Goa beyond the beaches
The best part about Goa is its amazing beaches. You can find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches here like Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach, Vagator beach etc. These beaches are known for their calm sea and clean water. They are also famous for hosting numerous parties throughout the year. If you love partying, you will definitely enjoy yourself here. However, there are many other places where you can explore while spending your holidays in Goa. Here are 13 things to do in Goa besides beaches.
1. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus
2. Enjoy the sunset at Chapora Fort
3. Explore the old Portuguese churches
4. Take a boat ride at Mandovi Lake
5. Experience the nightlife at Panjim
6. Indulge in delicious seafood dishes at Seagulls
7. Watch a movie under starry skies at the beachfront theatres
8. Shop till you drop at the flea markets
9. Get lost on the winding streets of Old Goa
10. Have fun at the Water Park
11. Ride an elephant at Elephant Valley
12. Try out various adventure sports
13. Relax by taking a dip
13 Offbeat Things To Do In Goa Beyond Beaches, Parties & Booze
Goa is one of those places where you can find everything under the sun – from beaches, to parties and even booze. But while we know about the famous beaches, there are many other interesting things to see and experience around the place. Here, we bring to you 13 offbeat activities to do in Goa.
1. Heritage tour of Fontainhas
Fontainhas is located just 8 km away from Panaji. This place is well known for its historical significance. There are many places here that show the history of Portugal and India. You will find old churches, palaces, fountains, temples, etc.
The Fontainhas is considered to be the most important place in Goa. In fact, it is the second largest city in the state after Panaji. The name Fontainhas is derived from the word “fountain”. The name was given because of the beautiful fountain present here.
A lot of people come here to enjoy the beauty of this place. A lot of tourists visit Fontainhas every day. They come here to see the architecture, the paintings, the sculptures, the fountains, etc.
2. Explore and binge in the best cafés and restaurants
Goa is one of those tourist destinations where people come to enjoy themselves. There are many things to explore while traveling around the state. But what about the food? Are there any good cafes and restaurants that serve some delicious dishes? Yes, there are plenty of such eateries in Goa. These include the traditional Goan cuisine restaurants like Mum’s Kitchen, Bean me up, Cantare, and others. All these offer something unique and special to eat.
The best thing about eating out in Goa is that it does not cost much. In fact, most of the restaurants here charge very nominal prices for the meals served. So, if you want to try the local Goan food, then you don’t have to worry about spending too much. You can even save money by ordering multiple courses and sharing the meal.
You can also find numerous coffee shops and bars in Goa. Most of them are located near the beaches. If you love drinking coffee, then you must check out the Coffee House Cafe in Baga Beach, Aroma Café in Vagator beach, and Mango Tree Cafe in Anjuna Beach. And if you are looking for a place to hangout with friends and family, then you must visit the pubs and clubs in Goa.
3.Devil’s canyon for that eerie experience
Goa is known for its beaches and nightlife. But there are many things that people don’t know about it. One such thing is the Devil’s Canyon. This place is situated near Ponda, and is famous for its natural beauty.
This place is believed to be haunted due to the presence of a demon called “Kali”. There are stories that tell how Kali came into existence. Once upon a time, a man named Nambudra lived here. He had three wives, and he loved his third wife the most. His second wife did not like him much because she thought that her husband liked the third one more than her. She got angry and cursed Kali to live in this area forever.
Nowadays, tourists flock to this place and believe that they can see ghosts here. They claim that they hear screams coming out of nowhere. However, no one knows whether those screams belong to humans or demons.
If you want to explore the mysterious side of Goa, then you cannot miss this place.
4. Caving in Goa
Goa is home to many beautiful caves. These caves are some of the best places to take a stroll with your beloved ones. You can explore these caves during your Goa holiday tours. There are different types of caves in Goa like natural caves, manmade caves, and even underground rivers. Each cave offers something unique and special. For instance, the Arvalem Caves are located near Panjim. They are famous for having a huge number of stalactites and stalagmites. If you want to go there, make sure you plan ahead. Make sure you book your tickets well in advance.
The Lamgau Caves are located in the outskirts of Calangute. This place is popular among tourists because it houses the largest collection of stalagmite and stalactite formations in India. The Rivona Caves are located in South Goa. They are known for being the biggest cave in Goa. The cave is about 2 km long. During your Goa holidays, you must include these caves in your itinerary.
5. Beach Yoga can be fun
Yoga is one of those activities that are easy to practice anywhere. You don’t even need to go to a yoga studio. All you need is some space where you can stretch out comfortably. If you’re planning a beach vacation in India, there are plenty of places where you can find such spaces. There are many beaches in Goa where you can practice yoga. Here are five of them.
1. Anjuna Beach
Anjuna Beach is located in North Goa district. This place is famous for being a hangout spot for hippies and artists. Many tourists come here to enjoy the beautiful scenery and spend quality time with their loved ones.
2. Baga Beach
This is another popular tourist attraction in Goa. It is known for having some of the best white sand beaches in Asia. Baga Beach is home to several luxury resorts like Amba Villa, Hotel De La Marina, Leela Kempinski, etc.
