Bylakuppe – The Tibetian Home In South India

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If you thought beautiful Buddhist monasteries were only on top of the misty mountains of India, think again. You will be surprised to hear about the ones that are present in the Coorg – Mysore border in Karnataka. We think many of you would have guessed the place by now. Yes, we are talking about the Monasteries in Bylakuppe.

Brimming with the coffee aroma all along the way, Bylakuppe is a quaint Tibetian settlement town near Kushalnagar, Coorg. This town is formed by the amalgamation of twenty-odd villages.

As you walk into the town,  you will feel as if you have set your foot in a different country. The scenery changes for every 100 m and tranquillity fills the atmosphere in abundance as you make your way. Long rows of multi-colored prayer flags dancing in the air, colorful monasteries, distinctive houses with tiled roofs, signboards with Tibetian scripts along with Kannada and English, and ever-smiling faces of nuns adds to the charm of Bylakuppe.

Story Behind the  Tibetian settlement In Bylakuppe

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As China invaded Tibet,  a lot of Tibetian left their country and came to India to seek refuge. The Indian government helped them by allotting lands in different parts of India and Bylakuppe is one of the places.

You can witness two Tibetian refugee settlements here. And these were set up in the years 1961 and 1969 by  Lugsum Samdupling and Dickyi Larson respectively. Indeed, this is the 2nd largest Tibetian settlement after Dharmshala in India. Even though the place only started with hundreds of refugees but now it is home to 70,000 odd Tibetans.

To know more about Tibetian culture and lifestyle, you can interact with the locals and they will be ready to help you with a big smile on their faces.

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Places To Visit In Bylakuppe

You can explore towns that are structured similar to that of Tibet, also visit 12 monasteries and 13  Tibetian settlements areas. Among these monasteries Namdroling, Sera Jay, Sera Mey, and Tashi Lhunpo are popular once.

Namdroling Monastery( Golden Temple)

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Namdroling Monastery is located in camp 4 of settlement and is renowned for its Golden temple. There are 3 golden statues that are 60 ft tall and they represent 3 forms of Buddha. Temples here are vibrant, peaceful, and colorful with exotic paintings, huge halls to meditate, and tall statues. You can witness mass prayers of monks, gaze around the monasteries, and watch hundreds of monks in conversation with one other. But if you are looking for a peaceful environment certainly this is not the place. Because, this place is flooded with 100’s of tourists every day.

Namdroling Monastery Timings: 7 Am To 8 Pm

Sena Jay And Sera Mey Monastery

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Just 2 km from Golden temple, you can call this place a hidden gem. This is situated in camp 1 and you can go through towns that are structured similar to that of Lhasa Tibet. Exotic paintings on walls and peaceful atmosphere is what makes this place a hit among travelers. You can hardly find any tourists here and it is the best place to meditate. You can witness religious debates and discussions happening here. In addition, you can even strike a conversation with locals and try to know more about their lifestyle and practices.

Where and What To Eat In Bylakuppe

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This is one of the best places in south India to eat authentic Tibetian cuisines. Never missout on a steamy bowl of Thukpa ( noodles) and momos with spicy chutneys. Also, try out Phing, Shabhalay, Thendunk, Shapta, lemon tea, and butter tea. Local restaurants and cafes around Golden temple and some bakeries near Sera Jay monasteries are the best places to munch on Tibetian food.

Locals referred Malaya restaurant inside the shopping complex as the best in the locality.

Shopping In Bylakuppe

If you like shopping and stuffing your house unique things then there is so much waiting for you.  Head to the shopping complex opposite Golden temple to lay your hands on antiques, handicrafts, jewels, apparels, and little buddha or monk statues.  

Best Time To visit Bylakuppe

You can visit this place any time of the year as its doors are always open to travelers. But if you intend to be part of their culture then go during the Tibetian newyear Losar. It is a 2-week festival that happens in the month of Feb or March. During the festival whole town comes alive with people donning lively masks, wearing traditional costumes, swaying to the traditional music, and munching on yummy Tibetian delicacies.

How To reach Bylakuppe

There are plenty of buses to Kushalnagar from Bangalore and Mysore. Kushalnagar is just 6 km from Bylakuppe, either you can take an autorickshaw or local buses that are available frequently, However, if you want to get cozy with nature, then walk and enjoy the surprises throws at you by nature.

Additional Information

Distance from Kushalnagar: 6 km

Bus ticket cost: Rs. 20 / person one way.

Autorickshaw Cost: RS 100 / ride one way.

Monastery timings: 7 Am to 8 Pm.

Distance from Bangalore: 220 km.

