Tilmati Beach: Exploring Karnataka’s Black Sand Paradise on a Solo Trip
Explore Tilmati Beach, a unique black sand beach on the Karnataka-Goa border. Read about my first solo trip, the trek, and the unforgettable adventure to this hidden gem.
Likith K H
1/5/20245 min read
Note: The photos in this blog are from my older collection, taken before I honed my photography skills. While the quality may not be the best, they hold cherished memories of the places and moments that inspired this story.
Planning the Trip: A Whim Turned Adventure
This trip wasn’t planned weeks in advance—it was decided the night before. I was in Manipal, waiting to start my master’s degree at MAHE, when the idea struck me. After convincing my parents and my second mom, my sister, I packed my bag and set out the next morning from Udupi. It was my first time traveling alone, and I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness.
The Train Journey: Udupi to Karwar
I boarded a train from Udupi to Karwar, and the experience was magical. Watching the rivers and bridges pass by as the train rolled through Karnataka’s lush landscapes was mesmerizing. March’s heat was intense, but the beauty outside the window kept me engaged. Traveling alone gave me a sense of freedom I hadn’t experienced before, and I enjoyed every moment.
The Challenge of Finding Tilmati Beach
Once I arrived in Karwar, I realized I had no clear plan for reaching Tilmati Beach. I asked around at the bus stand, but most locals hadn’t even heard of it. Eventually, a helpful stranger suggested I take a bus to Majali Beach and walk along the shore to find the trek’s starting point.
The next hurdle came when I learned buses to Majali were infrequent. The conductor informed me that returning buses were rare, with the last one leaving at 3 PM—too close to my scheduled train back to Manipal. He suggested an alternative: walk 1–2 kilometers to the highway and catch a bus there. Armed with this plan, I boarded the bus to Majali.
The Walk Along Majali Beach
Majali Beach was a revelation. The sand had a distinct texture, the water was a different shade of blue, and the seashells were unlike anything I’d seen before. The beach was empty, save for a few fishermen in the distance. Walking along this serene stretch felt like a private escape. It was here I first felt the true joy of solo travel—being alone yet completely content.
The Trek to Tilmati Beach
After some searching, I found the trek’s starting point, marked by a narrow path cutting through a mountain. I soon realized my choice of footwear—slippers—was a mistake. The trail was steep in parts, with ropes to help climb up and down. My slippers tore halfway through, leaving me barefoot. While I love walking barefoot on beaches, I didn’t think about how black sand absorbs heat. That realization came later!
The trek itself was breathtaking. I passed a stream flowing from the mountains into the sea—a sight I’d never seen before. The rocky coastline had a natural "box" formation where waves splashed dramatically, creating mesmerizing patterns. Every step of the trek felt like discovering a new wonder.
The Black Sand Beauty of Tilmati Beach
Finally, I reached Tilmati Beach, and it was worth every challenge. Nestled between a forested mountain and the Arabian Sea, the beach’s black sand shimmered under the sun. It felt like I had stepped into another world. The solitude was surreal—I had the entire beach to myself.
I set up my tripod, took photos, and jumped around in excitement, celebrating this milestone of reaching the destination alone. But soon, the black sand’s heat became unbearable. Without shade, I found myself hopping around to avoid burning my feet, a funny yet challenging moment. Despite the heat, I stayed for a while, soaking in the beauty of this unique beach.
The Journey Back: Unexpected Discoveries
Heading back, I encountered fishermen with fascinating catches—lobsters, crabs, and shells I had never seen before. Their stories and the sight of their haul added another layer of richness to my experience. I walked to the highway, caught a bus to Karwar, and felt an exhilarating mix of exhaustion and accomplishment.
Extending the Adventure to Gokarna
Not ready for the adventure to end, I decided to extend my trip. Instead of boarding my train from Karwar, I headed to Gokarna. The bus ride was peaceful, but fatigue caught up with me, and I overslept, missing my stop. I got off two kilometers ahead and walked back, laughing at how this trip was unfolding.
Reaching Gokarna, I realized I couldn’t catch my train and decided to stay the night. An auto driver quoted an outrageous fare, so I chose to walk 10 kilometers into the city instead. It was tiring, but it taught me the value of sticking to a budget. I rented a small room, spent the night on the beach, and reflected on the day’s experiences. Listening to the waves under the stars, I felt a deep sense of contentment.
What This Trip Taught Me
This trip to Tilmati Beach was about more than seeing a black sand beach. It was about discovering the joys and challenges of solo travel. From navigating unfamiliar routes to trekking barefoot on hot sand, every moment taught me something new. I learned to adapt, appreciate solitude, and embrace spontaneity.
Final Thoughts
Tilmati Beach, with its shimmering black sand and serene atmosphere, is a destination worth the effort. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or someone looking for a quiet escape, this hidden gem on the Karnataka-Goa border won’t disappoint. For me, it marked the start of a love for solo travel and a journey of self-discovery.
If you’re planning a trip, make sure to prepare better than I did (trekking shoes are a must!). But also, allow yourself the freedom to explore, make mistakes, and cherish the surprises along the way.
