Goa
Goa is a western Indian state having coasts that run along the Arabian Sea. Prior to 1961, it was Portuguese territory, as shown by its intact 17th-century churches and tropical spice plantations. Goa is also well-known for its beaches, which range from renowned stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in sleepy fishing communities like Agonda.
How to Reach Goa
Goa is easily accessible by rail, air, and road. However, your form of transportation is determined by where you are going from and your budget. Check out the best methods to go to Goa listed below:
By Air
Dabolim Airport in Goa accepts both international and domestic aircraft from major cities. If you are going from outside the country, you may fly to Goa from Doha, Muscat, and Copenhagen. For those who are staying in India, cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Indore, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, and others offer regular connectivity. If you are flying into Goa, the nearest international airport is located at Dabolim. The major airport at Dabolim is around 29 kilometres from Panaji. This international airport is well connected to key domestic cities as well as international key cities in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Nearest Airport : Dabolim Airport, Goa
By Rail
Traveling by train to Goa allows you to experience the region’s wonderful splendour. Vasco da Gama and Madgaon are the two main railway stations in Goa. Both railway stations have excellent connections to the rest of the nation.
Madgaon Railway Station, Vasco Da Gama Railway Station, and Thivim Railway Station are the major railway stations in Goa. Thus, Goa is well connected by wide gauge railway, which connects the state to important towns in India.
By Road
If you are traveling from the nearby cities in Karnataka or Maharashtra then you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach here.
Obviously, there is a well-connected network of roads that connects Goa to Mumbai, which is roughly 610 kilometres away, Pune, which is roughly 460 kilometres away, and Kolhapur, which is roughly 230 kilometres away. Those wishing to go to Goa by road from Bangalore should use National Highway 4, which links to State Highway 34, then National Highway 4A, and finally State Highway 7. The estimated distance between Bangalore and Goa is 560 kilometres, and the journey takes around 9 hours. In any case, anyone wishing to go by road from Mangalore must take the coastal highway, National Highway 17, which connects Mangalore to Goa through State Highway 7. The estimated distance between Mangalore and Goa is 360 kilometres. If you are on vacation in Kerala and find yourself with an extra couple of days, your trip from Kozhikode to Goa will be one of the most fascinating trips. It travels around 600 kilometres en way to Mangalore.
Well, driving to Goa is a way of life, fueled mostly by weekend visitors from neighbouring towns. Tourists from far-flung parts of the nation typically travel by plane or rail. The Dabolim International Airport, which connects Goa to international cities and has scheduled flights from Manchester to Goa as well as destinations such as Doha, Moscow, and London, is about 4 kilometres from Vasco Da Gama and 30 kilometres from Panaji. Goa Airport operates regular flights from Mumbai to Goa and other places like as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Best Time To Visit Goa
Are you seeking for the best time to visit Goa for an unforgettable vacation? The ideal time to visit Goa is determined on your goal for visiting. If you want to go sightseeing, avoid the monsoon season. Visit between November and February for magnificent beauty and thrilling activities. These months are particularly ideal for individuals who want to unwind by the beach.
Best Beaches to Visit in Goa
- Kakolem Beach
- Querim (Keri) Beach
- Galgibaga Beach
- Mobor Beach
- Hollant Beach
- Butterfly Beach
- Betul Beach
- Cola Beach
- Bogmalo Beach
- Velsao Beach
- Ashwem Beach
- Arambol Beach
1. Kakolem Beach
This little but secret beach in Goa, also known as Tiger Beach, is a bit tough to spot. However, once you arrive, you will realise that your efforts were well worth it. Because it receives few tourists, the beach is absolutely desolate and immaculate, making it one of Goa’s most stunning hidden gems. You may get there by boat or by taking the NH 66 towards Cola Village.
Where: 7 km south of Cabo De Rama resort, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The only way to get there is to use the NH 66 route towards Cola Village. There is a little walkway that leads to a platform where you will find several twisting stairs leading to the beach.
