5 best things to do at Varsoli, Alibaug in Maharashtra

If you are looking for a quiet and serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai or Pune, then Varsoli is the perfect destination for you. Varsoli is a coastal village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, near Alibaug is known for its clean and sandy beaches, lush green surroundings, and naval base.

Varsoli is not very crowded by tourists, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature without any disturbance. It offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Here are some of the things you can do at Varsoli to make your trip memorable.

Enjoy the Varsoli beach activities

Varsoli beach is one of the main attractions of the place. It is a long and wide beach with golden sand and clear water. You can relax on the beach, soak in the sun, or take a dip in the sea. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the water sports activities available at the beach, such as parasailing, banana boat rides, jet-skiing, surfing, etc. You can also take a horse, camel, or buggy ride on the beach for some fun.

You can relax on the golden sands and go for a swim in the clear waters. It’s a quiet and relatively uncrowded beach, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the coastal beauty. Take part in various watersports activities available at Varsoli Beach. You can try jet skiing, banana boat rides, kayaking, and parasailing, adding a splash of adventure to their beach experience.

Visit the historical forts

Varsoli has a rich history and culture, as it was once a naval base for the Maratha empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. You can visit some of the historical forts near Varsoli that showcase the glory of the past. One of them is Kolaba fort, which is situated in the Arabian sea and can be reached by boat during low tide. The fort has temples, cannons, and bastions that offer a glimpse into the life of the Maratha warriors. Take a boat ride from Alibaug to reach Kolaba Fort, located off the coast of Varsoli.

You can explore this historic sea fort, walk along the ramparts, and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Another fort is Korlai fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and has a lighthouse and a church. The fort offers a panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding hills. Varsoli is just a short drive away from Alibaug, which has additional attractions. You can visit Alibaug Beach, visit the historic Alibaug Fort, or indulge in some shopping at the local markets.

Explore the wildlife sanctuary

If you are a nature lover, you will love to visit Phansad bird sanctuary, which is about 45 km away from Varsoli. The sanctuary is home to more than 700 species of plants and animals, including birds, butterflies, moths, snakes, and mammals. You can spot some rare and endangered species like the Indian giant squirrel, leopard cat, barking deer, etc.

The sanctuary also has trails and watchtowers that allow you to observe the wildlife closely. Varsoli is surrounded by lush greenery and has a peaceful ambiance. You can go for nature walks along the beach or explore the nearby countryside, which is home to various bird species. Keep an eye out for beautiful feathered friends during a bird-watching session.

Experience the local cuisine

No trip is complete without tasting the local cuisine of the place. Varsoli offers a variety of dishes that will satisfy your taste buds. You can try some of the seafood delicacies like fish curry, prawns fry, crab masala, etc., cooked in coconut and spices. You can also savor some of the vegetarian dishes like vada pav, misal pav, poha, etc., that are popular in Maharashtra.

You can also enjoy some of the sweets like modak, puran poli, shrikhand, etc., that are made with jaggery and coconut. When in Varsoli, don’t miss the opportunity to savor local Maharashtrian cuisine. Trying seafood specialties like fresh fish, crabs, and prawns is a highlight. Explore local eateries and beachside shacks to taste the flavours of the region.

Stay in a cozy cottage or resort

Varsoli has many options for accommodation that suit your budget and preferences. You can choose from cottages, resorts, hotels, or homestays that offer comfortable and cozy rooms with all the amenities. You can also find some places that have swimming pools, gardens, or balconies that add to your relaxation. You can book your stay online through Airbnb or other platforms that offer holiday rentals in Varsoli.

Yoga and meditation

Embrace the tranquil environment of Varsoli by practicing yoga and meditation. You can find a quiet spot on the beach or join a yoga class to relax and rejuvenate their mind and body.

Varsoli is a hidden gem of Maharashtra that offers a peaceful and pleasant getaway from the city life. You can enjoy the beach activities, visit the historical forts, explore the wildlife sanctuary, experience the local cuisine, and stay in a cozy cottage or resort at Varsoli.