Shrivardhan Travel Guide: Hidden Spots, Water Sports, & Route Realities
Shrivardhan Beach — Raigad's Cleanest Black Sand Shore
Free entry · Open 6 AM–6 PM · 185 km from Mumbai · 20 km from Harihareshwar Updated May 2026 — verified local information
Shrivardhan Beach is a 3-kilometre stretch of clean, black-sand coastline along the Arabian Sea in Raigad District, Maharashtra. Less crowded than Alibaug or Kihim, it is one of the best-kept weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune — and the most pristine of the three beaches in the Harihareshwar–Shrivardhan–Diveagar coastal triangle.
The beach has a promenade with walkways and benches, a lively stretch of water sports, and some of the most dramatic sunsets on the Konkan coast. Entry is free.
Shrivardhan Beach — At a Glance
Location Shrivardhan town, Raigad District, Maharashtra
Coordinates18.0343° N, 73.0131°E
Distance from Mumbai~185 km (approx. 4.5–5 hours by road)
Distance from Pune~165 km (approx. 3.5–4 hours by road)
Beach length~3 km
Sand typeBlack/dark sand
Entry fee Free
Beach timings 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Best for Families, couples, weekend trips, water sports
Nearest beach Harihareshwar Beach — 20 km
What Makes Shrivardhan Beach Special
Shrivardhan is often called the "Town of the Peshwas" — it is the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Empire. The town also appears in Mahabharata lore, with a local belief that the Pandava warrior Arjuna stayed here during his pilgrimage.
The beach itself runs clean and calm compared to the more-touristy beaches further north. The black sand coastline is fringed by palm groves and mango plantations, and the post-noon high tides make for excellent wave activity. Sunsets here — with the dipping sun reflecting off dark golden waves and fishing boats crossing in the distance — are considered among the most photogenic on the Konkan coast.
It is also the most swim-friendly of the three twin-city beaches. Unlike Harihareshwar (where strong currents make swimming dangerous), Shrivardhan's calmer waters are suitable for wading and light swimming
Water Sports & Things to Do at Shrivardhan Beach
Water Sports (available except during monsoon)
Boating
Paragliding on surf / water surfing
Rigid inflated boat (RIB) rides — 10-minute high-speed rides
Banana boat rides
Jet Ski
Beach Activities
Horse riding
Camel riding
Buggy rides (popular with children)
Beach volleyball
Beach walks along the promenade
Sunset photography (best spot: the promenade walkway, facing west)
Nearby — Kondivali Beach Adventure (5 km from Shrivardhan)
For more intense water sports, Kondivali (Kandivali) Beach is 5 km away and specialises in surfing, paragliding on surf, and motorboat rides.
Aravi Beach (between Shrivardhan and Diveagar)
On the drive toward Diveagar, Aravi Beach is a quieter, less-crowded stop. ATV rides, Jet Ski, banana rides, sofa rides, and dolphin safari are available here
Food tip: The beach stretch has local eateries serving authentic Malvani food, fresh seafood, and misal. Look for the smaller, house-style restaurants — locals recommend Moonshine and Padghe Shudh Shakahari restaurant (both walking distance from the beach).
How to Reach Shrivardhan Beach from Mumbai & Pune
From Mumbai (185 km — 4.5 to 5 hours)
The most popular route is via the Mumbai–Goa Highway (NH66):
Route 1 (NH66 via Mahad): Mumbai → Khopoli → NH66 → Mangaon → Shrivardhan. Direct and fastest.
Route 2 (via ferry + road): Take the Mumbai–Mandwa ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty (approx. 1 hour), then drive south ~120 km to Shrivardhan. Reduces driving time significantly and is more scenic.
From Pune (165 km — 3.5 to 4 hours)
Recommended route: Pune → Varandha Ghat → Mahad → Mangaon → Shrivardhan
The Varandha Ghat section is one of the most scenic drives in the Konkan — highly recommended for road trips.
By Train
Nearest station: Mangaon (Konkan Railway) — 49 km from Shrivardhan
From Mangaon: Local taxis and autos available (approx. ₹400–600 per cab to Shrivardhan)
No direct public bus from Mangaon to Shrivardhan — hire a cab or pre-book transfer
By Bus
MSRTC (Maharashtra ST) buses run from Mumbai's Borivali/CBD Belapur depots to Shrivardhan. Journey: ~5–6 hours. Confirm schedules at your nearest ST bus stand.
Where to Stay Near Shrivardhan Beach
Beach Resorts in Shrivardhan
Gaurav Lords Resort Shrivardhan — beachfront, pool, tennis court, restaurant (Blue Coriander), family-friendly. Popular mid-to-premium option.
Meritas Seawind Beach Resort — well-reviewed for food and hospitality. Recommended on TripAdvisor.
Shiv Shanti Holiday Inn — popular budget option near the beach.
