History of Malvan – A Coastal Maratha Heritage
Malvan is a charming coastal town in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, in the southern Konkan region of India. Once a quiet fishing hamlet, Malvan gained historical significance under the Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century.
In 1664, Shivaji began constructing the mighty Sindhudurg Fort on an offshore island near Malvan, even lending his own labor to the project. This massive sea fort, completed by 1667, was built to protect the Maratha kingdom’s coastline and stands as a testament to their naval prowess.
In fact, you can still see imprints of Shivaji’s hand and foot preserved inside the fort’s premises, a fascinating slice of history for visitors.
Beyond its Maratha heritage, Malvan has flourished as a culturally rich town known for its Malvani cuisine and local produce. The town is famous for Alphonso mangoes and cashew nuts grown in the region.
Don’t miss trying the delectable Malvani fish curry and the refreshing sol kadi (a drink made from kokum fruit and coconut) – these local specialties reflect Malvan’s unique culinary identity.
Today, Malvan seamlessly blends heritage and natural beauty, offering travelers a mix of historic sites, “picture-perfect white sand beaches”, tranquil backwaters, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, Malvan’s diverse attractions won’t disappoint.
Places to Visit in Malvan
Malvan may be a small town, but it is packed with attractions and activities for all types of travelers. From ancient sea forts and sun-kissed beaches to sacred temples and lush gardens, there’s plenty to see and do. Below is a list of the top places to visit and things to do in Malvan:
Sindhudurg Fort
Sindhudurg Fort stands testimony to Malvan’s rich Maratha history, perched on an island off the coast. The Iconic Sea Fort: Your Malvan sightseeing is incomplete without exploring the legendary Sindhudurg Fort. Built by Shivaji between 1664 and 1667, this sprawling fort covers 48 acres on a rocky island just off Malvan’s shore.
Its massive zigzagging ramparts (30 feet high and 12 feet thick) and 52 bastions still stand strong against the Arabian Sea. Inside, you’ll find ancient temples (one even dedicated to Shivaji himself) and freshwater wells – a remarkable feat of engineering.
Don’t forget to look for the footprints and handprints of Shivaji embedded in a lime stone slab, a unique piece of history. Ferries from Malvan jetty take you to the fort (boat guides often double as guides on the fort).
Visit around sunset for breathtaking views of the sea and coastline from the fort’s walls. Sindhudurg Fort isn’t just a monument; it’s an experience that transports you back in time to the era of Maratha naval supremacy.
Tarkarli Beach – Pristine Sands & Water Sports
Located about 7 km south of Malvan, Tarkarli Beach is often hailed as one of Maharashtra’s best beaches. Imagine powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters where you can see the seabed even 20 feet deep on a clear day. Tarkarli’s serene beauty is complemented by an adrenaline side – it’s Maharashtra’s only scuba diving and snorkelling training center.
Adventurers flock here to scuba dive among colorful corals and schools of fish (visibility is usually ideal in winter months). You can also enjoy parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and snorkelling at Tarkarli, making it a water sports paradise.
For a quieter experience, take a stroll under the shade of Casuarina trees or hop on a houseboat cruise on the Karli River backwaters nearby. Tarkarli offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, all with the stunning backdrop of the Arabian Sea.
Devbagh Beach and Tsunami Island – Coastal Beauty & Adventure
At the southern tip of Malvan lies Devbagh Beach, a long golden stretch of sand where the Karli River meets the sea. Devbagh’s tranquil shores are dotted with casuarina trees and offer views of the Sindhudurg Fort in the distance.
Just off Devbagh coast is the intriguingly named Tsunami Island, a small island formed by the 2004 tsunami. Despite its name, Tsunami Island is a peaceful spot today, famous as a hub for water sports.
Here you can indulge in jet skiing, kayaking, bumper rides, banana boat rides and even spot dolphins on a boat ride if you’re lucky. The surrounding Malvan Marine Sanctuary waters are rich in corals and marine life, so snorkeling here is popular too.
(Fun fact: The Malvan Marine Sanctuary, covering ~30 sq km, is the only marine sanctuary in Maharashtra, created to protect the region’s coral reefs and aquatic species.) Whether you’re seeking thrills or just want to sunbathe on an uncrowded island beach, Devbagh and Tsunami Island are must-visits.
Malvan Beaches (Chivla, Achara, Tondavali & More)
Besides Tarkarli and Devbagh, Malvan boasts a chain of serene, unspoilt beaches stretching along its coast. Chivla Beach, bordering Malvan town, is a tiny cove with calm waters ideal for swimming and watching spectacular sunsets.
