The short answer
South Beach and Boating Point: what visitors should know first
Good for a calm afternoon and a short boat ride if it is running. It is quieter and darker-sanded than the temple beach. Check that the boating point is operating, because services are mainly seasonal, and avoid swimming in strong currents.
History and context
The story behind South Beach and Boating Point
Wikipedia describes a second beach of about 2 km, L-shaped, in front of the MTDC resort on the south side. No further verified history is available.
Useful facts
South Beach and Boating Point facts at a glance
- Location
- South beach, in front of the MTDC resort
- Experience type
- Quiet beach and boating point
- Length
- About 2 km, L-shaped
- Known for
- Darker sand, rocks, boat rides in season
- Safety note
- Undercurrents reported; use life jackets
Why it matters
Why South Beach and Boating Point is worth your time
The south beach shows the quieter side of Harihareshwar. Away from the temple lane, it gives families a place to sit by the sea without pilgrim queues, and its resort setting makes it the easiest stretch for visitors who want facilities.
It is also where tourism has a visible, modest footprint, through boat rides and the MTDC resort. Visitors should treat these as seasonal extras, and prioritise safety over thrills.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
L-shaped beach
The bend in the shoreline gives a calmer corner than the straight temple beach.
- 02
Boating point
Seasonal family boat and scooter rides run from near the resort.
- 03
Resort seating
The resort side offers somewhere to sit with a sea view.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
This is the shorter of Harihareshwar's two beaches, about 2 km long and L-shaped according to Wikipedia. The sand is darker and the stretch is quieter than the temple side, with rock formations and fewer people.
Near the MTDC resort there is a boating point, which Outlook Traveller describes as offering scooter rides and family boat rides with life jackets from morning to twilight, mostly in season. Ask the operators about the route and safety before you go, and insist on life jackets for everyone.
If you prefer to stay on land, walk along the sea edge and sit at the resort's outdoor restaurant area. Guides warn about undercurrents, so swimming is not advised unless locals confirm conditions. Late afternoon, with the light low, is the pleasant time.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm the boating point is operating
- Insist on life jackets
- Check current ride prices
- Avoid swimming in strong currents
- Visit late afternoon
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- South of the temple, in front of the MTDC resort
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Best time
- Late afternoon; November to February
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The sand is mostly level and the resort side has some seating and shade. Getting in and out of boats can be awkward for older travellers, so ask about steps and life jackets first.
- Tickets and access
- Boat and scooter rides are paid and seasonal. Prices quoted in older guides are likely out of date, so confirm current rates and life-jacket availability on the spot.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near South Beach and Boating Point
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The sand is mostly level and the resort side has some seating and shade. Getting in and out of boats can be awkward for older travellers, so ask about steps and life jackets first.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Are boat rides available all year?
Guides say they run mainly in season, so check on arrival.
Is it quieter than the temple beach?
Yes, it is usually quieter, with darker sand and rock formations.
Can I swim here?
Outlook Traveller says swimming is safer at high tide on the south side, but currents are strong, so be cautious.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Harihareshwar
- Outlook Traveller: Quick Guide Harihareshwar
- Outlook Traveller: Harihareshwar, Pilgrim's Progress
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
