Are you an adventure lover for whom an ideal vacation involves riding high waves? Then India’s 700 km-long and spectacular coastline is a treasure trove waiting to be explored by you. So, which part of India features the most amazing surf spots? When should you visit to fulfill your surfing dreams? Here is your ultimate guide, where you’ll find all the necessary information for an unforgettable surfing experience in India.
Surfing season in India
When it comes to enjoying surfing in India, you must know the right time when the waves will be in your favor.
Tides do not rise more than 3-5 feet between October and April.
So, the peak surfing season in India is winter, that is, November to February when the waves are gentle.
And for someone new to this sport, winter is an ideal time to get enough practice and become a pro.
On the other hand, surfing in India in monsoon is recommended only for professional surfers.
Faster and larger waves start approaching in May, the pre-monsoon season.
The surf ranges from 8 to 15 feet between May and September, and heavy showers accompany the waves.
So, an advanced surfer will consider these conditions fantastic – world-class waves and offshore winds.
Best time of the year to surf in India
As explained, the perfect time for accomplished surfers to have a memorable surfing experience in India is May to September.
But for someone who wishes to learn it, it’s better to plan the trip in the colder months: November to February.
You must get up early when you’re there as the most peaceful time to surf is in the morning.
Offshore winds and the glassy surface will make it more fun for you to catch a wave.
Best surf spots to learn surfing in India
India has many fantastic surfing spots that attract experienced and amateur surfers from around the globe.
Let’s look at the areas that have won the hearts of thousands of surfing enthusiasts:
Kovalam/ Covelong Village in Tamil Nadu
Only half an hour from Chennai, Kovalam is a fishing-cum-surfing village with the least unruly waves.
Many excellent surf facilities exist, like the Ocean Delight Surf School and the Covelong Point Social Surf School.
If you go there in August, you can get surfing lessons for free. That’s because the Covelong Point Surf, Music & Yoga Festival takes place every August.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry’s long surfing season commences in June and lasts until January.
Serenity Beach is the iconic surfing spot at Pondicherry, where waves rise to 12 feet.
Kallialay Surf School is a surf school at Serenity Beach that two Spanish brothers run.
They are passionate about surfing and offer packages like single lessons, 15-day courses, and more.
Little Andaman in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Whether you are a seasoned or an intermediate surfer, the breathtakingly beautiful Andaman and Nicobar Islands won’t disappoint you.
Tourists can access multiple surf spots only by boat, but Little Andaman Island is where you should head first.
This island has a fantastic surf scene, and the best waves are in Butler Bay.
Distant storms deserve credit for causing the most massive waves in March, April, and May.
Andaman has many surf schools that arrange guiding trips. Just don’t forget to wear reef shoes to avoid getting hurt at the reef breaks.
Ten Thousand Peaks
There’s hardly a surfer who hasn’t heard the name of Ten Thousand Peaks.
A unique surf location in South India, Ten Thousand Peaks is in Maravanthe.
Maravanthe is a quiet beachside town preferred by solo travelers and nature lovers.
Stretching for nearly six kilometers, the scenic beach creates delightful wave possibilities.
So, surfing here will help you perfect your techniques and treat your eyes to enchanting views.
When your sore muscles crave relaxation, a freshwater lake is nearby.
Gokarna in Karnataka
The serene temple town of Gokarna is a heavenly destination for hippies, backpackers, and pilgrims.
But few people know that Gokarna is also a perfect place for wandering surfers, and here’s why.
Thanks to the calm beach breaks, Gokarna has emerged as a spot for beginners keen on learning surfing.
The biggest advantage is that it is a hidden gem. So, you can expect clear waters and a beautiful ambiance.
But where in Gokarna will you find the most dramatic waves? Main Beach, close to the renowned Mahabaleshwar Temple, is the most coveted surf spot.
On Long Beach, there’s Cocopelli Surf School, which curates a variety of courses based on their difficulty levels.
They have a guesthouse, and the beach is just 1 minute away from the property.
Mulki surfing in Karnataka
Mulki deserves credit for having the first-ever surf school in India, Mantra Surf Club.
If braving the currents gives you adrenaline, you may add Mulki to your bucket list.
Most people go to Mulki by road from Mangalore as the road trip will reward you with eye-soothing panoramic views.
The easy-going currents of the clean beach are inviting to inexperienced surfers.
Vizag in Andhra Pradesh
Wondering where to surf safely since you are not confident about your newly acquired skills?
If you are drawn to this thrilling sport, you can try surfing in Vizag in summer.
Lawson Bay is a famous stamping ground on the east coast of India, and its surfable ways are known for their consistency.
An added benefit is that the city center is nearby, and you’ll get impressive stays there.
Conclusion
So, if you are looking forward to hitting the waves, all the above spots promise to exhilarate you.
Lastly, the Indian subcontinent is known for its varied topography, wildlife, rich culture, historical monuments, and mouth-watering food.
When you are done surfing, you may also explore the picturesque hill stations, check out ancient architecture, and taste local cuisines.
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