East Coast vs West Coast

Published in the Sunday Indian Express Magazine - Eye on 09 March 2025

When you hear the phrase ‘East Coast vs West Coast,’ your mind might immediately travel to the United States of America, where the contrast between the two coasts is a well- known conversation. From the glamour of Los Angeles to the historic charm of New York, the U.S. coasts have long been compared for their unique travel experiences. 

But what about India? Rarely do we think of the Indian subcontinent in the same coastal context. Yet, India too boasts two distinct and dramatically different coastlines – the West Coast, bordered by the Arabian Sea, and the East Coast, meeting the Bay of Bengal. Each coast has its own character, its own rhythm, and its own set of travel treasures. 

Today, let’s explore the striking contrasts between India’s two great shorelines, showcasing the unique travel experiences, cultural highlights, and lesser-known gems that make each coast a world of its own.  

Geographical & Cultural Divide

The Arabian Sea hugs the western coastline, where the landscape is a mix of rolling hills, coconut groves, and cliffs that add character to the shoreline. Facing the Bay of Bengal, the eastern coastline offers a different experience. It is a region of deep-rooted traditions, ancient temple towns, and colonial influences. The coastline is flatter compared to the west, featuring long, uninterrupted sandy stretches and unique ecosystems such as the Sundarbans’ mangrove forests. 

The West Coast experiences a tropical, humid climate, with heavy monsoons that nourish its lush greenery. The East Coast, on the other hand, faces the occasional wrath of cyclones due to its exposure to the Bay of Bengal, with seasonal variations shaping its coastal geography. While the western side enjoys misty hill stations alongside its beaches, the eastern shore is home to expansive plains that extend seamlessly into the ocean. 

Beach Towns

The beaches of the West Coast are often the first image that comes to mind when one thinks of an Indian beach holiday. Goa’s endless stretches of golden sand, the palm-fringed shores of Gokarna, and the calm waves of Kerala’s Varkala define leisure and relaxation. The beaches here are social hubs, bustling with shacks, seafood stalls, and music drifting in the salty air. 

The East Coast offers a more introspective charm, where the beaches hold an aura of history and spirituality. Puducherry’s Promenade Beach, lined with remnants of French colonial architecture, presents a striking contrast to the more lively western shores. Puri’s golden beach is not just a place for sun and sand but a sacred destination, where pilgrims take a dip before visiting the revered Jagannath Temple. In Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram’s coastline is dotted with ancient rock-cut temples, blending history with the beauty of the sea. 

History & Heritage

While the East Coast holds India’s most significant historical treasures, such as the temples of Mahabalipuram and the Konark Sun Temple, the West Coast carries an equally fascinating legacy, rooted in valiant battles, maritime trade, and empire-building. 

Maharashtra alone is home to over 350 forts built during the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, each standing as a testament to his military genius and indomitable spirit. The forts not only tell tales of warfare but some of them also offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, blending history with nature.  

The West Coast’s history is further intertwined with trade and exploration. The spice ports of Kerala, once bustling with traders from Europe and the Middle East, tell a story of commerce and cultural exchange. The Portuguese-era churches and forts in Goa stand as enduring reminders of its colonial past, which continues to influence its traditions and festivals. 

The East Coast’s historical significance is deeply tied to the powerful empires that once ruled the subcontinent, leaving behind awe-inspiring architectural marvels. The Chola temples of Tamil Nadu, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, are some of the most magnificent structures ever built, showcasing the advanced engineering and artistic grandeur of the Chola dynasty. These temples, with their towering gopurams and intricate carvings, are not just places of worship but also symbols of Tamil heritage and ingenuity. 

Further north, Kolkata’s colonial past is evident in its grand buildings and landmarks, such as the Victoria Memorial and Fort William, remnants of the British Raj. Odisha, too, is home to remarkable heritage sites beyond Konark. The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, ancient rock-cut shelters used by Jain monks, provide a glimpse into India’s spiritual and artistic evolution.  

Together, these landmarks make the East Coast a treasure trove for history lovers, offering a journey through time that spans centuries of art, architecture, and conquest. 

