Some Journeys are planned
Some days are destined.
And this one—March 2nd—was both.
After a quick complimentary breakfast at Aarna Resort in Murudeshwar, we packed our bags for the most awaited destination of this trip—Gokarna—and for a very special reason: our wedding anniversary.
A Hidden Bathroom & A Bond Moment
Before leaving, we couldn’t stop laughing about our room’s “James Bond moment.” When we checked in the previous day, we were shocked to see no visible bathroom—just a wardrobe and a bed. Only after inquiring did the staff reveal the surprise: the carpenter had cleverly concealed the toilet entrance within the wardrobe door. It felt straight out of a spy movie.
There was also an archery setup at the resort. Before checking out, we gave it a try—missing targets but hitting memories.
Apsarakonda & An Unexpected Bargain
Our first stop was Apsarakonda Falls. To be honest, it felt overhyped—especially after witnessing the majestic waterfalls of Northeast India. Perhaps it was the wrong season, or perhaps my expectations were simply higher.
But sometimes, underwhelming places lead to unexpected opportunities.
There, we met a local who pitched a private boat ride at Sharavathi River backwaters. He quoted ₹1500. After a little negotiation, we sealed it at ₹1000—a deal too good to ignore.
Mangroves, Fishing Villages & Coastal Reflections
The 1 hour 15 minute boat ride took us deep into mangroves and later to a small fishing village near Honnavar. While the entry points were heavily commercialized—with artificial flowers, heart-shaped photo frames, and decorative bicycle props—the village beyond felt authentic and off-grid.
As we cruised through the backwaters, the sight of individual houses lining the water reminded me of Alleppey in Kerala. In fact, throughout this journey from Malabar to Konkan, I’ve been noticing cultural overlaps—architecture, cuisine, landscapes—all blending seamlessly along the coast from Kerala toward Maharashtra. The Malabar–Konkan stretch truly feels like one long cultural corridor.
After returning, we walked along the Sharavathi Boardwalk, a peaceful trail through dense mangroves. The cool shade was a blessing after the scorching highway drive.
Arrival at the Anniversary Destination
Post an average highway lunch, we finally arrived at Sangam Resorts in Gokarna—a serene cliffside luxury stay I had booked at a great deal. A chilled glass of sharbat welcomed us, exactly what we needed after the dehydrating drive.
Freshened up and dressed in formal attire, we headed toward the sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna, located about 8 km from our cottage.
The temple streets were narrow and bustling. With tourist crowds, the police had converted traffic into one-way flow. Driving through required patience and precision—pedestrians, vendors, and vehicles all weaving through the same space.
Temple traditions are strictly followed here. Men must wear a dhoti, and shirts are not allowed inside the sanctum. Since I was in formal trousers, I purchased a dhoti from a nearby shop before entering. Women are required to wear saree or traditional salwar attire.
There was something deeply symbolic about offering prayers together on our anniversary—gratitude, commitment, and continuity.
Bajji, Beach Breeze & A Moonlit Finale
After darshan, we grabbed tea and hot bajji at a local eatery before walking along the beach, letting the sea breeze wrap around us.
Back at the resort, we ended the evening in the infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Sea. The full moon reflected off the waters below, the cliffside breeze whispering softly around us.
The resort sits dramatically on a cliff edge, and watching the moonlit sea from the pool felt almost surreal.
We ordered dinner at the in-house restaurant and quietly celebrated the day—not with extravagance, but with presence.
Cliffs. Moonlight. Temple bells.
And another year of togetherness.
This wasn’t just Day 4 of the trip.
It was a chapter of life beautifully bookmarked.
No comments:
Post a Comment