3. Calangute Beach
Calangute Beach is situated near Candolim in South Goa. This place offers an amazing view of the Arabian Sea. The calm waters of the sea provide the perfect backdrop for doing yoga.
4. Colva Beach
Colva Beach is located in South Goa district. This beach has everything you might want from a beach destination. From sunbathing to surfing, you name it!
5. Dona Paula Beach
Dona Paula Beach is located in South West Goa. This beach is home to several hotels, including Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Royal Orchid Sheraton Grande at Kovalam, etc.
6. Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach is located in North East Goa. This place is famous as the party capital of Goa. People come here to dance, have fun and celebrate any festival or occasion.
6. Cycling at Miramar beach
Apart from indulging yourselves in some of the usual water sports activities, such as surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc., you can also try out something different while travelling to Goa. If you are looking for a place where you can enjoy both the sea and the land, then you must have heard about the beautiful beaches of Goa. There are many popular destinations in Goa, among which we have chosen five amazing ones. These five locations are perfect for those who want to explore nature, relax, and feel rejuvenated. They are also great for those who love to indulge themselves in water sports activities, especially surfing. And if you are planning to travel to Goa, then it is advisable to include cycling in your list of things to do. This activity will help you save money, because you won’t have to pay for a car rental. Moreover, you will be able to experience the beauty of the countryside, and you will be able to see the local people enjoying life. We have listed down six of the most famous beaches in Goa, along with the nearest cities, and the distance covered from each city. All these beaches are ideal for cyclists. So, let’s check out our list now:
1) Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is a quiet and serene beach. It is located in Panjim, which is the state capital of Goa. The nearest major railway station is Chapora Railway Station. The distance between this location and Chapora is around 9 km.
2) Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is one of the best beaches in India. It is located in South Goan coast. The nearest major railway stations are Mapusa Railway Station and Canacona Railway Station. The distance from Palolem to Mapusa is approximately 6 km, and the distance from Palolem towards Canacona is 7 km.
3) Benaulim Beach
Benaulim Beach is located in South-West region of Goa. The closest major railway station is Arambol Railway Station. The distance of Benaulim from Arambol is around 10 km.
4) Baga Beach
Baga Beach is located in South Western part of Goa. The nearby major railway stations are Vasco da Gama Railway Station and Quepem Railway Station. The distance to reach Baga from Quepem is around 12 km, and the distance to reach Baga Beach from Vasco da Gama is around 13 km.
5) Calangute Beach
Calangute Beach is located in North Eastern part of Goa. Nearby railway stations are Candolim Railway Station and Saligao Railway Station. The distance covered by road from Calangute to Candolim is around 20 km, and the distance covered by road from Candolim to Saligao is around 22 km.
6) Dona Paula Beach
Dona Paula Beach is located in North Central part of Goa. Nearest railway station is Ponda Railway Station. The distance travelled from Dona Paula to Ponda is around 18 km.
7. Grande Island can be Grand
The island is located off the coast of India, and it offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. This little gem is just waiting to be discovered by you and your loved ones. You do not want to miss out on such a wonderful experience.
8. Ocean Trek sounds exciting
Arambol Beach is one of those places on earth where you can go on an ocean trek. And, well, all of us would at least once in our life would have experienced walking through thick jungles, rivules, and streams exploring mountains & hills. But, going on an sea trek can be completely different than the above mentioned.
So, this time when you’re in Goa, make it sure to include this activity into your Goa trip budget. You can do this activity just about anywhere in Goa – even within the city itself. The best part is that it costs very less compared to other activities like river rafting, snorkeling etc.
The best thing about this activity is that there are many companies offering such trips. These companies offer various packages according to the number of people participating in the activity.
These companies provide everything you might need during the activity, including food, accommodation, guides, equipment and safety gear. All you need to pay is the price of the package you choose.
9. Get hot with hot air ballooning
For all those cute, lovely-dovey couples who are tired of beaches and cruise trips, try experiencing hot air balloons at Chandor. If you have been dreaming about flying over the beautiful landscape of India while enjoying the amazing view, then, it is time to make your dreams come true. Hot air ballooning is one of the most exciting experiences that you can enjoy during your holiday. This experience is very popular among tourists because it gives them the opportunity to fly up into the sky and see the breathtaking views of nature. What makes this activity even better is that there is no restriction on age, gender or weight. All you need to do is to pack your bags and head towards Chandor for a memorable flight.
The hot air ballooning activity is supervised by a professional pilot. So, if you are looking forward to spending quality time with your partner, make sure to include hot air ballooning in your list of things to do in Goa. Make some romantic memories together and spend some unforgettable hours floating above the clouds.
10. Explore the wilderness of Goa
Goa is often referred to as India’s playground. People come here to enjoy the beach, party, dance, eat, drink, gamble, and shop. However, the state offers much more than what meets the eye. There are many things to do in Goa besides partying and having fun. You can explore the wilderness, witness some amazing wildlife, and even learn about the history of the place. Here are 10 great reasons why you should consider spending some quality time in Goa.
