Making plans for that perfect travel getaway this winter Then this one is for you. We've been craving for a beach holiday where we can load up on sunshine, fresh air and ozone, but do not want to be around crowds. Thankfully the Indian coastline is vast and full of beaches which are lesser known, and without the tourist crowds. Located along both the east and west coast of India, here are 10 of the best offbeat, leser-known beaches that are perfect for a getaway.
Kondura Beach
Kondura is a small fishing village on the Konkan coastline in Maharashtra. Its stunning beach has rocky shores and white sand with a small cave in a hillock named Kond. This is a great place for bird-watching, you might even spot a Brahminy Kite in the sky. You can indulge in activities such as surfing, snorkelling and parasailing here.
Getting there Take an auto-rickshaw ride to Kondura from Vengurla.
Kaup Beach
Located in the Udupi district in Karnataka, Kaup is known for its stunning lighthouse that reaches 27 metres above the ground. It closes after sunset, so get there early to take in the panoramic views. Swimming is not advisable as the water is quite rough near the shore. also check out the small fort (built by Tipu Sultan) and the Mariamma temples.
Getting there Kaup is a one-hour drive from Mangalore.
Marari Beach
Lined with coconut and palm trees, this beach in Kerela gets its name from a local village called Mararikulum. There is not much to do here except spending blissful days taking long walks on the sands beach and rejuvenating yourself.
Getting there The nearest railway station is at Alleppey which is around 30 minutes from Marari.
Kalapathar Beach
Black boulders against the backdrop of white sandy shores give this beach in the Andaman its name. Sunsets are jaw-dropping, so keep your camera ready. Swimming is not recommended because of the rugged rocks along the coastline.
Getting there The beach is located about 10 kilometres from Havelock Island.
Malpe Beach
This beach in Karnataka offers endless stretches of sand and clean waters of the Arabian Sea. Four rocky islands are present near the vicinity of this beach among which St. Mary&rsquos is the most well known. They have water sport activities available here. This beach is supposed to be the first one in India with a 24/7 WiFi service. But would you be keen to stay connected to work emails
Getting there The beach is only 9 kilometres from Udupi railway station.
Cola Beach
One of the less crowded beaches in south Goa, this stunner offers a relaxing atmosphere away from the din of the other popular beaches. It has a tranquil lagoon you can sit by for hours. Try a kayaking experience or wade through a little island that only appears during a high tide.
Getting there Cola Beach is about a two-hour drive from Panjim.
Ezhimala Beach
Located between seven hills in Kannur district of Kerala, Ezhimala has carved stone pillars scattered around the area. An old mosque at the top of a hill is a must visit. You can spot dolphins at the nearby Ettikulam Bay.
Getting there It takes about an hour&rsquos drive to reach Ezhimala from Kannur.
Ottinene Beach
The Sumana river merges with the Arabian Sea at this beach in Karnataka. Lush green forests line the shore and you can see the coconut trees bending backwards due to high wind speeds. Sri Someshwara Temple is a beautiful Shiva temple located near the beach.
Getting there Ottinene is well connected by road and about 80 kilometres from Udupi.
Modhva Beach
A fishing village near Mandvi in Gujarat, Modhva is the go-to place for bird-watchers. You will only have seagulls and flamingos for company with very few humans in sight. Catch the moonrise from this beach especially during a full moon night and be mesmerised. You can spot tiny boats and fishing nets dotting the untouched sandy beaches of Modhva.
Getting there Modhva is about 60 kilometres from Bhuj
Cherai Beach
Known as the &lsquoPrincess of the Arabian Sea&rsquo, Cherai in Kerala is a swimmer&rsquos paradise due to the calm waters. This is one of best places to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The long 15 kilometre coastline is dotted with seashells and thick coconut trees. Spend your days feasting on the local seafood here.
Getting there The beach is just 25 kilometres from the city of Kochi.