Often called the coastal paradise by many travel bloggers, India is filled with many serene beaches. The soft wind and the rocky waves make it worth it for tourists to explore the different Indian beaches.
The coastline of India stretches for more than 11,000 kilometers, touching the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. The vast shoreline is home to different beaches that attract many tourists every year. From party-packed shores with music and nightlife to secluded stretches where you hear nothing but the sound of waves, there is something for everyone.
Well, are you an international visitor looking for a tropical adventure? Then India’s beaches promise relaxation, water sports, cultural flavors, and postcard-perfect views. This is what makes it more worthwhile for you to go through the India visa application for the visit.
Why India’s Beaches Deserve Your Attention?
India’s beaches are far more than just pretty stretches of sand. They are windows into the country’s rich cultural diversity. They help you explore the natural beauty of the coastal way of life.
Here are some reasons that make it worth it for tourists to get an Indian visa and explore the beaches.
A Coastline of Infinite Variety
From the golden sands of Goa to the black volcanic shores of Maharashtra, there is an incredible variety in landscapes. Some beaches have dramatic cliffs, while others have lush coconut groves. On the other hand, some are dotted with fishing boats that paint a colorful picture.
Year-Round Sunshine
Credits to the vast geography of the country, India offers beach destinations throughout the year. The west coast, like Goa, Kerala, and Karnataka, is best from November to March. On the other hand, the east coast, like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, is ideal even during the cooler winter months.
However, if you want full tropical island vibes, then the Andaman and Lakshadweep islands will be there to welcome you for most of the year. The calm seas and warm weather are a favorite among all tourists.
Endless Activities for Every Traveler
India’s beaches aren’t just about sunbathing. Rather, you can also experience the following, which makes your trip even more worthwhile.
- Dive into coral reefs in the Andaman Islands or Tarkarli.
- Try adrenaline-packed water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and surfing.
- Join sunrise yoga sessions on the shores of Varkala or Gokarna.
- Attend cultural festivals like beach carnivals in Goa or kite festivals in Gujarat.
- Visit temples near the beach of Puri, Orissa.
So, irrespective, whether you are an adventure seeker, a wellness traveler, or a sunset chaser, there’s always a way to make your trip memorable.
A Fusion of Culture and Cuisine
Beach destinations in India are also famous for the food around them. You can enjoy spicy Goan vindaloo with a sea view or taste Kerala’s famous fish curry after a backwater ride. Moreover, you can also savor freshly grilled lobsters in Lakshadweep.
The coastlines are living museums where local fishing traditions, folk dances, and coastal architecture blend to make your travel experience even better.
Hidden Gems Waiting to be Discovered
Famous names like Palolem and Marina Beach draw crowds. However, India’s coastline hides dozens of offbeat treasures. Most tourists fail to notice serene spots like Agonda in Goa, Bangaram in Lakshadweep, or Tilmati Beach in Karnataka.
These lesser-known beaches offer peace, privacy, and pristine beauty. These places are for those people who want to explore beyond the guidebooks.
Most Beautiful Beaches in India
Here are some of the most beautiful Indian beaches that you must visit during your trip after filling out the India application visa form for the visit.
- Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
Located in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, this is one is often voted one of Asia’s best beaches by TripAdvisor. Radhanagar is pure paradise for beach lovers.
The powdery white sands, crystal-clear blue waters, and spectacular sunsets make it a great place to spend some peaceful time. This one is simply best for swimming, sunbathing, and underwater adventures like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Pro Tip: Stay overnight on Havelock Island so you can enjoy the beach in the quiet early hours before day tourists arrive.
- Palolem Beach, Goa
This beach is shaped like a crescent, which makes it even more special. Palolem is framed by palm trees and colorful shacks that serve fresh seafood.
The beach is lively yet relaxed. So, it is perfect for kayaking, dolphin-watching trips, and evenings filled with music at beachfront cafés.
Pro Tip: Try a silent disco night on the beach for a magical experience.
- Varkala Beach, Kerala
Varkala offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and a laid-back vibe. This beach sits beneath dramatic laterite cliffs, which makes the place feel like straight out of postcards.
Varkala is known as a wellness hotspot. So, you will definitely find many yoga studios and Ayurvedic massage centers along the shore. The seafood cafés are definitely a must-try.
Pro Tip: Walk along the cliffside promenade for boutique shopping and endless photo spots.
- Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra
This one is a hidden gem with clear waters and coral reefs. Tarkarli is one of India’s top spots for scuba diving and parasailing.
The beach remains relatively uncrowded during most seasons. So, it is just the perfect place for a peaceful water sports session.
Pro Tip: Visit between October and March for the best underwater visibility.
- Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka
This beach is named after its natural Om-shaped shoreline. The Om Beach has a nice blend of spirituality and scenic beauty.
The place is quieter than the party-filled beaches of Goa and mainly attracts those who look for a meditative coastal escape. There are many small cafés that serve simple yet delicious coastal Karnataka food.
Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a trek to nearby Half Moon and Paradise beaches.
- Marina Beach, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Stretching for close to 12 kilometers, Marina is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. The size of the beach makes it the perfect place to enjoy something more than just swimming.
From cricket matches to kite flyers, you can expect it all here. On top of that, the street food stalls serve delicious sundal and fried fish, keeping your appetite entertained. This is why, many love to visit this beach after completing their India visa application.
Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to watch a spectacular sunrise and avoid the crowds.
- Puri Beach, Orissa
This is a sacred shoreline that blends spirituality and scenic charm. The Puri Beach is famous for its golden sands and roaring waves of the Bay of Bengal.
It is located near the iconic Jagannath Temple, which is why it attracts many pilgrims, artists, and tourists. The annual Puri Beach Festival showcases sand art, cultural performances, and local crafts. So, if you have a keen interest in it, then consider visiting Puri beach from November to January. (The dates differ, so check with the authority.)
Pro Tip: Enjoy morning walks with views of traditional fishing boats, watch world-class sand sculptures, or take a dip in the sea after temple visits.
- Agonda Beach, Goa
If Palolem feels a little too busy for you, then you must consider visiting Agonda. This beach is far more peaceful and less crowded. Plus, it is clean and less commercialized, which is why many tourists like visiting this place.
Agonda Beach is a popular turtle nesting site. So, taking long and uninterrupted walks by the sea is always a great choice.
Pro Tip: Ideal for travelers seeking quiet stays in boutique beachfront cottages.
- Mandarmani Beach, West Bengal
This one is famous as one of India’s longest drivable beaches. Mandarmani has the perfect blend of adventure and leisure.
Most people who visit this beach come here to spend a leisurely weekend at the many high-rated resorts along the shore. Other than that, you can ride ATVs on the sand, hop on banana boats, or simply enjoy fresh seafood at local shacks.
Pro Tip: Best visited during winter for cool breezes and fewer crowds.
- Bangaram Beach, Lakshadweep
If you dream of a secluded island escape, then Bangaram will be the perfect option.
The place is famous for turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and white sand. Tourists who visit this beach like to go diving, snorkeling, and for peaceful lagoon swims.
Pro Tip: You’ll need a permit to visit Lakshadweep, so arrange it in advance along with your bookings.
How to Explore the Famous Indian Beaches?
Well, if you want to explore the beautiful beaches of India, then you will need to visit the country, and for that, you will have to apply for a visa, specifically a tourist online visa or eVisa. Here are the steps that you will have to follow:
- Visit the online portal for the online visa application.
- Fill out the India application visa form.
- Add scanned copies of your necessary documents, like a valid passport (one with at least 2 blank pages and 6 months validity beyond your visit, a recent passport-sized photograph, bank statements, flight tickets, travel itinerary, and other documents required by the authority.
- Pay the fee for your visa application with a debit or credit card.
- Wait for 24 to 72 hours to get the application approved.
- Receive the approval letter at your used email ID and print some copies of it for immigration.
- Contact the Helpdesk if you face any delay or other issues.
The visa validity comes with 30-day validity, 1-year validity, and 5-year validity. The first one is a single-entry one, and the others allow multiple entries. The maximum stay period in a year is 180 days.
Tips for Planning Your Beach Trip in India
Here are a few tips that will help you in planning a perfect beach trip:
- Packing essentials like light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, beach footwear, reusable water bottles, and a hat.
- Avoid swimming during heavy rains and check local weather advisories.
- Book your stay in advance for a stress-free visit.
- Apply for your visa a few days or weeks in advance to get it in time for your trip.
- The best seasons to travel depend on the place that you are visiting. Refer to the table below for a better understanding.
| Place | Ideal Time to Visit |
| Goa, Kerala, Karnataka | November to March |
| Andaman & Nicobar | October to May |
| Tamil Nadu | November to February |
| West Bengal, Orissa | December to February |
Table: Beaches in India and Best Times to Visit Them
Ready to Explore the Top Stunning Indian Beaches?
Visiting the famous beaches of India is a must-visit for anyone who loves the coast. From the buzzing shores of Goa to the untouched sands of Lakshadweep, India’s beaches are diverse yet beautiful. This is what motivates tourists to carry out the process of India visa application for the trip.
So, irrespective of whether you like water sports, cultural immersion, or blissful solitude, the stretch of coastline has it all for you.