How to Reach Tarkarli from Pune - A Traveler's Guide

Tarkarli, a pristine beach town located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, is one of the most sought-after weekend getaways from Pune. Nestled between the backdrop of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Tarkarli is known for its white sandy beaches, spectacular sunsets, scrumptious Malvani cuisine, and water activities like scuba diving.

Reaching Tarkarli from Pune is quite convenient if you plan your trip well in advance. Here's a handy guide to help you out:

By Road

The most popular way to reach Tarkarli from Pune is to drive down. The route takes you through the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH-66 highway. The total distance is around 485 km and takes approximately 9-10 hours to cover.

I'd recommend starting early in the morning to avoid traffic. Make sure your car is serviced well and stock up on snacks/water. Take regular breaks to stretch your legs. The route is quite straightforward - just follow the Mumbai-Goa highway via Kolhapur. Keep Google Maps handy.

By Train

If you prefer trains, you can board the Koyna Express from Pune Junction to Kudal Station. It's an overnight journey of around 12 hours. From Kudal, you'll need to take a taxi/rickshaw to reach Tarkarli, which is 30 km away.

Some other trains like Matsyagandha Express, Mahalaxmi Express, etc also ply on this route. I'd suggest booking a sleeper class ticket in advance for convenience. Keep your ID and tickets handy.

Also read - My Experience with Scuba Diving in Tarkarli

By Flight

You can also opt to fly from Pune to Goa Airport and then proceed to Tarkarli by road. It takes 1 hour to reach Goa by air. From the airport, Tarkarli is 135 km away - a 3-hour taxi ride via NH-66.

This is the fastest route but also a bit expensive. Make sure to book flights and taxis well in advance. I recommend using the app-based cabs for convenience. You'll also get to enjoy the scenic coastal route from Goa to Tarkarli.

Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey:

• Book tickets in advance to get better deals, especially during peak seasons

• Keep photocopies of ID proofs and tickets handy

• Carry some light snacks, water, and medications if needed

• Start early to avoid traffic congestion

• Always follow traffic rules and drive/ride safely

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the journey

• Keep cash, cards, and mobile phones charged

• Don't forget to carry your camera to capture the amazing views.

Also read - How I Travelled to Tarkarli from Mumbai

Enjoy the Journey

The road journey to Tarkarli can be an experience in itself if you have good company. Take stops to enjoy the local food or roadside views. You can play games, and listen to music or podcasts. The Train journey also lets you meet fellow travelers.

Make the most of it! Once you reach Tarkarli, you'll be mesmerized by its raw, rustic beauty. The white sand, swaying palms, and amazing food and water activities will make your trip worthwhile.

So don't hesitate, to plan your Tarkarli trip from Pune soon. Follow these tips and have a safe, enjoyable journey. Let me know if you need any other help in planning your itinerary. Happy travels.