Tilmati Beach
1 / 10

Tilmati Beach

4.6
·605 reviews·Majali, India

Discover Tilmati Beach, Karnataka's rare black sand gem, reached by a scenic trek offering stunning coastal views and unforgettable sunsets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Witness the magical sunset

CrowdMedium
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Tilmati Beach

Tilmati Beach

Best Time

Late afternoon

Witness the magical sunset

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Tilmati Beach, Karnataka's rare black sand gem, reached by a scenic trek offering stunning coastal views and unforgettable sunsets.

4.6
(605 reviews)

"The black sand surrounded by rocks and not crowded is the awesome thing. Calm Peace And Enjoy."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy shoes for trek

The trek to Tilmati Beach is scenic but can be narrow and cliff-adjacent. Good footwear is essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:

Plan for sunset return

There are no lights at night. Enjoy the sunset, but head back before it gets dark for a safe journey. :flashlight:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Black Sand

Unique Black Sand

Tilmati Beach

Experience the rare sight of coarse, black sand resembling sesame seeds, a truly unique geological wonder.

Panoramic Cliff Views

Panoramic Cliff Views

Cliffs overlooking Tilmati Beach

Capture stunning vistas of both the black sand beach and the seashell beach from elevated viewpoints.

Secluded Serenity

Secluded Serenity

Tilmati Beach

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this less-crowded beach, perfect for relaxation and quiet contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

The Trek to Tilmati

Reaching Tilmati Beach involves a scenic 15-20 minute trek from Gabitwada or Majali village. While generally easy, the path can be narrow and cliff-adjacent, so wear sturdy shoes and be mindful of your footing. The journey itself offers stunning coastal views, making it part of the adventure.

Best Time for Black Sand Bliss

Visit during the golden hours for breathtaking sunsets, as recommended by travelers. Avoid monsoon season for easier access, though boat options might exist. The beach is secluded with no lights, so plan your return before dusk to ensure safety and enjoy the tranquility.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Witness the magical sunset
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the only Black Sand Beach of Karnataka, known as Tilmati beach, Karwar, Karnataka. The texture of the sand is like Til(sesame seeds) and hence the name. How to visit: You need to trek for 15min from Gabitwada Beach(Fisherman's point of Google Map). It is an easy trek. The place is secluded and you have some mesmerising landscapes on the go 👌🏻♥️
neerajxtravel
6.2K likes • 126.1K views

Wear sturdy shoes for trek

The trek to Tilmati Beach is scenic but can be narrow and cliff-adjacent. Good footwear is essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:

Plan for sunset return

There are no lights at night. Enjoy the sunset, but head back before it gets dark for a safe journey. :flashlight:

DETAILS⬇️ 📍Tilmati beach, Karwar Tilmati Beach is approximately 13 km from the Karwar Bus Stand . From Majali village or its bus stop, there’s a short hike of about 1 km along a hilly and cliff-edge trail to reach the beach The sand here looks like tiny sesame seeds, which gives the beach its unique black appearance😍 . . . . . #reelsvideo #explore #reelsinstagram #karnataka #incrediblekarnata...
shruthika_shetty
34.4K likes • 1.1M views
TiLmAtI BeAcH 🏖 Karwar Karnataka @peac_x @professional_rider01 @roscydsouza @sohan_14_ @jai_titann @m.ravi_chandra @_aju_28_ @karwar_meri_jaan @karwar_city
aniket_kapileshwari
187.4K likes • 9.3M views

Combine with Shell Beach

You'll pass by Shell Beach on your way to Tilmati. It's a beautiful spot with countless seashells. :shell:

Ask locals for directions

There are no clear signboards. Get local advice to find the best entry point and navigate safely. :information_desk:

Tilmati Beach (Black Sand Beach), Karwar, Karnataka #incredibleankola #thisisudupi #allaboutgokarna #nammaankola #karavalikarnataka #nammabhoomi #karnatakapravasi #incredibleuttarakannada #incredible_karnataka #incredibleankola #karnatakaone #sanchari_karavali #karnatakaworld #nammakarnataka #karwar #halakkivokkaliga #halakkigoudru #karnatakavaibhava #ilovemykarwar
pramodg_photography
235 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy shoes for trek