In Conclusion, if you want to experience the Tibetian culture and rejuvenate yourself in a calm and peaceful environment, then head to Bylakuppe. This town is sure to bring in a lot of positive energy and a refreshing change in you. So, what are you waiting for? Just pack your bags and leave

Do you have any interesting or memorable stories relating to Bylakuppe? Please do share it in the comment section below.

Also Read: 
Things To Do And Places To Visit  In Dandeli.

Dandeli- Things To Do And Places To Visit

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Dandeli is a splendid town situated on the banks of the river Kali in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Popularly known as” Adventure Capital Of Karnataka “ sits at 1551 ft above sea level amid the greenery-filled Western Ghats. With striking streams, diversified wildlife, exquisite nature, numerous trekking trails, and daring water activities make this a dream destination for nature-lovers and adventure freaks.

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Things To Do And Places To Visit In Dandeli

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Steep slopes, deep valleys, and thick forest covering 834.16 sq km make the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. This is also the 2nd largest sanctuary in Karnataka. A wide variety of flora and fauna found in this place makes this a hotspot among wildlife photographers.

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This sanctuary is home to some of the rarest species like Black panthers, Giant Malabar Squirrels, and Barking Deers. In addition to it, there are tigers, leopards, bison, pangolins, wild dogs, gaur, sloth bears, elephants, langur, and jackals,

This is possibly one of the best places to spot birds and it is home to 200 plus bird spices. You can spot birds like Malabar pied Hornbill, kingfishers, Malabar parakeets, peregrine falcons, woodpeckers, Blue-throated barbets, and Indian lorikeets.

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You can see thousands of photographers hopping in every year to capture the unparalleled beauty of these creatures.

River Rafting In Dandeli

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Indeed, you can tell rafting experience in the river Kali is one of the best in the whole of South India. Rafting circuit stretches for over 12kms with grade 2 and 3 rapids that are ideal for both professionals as well as amateurs.

 Some of the famous rafting rapids in Dandeli are Snuggler\’s Trove, Adi’s beard, Stanley’s squeeze, and the stitch circuit.

Apart from this, Dandeli is also known for adventure sports like kayaking, angling, jungle safaris, rappelling,  trekking, nature walks, and night camping that is sure to thrill any individual.

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This is a popular viewpoint in Dandeli and it is named after a British engineer “Sykes” who discovered it. Sykes point offers the best view of silently flowing river Kali, deep valley, and hillocks with lush green forest. Above all, birds flocking their way towards home as the Sun hides behind the mountains is a great sight to watch.

Kavala Caves

Kavala is a limestone cave that is formed by volcanic activities that happened millions of years ago. These caves with winding tunnels can be reached by climbing 375 steps. Inside the cave, there is a huge Stalagmite in the shape of Shivling that attracts thousands of devotees every year. Be careful as you crawl through the cave entrance that is pitch dark. Also, be beware of snakes and bats that live here,

Syntheri Rocks

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Deep inside the Dandeli sanctuary, near the river Kali, there is a monolithic gigantic limestone rock called Syntheri rocks. These rocky structures are formed due to the volcanic activities that took place millions of years ago. There are about 400 steps to reach the top of the structure and it offers the best panoramic view of the whole Dandeli valley.

Shiroli Peak

Shiroli peak in Western ghats is the highest point in Dandeli and it can only be reached through a trek. This trek has multiple routes that lead you to the top. Trekking is a little harder and dangerous as you need to hike through the Dandeli wildlife sanctuary. But it is totally worth climbing as the view of Western ghats and Dandeli town is simply superb.

 Supa Dam

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Supa is an earthen dam built across river Kali in Joida taluk of Uttara Kannada. This dam is 101 meters in height and  332 meters in length. It has a catchment area of 1000 sq acres with a storage capacity of 145 ( thousand million cubic feet). Renowned for its hydroelectricity plant as the powerhouse at the foot of the dam generates 100 MW. And the electricity generated is supplied to different parts of Karnataka. Apart from this, the banks of the Supa dam also acts as a perfect picnic spot for travelers.

So, what are you waiting for? Just decide the dates, pack your backpacks, and take your friends on an adventurous journey to Dandeli. Get ready to roll.

Do you have any unforgettable experiences? Then share your memorable stories in the comment section below.

 

Also Read:

Best Things To Do In St Mary\’s Islands.

 

St Mary’s Islands, Udupi – Best Things To Do

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St Mary’s islands are a group of islands that rests just a few miles off the coast of Malpe, Udupi. These islands are also known as coconut islands due to tall coconut trees that beautify one of the isles. North Island, South Island, Coconut Island, and Darya Bahadurgarh island together make the stunning St Mary’s islands. As you walk into the islands bluish saline water, white sands, seashells, tall green coconut tree, and basaltic rocks seems to be taking you into a different world altogether.