Places To Stay: Cabo Serai, Cola Beach Exclusive Tented Resort, Cola Beach Sunset Bay, Blue Lagoon Resort Goa, Dwarka Eco Beach Resort
2. Querim (Keri) Beach
Because of the lack of people, the beach is often missed, making it one of the best Goa secret beaches. White sand, lovely beach shacks, deep sea with violently lapping waves, and the magnificent Tiracol Fort embellish the shore. There is also the opportunity for sports such as paragliding, making it a great location for a family picnic. When visiting here, one can also see the Tiracol River flowing in and merging into the Arabian Sea, which is a sight not to be missed.
Where: Pernem Administrative Region, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Keri beach is around 50 kilometres from Panjim or Panaji, Goa’s capital. By car, it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to get there.
Places To Stay: Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, RajStar Villa, Inn Coconut, Eisra Wellness Retreat, Oxygen Adventures Beach Huts & Restaurant Arambol Goa
3. Galgibaga Beach
Galgibaga is Goa’s cleanest beach, as well as a seasonal nesting and hatching place for the endangered Olive Ridley turtle. It is one of Goa’s few undiscovered beaches, with crystal blue water and gorgeous silver sands. You could even see some turtle eggs or nests if you’re lucky.
Where: South of Talpona river, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The beach is located fairly distance from the nearest airport and train station. As a result, you must hire a private taxi or a cab to get to the beach. There are additional buses from the Canacona Bus Station to Mashem, from whence you may catch a ferry to the Galgibaga beach.
Places To Stay: Charming Villa Casa Rosa, 1BR Apt near Patnem and Palolem Beach, Base Hostel, Cabo Serai, Varandas De Canacona
4. Mobor Beach
Mobor is a calm and visually appealing destination known for its immaculately clean white beach, crystal blue water, and mind-blowing sunsets. The beach is lined with stores offering colourful handicrafts, shacks serving delicious cuisine, and low-cost lodging alternatives. When staying at The Leela, guests have access to the resort’s own beach.
Where: Cavelossim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The nearest railway station to Mobor Beach is Madgaon in Margao city, which is 1 km away. Tourists may take a cab or bus from the train station to the beach. Pre-paid taxis are also available at both the train station and the airport.
Places To Stay: Holiday Inn Resort, The Leela Goa Beach Resort, River Castle, Shanti Riverside, Indy Waterfront Resort
5. Hollant Beach
The curved harbour surrounded with rustic boats, the clean, golden sand, the colourful shacks on one side, and the captivating sunset views make this beach a photographer’s dream. Because the beach is shallow owing to the lack of currents, it is also ideal for swimming and wading.
Where: Bogmalo, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: here are no buses that run to Hollant Beach. You must have your own transportation. However, the beach is easily accessible by car. You may spend the day relaxing at restaurants and resorts along the beach.
Places To Stay: Stonewater Eco Resort, 3 BHK Independent Bangalow in Bogmalo, Sai Leela Guest house, CINCO FILHAS, Casa De Lucas Boutique Guesthouse
6. Butterfly Beach
Butterfly Beach, located in a secluded cove, is one of the most beautiful, though little-known, spots in Goa. When visiting, visitors get the exciting opportunity to see dolphins, crabs, and a variety of butterflies. The beach, with its pristine white sand, transparent seas, and unspoiled surroundings, is an ideal escape for people seeking solitude and quiet. You may arrive here by boat from Palolem or Agonda beaches, or by trekking through the magnificent rainforests that surround it.
Where: Palolem, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The beach is inaccessible by bus, vehicle, or bike since it is surrounded by deep woodland. Butterfly beach is accessible by boat from Palolem or Agonda beaches. A boat journey costs between INR 1000 to INR 12,000. (to and fro).
Places To Stay: The Nest, Crystal Goa Emerald Edition, Art Prive, Bamboo Yoga, Laguna Vista Beach Huts, Patnem Garden Resort
7. Betul Beach
The quiet Betul beach is more of a traditional coastal fishing community and one of Goa’s best-kept secrets. Aside from a charming setting, the beach boasts a 17th century fort, a tiny lagoon, and a variety of shacks nearby providing delectable seafood. To reach here, one must use the Cavelossim-Assolna ferry across the Sal River.
