Goa, the smallest state in India, is most famous as the party destination of our country and for its beaches. However, there are a lot more things to do in Goa, especially for tourists. From kayaking to underwater sea walking, from visiting a guitar factory to shopping in the night market, there are many offbeat things you can enjoy. You can walk around the Portuguese part of the old town and you will feel as if you’ve gone back in history. Even in the monsoon, you can trek through the lush green forests.
Offbeat things you can do in Goa
- Crocodile tour – You can spot crocodiles while you go boating on the Cumbarjua canal. These reptiles are locally referred to as ‘muggers’ and they come out during the day to sunbathe. The canal connects two of the biggest rivers in Goa- the Mondovi and the Zuari. It is a mangrove region and many crocodiles can be found here making it easy for you to spot them.
- White water rafting – This adventure sport was introduced very recently. It is open from the month of July to October. A group of six to eight people sit on a raft guided by trained instructors. The rafting takes place in Mhadei river and anyone above 12 years of age can take part.
- Monsoon treks– Everyone thinks monsoon is the worst time to visit goa as most of the beaches are not accessible, but not anymore. Goa Tourism Development Corporation conducts monsoon treks to show tourists the hidden beauty of the state. There are many trekking trails through the forests and you can enjoy Goa at its greenest.
- Less popular forts – Corjuem fort on Corjuem island offers a beautiful view of its surroundings. It is 12km away from Panaji in Bardez and is truly an offbeat place in Goa as you will hardly find any tourists here. The Chapora and Aguada fort is the most commonly visited ones as they gained fame from the movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’. On the northern tip of Goa stands the Terekhol Fort, which has now been converted into a heritage hotel. You can actually live in that fort.
- Staying in Portuguese homes– You can experience the Portuguese culture by staying in traditional homes. The Portuguese culture has had its influence on Goa’s architecture and even food. You can live in an ancestral home which will make you feel more like a local. You will be able to enjoy authentic meals and will experience a side of goa you never knew existed.
- Underwater sea walking– This takes places at the Baina beach in Mormugao and is the very first in the country. This is an incredible experience you cannot miss out on. It’s a 20-minute activity in which you will be taken to Piccanye Island in a boat and will be instructed about the activity. You will also learn underwater sign language. In order to keep you from swaying underwater, a four-kilo lead belt is attached to your body. You will get a glass helmet that will help you breathe normally. The depth of the water is 3 meters. Complete safety is observed during the activity.
- Tropical Spice Plantation – It is located in a village in north Goa called Keri which is six km off Ponda. It houses spices like cardamom, black pepper, vanilla, nutmeg etc. There is a guided tour conducted around the place which includes lunch at a traditional Goan restaurant. This tour will be relaxing for both you mind and body.
- Divar Island – River Mandovi drains into the Arabian Sea right next to Panjim. Just before the river meets the sea, there is an island which was historically a very important part of Goa. Earlier Divar was the capital of old Goa. It houses 3 churches the most famous one being church of Divar.
- Night market– the night market in Goa was originally introduced by a German. As it became a huge hit the night market still continues. You will find something for everyone here. There are stalls of a number of Indian brands. The most interesting part is the large variety of food. The night market takes places every Saturday from 4.30 pm to 3 am.
- Walk around Fontainhas – This Portuguese colony in Panjim is famous for its red, blue and yellow coloured houses with brick tiled roofs and balconies. It’s a colourful and picturesque part of Goa.
So, by now you must be that Goa is much more than a beach and booze destination. The next time you’re there and you want to skip the ordinary, do try some of these experiences.