Basaltic Columnar Rocks, St Mary\’s Island

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Besides all this, what makes this a top-notch destination is the distinctive geological formation of basaltic Columnar rocks that are hexagonal in shape. Scientifically, basalts here are formed due to subvolcanic activity that took place millions of years ago. Similar kinds of rock formation traces can also be seen in the Madagascar region of Africa. Hence, it is believed that Madagascar was attached to India before the rift separated them millions of years ago, due to subvolcanic activity.

In fact, this unique rock formation is what made this place a geological monument of Karnataka and India.

Vasco Da Gama Visit in 1498 to St Mary\’s Island

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As per the folklore, Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama had made a pitstop in these islands before reaching Calicut in Kerala. Apparently, it was he who fixed a Cross and named it” El  Padrao De Santa Maria” meaning mother Mary. Hence, the island is known as “St. Mary’s”.

Things To Do In Thensopar Islands

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One of the best places to sight the birds and click some nice pics of them. You can easily spot birds like  Brahminy kites, Seagulls, Egrets, and Sandpipers flying over you. 

You can try out beach hiking, which trails through formations of rocks,  green vegetations, and virgin beaches. Usually, it would take about 90 minutes to go exploring around the islands.

Camping at night is not allowed as the Arabian sea turns violent after the sun dips down the horizon. 

How To Reach The Coconut Islands?

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The only way you can reach these islands is through the ferries that are available in Malpe beach or fishing harbor. And the ferries don’t operate during monsoon from mid-June to September.

St Mary\’s Island Information:

Ferry timings: 9 Am to 5 Pm

Ferry Cost:  Rs 300/ person.

Ride Time: 30 minutes one side.

Best Time To Visit: Oct To March

Also read :

Karwar the Kashmir Of Karnataka.

Badami – The Rock-Cut Cave Temples Of Karnataka

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Badami is a small temple town that is nestled near a ravine with rocky sandstone hills on either side. This town is located in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka and it is home to iconic rock-cut cave temples. Formerly known as the “Vatapi Badami” was once the capital of the mighty Chalukyan kingdom from 5 to 7 centuries. Later, the city changed hands from Rashtrakutas to Hoysalas, Vijayanagar dynasty, The Marathas,  and even Adil Shahi dynasty. But it still retains the label of Chalukya Kingdom due to their great contributions.

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Most of the structures are created using sandstone and date back to the 6th century. The temples are built in the Dravidian style of architecture which had traces of North as well as south India. Badami owes its complete credit to the Chalukyan rulers who made this place look nothing short of heaven.

There are forts on a hilltop, rock-cut cave temples, Bhutanatha group of temples, Jain temples, and Agastya lake that take you back to a different era. You can spot a lot of temples dedicated to Shiva as  Shiva was the family deity of the Chalukyan family. 

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Best Places To Visit In Badami

Badami cave temples

There are four caves, three of the caves are dedicated to Hindu temples and one to a Jain temple. You need to take a small flight of stairs to reach these caves.

Cave 1:

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This cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can spot carvings of dancing Shiva (Nataraja) in different poses along with Ganesh and Karthikayas carvings.on the walls.

Cave 2:

You can spot life-size structures of Vishnu in the form of Trivikrama, Vamana, and Lord Krishna.

Cave 3:

The largest cave among all the caves in Badami. It has the lord Vishnu as the main deity. Carvings of half shiva and half Vishnu structure is the famous one in the room.

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Cave 4:

This is the smallest cave among all and is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras. You can witness a lot of figures that belong to Jainism.

Not just this, there is another cave that was discovered recently. And, this cave is just 500 m away from Bhutanatha temples and is studded with 27 Hindu sculptures.

Badami Fort

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The fortress is perched on the clifftop that sits opposite to the famous Badami caves. This fort was built by Chalukya ruler Pulakesi in the year 543 AD. You need to hike through the steep step-like structures to reach the top. The Fort is studded with two very old Shivalayas, double fort walls, a watchtower, and a huge cannon that watches the town. Malegitti Shivalaya near the summit is the oldest as well as the most famous one. Sunsets are pleasant as the rocky boulders blush and red sandstones glitter when the rays hit them.

Bhutanatha group of temples

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These temples are situated on the banks of Agastya lake or thirtha, adjacent to the cave temples. Bhutanatha temples are built using local sandstone and most of the shrines here are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Emerald green colored Agastya lake is formed by water flowing from the top of a ravine.