Where: Salcette district, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Betul Beach is located 49.5 kilometres away from Panaji. Betul may be accessed by bus from Margao, however service is infrequent. Private transportation, like as cabs and auto rickshaws, is also accessible from Margao.
Places To Stay: Casa Filipinha, The Leela Goa Beach Resort, Mayfair Resort, Holiday Inn Resort, Indy Waterfront Resort , River Castle
8. Cola Beach
Cola beach is one of the greatest hidden gems in Goa for those seeking peace and quiet away from the town’s congested and loud neighbourhoods. Beautiful coconut palm groves, opulent beach huts, Rajasthani-style tents, peaceful settings, and a lovely lagoon.
Where: Canacona, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: You may go to the Cola beach from Margao by taking the MDR41 and then the MDR49. From the Cola bus stop, take the first right. Keep in mind that there are no buses to the Cola beach. To get to this lovely beach, you’ll need to rent a vehicle or a bike.
Places To Stay: Blue Lagoon Resort Goa, Dwarka Eco Beach Resort, Cola Beach Sunset Bay, Cola Beach Exclusive Tented Resort
9. Bogmalo Beach
Regardless of how few tourists there are, the beach offers a wonderful mixture of commercial space and natural beauty, with crystal clear, turquoise water, a fascinating hamlet close, sea-facing lodging, shacks with great cuisines, and complete quiet and solitude. Those interested in watersports in Goa can go swimming in shallow water or scuba diving at the Goa Institute of Diving.
Where: Vasco de Gama near Dabolim Airport, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Regular buses run from the nearest bus stop, Vasco do Gama (8 km). Buses leave from Panjim as well (31 kms).
Places To Stay: Bogmallo Beach Resort, Mariaariose – “Melody of the Sea, Athi Resorts, Komforts Stay, Joets Guesthouse
10. Velsao Beach
This beach is regarded one of the greatest romantic secret beaches in Goa because of its soft silver sand studded with white sea shells and the odd starfish, coconut palms ringing the beach, lakes ornamented with lilies, and a pleasant wind flowing over shallow mild seas.
Where: Vasco de Gama near Dabolim Airport, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: There are buses that run directly from Panaji to Velsao. Velsao is 7 kilometres from the Kadamba Bus Terminal in Panaji. There are also frequent buses from Colva, Vasco do Gama, and Margao.
Places To Stay: Casa Bragança Villa Goa 3bhk, Casa Vita by Vista Rooms, Resort Palmeiras Dourado, Country Side Inn, The Postcard Cuelim
11. Ashwem Beach
Ashwem, located south of Arambol beach, is a lonely, yet lovely treasure engraved in Goa’s sceneries. The Olive Ridley Turtles come ashore to deposit their eggs on this pretty lengthy length of extremely clean beach and beautiful blue sea. Aside from that, the seashore boasts excellent boutiques and marketplaces for shopping.
Where: Mandrem, Pernem Administrative Region, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Ashwem Beach is around 30 kilometres from Panaji’s Kadamba Bus Stand and 54.6 kilometres from Dabolim Airport. To go to Ashwem Beach from Goa Airport or Thivim, simply take a cab.
Places To Stay: Treebo Trend Ashwem Beach Resort Goa, Dolphin Beach Resort, Riva Beach Resort, The Bodhi Village, Treebo Trend Maison Ocean Beach Resort
12. Arambol Beach
Arambol is a tiny fishermen community that attracts both local and foreign tourists due to its active flea market, hippy culture, late night parties, BBQ at the shacks, adventure sports like as paragliding and kitesurfing, and the beautiful views of the cliffs on both sides of the region. Despite having so much to offer, Arambol is still relatively undiscovered, which is why this bohemian paradise is one of the undiscovered spots to visit in Goa.
Where: Pernem Administrative Region, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Arambol is about a two-hour drive from Dabolim International Airport. Buses leave Pernem many times a day. Buses leave Mapusa every hour till 18:00. The nearest bus stop is a 2-kilometer walk from the beach.
