When you think of beaches in Mumbai, probably the ones that come to mind are Juhu, Girgaon, and Versova. Each of them has its charm, but these beaches can be a tad too crowded, and the cleanliness leaves quite a bit to be desired. So, when you get the urge for that Goa trip and your boss canceled that leave, where do you go? Gorai can be your answer.
Gorai is a coastal village in the northern suburbs of Mumbai. It’s a beautiful location for a one-day picnic and unwinding amidst the sea breeze, traveling in ferries, and relaxing at a renowned meditation center. Follow this one-day Gorai itinerary to explore all the places you can visit in a day in this quaint destination.
How To Spend A Day In Gorai
1. Watch The Sunrise At Gorai Beach
Nothing compares to starting your day with a gorgeous view of the sun just starting the day. Despite being early in the morning, you’ll find the fishermen already at work, preparing their fish nets and bait and braving the vast Arabian Sea. Cyclists pedalling their way through the beach and people walking or jogging are a common sight. Even the food shacks and stalls are just setting up everything before it gets buzzing with visitors. So, along with a breathtaking sunrise, you also get to watch everyone taking the first steps of their day.
2. Breakfast At Koli Seafood
Once the sky changes colors from a vibrant orange to a shade you’re used to seeing, you’ll snap back to life and realize your stomach has been making all sorts of noises. Head to Koli Seafood right beside Gorai Beach for breakfast. You can enjoy the food with a great beach view, and it’s very pocket-friendly!
Their prawns fry and crab masala are must orders and the food is known to be served hot and fresh! If you’re not looking for seafood, they even have the classic Maggi and egg bhurji.
Cost For One: INR 200
3. Visit The Kaka Baptista East Indian Museum
It’s time for your first round of the ferry as you make your way to Manori. The tickets will cost you only INR 15 and get you to Manori. From there, you can get a shared auto that’ll drop you to the Kaka Baptista East Indian Museum for INR 30.
The museum pays homage to Kaka Baptista, the East Indian lawyer who defended Lokmanya Tilak. He’s also the one to create the saying “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it”. It’s surely a one-of-a-kind as it’s the only museum dedicated to the Bombay East Indian community. Stories of East Indians and their contribution to the Indian Independence struggle, daily items belonging to the Koli tribe, toddy tappers, and traditional clothes are everything you’ll find inside.
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
4. Take A Ferry To Global Vipassana Pagoda
Hop on another ferry and head towards spiritual awakening. We’re talking about the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai. Once you spot a big golden dome from a distance, you’ll know you’re close to the destination. The dome of the pagoda is said to be the biggest in the whole world! Architecturally, the pagoda is a marvel and follows Burmese design as a gesture of gratitude to Myanmar for preserving Vipassana meditation.
As a visitor, you can try out the short ten-minute meditation inside the dome to get a feel of what Vipassana is about. For the dedicated ones out there, you can also opt for the 10-day Vipassana course. If you’re not there for meditation, you’ll be allowed to look at the meditation space inside from a viewing gallery. Entry to the pagoda is completely free. If you get hungry, visit the cafeteria within the complex to buy some snacks.
5. Catch The Sunset At Culvem Sunset Point
After spending a big slot of your time at Water Kingdom, it’s time to take a ferry back to Manori. You greeted the sun when it was waking up, it’s time to now say goodbye as you visit the Sunset Point in Manori Beach. The best part is that it’s not very crowded, giving you your private time with nature and your loved ones.
6. Dinner At Sea Breeze Kitchen
End your day with a delicious dinner at Sea Breeze Kitchen, an open-air restaurant that’ll liven up the atmosphere with live music and great service. If you’re going to spend this day with your partner, know that the restaurant has an amazing romantic ambiance.
Have a full 4-course meal as you start from ordering the Minestrone soup, then proceed to get the boiled chana chaat or the loaded nachos, accompanied by the BBQ cottage cheese pizza, and lastly a decadent sizzling brownie. Their pizza and pasta are quite praiseworthy.
Cost For Two: Approx INR 1,200
Address: 42, Plot F, Near Beach, Gorai, Mumbai
Summing Up
By the end of this one-day Gorai trip, you’ll have a productive day filled with amazing scenery, great fun, and tranquility. It’s one of the amazing getaways in Mumbai that will give you some unique experiences and time away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
FAQs
What Is Gorai Famous For?
Gorai is famous for its Gorai Beach, which is bordered by palm trees and white-golden sand.
How Long Is Gorai From Borivali Station?
From Borivali Station to Borivali Jetty, the distance is approximately 3 km. From the jetty, you can hop on a ferry to Gorai, which is a mere 10-minute ride.
What Is The Cost Of The Gorai Ferry?
The Gorai Ferry ticket price starts from INR 10 and can go up to INR 50 for one trip. It depends on where you’re traveling.
Is Gorai Beach Clean?
Gorai is known to be one of the cleanest beaches in Mumbai.
