Tryst With Konkan

Konkan. The word conjures up so many images in people's minds - a splendid coastline with towering coconut trees, delectable cuisine, beautiful arekanut (supari) plantations and many more. And I had a chance to relish it all during one of my recent trips to Ladghar.

I happened to stay at a resort named Gaaaz (chaste hindi for the sound of waves), around 50 mts. further from the beach. It was a small place with four rooms, interestingly christened Agni, Jal, Vaayu & Aakash and styled accordingly. Close proximity to the beach and well laid rooms made for a good place to stay.

Sitting on a rock or taking a stroll, the beach with distinct stretches of rocks and sands was ideal for both. Observing sunset on the beach makes for a pleasurable experience and so does gazing at stars and meteors (yes, you do see them often at a place like this!). And if you like to spot dolphins, you can hire a ferry and raid the deep waters early morning - you may be lucky to spot a school of dolphins; I could only spot a lonesome though.

The next day, I visited a place (don't remember the name) situated around 5 kms from Ladghar. And, that was a revelation. The place is a small agrarian village, known for its religious connections. The adjoining beach is uncrowded, remarkably clean and comparatively less saline - a perfect place to get those man-made-materials off your bod and submerge yourself into the clear waters. After a refreshing bath comes an irresistible hunger which is best satiated by taking a wholesome meal at one of the many village homes who serve mouth-watering local cuisine (which you need to pre-order before proceeding to the beach). The food which I had at a home remains the most cherished memory of my entire trip - simple, honest and tasty food served with so much affection that it can put a 5-star restaurant to shame. Out of this world. A must have if you happen to visit this place.

And like all good things come to an end, it was time to depart. But I would come again, for this place beholds a magnificent blend of simplicity and peculiarity, leaving a permanent impression deep within.