The mesmerizing road trip along the Western coast of Karnataka

With growing population, increasing tourists, many a beaches are facing its wrath and getting spoiled. There are very few stretches of beaches left, which are secluded and help you move away from the chaos of the cities and give you eternal peace.

The Southern state of Karnataka is more renowned for its amazing historical structures and amazing architecture (The state has one of the highest number of UNESCO heritage sites in India.) However, a drive along the NH66 Highway along the coastal belt of Karnataka treats us with some of the most serene beaches which could calm down your soul. And we are not even talking about Gokarana and Karwar.

The scene while driving along the NH66 from somewhere after Bhtakal (aroung 12 kms from Murdeshwara) to Kundapara (around 50 kms from Udupi takes people by surprise with some of the most stunning beach stretches one would see. Beauty of beaches like Marvanthe, Malpe, Kodi, Beejadi along the way can't be described in words. The unique thing about this stretch is the virgin beach on one side and gorgeous backwaters created by Suparnika river on the other side. A dingy boat ride through these backwaters is a must. Little mud houses of the villagers towered by the coconut and arecanut trees, green paddy fields along the backwaters have made a place in my heart forever and are sure to impress one and all.

Sunsets at these beaches are always extra special. The golden hours give a heart quenching scene with the sky coloring itself artistically. The fishing boats on the horizon with the golden sun setting in the background add to the grandeur of the amazing phenomenon that the nature presents itself before us.

One can relish authentic manglorean cuisines like the Mnglorean chicken curry, chicken ghee roast with neer dosa, korri roti, gadbad icecream, which are prepared fresh in quite a few restaurants in the region. It is always best to eat in ageold eateries, which are becoming fewer and fewer. One hopes that some of the age old dishes and recipes do not get lost in the past.

There are plenty of options for stay in the region. There are a few resorts along the beach stretch. However they are fewer in number and quite expensive. A roadtrip from Goa to Manglore would be the best option in all respects and there are plenty of options available for stay in Karwar, Gokarana, Muradeshwar, Udupi, Manglore etc. along the way and there is plenty to explore around these towns themselves.

People seeking inner peace, fed up of the hustle and bustle of urban life should definitely give this road trip a go.