Amid the growing chorus to explore India’s lesser-known treasures, industrialist Anand Mahindra recently turned the spotlight on the Konkan coast — a region that has long remained a hidden jewel in Maharashtra’s crown. Taking to X, Mahindra shared his admiration for the breathtaking monsoon magic of Konkan, urging travellers to step away from India’s over-touristed spots and discover the charm of places still waiting to be fully appreciated.
He posted stunning photos of the verdant coastal belt and wrote: “These photos of the Konkan region in the monsoon were shared by @sandesh_samant along with the comment: ‘Maharashtra is so underrated and we have created no infrastructure for tourism.’ I wouldn’t agree that we created NO infrastructure. But his intentions are good, and his statement applies to our entire country. Breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. All underrated and all waiting for our appreciation.”
The post quickly went viral, sparking conversations across social media. While some users echoed the sentiment that Maharashtra is overlooked in India’s tourism narrative, others argued that its relatively limited infrastructure has helped preserve Konkan’s raw and untouched beauty.
The Konkan Coast: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
Nestled like a green ribbon between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, the Konkan region is nothing short of a natural wonder. Stretching across Maharashtra, Goa, and coastal Karnataka, this belt is a kaleidoscope of pristine beaches, paddy fields shimmering in the rain, gushing waterfalls, and historic forts that whisper tales of Maratha valour.
In Maharashtra, the Konkan division embraces bustling cities like Mumbai and Thane while unravelling its true charm in districts such as Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg — where life slows down to the rhythm of the waves and the rustle of coconut palms.
The magic of Konkan is perhaps most enchanting during the monsoon. As grey skies roll in, emerald forests, misty ghats, and roaring rivers transform the coast into a painter’s canvas. It is the season when locals relish piping hot modaks, ferry rides cut across swollen backwaters, and age-old temples shimmer against rain-washed skies.
Experiences You Can’t Miss in Konkan
1. Unwind on Serene Beaches: From the golden sands of Ganpatipule and Tarkarli to Alibaug’s chic seaside escapes, Konkan’s beaches range from tranquil retreats to lively hubs.
2. Walk Through History: Forts like Sindhudurg, built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Murud-Janjira, with its fascinating architecture, are reminders of Konkan’s strategic past.
3. Explore Wild Corners: Wildlife sanctuaries such as Radhanagari and Karnala offer lush habitats teeming with rare flora and fauna.
4. Taste the Coast: Sample Malvani cuisine — fiery curries, fresh seafood, and the iconic solkadhi — best enjoyed in local homes and seaside shacks.
5. Ride the Scenic Rails: The Konkan Railway, with its 2,000 bridges and 90 tunnels cutting through mountains and along the sea, is one of India’s most breathtaking train journeys.
Getting There
By Air: Mumbai (BOM) and Goa’s Dabolim Airport (GOI) are the nearest gateways.
By Train: The Konkan Railway offers a 700 km panoramic journey, with halts at Ratnagiri, Sawantwadi Road, and Madgaon.
By Road: A drive along NH 66 from Mumbai or Pune unveils dramatic coastal views, winding ghats, and charming villages.
By Bus: MSRTC and private operators offer reliable connectivity to Konkan towns.
Why Konkan Should Be on Your Travel List
Konkan isn’t just a place — it’s an experience that balances nostalgia, nature, and authenticity. Unlike India’s heavily marketed tourist hubs, this stretch remains refreshingly uncommercialised. Here, mornings begin with the scent of wet earth, afternoons are spent under swaying palms, and evenings invite the melody of temple bells and crashing waves.
Anand Mahindra’s viral post is more than a social media moment; it’s a gentle reminder that India’s true beauty often lies away from its most Instagrammed destinations. The Konkan coast, with its seamless blend of beaches, backwaters, hills, and heritage, is one such paradise — waiting patiently for the world to pause, explore, and fall in love.
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