Places To Stay: Namahstay Hostel, Piggy Hostel Arambol, Omkar Guest House, Indiana Guest House, Love Temple Beach Resort
Dona Paula
Best Waterfalls to See in Goa
Goa’s stunning and mesmerising waterfalls leave no stone unturned in ensuring that guests recuperate and rejuvenate while on vacation. Take a look at these serene waterfalls and other places to visit in Goa besides beaches – they deserve a space on your bucket list!
| 1 | Bamanbudo Waterfalls |
| 2 | Harvalem Falls |
1. Bamanbudo Waterfalls
The Bamanbudo waterfall is a pleasant refreshment for those searching for tranquil and untouched spots in Goa to escape the hectic crowds of this hippy resort. Despite the fact that the waterfall is widely accessible and provides a delightful area for a refreshing plunge, travellers frequently overlook it. This exhilarating tourism destination in Goa should not be missed.
Where: Gaodongrem, Canacona district, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The waterfalls are easy to reach from the main road. You may take a trip to this flowing waterfall and enjoy the ride.
Places To Stay: Mangaal Farmstay Goa, The Earthen Nest, Drishti yoga international riverside, Modish 3BHK Accommodation, Turiya Villa & Spa
2. Harvalem Falls
Harvalem, tucked away in verdant woods, is one of Goa’s most magnificent waterfalls, with milky white water tumbling over rough picturesque stones. The best part is that the waterfall is hidden from the rest of the world, giving visitors complete privacy. While here, visitors can visit the nearby Rudreshwar temple and the Arvalem caves.
Where: Near Sanquelim village, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Bicholim, which is 8 kilometres distant, and Sanquelim, which is just 2 kilometres away, are the nearest communities. Transport to the falls is available from Panaji and Mapusa.
Places To Stay: Dudhsagar Spa resort
Mageshi Temple
Lesser Known Forts to Visit in Goa
Goa is a history buff’s utopia on earth, with something for everyone. The eye-catching architecture of Goa’s forts is sure to transport tourists back in time. Examine these forts and add them to your tour itinerary to avoid missing out on something so mysterious!
- Fort Tiracol
- Sinquerim Fort
- Cabo De Rama
1. Fort Tiracol
Because of its design and construction, Fort Tiracol is the most charming fort in Goa. This 17th century Portuguese fort is perched on a rock overlooking the Indian Ocean and features seven chambers, each named after a day of the week. The room with that name will have the finest view of the others on the day you visit. Isn’t it fascinating? Despite the fact that the fort has been turned into a magnificent hotel, it remains one of Goa’s most gorgeous hidden gems. A ferry from Keri beach may take you there..
Where: Near Querim beach, Pernem Administrative Region, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: You may take a taxi from Panaji Bus Stand (approximately 45 kilometres from the fort) to Keri or the hamlet of Querim, and then take a boat to Tiracol.
Places To Stay: Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, Shail Home, Mulberry Suites; Vagator Beach Road, JUNGLE, EKO STAY- SUBLIME VILLA
2. Sinquerim Fort
Sinquerim fort is a favourite subject for photographers searching for undiscovered spots to visit in Goa, thanks to its eye-catching Portuguese architecture and magnificent sunset vistas. Aside from that, the beach is a perfect joy. Sinquerim beach, with its smooth beaches and fresh breeze, is an excellent spot to unwind and offers guests activities like as swimming, beach volleyball, scuba diving, water skiing, fishing, and windsurfing. The whole region is well-kept and clean, and it is home to a variety of luxury lodgings as well as affordable eateries.
Where: Sinquerim village, Bardez sub-district, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Sinquerim is roughly 37 kilometres from Goa’s Dabolim Airport. Sinquerim is around one hour’s drive from Goa Airport.
3. Cabo De Rama
This fort, located along the Mumbai-Cochin highway in South Goa, is one of the most tranquil hideaway locations in Goa, offering spectacular views of the Cabo De Rama beach below and the sea fading into the horizon beyond. The fort has remains and antique canons from the former Portuguese military, making it ideal for shooting and picnics with friends.
Where: Cola, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: You may drive, take the bus, or take a cab. The road comes to an end near the Fort’s entrance, from where you may walk to the stronghold or the beach.
