Have you ever been able to imagine a goa holiday minus the beaches? Well, it’s time to start now. For most part, Goa is known for its beaches, its seafood, the parties and some downtime in a quiet stretch of sand along south Goan shores.
But there is so much more to this state than just some cliched experiences; there are hills, villages, rivers to navigate and waterfalls to discover. There is culture to learn from, tradition to imbibe and locals to love. My personal best is staying away from the hustle and bustle, at a beach full of solitude and local love.
Candolim, a village not far away from Calangute and Baga, is the perfect way to unwind, relax, catch-up on some mental peace, and enjoy Goa in all it’s traditional glory. A few steps away from the serene sand-dunes connecting to pristine waters, is an eclectic mix of local restaurants and markets. Take a walk to Fort Aguada, for a history refill, or grab a scooter and make it further into the inlands of Goa – there is so much to learn, so much to see, so much to explore and discover. A few days in Goa can give you experiences like:
- A bird sanctuary visit – Salim Ali never disappoints!
- A spice trail – Goa’s abundant spice plantations are many to choose from!
- A village visit: Divar Island, is a spectacle of serene nature, and tranquil history!
- Fontainhas, is Goa’s colorful old town of sorts. A walk all day will never be enough!
I will tell you a secret though. To get the best of both worlds; nature and history, there is no place better than Chorao Island, a peaceful haven of Portuguese churches, graveyards, white-washed structures and a sleepiness that consumes. A short ferry ride from Ribandar village, will get you to this simple town. Like they say, to truly reinvent yourself, sometimes you really do have to go back to the simplicities of life!
For the more adventurous, hire a car and driver, and make it into the various forests and waterfalls around. Tranquility will never feel so good, under a waterfall in all its might; the Dudhsagar is what I am talking about (a little victoria falls, and a little iceland, in its own way!).
An alternative experience also means an alternative stay. An escape from the commercialization of stays and services, is Wildflower Villas, a quaint spot in Candolim, with a handful of villas, so private that you may not see other guests unless you sit by the pool or head to Mimosa for the evening tipple. With gorgeous views of the Sinquerim River (told you, it is completely different, no beach views!), perched right in the hill of Saipem in Candolim, this set of villas, surrounded by lush greenery, it is like living in your own personal forest; a colourful kind. Head on over for some insanely traditional portuguese fare, an indo-portuguese ambiance and a true step away from everything hustle, bustle and concrete!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 44, Oct ’20