It’s lined with a few shacks where you can taste fresh seafood while enjoying the view. Just north of town, Achara Beach is a secluded gem known for its dolphin sightings – visit between October and February for a chance to spot friendly dolphins offshore.
Tondavali Beach, further north, offers complete tranquility with virtually no crowds – a perfect spot if you seek solitude amidst nature. To the south, Talashil Beach is another remote stretch of sand accessible partly by boat, famed for its warm sands and abundant marine life in the adjoining creek.
Each beach in Malvan has its own charm, from the bustling Malvan Town Beach (where you can witness the evening fish auction and mingle with local fishermen) to the postcard-perfect Kolamb Beach and Wairy Beach with their white sands and swaying palms.
Beach-hopping in Malvan is pure joy – you’ll find everything from adventure to peace on these shores. Evening waves glisten on the white sands of Malvan’s beaches – a tranquil alternative to busier tourist hubs.
Rock Garden (Arse Mahal) – Sunset Point
The Rock Garden in Malvan is a beautifully maintained garden set atop rocky shorelines by the sea, adjacent to Arase Mahal. Overlooking Chivla Beach, this landscaped park is famous for its panoramic sea views.
Come here in the evening to watch waves dramatically crash against the rocks below and to capture a stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea. The garden’s pathways and seating make it a pleasant spot to relax after a day of sightseeing – it truly lives up to its reputation as a place to “chill and relax”.
Families and couples alike enjoy the Rock Garden for its serene ambiance and photo-worthy vistas. If you visit Rock Garden, you’ll also find the Jai Ganesh Temple and Swami Math temple in walking distance, adding a spiritual touch to the locale.
Temples of Malvan – Rameshwar & Jai Ganesh
Malvan’s heritage includes beautiful temples that are worth a visit for their architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The Shri Rameshwar Temple (also known as Malvan’s Shiva Temple) is an ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It features elegant corridors, carved pillars and two Shiva linga shrines inside – local lore says one linga was set up by Sita and the other by Lord Hanuman. This temple, considered among Malvan’s most revered, showcases intricate artwork and is surrounded by a calm vibe ideal for meditation.
Another popular shrine is the Jai Ganesh Temple, also called the Suvarna Ganesh Mandir. Built by a local astrologer, this temple houses a striking golden idol of Lord Ganesha that attracts devotees and tourists alike.
The temple’s modern design and the serene garden around it make it a lovely stop, especially since it’s near Chivla Beach and Rock Garden – you can easily combine these visits.
Other notable temples in the area include the Sateri Devi Jal Mandir, uniquely surrounded by a pond, offering tranquility away from the town’s bustle. Visiting these temples not only provides a spiritual experience but also a glimpse into the local traditions of Malvan.
Malvani Cuisine & Markets – A Gastronomic “Thing to Do”
No trip to Malvan is complete without savoring its cuisine – consider this an attraction in itself! Wander the local market near Malvan Jetty and you’ll find shops selling aromatic Malvani masalas, dried fish, kokum syrup, and sweets.
Stop by iconic eateries like Athithi Bamboo or Chaitanya to enjoy an authentic Malvani thali – expect spicy fish curry, fried fish, rice bhakris (rice flatbread), and the signature pink sol kadi drink.
Seafood lovers will be in heaven tasting the variety of dishes from crab curry to Bombil (Bombay duck) fry. If you’re a shopping enthusiast, pick up locally made souvenirs: perhaps some cashew nuts from the famous Zantye’s shop, or beautiful Konkan handicrafts.
Malvan is also known for its Alphonso (hapus) mangoes in summer – if you visit in April-May, don’t miss the chance to buy these golden fruits straight from orchards. Enjoying the food and shopping in Malvan gives you a deeper appreciation of the region’s culture – it’s the perfect way to cap off your day after sightseeing.
Best Hotels in Malvan – Where to Stay
Despite being a relatively small town, Malvan offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from beachside resorts to cozy homestays. Here are some of the best places to stay in Malvan:
Beach Resorts & Homestays
If you dream of staying by the sea, consider the MTDC Tarkarli Beach Resort, run by Maharashtra Tourism. This popular resort has cottages right on Tarkarli’s beachfront and even offers houseboat stays on the Karli River.
Another favorite is Sai Sagar Beach Niwas near Tarkarli, which provides simple cottage rooms and delicious home-cooked Malvani food on order.
