Arambol Beach
ABOUT THE PLACE –
One of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, Arambol or Harmal beach is secluded from the bustling activities on other beaches. The beach keeps mostly to itself, has a bohemian soul and offers you tranquility amidst the lap of nature. Goa is heaven for nature lovers and the long stretches of golden sand and rocks, waves touching your feet make you keep going back to the beaches. This beach is in Northern Goa, extends upto 16 km and the fresh lagoon is the centre of attraction for tourists. Farther ends of
the beach is desolate and less explored but the main beach is curvy and crowded these days.
The hippies contributed a lot to Goa by discovering the beaches, the city makes most of it’s revenue from the tourism sector. Arambol beach doesn’t contribute a lot. It is peaceful and nightlife is been prohibited here. The development of tourism is quite slow in this area making lavish accommodations not possible. However, it’s an apt place for budget travellers, minimal rented shacks, good food and a soothing experience is what Arambol beach offers you.
The fresh lagoon extends into a thick jungle along the bottom of the valley. The lake merges with a boiling hot spring, with thick deposition of sulphurous mud which is boon for good skin. Arambol offers live music, mostly gypsy songs famous as gypsy fusion, are played on the beaches which adds to the mesmerising experience. While on the beach, do visit Himalayan Iyengar yoga centre or take your parents there to experience a divine connect with surroundings.
HOW TO REACH –
BY ROAD – Arambol beach is an hour drive from Mapusa town on the Mumbai- Panaji Highway. Regular buses run in every half an hour. You can also opt for pre paid taxis from panaji which is 45km away. always check with your resort for pick up from station or airport. Book a rented car if you want to drive around and explore.
BY TRAIN – The nearest rail heads are Vasco (75km) and Margao (80 km). Trains are well connected to most of the cities. If you are coming from Mumbai, get down at Thivim and take a cab or taxi from there.
BY AIR- Dabolim is the nearest airport. Flights are well connected to metros and some big cities. Vasco Da Game is the nearest international airport.
HOLIDAY TIPS –
Arambol Beach is an ideal place for paragliding and surfing in the strong wind season. The beach is a long stretch and if you head south towards mandrel beach, you will be possibly by yourself. Preferably go in the morning hours to enjoy some solitude and return by evening. Towards the northern end of the beach is the Kalacha beach, popular because of the sweet water lake. IT is also home to smaller boutiques than other beaches but you will get a fair variety of apparel, jewellery etc. Keep your cash safe, remember your guide’s contact number. Carry your sunglasses and swimwear to enjoy the lovely beach. It would be preferable to bring your own sunscreen as the ones sold are expensive and often found to be fake.
