Top 8 pit stops on your Mumbai to Mangalore Kokan road trip

The Kokan stretch is one of the most scenic ones in India. A treat for sore eyes and travel enthusiasts, the stretch attracts people from across India. However, due to the hot weather conditions throughout the year, it gets difficult to explore it during summers and other nearly hot seasons. Thus, when the monsoon hits and the weather permits, don’t miss out on these pit stops on your Mumbai to Kokan trip.

Road trip to Kokan

Travel route from Mumbai to Mangalore Kokan road trip

Mumbai – Alibaug – Chiplun – Malavan – Candolim – Karwar – Gokarna – Mulki – Udupi – Mangalore (1,084 km/ 23 hrs & 11 mins drive)

1. Alibaug:

Start your journey with a visit to Alibaug, also known as Alibag. Located an hour-long boat ride away from Mumbai, it is the nearest coastal city to the financial capital. With its pristine beaches, historic forts, and vibrant local culture, Alibaug provides a relaxing and enjoyable introduction to the Kokan region.

• Major attractions: Kolaba fort, Hirakot fort, Balaji mandir, Alibaug beach, Murud Janjira fort, Murud beach, Kanakeshwar forest, Brahma Kund, Karmakar museum, Birla temple, Kashid beach & Nagaon village
• Local food to try: Poha, Chicken sukka, Prawn biryani, Fish curry, Solkadhi, Bhakri, Alu wadi, Koshimbir, Sabudana khichdi, Varan bhaat, Modak, Aamras & Bhajis

Kashid beach

2. Chiplun:

As you continue your journey south, stop at Chiplun, a city in Ratnagiri district renowned for beaches, lush green forests, and rich culinary heritage. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. While visiting Chiplun, you can indulge in water sports, explore ancient caves or simply unwind on the sandy shores.

• Major attractions: Vashishti river, Marleshwar temple, Guhagar beach, Sawatsada waterfalls, Lord Parushurama temple, Koyna dam, Pandavaas caves, Gowalkot fort, Nageshwar temple & Walawalker shivaji museum
• Local food to try: Malvani fish curry, Surmai fry, Prawn biryani, Crab curry, Kokum sherbet, Jackfruit chips & Cashew nuts

Lord Parshurama temple

3. Malavan:

The next stop on your Kokan adventure is Malavan, a town and taluka in Sindhudurg district well known for its historically important fort ‘Sindhudurg.’ It stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and delectable cuisine.

• Major attractions: Tarkarli beach, Devgad beach, Sindhudurg fort, Malvan marine sanctuary, Kolaba fort, Malavan market & Rameshwar temple
• Local food to try: Malvani fish curry, Prawn biryani, Surmai fry, Fried bombay duck, Prawns in coconut curry, Fish tikka, Squid fry, Crab tikka, Fish koliwada & Prawn koliwada

Sindhudarg fort

4. Candolim:

As you enter Goa, Candolim, a census town in North Goa, offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Its expansive beach characterised by golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees makes Candolim a must visit. It is also known for its lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs offering a variety of entertainment options. If looking for a budget friendly stay option, book your stay at The Hosteller Goa Candolim just a few minutes drive away from Candolim beach.

• Major attractions: Candolim beach, Sinquerim beach, Anjuna beach, Fort Aguada, Chapora fort, Se Cathedral church & Dr Salim Ali bird sanctuary
• Local food to try: Fish curry, Prawn balchao, Chicken xacuti, Beef vindaloo, Goan sausage, Seafood platter, Fried calamari & Prawn curry

Se Cathedral church

5. Karwar:

Karwar is a seaside city of Uttara Kannada. Its speciality lies in its delectable seafood cuisine, with fresh catches from the Arabian Sea. It is also known for its local festivals ‘Karavali Utsav’ organised at the Rabindranath Tagore beach for 3-4 days in December by the local administration.