For a more personal touch, many locals rent out homestays in Malvan and Devbagh, where you can experience local hospitality (and often, home-cooked seafood!). These beachside homestays are usually affordable and allow you to wake up to ocean views and sea breeze.
Hotels in Malvan Town
Staying in Malvan town keeps you close to the markets, Malvan jetty, and main bus stand. Hotel Sagar Kinara, located near the Malvan Jetty, is a well-known mid-range hotel offering clean rooms, an on-site bar, and a restaurant serving authentic Malvani cuisine.
It’s a convenient choice if you plan on doing the Sindhudurg Fort trip (as ferry points are nearby) and want easy access to the evening market. Budget travelers can check out places like Om Shree or Om Shradda lodge near the bus stand, which offer basic, clean rooms at low rates (ideal for backpackers).
Abhiruchi Resort, near the MTDC office, is another budget hotel with essential amenities and is quite popular among domestic tourists.
Upscale & Nearby Stays
While Malvan itself mostly has budget and mid-range accommodations, those seeking more upscale hotels can look a bit outside town. In the nearby junction of Kankavali (47 km away) or Kudal (42 km) on the Mumbai-Goa highway, you’ll find a few higher-end options.
For example, Neelam’s Countryside in Kankavali offers a more resort-like experience with modern facilities, and Hotel Coconut in Kudal is a comfortable hotel known for its service. These can be good choices if you’re driving down and don’t mind a short commute to Malvan for sightseeing.
Travel Tip: Malvan gets a decent crowd on weekends and during winters, so it’s wise to book your stay in advance, especially for popular beach resorts and MTDC cottages.
Many accommodations in Malvan are small homestay-style operations, so securing your room beforehand ensures you have the best pick for your dates. No matter where you stay, expect warm hospitality – the locals are friendly and eager to share tips about their beloved town.
How to Reach Malvan
Despite its remote feel, Malvan is fairly accessible by various modes of transport. Here’s how to reach this coastal getaway:
By Air
The closest airport to Malvan is the new Sindhudurg Airport (Chipi), which is roughly 20–25 km from Malvan. Opened in late 2021, this domestic airport now operates flights from major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. From Sindhudurg Airport, you can hire a taxi or auto and reach Malvan in about 30–40 minutes.
Another option is Goa’s Dabolim Airport, about 85 km from Malvan. Dabolim has more frequent flights from across India; from there, you can book a taxi or take a bus towards Malvan (approx. 2–3 hours drive). Manohar International Airport (Mopa, North Goa) is slightly further (around 100 km from Malvan), but it’s a modern airport with good connectivity.
If coming internationally or from far cities, you might fly into Mumbai (530 km away) or Pune (400 km away) and then travel by road or rail to Malvan. Check out : Airports in Maharashtra
By Train
Malvan town doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest railheads are on the Konkan Railway line at Kudal (around 30 km away) and Sawantwadi Road (around 52 km away).
Kudal Station is the most convenient; many trains from Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore halt here. From Kudal, you can get a taxi or shared auto to Malvan, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Another nearby station is Kankavali (about 45 km away), which is also on the Konkan Railway.
If you’re coming from major cities, look for trains to Kudal/Kankavali on popular routes (like the Konkan Kanya Express, Matsyagandha Express, etc.). Once you alight, taxis and even state transport buses are available outside the station for the onward journey to Malvan.
By Road
Malvan is well-connected by road and is a rewarding drive if you enjoy scenic routes. From Mumbai, it’s about 530–540 km via NH-66 (previously NH-17), roughly a 9-10 hour drive. You can either drive down the picturesque Mumbai-Goa coastal highway or take an overnight bus.
Several MSRTC and private buses run from Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur and Goa toward Malvan or nearby towns in Sindhudurg. From Pune, Malvan is around 400 km (7-8 hours by road) via Kolhapur.
If you’re coming from Goa, Malvan is just 2-3 hours north (approximately 120 km from Panaji). Roads have improved in recent years, and the drive along the Konkan coast – flanked by green hills on one side and the Arabian sea on the other – is truly delightful.
Once in Malvan, you won’t need a car to explore within town; you can hire rickshaws or rent two-wheelers to get around locally.
By Bus
There are direct buses (mostly sleeper coaches) from Mumbai and Pune to Malvan, often running overnight. You can also break the journey: for example, take a bus to Kudal or Kasal, and then a local bus or taxi to Malvan.