The trek to Tilmati Beach is scenic but can be narrow and cliff-adjacent. Good footwear is essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:

Plan for sunset return

There are no lights at night. Enjoy the sunset, but head back before it gets dark for a safe journey. :flashlight:

Combine with Shell Beach

You'll pass by Shell Beach on your way to Tilmati. It's a beautiful spot with countless seashells. :shell:

Ask locals for directions

There are no clear signboards. Get local advice to find the best entry point and navigate safely. :information_desk:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(605 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by Tilmati Beach's rare black sand and the stunning coastal trek to reach it. The secluded, peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking sunset views are frequently praised. However, the lack of facilities and the need for careful navigation on the trek are noted drawbacks.

""A must-visit for adventure lovers! The unique black sand and stunning sunset are worth the trek."
Tilmati Beach truly is a hidden gem on the Karnataka coast! My visit here was fantastic. The main attraction is, without a doubt, the rare, jet-black sand that gives the beach its name ("til" means sesame seeds in the local language). It's surrounded by beautiful rocky terrain and a serene, uncrowded atmosphere that feels very peaceful.
The journey to the beach is part of the adventure. It requires a 15-20 minute hike/trek from the end of Majali beach or the nearest road point. The path can be a bit narrow and rocky in parts, so wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes is a must (I saw someone in flip-flops struggle!). The views of the coastline and a smaller shell beach along the trail are beautiful.
We went in the late afternoon, and the sunset was absolutely breathtaking. It was a perfect spot for photography.
Important tips:
Carry your own water and snacks, as there are zero shops or facilities on the beach itself.
Plan your return before dark, as there are no lights on the path back. A flashlight might be helpful just in case.
The water can be deep in some areas, so swim with caution.
Overall, if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience and a tranquil natural setting, Tilmati Beach is highly recommended!"

Jagadish S Chikkanargund

"Track is good enough and easy if you are frequent trekking. You will get to see shell beach while you are on the way to black sand beach."

ashpak shaikh

"The best beach I ever seen. Loved it!!!
The black sand surrounded by rocks and not crowded is the awesome thing.
Calm Peace And Enjoy.
To reach the beach there is small hiking near 1.5km its small paths need to little careful. And then you will witness the best sunset in your life.
There is no lights in the night, so return early."

Anju PM

What People Like

Unique black sand
Scenic trek
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

No facilities
Trek requires care

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tilmati Beach is located about 13 km from Karwar Bus Stand. From Majali village or its bus stop, you'll need to embark on a short hike of about 1 km along a hilly and cliff-edge trail to reach the beach. Some travelers mention a 15-minute trek from Gabitwada Beach, also known as the Fisherman's point. TikTokInstagram

While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, you can take a bus to Majali or Gabitwada village from Karwar. From there, the trek is the primary way to access the beach. Instagram

The final approach to Tilmati Beach is on foot via a trek. While you can drive to nearby villages like Majali or Gabitwada, the beach itself is not directly accessible by car. TikTok

The trek is generally described as easy to moderate, taking about 15-20 minutes. It involves walking along a path that can be narrow and cliff-adjacent, offering scenic coastal views. Sturdy footwear is recommended. TikTokReddit

Access can be difficult during the monsoon season due to potentially rough terrain. However, some reports suggest boat services from nearby Pollem beach might be available, but it's best to check locally beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets required for Tilmati Beach. It's a natural attraction, and access is generally free. Reddit

Tilmati Beach does not have official opening or closing hours. However, due to its secluded nature and lack of lighting, it's highly recommended to visit during daylight hours and leave before sunset for safety. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee for the trek to Tilmati Beach. The journey through the natural landscape is part of the experience. TikTok

The main consideration is the time of day due to the lack of lighting. It's also advisable to be mindful of the terrain during the trek and to respect the natural environment. Reddit

While there might not be specific 'Tilmati Beach tours,' local tour operators in Karwar may include it as part of broader Karwar or Uttara Kannada tour packages. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The unique black sand itself is a prime subject. Also, the cliffs overlooking the beach offer stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don't miss capturing the contrast between the black sand and the surrounding rocks. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Travelers rave about the sunsets at Tilmati Beach, calling them the 'best sunset in your life.' The golden light against the black sand creates a dramatic and beautiful scene. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the unique beach landscape. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots to ensure stability. Some creators have used action cameras like the Insta360 X3 for immersive footage. Instagram