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If you love rock climbing then this place got to be on the top of your list. Climbing a red sandstone hill that is almost vertical is sure to satisfy the adventurer in you.

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Also Read:

Bijapur The Architectural Marvel Of Karnataka.

Karwar the Kashmir Of Karnataka

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Karwar is a laid back coastal town, located at 15 km from Goa border, in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, Popularly known as the “ Kashmir of Karnataka \’\’ by the locals. This place is all about picture-perfect landscapes, untouched islands, pristine beaches, scenic sunsets, sandbanks in winter, lush green mountains, historical sights, lip-smacking coastal delicacies, and serene surroundings. Besides this, it is surrounded by beauties like the Arabian sea, Western ghats, and river Kali, which elevates this destination to the next level.

Karwar is one of the greenest cities across India, hence it is considered as one of the best ecotourism centres. Most people in this region are into fishing and agriculture. Interestingly, Karwar gets its name from a nearby village called “Kadwad”, which is a Konkani word, Kad” means last and “Wad” means area. Since, this place is in the corner, where river Kali meets the Arabian sea. During ancient times this city was used for Seatrade and spice trade by Britishers, Portuguese, French, and Dutch. It is a multicultural destination with Kannada, Konkani and Marathi speaking people living together by spreading prosperity across.

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If legends are to be believed, then Rabindranath Tagore had spent some quality time with his brother and penned a few poems here. Hence, a beach has been named after him as gratitude. 

Best Places To Visit In Karwar

 Sadashivgad Fort Karwar

Fort was built by Rajah Basavalinga of Sonda dynasty in the year 1715 on top of a hillock. Later, it changed hands from Marathas, Portuguese, Dutch, and finally to Britishers. This historic site is amidst the thick green forest, where River Kali meets the Arabian sea.it.Hence, it offers a stunning view of landscapes around it and dramatic sunsets that take the breath away. It also houses a Durga Devi temple which was built during ancient times.

Guddalli Peak Trek In Karwar

Standing tall at 1800 ft above sea level, this is the topmost spot of Karwar. You need to trek for 6 km in the dense forest to reach the peak. The view of Bluish Arabian sea on one side and laidback town on the other side from the top is true bliss. Make sure you are on the peak before 6 Pm to watch the huge fireball taking a dip in the Arabian sea.

Devbagh Beach Karwar

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Undoubtedly, one of the most scenic beaches with blueish water, golden sand, casuarina trees, seagulls flying over you, and long stretched beach. Devbagh beach is sandwiched between evergreen western ghats and the Arabian sea, which adds to enormous beauty to it. This beach is located near the junction where the Arabian sea meets River Kali. If you are lucky, then you can spot sandbanks at Devbagh beach during winter. Lastly, never miss the sun bidding adieu for the day by slowing hiding behind the beautiful Kurumgad Islands 

Furthermore, this beach is also famous for water activities like snorkelling, surfing, banana boat rides and scuba diving.

Kurumgad Island

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Untouched tortoise shaped island visible from almost all the beaches in Karwar. Kurumgad islands are just 1 km from Devbagh beach and you need to rent a boat to reach the islands.

The island is home to the famous Narasimha temple which is visited by thousands of devotees every year. You can try fishing, trekking, snorkelling, and stroll through the deserted lighthouse present on the island.

Warship Museum

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INS Chapal a warship of Indian Navy is decommissioned and is converted into a museum. This warship museum is located on the Rabindranath Tagore beach in Karwar. You can spot mannequins dressed-up as sailors, captains, and ship crew on the outside of the ship. On the other hand replicas of many missiles that were used during wars are displayed inside the ship. Not just this. It also showcases the Karwars aquatic life with a wide variety of fishes displayed inside huge aquariums.

Warship Museum Timings: 9 Am to 8 Pm on all days.

Karwar Port

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Kawar has a weather natural post that spreads across 355 metres. And, it has the capacity to accommodate two ships at a time. You will get permission to visit the port any time of the day except for when the ships are loading or unloading the goods.

Shadashivgad fort, Devbagh Beach, Guddalli peak, Kurumgad Island,  Karwar port, Manjali beach,  Tilmati beach,  and Warship museum are some of the places that got to be on your list when you head to Karwar next time. And, if you are an adventure freak, then there is a huge list of things you can try like snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, banana boat rides, and jet scooter rides.

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Indeed, this place is for people who want to stay away from crowds and relax on pristine beaches. And, not for people who want to party all day, like in Goa.

