India might be one of the last few countries to catch onto the surfing wave, but in the last few years, enthusiasts taking up this sport is growing bigger. India’s vast 7,000 kilometres (4,349 miles) coastline has some great surf spots, some even unexplored! Here’s a list of the top locations, if you want to connect with the spirit of the ocean.
Image source: Rammohan Paranjape/surfermag.com
Kovalam, Kerala
This tourist spot is known for its exotic beaches, but not many know that its waters are good to surf round the year. During the rainy season, the waves soar up to 5 to 6 feet high and are good for professional surfers. However, if you are a beginner, October to April is the right time for you. Not far from Kovalam is Varkala, known for its fast rides, growing to be a popular surf destination.
Image Source: reachkerala.com
Maravanthe, Karnataka
Though the coast of Mangalore has numerous beaches like Mulki, Kapu, Murdeshwar, etc, we picked up Maravanthe because a section of its beach has a fresh water lake running parallel to it. It’s something you might never see elsewhere. As for surfing, you can surf until you can’t stand up anymore.
Image source: Karthik Kashyap/team-bhp.com
Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
If you visit Auroville, the locals will direct you to the beach spot, which has some great waves. The waters deliver an ultimate experience for all kinds of surfers. Surf enthusiasts frequent between February and March to try out this water sport.
Image Source: Conde Nast Traveller
Vizag (Visakhapatnam), Andhra Pradesh
Image Source: surfingap.blogspot.in
Anthony Yep Colas, who published the book – World Storm Rider, says that he got some epic waves here and you will see why when you land on the Rushikonda beach. The tube waves and crests are among the best in India, say world-class surfers.
Puri, Odisha
Known for the world-famous architecture wonder, Jagannath temple, waves here can go up to 9 feet high during monsoons. The spot is ideal for experienced surfers as the strong currents call for a challenging ride.
Image Source: magicseaweed.com
The beaches of Goa and Gokarna are inviting too, providing waves for beginners between October and May and some high waves for professionals in the monsoons. Most of these places have surf clubs, which rent out the tow boards and conduct classes for enthusiasts. So choose your board because surf’s up.
Image Source: surfertoday.com
If you are excited and want to know more about surfing, head to the India Surf Festival which will be hosted in Ramchandi Beach in Odisha from 6- 8 February 2015.