The contrast of the black sand against the blue sea and the rocky outcrops is visually striking. You can also capture the journey itself, including the nearby Shell Beach, which is covered in seashells. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in any natural or coastal area to ensure compliance. Instagram

🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience

Tilmati Beach is renowned for its distinctive black sand, which gets its color from basaltic rock. The name 'Tilmati' comes from the Konkani words 'tillu' (sesame seeds) and 'matti' (soil), referring to the sand's appearance. It's one of the rarest black sand beaches in Karnataka. Instagram+1

Tilmati Beach is generally described as secluded and not crowded, offering a peaceful experience. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility away from bustling tourist spots. Reddit

The primary activities include enjoying the unique black sand, swimming in the clean waters (during safe conditions), relaxing by the sea, and taking in the stunning views. The trek to the beach is also an enjoyable part of the experience. Reddit

Due to its secluded nature, there are typically no facilities like restrooms, shops, or food stalls directly at Tilmati Beach. It's advisable to come prepared with your own water and snacks. Reddit

The water is described as clean, and swimming is possible. However, always exercise caution, be aware of the currents, and swim only when conditions are safe. Lifeguards are generally not present at this secluded beach. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tilmati Beach offers a unique natural experience for families, but requires careful planning. The trek to the beach is manageable for older children who can walk safely on uneven terrain. Parents should ensure children wear appropriate footwear and stay close during the hike, especially near cliff edges. Reddit

Once at the beach, the black sand is a fascinating novelty for kids to explore. The clean waters are suitable for supervised swimming, but always be mindful of safety as there are no lifeguards. The secluded nature means families can enjoy a relatively peaceful time, but it also means bringing all necessary supplies like water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities available. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers

For solo travelers and adventurers, Tilmati Beach offers a rewarding experience combining a scenic trek with a unique natural wonder. The 15-20 minute hike is a great way to start the day or afternoon, providing a sense of accomplishment. The beach's secluded atmosphere is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet, allowing for introspection and connection with nature. Reddit

It's advisable to inform someone of your plans and expected return time, especially given the lack of facilities and lighting. The opportunity to witness a rare black sand beach and capture stunning sunset views makes Tilmati a memorable destination for independent explorers. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and Name of Tilmati Beach

Tilmati Beach's most striking feature is its unique black sand. This distinctive color is attributed to the presence of basaltic rock in the surrounding geology. The sand's texture and appearance are so unique that it resembles sesame seeds, which is how the beach got its name. In the Konkani language, 'tillu' means sesame seeds and 'matti' means soil, hence 'Tilmati'. This natural phenomenon makes it one of the rarest black sand beaches in Karnataka, attracting visitors curious about its geological origins. Instagram+1

Historically, Tilmati was known during the Maratha reign and later found itself on the border between British-ruled North Canara and Portuguese Goa. This historical context adds another layer of intrigue to the beach's already fascinating character. Instagram

The shoreline is approximately 150 meters long, offering a distinct stretch of this unusual sand. The surrounding rocky outcrops further enhance the dramatic landscape, creating a visually captivating environment for visitors. Instagram

Navigating the Journey to Tilmati

The adventure to Tilmati Beach begins with a trek, often described as a highlight in itself. Travelers typically start from nearby villages like Gabitwada or Majali. The hike is generally considered easy to moderate, taking around 15 to 20 minutes. It involves navigating a path that can be narrow and runs along cliff edges, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. TikTokInstagram

It's crucial to wear sturdy footwear for this trek, as the terrain requires careful footing. The journey provides a sense of anticipation and rewards visitors with stunning natural scenery even before reaching the main attraction. Some visitors mention encountering Shell Beach en route, a beautiful spot covered in countless seashells, adding another delightful discovery to the excursion. InstagramReddit

Due to the beach's secluded nature and lack of artificial lighting, planning your visit around daylight hours is essential. Travelers strongly advise returning before dusk to ensure a safe trek back. While direct signboards are scarce, seeking advice from locals can help you find the most accessible and safest entry points. Reddit

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