Why Visit Tarkarli

Before getting into the travel guide, let me tell you why Tarkarli should be on your bucket list:

• Serene beaches - Miles of virgin beaches with crystal clear waters and golden sands untouched by commercialization. Perfect for lazy beach walks.

• Scuba diving - The exotic coral reefs and rich marine life make Tarkarli a haven for diving enthusiasts.

• Backwaters - Cruise through the confluence of the Karli River and the Arabian Sea admiring breathtaking views.

• Forts - Historically rich sea forts like Sindhudurg and Padmagad are within easy reach.

• Malvani cuisine - Lip-smacking local cuisine, especially fresh seafood, is a must-try.

Convinced about going? Here are your travel options:

Reach Tarkarli By Train

Duration: 14-16 hours

This overnight journey was my preferred mode of travel. Here's how I did it:

• Boarded the Mandovi Express from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) at around 9:30 PM

• Reached Kudal by noon the next day after a comfy 14-hour journey

• From Kudal station, took an auto-rickshaw to Tarkarli - just 30 mins away

If trains are booked, you can also consider:

• Boarding from neighboring stations like Thane

• Taking a train to Sawantwadi and then cabbing to Tarkarli

Pro Tip: Carry snacks and download movies/music to keep yourself entertained.

Reach Tarkarli By Bus

Duration: 12-14 hours

Buses ply exclusively at night for Tarkarli from Mumbai. Here are the basics:

• Numerous state transports and private buses from Mumbai to Malvan between 9 PM to 12 AM

• Alight at Malvan bus stand after a 12-14 hour journey

• Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the hour-long drive to Tarkarli

Pros: Very economical

Cons: Not as comfortable as a train

Reach Tarkarli By Flight + Road

For the fastest route, consider:

• 1-hour flights from Mumbai to Goa early morning

• Rent a cab from Goa airport directly to Tarkarli (6 hours by road)

Finish your travel in a day with this route.

Pro: Fast and convenient Con: Expensive

When to Visit Tarkarli

October to March is the best season with:

• Pleasant weather

• Festivities like Diwali and Christmas/New Year

• Peak tourism makes it easier to find bikes/autos on rent

But the monsoon months from June to August have their own charming rain-washed beauty too!

Where to Stay in Tarkarli

Tarkarli has budget homestays to upscale resorts. I chose a mid-range beach resort with an AC cottage, delicious meals, and easy beach/boat tour access for ₹3000/- per night.

With its unspoiled beaches and charming old-world flair, Tarkarli makes for the ultimate offbeat destination from Mumbai! Its laidback vibe is the perfect antidote to Mumbai’s fast pace. Use my guide to plan your trip - and thank me later!

I hope this travel guide from my first-hand experience helps you plan your own trip from Mumbai to Tarkarli. Let me know in the comments if you need any other tips.