Last weekend’s ride to Korlai was an unforgettable experience from the moment we set off. I woke up early that Saturday to find the skies heavy with rain, evoking the vivid imagery of a beautiful poem by Raymond Carver titled “Rain.” The lines resonated with my mood:
“Then looked out the window at the rain.
And gave over. Put myself entirely
in the keep of this rainy morning.”
Fully immersed in the romantic atmosphere, I felt the stage was perfectly set for a spectacular rainy ride ahead. We gathered at our usual meeting point, the NMMC building at Belapur, with the air buzzing with excitement for the 97 km journey to Korlai, a charming coastal village near Alibaug. With a determined spirit, we kicked off at 6:30 AM, navigating through the lively streets towards Panvel via the winding JNPT road.
Within half an hour, we arrived at our favorite breakfast spot, Joshi Vadewale, where the rain drummed a soothing rhythm on the roof. The ambiance was perfect for indulging in a few plates of piping hot Kanda Bhajiyas—crispy, spiced onion fritters—and the flavorful Misal Pao, a spicy potato and matki bean curry served with bread. After a fulfilling 40-minute feast, we resumed our journey, with our next stop set for Poynad, where we couldn’t resist another beloved treat—Vada Pao—a spicy potato-filled bun that has become a staple for many riders.
The Poynad halt is a rite of passage for bikers, and it’s always a lively scene as we spot fellow rider groups on their way to Alibaug or Murud, exchanging the customary Bikers Salute—a simple gesture of camaraderie that unites us all. After a refreshing twenty-minute break filled with laughter and shared stories, we set off for the final leg of our adventure.
As we rode on, the rain began to ease, giving way to a cool, invigorating breeze. We zipped past breathtaking landscapes adorned with lush greenery, flowing rivers, and majestic hills, all of which unfolded like a picturesque painting. Our destination, Samudra Sandhya, awaited us—an idyllic retreat right on the beach. There, we unwound, savoring steaming cups of fragrant coffee paired with locally produced Naralwadi, a delicious coconut sweet that perfectly encapsulates the coastal essence. After settling into our cozy rooms, we regrouped at 1 PM for a rustic lunch featuring Pomfret Curry and Prawns Fry, both freshly prepared and bursting with local flavors.
Later in the afternoon, around 4 PM, we took a short ten-minute drive to the stunning Korlai Fort. The venue was nothing short of majestic, overlooking the azure sea and steeped in history. The fort, with its weathered stones and breathtaking views, also features a lighthouse that can be visited for a minimal fee. We explored the grounds, taking plenty of photos to capture the memories before making our way back to the hotel by 6:30 PM.
As night fell, the atmosphere turned celebratory—the romantic weather complemented by cool winds and gentle, intermittent rain created a magical ambiance at our venue. We danced the night away, surrounded by laughter and good cheer, all while enjoying delectable food and refreshing drinks.
The following morning, we woke early at 7 AM, indulging in a hearty breakfast of Poha and Egg Bhurji to fuel our journey back home. We made one last pit stop at Poynad, relishing the moment before heading back. By 10 AM, we were homeward bound, filled with the joy of unforgettable experiences.
The Korlai ride is undoubtedly a must-visit, especially during the monsoon season, allowing riders to experience the raw beauty of the coastline while indulging in the area’s exquisite coastal cuisine. One of the highlights is discovering the hidden, unspoiled beaches, where tranquility reigns and tourists are scarce. So, gather your fellow riders and plan a trip to Korlai soon—it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Sameer S Nilatkar