Places To Stay: The Cape Goa, Red Crab Eco Resort, Mayfair Resort, Cabo Serai
Caves to Visit in Goa
- Lamgau Caves
- Rivona Caves
- Arvalem Caves
Caves are a fantastic way to discover locations to visit in Goa other than the beaches. Caves are the hidden treasures of Goa, resting in the lap of the little state of India, satisfying the adventurous and thrill seeking inner selves of the tourists. The caverns of Goa are stunningly magnificent, with tales from Hindu epics affixed to them.
1. Lamgau Caves
This architectural beauty is hidden away in Bicholim. Though it does not receive many visitors, those who do are constantly captivated by its intricate carvings and magical aspect. A shrine inside the cave features several nicely crafted structures such as a pavilion, beams, and a roof. A stone linga with a tulsi vrindavan and a picture of the nandi bull stands in the courtyard. The caves are extremely fragile, thus entering is not recommended.
Where: Bicholim, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: To go to the Lamgau caverns, take a road trip from Bicholim to Mapusa and then to Panaji. You may also drive through Lamgau hamlet, where you must climb up the hillside to reach the caverns.
Places To Stay: Mayem Lakeview, Kokum House, Mercure Goa Devaaya Retreat, The Island Sanctuary Rock Pool Villa, Elegant 2BHK House near Aldona in Mapusa
2. Rivona Caves
This cave has a long Buddhist history and is one of the top sites to visit in Goa. The laterite rock within is reported to have been used as a seat for a Buddhist monk who meditated here. Inside the cave, in addition to laterite formations, there are exquisite Buddhist sculptures and paintings. Rivona caverns, which overlook the enormous oceans and have a distinctive layout, are among the most intriguing hidden spots in Goa.
Where: Rivona village, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: To get here from Goa, use SH 7 for around 50 minutes and then continue straight to the Tilamol-Curdi stretch. After 10 minutes, you will come upon the Rivona caverns..
Places To Stay: Chrisander’s Resort, FOUR SEASONS FARM, Nagesh Jungle Resort, South Goa , Casa De Xanti, Mangaal Farmstay Goa
3. Arvalem Caves
The Arvalem Caves, also known as the Pandava Caves, date back to the 6th century and have long been the subject of discussion due to its eclectic architectural style. Due to the existence of Shivlingas inside the compartments, some believe the Pandavas used the caverns. This might be classified as one of the top spots to visit in Goa. Others say that the caverns are Buddhist since there is a large statue of Buddha nearby. Regardless of its origin, the cave’s rock cut foundations, mystical air, and historic attraction never fail to enchant tourists.
Where: Rudreshwar Colony, Sanquelim, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Buses are an easy way to travel. The caverns are located 29 kilometres from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 46 kilometres from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station, and 9 kilometres south of Bicholim.
Places To Stay: The Island Sanctuary – A Village Secret, HOSPITALITY INN GOA(2), Mayem Lakeview, Hotel Swarnam, Beautiful 3bhk bunglow (2 units) with Lakeview
Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa
Housing exotic and magnificent wildlife of the destination, these sanctuaries are nothing less than perfect for all the animal lovers out there. Scan through this list of the natural retreats that ensures that visitors get to witness how intriguing the wild species are!
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park
- Convent of Santa Monica and The Chapel of The Weeping Cross
- Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Cumbarjua Backwater Canal
- Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
- Savoi Spice Plantations
- Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa
- Netravali
- Carambolim Lake
- Pequeno (Bat) Island
- Our Lady of the Mount
1. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park
The presence of three wildlife sanctuaries in Goa further demonstrates that Goa is more than just beaches and pubs. The Mollem National Park and the Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary are havens for reptile enthusiasts and researchers. Aside from a rich range of flora and wildlife, the park is regarded as one of the greatest and most secret spots in Goa due to its hiking and trekking paths, which allow for sightings of Leopards, Gaurs, and Sloth Bears, among others.
Where: NH 4A, Caranzol, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The national park and sanctuary are well-connected by road to other regions of Goa, and there are lots of private and government-operated buses and vehicles that go frequently to the park. Panaji is around 70 kilometres from the park, and you may arrange a private car from there.
