It had a dream of mine to go to Anjuna beach, trekking along the cliff, from Baga beach, ever since I saw a few people on the ridge, on our last trip to Anjuna via a boat ride. It remained a dream for almost 2 years, since there were no takers for a trek on a wednesday during the tourist season. Because it is on wednesdays that the flea market in Anjuna beach is open, that too during day light hours only. I love that flea market!!! My very good friend from Chennai came visiting for a few days, and he was game to try. Voila, my dream is coming true! Quickly got down to planning it; starting time, food to take, what to do etc.
There is Baga river separating Baga beach and the cliffs leading to Anjuna, and I never went that side before. To our luck, we missed an earlier left turn, and the next one took us past the Baga river, the road leading to the trek.
We found a nice parking spot, there were a few cars parked already, early birds and all that...
It was high tide and there was good amount of water in Baga river. The path starts from next to Baga river. There were several motor boats waiting for tourists/passengers. It was real tempting to get into one and float away to distant lands...
That dream for another day, right now the lovely path beckons a great trek. So, off we set went, one step infront of another, one path leading to another.
The views along the way were spectacular. Sprinkling of boats on the sea, in the morning sun was a tranquil sight.
At places the path was rather on the edge of the ridge. If you look down, it was scary, but the views from the edge were great.
After crossing a tricky path of boulders, we could see a beach shack and umbrellas and sun beds. This shack can be accessed from this trek. There is no other route from the land side. So, one can imagine it to be very quiet, less touristy, and in the midst of rocks, trees and water...
Decided to go to the beach shack and spend some time on my next trip.
At places, there was a steep climb of a few meters. I quite enjoy these short climbs. If it looks tricky, then I use my hands to find a grip and heave myself. Safety is very important to me. I want to live another day to do another trek...
The colours of dry grass, the reds of the rocks, the blues and greys of the sea are an artist's delight. Since only a few people take this route, one could take stop and take in the scenery.
The route offered varied experiences; at places, laterite stone boulders to climb, others, going through a cave of shrubs, and yet others, along the ridge ....
We are close to the end of the trek, after climbing the ridge and dipping to the sea level, almost, we are turning into the Anjuna beach.
The last stretch and when we felt we are there, guess what greeted us? A pile of garbage dumped in the side of the cliff. They were also burning it. The shacks on the beach perhaps think no one will notice or it could also be that there is no pick up of garbage along Anjuna beach. Whichever it is, it is a sore sight, and damage to the environment. The municipal officials should take note of it.
Finally at Anjuna beach. We sat down on the rocks, and had our picnic. After devouring the sandwiches we brought and a good drink of water, we got up to explore the Wednesday flea market that Anjuna beach is famous for. Great products at very reasonable prices, juices, snacks, make for an enjoyable experience of exploration and satisfaction.
This is a relatively easy trek doable, if you are a regular trekker or a young person with good strong knees and healthy heart. The scenery and view of the sea, boats, rocks more than make up for the little exertion you will feel. It took us 1.5hrs. at a comfortable pace to complete the trek.
If you are in this part of the world, on a wednesday during the tourist season (from december to march), trek from Baga beach to Anjuna beach along the cliffs and ridges.