1. Visit the wild life sanctuary
2. Discover ancient temples
3. Get lost in the city
4. Learn how to surf
5. Take a boat ride
6. See the sunset from the water
7. Watch a film festival
8. Spend the night in a luxury hotel
9. Eat authentic food
10. Shop till you drop
11. Kung-Fu Training at Mapusa
If you fancy yourself as a Kung-Fu master, there is no better place to learn it than at Mapusa. This town is known for its martial art schools and training centers where you can learn some of the most renowned styles of Kung-Fu.
Mapusa is one of the best places to learn Wing Chun Kung Fu because it offers classes for beginners as well as experts. If you want to learn Wing Chun Kung-Fu, you can choose either a full-time course or a weekend class. However, if you want to take up a full-time course, you have to pay around Rs 5,500 per month. On the other hand, if you opt for a weekend class, you have to spend around Rs 2,000 per session.
Apart from Wing Chun Kung-Fu at Mapusa, you can also learn Karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai Boxing, Capoeira, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Aikido, Hapkido, Jujutsu, Tae Kwon Do, Kickboxing, and many others.
You can even learn how to defend yourself against knives, guns, sticks, chains, ropes, and other weapons. There are plenty of options for those who want to learn self-defense.
12. Get a Lake Placid experience at the Zuari River
The Zuari River in North Goa is home to some of India’s most impressive crocs. These huge reptiles, known locally as ‘koura’, are found in abundance along the banks of the river. They spend their days basking in the sun along the muddy flats of the riverbank, making them easy prey for local fishermen. But there is no fear here; the locals know how to handle these giant beasts, and even feed them.
Goa has many such wild spots where visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature without being disturbed. Some of the best include:
1. Chapora Fort – Located near Margao, this fort offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
2. Baga Beach – One of the most popular beaches in Goa, Baga beach is located 15 km south of Panaji.
3. Mapusa Beach – This quiet stretch of sand is ideal for long walks and leisurely strolls.
4. Mandrem Beach – A beautiful beach with fine golden sands and turquoise waters, this place is often referred to as the Blue Bay of Goa.
5. Vagator Beach – Also called as the Butterfly Beach, this serene beach is lined with coconut palms and casuarina trees.
13. Doesn’t fly boarding thrill you?
If you love watching action packed films where the hero jumps into the water and rides a boat while he fights off enemies, then you must watch “The Fast And The Furious 8”. In this film, Vin Diesel plays Dominic Toretto, who is a professional race car driver. He is one of the main protagonists of the franchise.
In the movie, there is a scene where Dom jumps into the ocean and starts riding a jet ski. While doing this, he faces a group of men and tries his best to fight them off. You must see how cool this looks.
Others Thing to do
1. Spice Plantation Trekking
The spice plantations of Goa offer a different perspective into the rich culture of Goan cuisine. From spice farms like Kesarimpex, to spice gardens like the ones found in Panjim, spice plantation trekking offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history behind spices that enrich our food habits.
2. Learn Guitar Making Workshop
If you love music, you’ll love learning how to play the guitar. This workshop teaches participants how to craft guitars out of bamboo. You’ll learn basic skills such as carving, shaping and painting wooden instruments.
3. Visit Old Synagogue
This centuries old synagogue in Mapusa is one of the oldest synagogues in Asia. Built in 1568, the synagogue still retains its original architecture and is open to public.
The spice plantations of Goa offer a different perspective into the rich culture of Goan cuisine. From spice farms like Kesarimpex, to spice gardens like the ones found in Panjim, spice plantation trekking offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history behind spices that enrich our food habits.
2. Learn Guitar Making Workshop
If you love music, you’ll love learning how to play the guitar. This workshop teaches participants how to craft guitars out of bamboo. You’ll learn basic skills such as carving, shaping and painting wooden instruments.
3. Visit Old Synagogue
This centuries old synagogue in Mapusa is one of the oldest synagogues in Asia. Built in 1568, the synagogue still retains its original architecture and is open to public.
4. Goa Carnival
Every February, Goans celebrate carnival which lasts for two weeks. People dress up in colourful costumes and party until they drop.
5. Visit the Church of St Francis Of Assisi
One of the oldest church in India, this church was built in 1522. It has been declared as a national monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
6.Visit the Old Prison
Built in 1776, the prison was used mainly to punish criminals who were considered dangerous or mentally ill. Today it houses small museums devoted to the history of the prison.
7. Goa Velha
A trip to Goa Velha (Old Goa) gives you an idea of what Goa must have looked like when the Portuguese first arrived in the 16th century. The town is filled with cobbled roads, narrow alleyways, churches, mosques and monasteries.
8. Experience the magic of Candolim Beach
Candolim is a beautiful beach located near Calangute. It’s home to some great cafes and restaurants that attract tourists from all over the world.
9. Goa Chitra Museum
A museum dedicated to art, this is one of the most important collections of Indian miniature paintings outside of Mysore.
10. Feast on Seafood
There are several seafood dishes served in Goa. One of them is called ‘Prawns’. These prawns are usually deep fried and served with spicy sauces. They go very well along with local beers.
