Magical Village by the sea: Akshi, Maharashtra
Just 102 kilometres from Mumbai and 146 kilometres from Pune, lies the sleepy beach village of Akshi. The perfect break from the daily city life, is a few days in the lap of nature with the seagulls flying by and the fish washing along the shore at Akshi.
From Mumbai, getting to Akshi by road, one has to drive via the Mumbai – Panvel – Pen -Wadkhal- Alibag – Akshi beach route. The easiest way is to board a ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty and then take the bus to Alibaug. The cost includes the ferry and the bus ride to Alibaug. There is another ferry service from Ferry Wharf to Rewas preferred by those who have a bike as vehicles are allowed on this ferry service.
Those coming from Pune can take the Pune -Pen- Alibag-Akshi beach route. From Alibaug there are auto-rickshaws, tum-tums and even an ST bus service available. One can choose whichever service they want to take. Be sure to check the rates before starting the journey to avoid getting cheated. Akshi is just 4 kilometres away from Alibaug along the Revadanda-Murud road.
Akshi
beach has white sands dotted by numerous trees and has a large variety of birds that can be seen early morning catching fish along the beach. Akshi is an ideal beach to spend some slow-paced, relaxed time bird watching. The water is clean and pristine which makes it ideal for an enjoyable swim. Avoid going to the beach in the evenings if you want to swim, as one has to walk a long distance to get to the water.
The beach stretch has a fishing village at one end and Suru trees lining the entrance to the beach. There are many home stays available at economical rates near the beach but bargaining would be a good skill to use to get the best deal. The home stays also provide home-cooked meals which are authentic Konkan delicacies. The fish fry and curries are a must-try as is the Solkadhi.
One can walk on the beach to Nagaon beach from Akshi beach in ten minutes. Nagaon is one of the cleanest beaches on the Alibaug coast and has a number of water sport activities. The area is famous for coconuts and betel nuts. The sand at Nagaon beach is black in colour though as compared to Akshi.
The beach is very lonely post sundown and there are no lights along the shore, it is better to get back to the homestay and avoid roaming on the beach at night. If one wants to take a walk along the beach, keeping a torch in hand would be a good idea. Waking up early is a better option as the sunrise is magnificent and many exotic birds can be seen along the seashore.
For those seeking a break from the hectic city life, Akshi beach is a great destination where the soul and serene mix with the sand and sea. The village lanes are also a great walk with friendly people who make one feel warm and much at home. When in Alibaug, Akshi is a must-visit village.
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