Aravi beach, Shrivardhan
We hit the road bright and early at 5:40 AM on Saturday. The 162 km drive took us about six hours, including a leisurely breakfast break and a couple of pit stops along the way. We passed through Mann Village in Hinjewadi and Tamhini Ghat, with mostly smooth roads—though there were a few bumpy spots to keep us on our toes. By 11:30 AM, we arrived at the peaceful Aravi Beach. This hidden gem was a serene escape, untouched by heavy crowds or commercialization. A handful of modest stalls offered snacks and refreshing juices, but the real charm was in the spacious parking and the unspoiled stretch of sand. After parking, we slipped into our swimwear and lathered up with sunscreen under the blazing sun. The beach itself was a picture of tranquility, with soft white sand and the rhythmic flow of the waves, especially since it was almost a full moon. We built sandcastles, snapped photos, wandered along the shoreline, and kicked back in the cool water. It was the perfect blend of relaxation an...