Places To Stay: Jungle Book Resort, Off The Grid, Doodhsagar Jungle Resort, Dudhsagar Farmstay, Indismart Woodbourne Resort
2. Convent Of Santa Monica And The Chapel Of The Weeping Cross
This cathedral is a sight to see because of its wonderful artwork, sculptures, paintings, and other vintage objects, and it is Asia’s first and largest convent. This 450-year-old church has finally reopened to the public after many years of restoration work. This is one of Goa’s hidden gems that will undoubtedly pique the interest of visitors.
Where: Monte Santo, Velha, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Buses may easily drop you off at the area, which is 8.6 kilometres from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 27 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station, and 24 km from Mapusa.
Places To Stay: Old Goa Residency, Cosy 1BR Homestay, The Postcard Velha,Goa, The Fern Kadamba Hotel And Spa, 2BHK Cosy Retreat near Karmali Railway Station
3. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
This bird sanctuary is unique in that it is located on the island of Chorao and can be reached by a thrilling ferry journey from Ribandar. Aside from that, this pristine sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers and environment lovers, earning it a significant spot on the list of Goa’s secret spots. During the winter, a variety of migrating birds, particularly Siberian, may be seen. If you’re not interested in birds, you may visit the reserve for the adventurous boat trip through strange mangrove woods.
Where: Near Ribandar Ferry, Chorao, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: A bus or vehicle trip from Panaji, the state capital, will take you to the Ribandar ferry terminal. Take a ferry across the Mandovi River to the island of Chorao from there. The refuge is a short walk from the boat terminal.
Places To Stay: Damodar Guest House, 3 BHK Apartment, Serene Waters Goa, DoubleTree by Hilton Goa-Panaji, Backwater Villa
4. Cumbarjua Backwater Canal
The Cumbarjua canal is another great destination in Goa for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Backwater Cruises may be taken via the canal’s dense mangrove trees and wetlands, where one may view crocodiles lounging on the banks. This small stream and the bustling town of Cumbarjua are two of the most fascinating Goa secret sites that everyone visiting Goa should not miss.
Where: On the banks of Mandovi river, Cumbarjua, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: You may go close to the canal by using NH 748. To find the water activities, you must trek by foot from there.
5 Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Despite being Goa’s second largest wildlife reserve – and one of the state’s hidden jewels – Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary may not have as many species as the state’s other two sanctuaries. Cotigao offers visitors colourful flora wonders as well as a great area for amusement and trekking. Tall trees, unique flora, rocks, marshes, and ponds – it allows you to connect with nature’s most calm form. You could also see Sloth Bears, Laughing Hyenas, Indian Bisons, monkeys, and the Malabar Crested Eagle if you’re lucky.
Where: Canacona district, Cotigao, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: It is fairly easy to go to this refuge. A day excursion to Cotigao is also possible from the Palolem beach, which is 12 kilometres distant.
Places To Stay: The Earthen Nest, Mangaal Farmstay Goa, Mystique Copper, Modish 3BHK Accommodation, Drishti yoga international riverside
6. Savoi Spice Plantations
These native riches of ours abound in the soils and forests of Southern India. So why should Goa fall behind? Savoi Spice Gardens is an ecological paradise in Goa that leads you through green farms full of unique herbs, colourful fruit orchards, strange-looking plants, and Goan urak and feni. Though a great element of Goa sightseeing, it is frequently overlooked by visitors who come to Goa for the loud parties and beachy fun.
Where: Ponda, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The location is in Ponda village and is easily accessible by cabs/taxis.
7. Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa
The Butterfly Conservatory of Goa is one of the most amazing yet little-known locations to visit in Goa. The park was developed in an effort to safeguard Goan butterfly species and is now home to over 133 species of butterflies. On a regular day visit, up to 25 species can be spotted. Imagine wandering through a verdant woodland as bright tiny butterflies flutter around! It’s nothing short of magical! This is one of Goa’s best-kept secrets, and it’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Where: Rajnagar, Ponda, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: You may get there via bus. It is 26 kilometres from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 25 kilometres from Margao Railway Station, and 4 kilometres from Ponda Bus Stand.