Maharashtra state transport buses (ST) frequently run on the Mumbai–Goa highway and can drop you at Kasal (which is about 35 km from Malvan). From Kasal, you’ll find connecting buses or shared jeeps to Malvan town.
Travelling by bus is an economical option and the preferred choice for many domestic tourists.
Once you reach Malvan, getting around is easy. Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are readily available for hire. You can also rent a scooter or bike in Malvan town to explore nearby beaches at your own pace (just note that availability might be limited, so ask your hotel for contacts).
Tip: Malvan’s internal roads are narrow and scenic; driving yourself can be fun, but be cautious of wandering cattle and the occasional unexpected turn!
Best Time to Visit Malvan
Malvan’s tropical coastal climate means it has hot summers, heavy monsoons, and pleasantly mild winters. Here’s a season-wise breakdown to help you decide the best time for your Malvan trip:
Winter (October to February)
This is peak season and the best time to visit Malvan. The weather is comfortably warm during the day and cool at night, with temperatures ranging roughly from 16°C to 28°C. Humidity is at its lowest, making it ideal for beach hopping, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The skies are usually clear, which means perfect visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving in Malvan’s clear waters. November to February is especially lovely – you can enjoy sunsets without breaking a sweat and even spot dolphins off the coast during these months.
Since this is the most popular time, expect a lively atmosphere with more tourists around, especially on weekends. It’s wise to book your hotels and water sports activities in advance for winter trips.
Summer (March to June)
Early summer, i.e. March and April, is still a decent time to visit as the weather remains dry and temperatures, while warmer (around 30-33°C), are tolerable. By May and June, it gets quite hot and humid, with temperatures peaking in the mid-30s and humidity making the days feel heavy.
However, the upside of a summer visit is that it’s off-season – you’ll find fewer crowds and discounted rates on hotels and resorts. Many budget travelers and backpackers actually prefer late April or early June to snag deals.
You can still enjoy the beaches in the mornings and evenings, and activities like scuba diving continue until early May (before monsoon muddies the waters). Just be prepared for the heat by staying hydrated and taking beach breaks during midday.
If you’re a mango lover, note that April-May is mango season in Malvan – a great time to taste those famous Alphonso mangoes fresh off the farms!
Monsoon (July to September)
The Konkan coast’s monsoon is intense and extremely wet. Malvan receives heavy rainfall from June end through August, sometimes into September, which is not ideal for tourism.
The sea becomes very rough – all water sports, snorkeling, and diving are halted for the season due to safety and low visibility. Many beach shacks and smaller hotels also close during the peak monsoon months. While the landscape turns lush green and beautiful, the constant rain can impede sightseeing and beach enjoyment.
Roads may have occasional flooding or delays. If you do visit in monsoon, it would likely be for enjoying the rain-soaked scenery or a very quiet retreat (carrying an umbrella and raincoat at all times!).
The upside? You’ll practically have Malvan to yourself and can experience the dramatic monsoon waves from a safe distance. But for most travelers, monsoon is the least favorable time. By late September, the rains recede, and the tourist season starts picking up again.
Overall, the best time to visit Malvan is from October through March, when you’ll experience the town at its vibrant best – pleasant weather, all attractions open, and the full range of activities (from boating to diving) available for you to enjoy.
Whether you come during the festive winter season or the quieter summer months, Malvan has its own charm year-round, but timing your visit right can make a big difference in your experience.
Conclusion – Plan Your Malvan Adventure Now!
Malvan may still be somewhat off the typical tourist trail, but as you’ve discovered, this coastal gem has something for everyone – rich history, natural beauty, adventure, and culture all rolled into one.
From climbing the ancient ramparts of Sindhudurg Fort to snorkeling in clear waters at Tarkarli, from savoring spicy Malvani seafood to watching a peaceful sunset at Rock Garden, Malvan offers countless memorable experiences.
The best part is that Malvan retains an unspoiled charm that many busier beach destinations have lost – here you can truly unwind and immerse yourself in local life.
Are you ready to explore Malvan’s sightseeing delights and dive into the many things to do here? Start planning your trip to Malvan for 2025 now, and book your accommodations and travel early to grab the best deals.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast tracing Shivaji’s legacy or a beach bum looking for the next serene shore, Malvan will welcome you with open arms and a plate of delicious fish curry! Don’t wait – pack your bags for Malvan and get ready to create stories of your own on the Konkan coast.
Feel free to share your Malvan travel experiences or ask any questions in the comments. Happy travels, and enjoy your time discovering the wonders of Malvan!
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