Hitting fame in the 60s when bohemian crowds visited Goa to experience its gorgeous beaches, magical sunsets and homely communities, it is now a winner mix of talented artists, chefs and hoteliers that have transformed Goa into one of the country’s most stylish coves to unwind. However, apart from the pristine sandy beaches, cuisine to die for and a nightlife to get you away from your city troubles, Goa is also a hub for experiences that touch the soul. Here is a beginner’s guide to the many eclectic and offbeat activities that you can indulge in while on your next trip to Goa!
Boat Trip to Divar Island
Catch the ferry boat to this quaint island opposite Old Goa to get a perspective of its rich culture, history and social ties from fine baroque churches, ancient temples and goan bakeries, old Portuguese houses and winding roads. Green and tranquil, you will slip into a Goan coma with delectable food options and a serene atmosphere!
A visit to the Butterfly Conservatory
A small butterfly sanctuary (also, a sanctuary for your soul) is located just 5KM from Ponda – home to almost 100 species of butterflies. The best part? They are not enclosed. They are free-flying butterflies in a small jungle patch with a worthwhile spot on your Goan bucketlist.
Ruins of Cabo de Rama
A trip down memory lane for history-powered buffs – a short drive to South Goa through a muddy off-road track gets you to the edge of the sea and the stunning Cabo De Rama Fort. Perched perfectly between Cavelossim and Agonda beaches, this fort offers unforgettable views and when visited with a local guide, some deep history too!
A dinner on a houseboat along Chapora River
Cruise through the backwaters of Goa on a luxurious houseboat for a truly local experience. Spend a few hours or an entire night to enjoy this experience to the full. Bask in the sun while you take in the scenic beauty of the river, the abundant palm trees and a emerald water bank with Goan villages and fishermen along the coast. A delectable goan dinner will be laid out to complete your experience before you tuck in for the night.
Crab Catching in Goan Backwaters
Its no tuna auction at the Tsukiji Market, but it is a thrilling experience right in the heart of Goa! Wake up at your own pace and proceed on an afternoon trip to Sonaulim to learn crab catching! You will learn how traps (Cobllem, in Goan) are set during high-tide and crabs are caught in during this time. Enjoy your catch for dinner at the end of the experience!
Quad Biking on Mandrem Beach
Clearly there is more to do on a beach than just suntanning and swimming. Head over to Mandrem beach for an adrenaline rush with quad-biking on silvery white sand. The pristine waters along the beach along with a fresh breeze make this a stunning scene. Head on for a beach day and hop on an ATV for a super fun experience in North Goa!
Chorao Island
One of Goa’s best kept secrets, Chorao Island is a hidden green island 5KM north of Panjim. Replete with antiquated churches, colonial homes, cemeteries and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary this island is a historic treat emanating old-world charm for its visitors. Take a ferry from Ribandar to reach the island – the ferries can hold cars and two-wheelers for your ease of travel on the island.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
A strong high-light of Chorao Island, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a widespread venue across 178 hectares of natural land. Surrounded by mangroves from the sea inlets, the natural reserve is home to species like kingfishers, coots, egrets, pintails and more. Random wild animals and crocodiles are also easily spotted around the sanctuary on lucky days. The best way to take a tour of this sanctuary is through a canoe or local dingy for an authentic experience!
Cashew Apple Harvesting in Valpoi
Various farms in Goa are inviting tourists on a tour of their cashew fruit orchards and the process of making feni and the final dry fruit for sale. You will begin the day with a welcome drink (this could be Nira or Kokum Juice) along with some roasted cashew nuts. A brief explanation later, you will be escorted around the estate to view the fruit segregation, juice extraction, feni distillation and the traditional cashew nut roasting. A buffet lunch later, you will be escorted towards the cashew factory where you can make purchases of the finished dry fruit and some feni. A splendid day trip can be made out of this experience – a truly authentic and offbeat Goa!
Well, now there are several more experiences to add to your Goan Bucketlist – apart from its palm fringed coves, pastel-coloured colonial houses and the ultimate relaxation vibe. I love the fact that I live in Goa and I am ever so grateful that I am able to experience life to the fullest in this beautiful part of the world. And do keep an eye out as I shall be sharing some more treasures from this amazing land soon.
As it is rightly said, unexplored paths lead to undiscovered treasures – this is a retreat to return to again and again!
Written By Taryn Rodrigues
Week 13, April 2021