Also Read:

Bijapur The Architectural Marvel Of Karnataka

Hemakuta Hills- The Architectural Wonder Of Hampi

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Hemakuta hills are home to a collection of a large number of shrines that belongs to pre Vijayanagar dynasty times. Once upon a time, these hills were topped with beautiful temples, mandapas, pavilions, gateways, galleries, archways, and fort walls. But, what remains now is only the ruins of the architectural wonder that sustained the attacks of various rulers.

It is a short trek of 15 minutes to climb the hill. You need to take steps carved on a humongous rock, to the north of Virupaksha temple to reach the Hilltop. After reaching the top, flat land stuffed with magnificent monuments welcomes you with open arms. 

Never miss those fascinating sunsets and sunrises that will make the whole hill glitter like a bar of gold. Besides this, you can even spot the beauty of Hampi bazaar and Virupaksha temple from the top. If you are a photographer then you would never take your eyes off the lens because there is so much beauty to capture. 

Hemakuta Hills History

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You can spot more than 35 temples and 15 other structures on the top of the hill. Most of the structures here date back to 9th to 14th century, which indicated an era before the Vijayanagar empire 

The architecture here is quite different from that of Vijayanagar Style. Most of the structures are triple chambered with a pyramid-like roof made of granite over the top. Apart from this, you can witness the Trikuta Chola style of architecture towards the north side of the hill. Where three shrines are built perpendicular to each other facing the common hall in the middle.

More number of decorated temples can be spotted on the northside of the hill when compared to the southside. In fact, most of the temples here are dedicated to Lord Shiva, as it was believed that Shiva had performed penance in this region. Interestingly, there is a main or moola Virupaksha temple with a pool in front, on the top of the hill.

Indian Mythology Related To Hemakuta Hills

Like every other hill which has a story or myth attached to it, even this has one. It is believed that when Lord Shiva was in penance, Kama ( the god of lust ) distracted him and helped the local girl Pampa marry him. And, Lord Shiva got angry by this act of Kama and burnt him using the third eye.

Also, when Shiva agreed to marry Pampa, it is believed that the hills received gold rains. Hence, the name Hemakuta, Hema in Sanskrit means “Gold”.

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Hemakuta Hills Additional Information

Location: At the end of Hampi Bazaar there are steps leading to the top of Hill.

Landmark: Near Virupaksha Temple Or 500 m.near Hampi Bus stand.

Timings To Visit: 6 Am to 6 Pm.

Duration: 3 To 4 hours.

Entry Fee: NA.

Photography: Allowed.

Best Time To Visit: October To February,

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Even though the hill sits right next to the hotspot Virupaksha temple, it still remains untouched among the masses. Because not many people know about it. So, next time when you are heading to Hampi make sure these hills are on the list.

Also Read:

Best Weekend Getaways From Bangalore.

Cabo De Rama, An Offbeat Picnic Spot In Goa

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Cabo De Rama Beach

Cabo De Rama is a pristine wild beach, untouched by humans, lies just 28 km from Margao in South Goa. This gem is hidden beneath a lofty cliff and you need to take the old stone steps leading down to reach this beauty. Clean white sand, blue water with greenish hues, tall coconut trees lined up in the queue, plenty of shrubs, small rocky boulders, and greenery-filled cliffs are the major highlights of this beach.

The best part of this beach is the rawness of nature it brings to the table without human interference.

Last but not the least, never miss the opportunity to see the sun going down the horizon and painting the whole sky orange from the clifftop.

The beach is best suited for picnics and camping with your dear ones. Try Carrying some drinks, snacks, food, and a volleyball to play with. You can hardly find one or two restaurants or beach shacks here as not many people visit here. Hence it is better to carry your food.

Not just that there is a beautiful Portuguese fort overlooking the beach, which is 2 km away and can be reached via foot.

Cabo De Rama Fort

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Portuguese fort Cabo De Rama which is in ruins can be reached after a short trek, but every drop of sweat you spill while climbing is worth the splendid view from the top. Fort changed hands many times from Indian rulers to Portuguese rulers and both had their own shares in development. Therefore, by visiting this fort you can experience the architectural wonders of different cultures in the same place.

This fort has a mythological connection attached to it. Apparently, it is believed that Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and brother Laksman had resided here during their 14 years exile period. Hence, the name Cabo De Rama was given to this place.

Fort timings: 9 Am to 5:30 Pm

Entry Fees: NA.

How to Reach Cabo De Rama

There are public transports to this destination from major cities of Goa. You can even use bus services that operate from Margao to Cabo De Rama. It is preferable to hire a taxi or use a rented vehicle because the frequency of public transport is less.

Conclusion

If you have any plans of hitting Goa in the near future and want to explore the wild side of Goa, then never miss this one. Best time to visit  this beach is between the month of Oct to March,

Also read:

An Alternative  Travel Guide To Goa

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