Places To Stay: Farmagudi Residency, Empire Guesthouse, Avdhut niwas Organic farmstay, Rock Valley Goa, THE ENCHANTING NEST
8. Netravali
If you want to do something out of the usual in Goa, go to the bubbling lake of Netravali. This little dirty pond, still concealed from the armies of visitors who travel to Goa, is governed by an odd phenomena. The presence of natural gases such as methane under the lake causes continual bubbles to appear on the surface, which is highly entertaining to watch. Aside from the bubbles, one may also soak their feet in the clean water and enjoy a free Fish Spa!
Where: Sanguem district, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Dabolim airport is around 65 kilometres from Netravali. To get to the refuge from the airport, you must use a cab. The nearest railhead is Margao (45 km), one of Goa’s major railway stations. Buses and taxis are available from Margao and Panaji (75 km).
Places To Stay: Mangaal Farmstay Goa, The Earthen Nest, FOUR SEASONS FARM, Drishti yoga international riverside, Turiya Villa & Spa
9. Carambolim Lake
Carambolim Lake, an interior freshwater and marshy lake that feeds a huge stretch of irrigated rice farms, is one of Goa’s unique destinations. To many, it is simply another of Goa’s hidden gems, but for the numerous bird watchers, wildlife lovers, and photographers that visit, it is a welcome relief from the continual vistas of beaches and oceans. On a clear day, one may see a variety of migrating ducks, jacanas, moorhens, harriers, pipits, wagtails, and kingfishers.
Where: Carambolim, Corlim, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: To get to Carambolim Lake, use a cab or hire a motorbike in Panaji or Margao. You may also take a bus up to Karmali railway station, then to Carambolim Lake.
Places To Stay: YOGESH VILLA, Beautiful 3bhk bunglow (2 units), Cozywoods Hill Resort, The Postcard Velha, Old Goa Residency
10. Pequeno (Bat) Island
Pequeno Island, also known as Bat Island, is only a 30-minute boat journey from Vasco da Gama’s Baina beach and may be reached by boat or ferry. Because of its hidden location, it is easily ignored by most visitors, making it one of the most private and unknown sites to visit in Goa. The island is full of surprises for adventurers and couples, with a modest rocky beach, expanses of verdant landscapes, snorkelling and day picnic amenities.
Where: 1 km from Vasco da Gama, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: The island is just a kilometre away from Vasco-da-Baina Gama’s beach. You may get there via bus or private cab.
11. Our Lady Of The Mount
The Church of Our Lady of the Mount, located on a tiny hill, is a stunning architectural and historical marvel. Despite being virtually vacant and frequently overshadowed by the attraction of the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, it gives a nice retreat from the hustle and bustle of Goa and affords spectacular views of the city due to its location. On a moonlit night, it transforms into one of Goa’s most stunning secret locations, offering spectacular panoramic views of the glistening seaside town below.
Where: Ella, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: To get to your location, you can utilise local buses or rent a private cab.
Places To Stay: The Postcard Velha, Hotel Swarnam, Cosy 1BR Homestay, Old Goa Residency, Beautiful 3bhk bunglow (2 units) with Lakeview
Ghat in Goa – Must To Be Visited Placesin Goa
People forget about this jewel situated snuggly on the Western Ghats on the Goa-Karnataka-Maharashtra border, lost amid the sparkling suburbs of Goa, arguably one of the eccentric and secret spots in Goa. This hill station in Goa is one of the most exotic hidden spots in Goa for a pleasant weekend escape with family and friends, with beautiful valleys and tropical forests. When visiting, visitors may undertake bird watching, butterfly spotting, trekking, hiking, or simply enjoy the rich natural beauty.
Where: Sahyadri mountain range off Sankhali, Chorla, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: Between November and March
How To Reach: Car and bike trips are exhilarating all the way through, traversing countless bridges and rice fields before opening up to reveal the gorgeous Sahyadri.
Places To Stay: Natural Paradise, Vanoshi forest homestay, The Island Sanctuary – A Village Secret, Mayem Lakeview, HOSPITALITY INN GOA(2)
Baga Beach Shack Food
Museum
