Mumbai To Goa: February 2024

550 kilometers. 9 days. 8 ferries. 5 districts. 2 states. 1 incredible region: the Konkan. After the high-altitude madness of the Himalayas, I thought I was ready for a different kind of challenge. Life, like a relentless climb, threw a lot my way – COVID lockdown, and then just a really tough phase personally. Getting back on the saddle for something like this felt like a huge step. The Konkan coast, with its lush greenery and endless beaches, seemed like a dream. Turns out, it had its own unique way of kicking your ass.

Day 1: Mandwa to Diveagar – A Rough Start

It all kicked off from the Gateway of India, a ferry ride to Mandwa. Seagulls dive-bombing for snacks, a breezy start. But for me, it was already a struggle. My flight got delayed, zero sleep. My heart rate was already through the roof before I even pedaled.

The initial stretch from Mandwa? Traffic hell. Not pleasant. By afternoon, I was ready to quit. Exhausted, dehydrated, sleep-deprived. I was ready to give up. Lunch and a proper break saved me.

We ferried across at Agardanda, checked out the Khokari tombs, then hit a big, nasty climb into Diveagar. Day one down, and the Konkan was already showing its teeth.

Day 2: Diveagar to Karde – The Relentless Roll

We started riding before sunrise.Konkan climbs aren't Himalayan giants, but they're short, steep, and they never stop . It’s a constant, rolling torture. Add the humidity and heat, and you've got perfect conditions for not cycling.

We crossed a ferry at Bhagamandala. We found a random beach, took some cool photos, even cycled on the sand. But by afternoon, it was scorching. A sketchy boat ride to Karde that included a bit of off-roading.

The beach there, though? Spectacular. Diving into the sea was pure bliss, washing away the day's sweat.

Day 3: Karde to Velneshwar – The Climb Continues

Left Karde early, and guess what? More climbing. First, up to the Parshuram Statue at Dapoli, then another big one right after. The views were great, but my legs were screaming. Eventually, we hit some beautiful beach stretches.

Rolled into Velneshwar, spent the evening on the seashore watching a truly epic sunset. The Konkan might be tough, but it knows how to deliver a reward.

Day 4: Velneshwar to Ganeshgule – Forts and Temples

Today was a mix. We visited the ancient Jaigad Fort, its old walls telling stories, then a modern Ganesh temple. Another ferry crossing, then boom – beautiful beaches, mango trees everywhere. But don't get too comfortable, there were still plenty of medium-sized climbs. Ended the day at Ganeshgule, after cycling past the stunning Aare and Waare beaches. Every pedal stroke felt worth it for those views.

Day 5: Ganeshgule to Vijaydurg – A Short Ride, a Risky Crossing, and Ancient Wisdom

A shorter day, so we started late. Cruised along clean beaches, then came the "adventurous" boat ride to Vijaydurg. It was riskier than we hoped, heart-pounding stuff.

Spent the evening exploring Vijaydurg Fort. This was my favorite day. Looking at those massive walls, the sheer protection they built, it hit me: we haven't changed much. We just use different tech – modern warfare, electronics. But the human need to protect ourselves, our tribe, our greed… these ancient forts are the ultimate proof.

Day 6: Vijaydurg to Tarkarli – The Long, Flat Grind

Long distance today, mostly flat towards the end. Passed some windmills. Reached Tarkarli by evening. Honestly, I didn't enjoy this day much. It was just long and flat. After all the rolling hills and adventures, this felt like a bit of a monotonous grind. Sometimes, even paradise has its boring bits.

Day 7: Tarkarli to Vengurla – Short and Sweet

A welcome change after yesterday's grind. A shorter ride to Vengurla. We spent the evening there, recharging. It was a good, easy day, just what the legs needed.

Day 8: Vengurla to Goa – The Finish Line

This was it. The final push. We crossed the border into Goa, and you could feel the shift in the air, the vibe. Our journey ended at Tiracol, a perfect, picturesque spot. Dismounting the bike for the last time on this trip, a wave of accomplishment washed over me.

From that chaotic start in Mandwa, through the relentless Konkan climbs, the sketchy ferries, the ancient forts, and even the long, flat stretches, we did it. Mumbai to Goa on two wheels. It was a challenging, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable ride. The Konkan tested us, but it also showed us its incredible beauty, its rich history, and the warmth of its people. What an adventure.