Savali Resort — nature-centric, green, quiet. 5-minute walk to beach. Good for solo or couples. Airtel network works best here.
Homestays & Guesthouses
Shrivardhan has several homestay options within walking distance of the beach. Ideal for budget travelers. Book directly by phone at least a week in advance on weekends and holidays.
Stay at Harihareshwar Instead?
If you're combining Shrivardhan with Harihareshwar (20 km away), consider staying at the MTDC Resort Harihareshwar for a base that covers both. Our Harihareshwar Beach Guide covers stay options there in detail.
Best Time to Visit Shrivardhan Beach
October to February — Best Season Cool, dry weather. Temperatures between 20°C–30°C. Ideal for swimming, water sports, and beach walks. Skies are clear and the sea is calm. Peak tourist season — book stays a week in advance on weekends.
June to September — Monsoon (Scenic, Limited Activities) The coastline turns dramatically green and lush. However, water sports are suspended during monsoon. The drive via Varandha Ghat is exceptionally scenic in this season. The beach itself is beautiful but swimming is not advisable due to rough seas.
March to May — Summer (Hot but Manageable) Temperatures rise to 32°C–38°C. Early morning visits (6–9 AM) are comfortable. Afternoon beach activity is tiring. Not the preferred season but budget accommodation is easily available.
Pro tip from locals: Visit on a weekday. Shrivardhan gets very crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially from Mumbai day-trippers. A Tuesday or Wednesday visit gives you the beach almost to yourself.
Nearby Places to Visit from Shrivardhan — The Konkan Beach Triangle
Shrivardhan sits at the centre of a perfect 1-day or 2-day coastal loop with Harihareshwar and Diveagar.
Harihareshwar Beach — 20 km (30 min drive) Known as the "Kashi of Maharashtra," Harihareshwar is primarily a pilgrimage town built around the ancient Harihareshwar Temple (Lord Shiva). The beach is quieter and more spiritual in character. Not recommended for swimming — strong underwater currents. Best known for the dramatic sea-cliff walk, sea caves, and the submerged Ganesh idol at Ganesh Gully visible only at low tide. → Read our full Harihareshwar Beach Guide
Diveagar Beach — 20 km (30 min drive) A quiet, golden-sand beach in a small village setting. Home to the famous Suvarna Ganesh Temple. Far less commercial than Shrivardhan — ideal for a slow, quiet morning. See our Diveagar Beach Guide.
Bankot Fort — 24 km (near Velas village) An ancient fort at the mouth of the Savitri River, visible from the water. History lovers and fort trekkers can add this to the itinerary. A boat ride from the Jungle Jetty harbour connects to the fort area.
Laxminarayan Temple, Shrivardhan A historically important temple in the town centre, significant for its connection to the Peshwa heritage of Shrivardhan.
Somjai Devi Temple, Shrivardhan An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Somja, known locally for its ritual of extracting snake venom through prayer and pradakshinas (circumambulation lying flat). Unique cultural experience.
Shrivardhan Beach — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shrivardhan Beach free to enter? Yes. Shrivardhan Beach has no entry fee. It is open to all visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
How far is Shrivardhan Beach from Mumbai? Shrivardhan Beach is approximately 185 km from Mumbai, about 4.5 to 5 hours by road via NH66. You can reduce travel time by taking the Mumbai–Mandwa ferry and driving south.
Is Shrivardhan Beach good for swimming? Yes — Shrivardhan is considered the most swim-friendly of the Harihareshwar–Shrivardhan–Diveagar trio. The waters are calmer compared to Harihareshwar, where strong currents make swimming dangerous. Post-noon tides are higher and more active.
What water sports are available at Shrivardhan Beach? Available water sports include boating, banana boat rides, jet ski, water surfing, and rigid inflated boat (RIB) rides. Horse riding, camel riding, and buggy rides are also available on the beach. Water sports are typically suspended during monsoon (June–September).
What is the best time to visit Shrivardhan Beach? October to February is the best time — weather is cool and clear, water sports are fully operational, and the sea is calm. Monsoon (June–September) is scenic but activities are restricted.
Is Shrivardhan beach clean? Shrivardhan is consistently rated the cleanest of the three beaches in the Harihareshwar cluster. The beach has a maintained promenade with walkways and seating.
What is the historical significance of Shrivardhan? Shrivardhan is the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Empire. It is also referenced in Mahabharata mythology as a place visited by Arjuna during his pilgrimage. The town is sometimes called the "Town of the Peshwas."
Can I combine Shrivardhan with Harihareshwar in one day? Yes. Shrivardhan and Harihareshwar are 20 km apart (30-minute drive). A 2-day itinerary covering both beaches plus Diveagar is very popular. Stay in either town and cover all three in a loop.
Looking for more coastal adventures in Raigad? Don't miss a trip to the historic Murud Janjira Sea Fort, located just a short coastal drive north of Shrivardhan, famous for its massive sea-facing fortifications.