Food

Both coasts offer a culinary journey deeply rooted in the flavours of the sea, but the preparation styles and influences vary widely.  

Malvani cuisine from Maharashtra is known for its bold use of coconut, kokum, and fiery spices in dishes like Bangda (Mackerel) Fry and Surmai (Kingfish) Curry. Goa’s culinary scene is a blend of Portuguese and Indian influences, where Prawn Balchão, Goan Chorizo, and the iconic Bebinca dessert offer a taste of its colonial past.  

Karnataka’s coastal delicacies include Mangalorean Fish Curry and the soft, thin, and delicate Neer Dosa, while Kerala's cuisine shines with dishes like Meen Moilee (fish in coconut gravy) and the legendary Kerala Sadya, a multi-course vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. 

The East Coast, too, is a paradise for seafood lovers but is distinctly influenced by the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bengal. Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad cuisine is world-famous for its intricate spice blends and bold flavours, particularly in dishes like Chettinad Crab Masala.  

Andhra Pradesh’s cuisine is known for its spice-laden Royyala Iguru (prawn curry) and its legendary Hyderabadi Biryani. Bengal, with its deep love for mustard-based preparations, offers iconic dishes such as Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in mustard gravy) and the comforting Machher Jhol (fish curry). Odisha, known for its temple cuisine, features the Mahaprasad of Jagannath Temple, a sacred feast cooked without onions or garlic but brimming with flavours.   

Adventure & Nature

The West Coast is a haven for adrenaline junkies who love the open sea and rugged landscapes. Goa’s beaches are synonymous with high-energy water sports - parasailing over the shimmering Arabian Sea, jet skiing at Baga Beach, or windsurfing in Palolem are just a few of the exhilarating experiences that await.  

For those who prefer exploring beneath the surface, scuba diving at Netrani Island in Karnataka is a must. This tiny, heart-shaped island offers some of the best marine biodiversity in India, where divers can swim alongside reef sharks, manta rays, and a stunning variety of coral fish. 

The Western Ghats, running parallel to the coastline, are a trekker’s paradise. Monsoons transform this lush green stretch into a land of magic, with countless waterfalls, mist-covered hills, and dense forests. Kerala’s Meesapulimala trek, winding through tea plantations and misty hills, is another adventure that rewards hikers with an ethereal sunrise. 

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Kabini and Bandipur reserves in Karnataka are perfect for tiger safaris. Boat safaris in Kerala’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offer a unique way to spot elephants and exotic birds as you float through serene backwaters. 

The East Coast, on the other hand, offers a raw and untamed charm. The Bay of Bengal’s powerful waves have turned Mahabalipuram into India’s surfing capital, where both beginners and seasoned surfers take to the waters. Similarly, Rushikonda Beach in Andhra Pradesh is gaining traction as a surfing hotspot, drawing wave riders from across the country. 

But the real jewel of the East lies in the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Unlike a traditional safari, navigating the maze of waterways on a boat, keeping a sharp eye out for crocodiles basking on the banks and tigers lurking in the dense undergrowth, is an experience that stays with you forever.  

For trekkers, the Eastern Ghats remain an underexplored frontier. Unlike the Western Ghats’ lush green valleys, the Eastern Ghats offer rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs. Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, surrounded by coffee plantations and waterfalls, is a trekker’s delight, while Deomali Hill, the highest peak in Odisha, offers sweeping views of rolling hills and pristine forests. 

Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, provides a different kind of adventure. Here, visitors can take a boat ride to Kalijai Island, home to an ancient temple, or witness the spectacle of thousands of migratory birds that arrive from as far as Siberia. The lake is also home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphins and spotting one playfully breaking the surface is a delight for nature lovers. 

To sum up, India’s coasts are two sides of the same vibrant story. The West enchants with its easygoing charm, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes, while the East captivates with its spiritual depth, rich history, and cultural grandeur. Choosing between them isn’t just about picking a destination - it’s about deciding what kind of experience you seek. So why not do it all, one weekend at a time! See you next time...