• Major attractions: Om beach, Kurumgad island, Nageshwar temple, Kali bridge, Oyster rock lighthouse, Karwar fort, Naval aviation museum & Karwar market
• Local food to try: Karle Ambat, Bangada fry, oysters and clams, Masli Kadi, Sukhe Masli, chilli squid & Rice dosa

Fishermen during dawn at Om beach

6. Gokarna:

Gokarna, a small temple town located in Karnataka is one of the seven holy cities of Hinduism and attracts pilgrims from all over the world. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Mahabaleshwara Temple and the Mirjan Fort. The pristine beaches of Gokarna, such as Om beach and Kudle beach offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. With its calm atmosphere and spiritual significance, Gokarna is a must-visit destination for those seeking peace and tranquillity. For a budget friendly stay option you can book your stay at The Hosteller Gokarna which is just 15 mins drive from Gokarna Kudle beach.

• Major attractions: Om beach, Kudle beach, Paradise beach, Mahabaleshwara temple, Mirjan fort, Ganeshgudi temple, Yana caves, Kudle beach backwaters & Gokarna market
• Local food to try: Todadevu, Prawn masala, Squid sukka, Patrode, Seer fish fry, Crab curry, Mysore Pak & Panagam

Mahabaleshwar temple at Gokarna

7. Mulki:

A small coastal town located at Mangalore taluk in South Karnataka, Mulki has become a hotspot for surfing in India. If you’re an ocean lover and want to learn surfing, Mulki is a must-stop destination. You can also spot bioluminescence at night on the pristine beaches of Mulki.

• Major attractions: Sasihithlu beach, Kapu beach, Surathkal beach, Sri Venkataramana temple, Bappanadu temple, Mulki beach & Shambhavi river, Padubidri beach, Kapu beach & lighthouse
• Local food to try: Fish curry, Prawn masala, Crab fry, Kori rotti, Neer dosa, Chicken ghee roast, Korri sukka, Mangalore buns, Kotte Kadubu & Goli baje

Bioluminescence phenomena in Mulki beach

8. Udupi:

Have you watched the Kantara movie directed by Rishab Shetty? If you want to experience the same culture shown in the film, head to Udupi. The place is known for its rich cultural traditions of Bhuta Kola, Aati Kalenja, Aati Kalenja and Nagaradhane. It would be a perfect way to end your road trip.

• Major attractions: Krishna temple, Anantheshwara temple, Sri Chandramouleshwara temple, Udupi museum, Malpe beach, St. Mary's Basilica, Kundeshwara temple, Kaup beach and Malpe Pier
• Local food to try: Masala dosa, Pathrode, Kotte kadubu, Neer dosa, Undla kai, Shyavige, Goli baje, Halasina kadabu & Thambuli

Corporation bank heritage museum | Credits: thehindubusinessline.com

Activities to do:

• Sunbathing
• Swimming
• Parasailing
• Jet skiing
• Banana boat rides
• Fishing
• Dolphin watching
• Surfing at Mulki beach
• Hiking & trekking
• Joining a cooking class
• Visiting art galleries
• Explore forts & temples
• Shop at local market

Best time to travel:

If you want to experience Kokan's lush greenery, you can take a road trip from June to October. During these months, the weather in the Kokan region is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures; you can also experience waterfalls and a serene atmosphere. These months are considered off-peak seasons, meaning there are generally fewer crowds, making travel more enjoyable. If you want to experience winter haze, you can take a road trip from December to February. The plus point of taking the road trip during that time of the year would be to experience the cultural festivals of Karnataka Bhuta Kola.  

Bhuta Kola tradition in Udupi | Credits: indiaforyou.in

Conclusion

The Kokan coast offers diverse experiences, making a road trip a much needed escape from the same monotonous routine. So pack your bags and explore the kokan coast by road. Since you can’t travel in one go, plan your stays at The Hosteller Goa, Candolim and The Hosteller Gokarna. These hostels offer comfortable accommodations, social spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere, making your overall trip much more memorable.

The Hosteller Goa, Candolim