The pearl of the Indian coastline, Goa, is much more than just shimmering beaches and vibrant nightlife. The state enjoys its popularity for being a destination that offers something to every kind of visitor. Goa is the land where Ayurveda meets spirituality, where the Indian and Portuguese cultures have combined since several years, and where the East meets the West. You can heal yourself, take the break from your monotonous life, participate in adventurous activities, or simply relax by the beach and rejuvenate your soul in Goa. In this article, you will explore the 12 best things to do in Goa that will give you a unique and inclusive experience of a lifetime.
Sip the Spirit of Goa
Learn about the culture of Goa and do the same as the locals do, raise a glass of feni and sip into the spirit of this beautiful paradise. Feni is an earthy and strong drink which is made by fermenting the juice of cashew apple or coconut palm sap. The cashew feni, which is the most popular in Goa, goes through double distillation.
To truly understand the craftsmanship and legacy of the spirit of Goa, visit Fazenda Cazulo. It is a famous cashew farm that will provide you the best experience of tasting feni. This journey from seeing the traditional distillation techniques to the tasting shows the pairing potential of these drinks with Goan cuisine. The spirit of Goa doesn’t end at feni, witness the boom in breweries and distilleries in the state and explore the tasting at standout points like Tamras, Maka di, Paul John and Goa Brewing Co.
An Evening with the Indian-Portuguese Cultural Mix
Music is not just entertainment in Goa, it is also a deeply woven cultural thread of the state that brings everyone together. It depicts stories of longing, history, love, heritage, homecoming, and migration. If you are someone who are interested in artistic richness and want to experience this firsthand, then you must spend some of your evenings wrapped in the melodies of fado and the charm of Goa’s folk music.
For this, visit the 200-year old Indian-Portuguese home in Panaji, which is one of the most authentic venues of the state and is perched on the Mandovi River banks. This architectural piece hosts the Centre for Indo-Portuguese Arts, which is a platform dedicated to promote and preserve the mixed artistic legacies of Goa and Portugal. There is also another authentic venue located within CIPA, called the Madra Goa. It feels like a time capsule where the decor feels like a sensory delight and the ceiling has adorable and vibrant Goan umbrellas. The stage of the venue is a hand-painted mural which instantly teleports you across the countries.
Goa’s extremely popular fadista, Sonia Shirsat, is dedicated to bringing the art of fado alive. Fado is a soulful Portuguese music genre which is extremely relaxing and emotional, attracting several tourists across nations to attend her shows. Shirsat beautifully mixes the mandos with the Goan folk rhythms which helps her to connect deeply with her audience. If you are someone who wishes to explore more than one evening in understanding the Goan culture, then visit the Heritage Home Experiences and watch the unique cultural performances which brings the traditional Goan music to life. Whether you are a curious traveler or a cultural connoisseur, these experiences are the best opportunity to truly understand and get an immensely heartwarming glimpse into the rich traditions of Indian as well as Portuguese souls of Goa.
Authentic Ayurvedic Therapies
Goa is not only popular for shimmering beaches and vibrant nightlife, it has also become a rising hub for wellness activities and holistic healing. Ayurveda in Goa finds a fertile home in its peaceful setting where you can easily indulge in rejuvenating treatments and therapies which are passed down by the Vedas. There are numerous ayurvedic therapies and treatments provided by different wellness centres and yoga schools in order to help you with chronic diseases, stress, anxiety, and other issues.
a. Abhyanga- Abhyanga is one of the most popular ayurvedic therapies in Goa and is performed by two therapists in sync. They use warm herbal oils for massaging your body in particular directions which are aligned with your energy channels. This therapy is amazing for improving your lymphatic drainage, relieving muscle tension, and boosting immunity.
b. Shirodhara- Shirodhara basically involves pouring a thin stream of warm herbal oil over your forehead or on your third eye chakra for 30 to 60 minutes. This is a calming therapy for reducing your mental stress, insomnia, and other mental health issues.
c. Swedana- This therapy uses targeted steam vessels for deeper detox and opening up your pores. It is usually performed after Abhyanga and is also one of the most common ayurvedic practices in Goa.
These Ayurvedic treatments and therapies are performed under the guidance of qualified doctors and Vaidyas, in all the wellness centres in Goa.
Spice Plantation of Goa
Visiting a spice plantation in Goa is a typical tourist activity but is extremely interesting. The spice plantation in Ponda is one of the most important as well as historic places in Goa. The region of Ponda used to be warm, fertile, and of humid climate, which made it ideal for cultivating numerous varieties of spices. Several plantations here are run by generations of families and follow the practices of organic farming which are passed down by their ancestors.
As you take this tour and walk through the shaded plantations, experts there will help you in understanding everything from harvesting methods, growing cycles, to medicinal properties of every spice. Traditional tools are used for pounding, drying, and extracting oils which gives you a glimpse of agrarian roots of Goa. Your experience in this tour will be extremely immersive for all the senses. You will breathe in the aroma of spices like black pepper, taste the fresh turmeric along with feeling the rough bark of cinnamon trees. At the end of your tour, you will be welcomed with a Goan thali full of authentic dishes infused with the same spices you saw growing on-site.
Preserved Body of a Century-Old Saint in Old Goa
Your visit to this state is incomplete without exploring Old Goa, which is a district that once was a flourishing capital of Portuguese captured India. There are many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Old Goa reflecting the spiritual and historical aspect of the state. One of the most iconic sites of all is the Basilica of Bom Jesus which was built in the late 16th century and is a monumental granite church. It has the mummified body of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Spanish missionary who is responsible for bringing Christianity to most parts of Asia.
If you are visiting Goa between 21st November and 5th January, then you will experience spiritual and cultural traditions of the state. Streets of Goa comes alive with music, prayer, and local treats and offers an amazing experience for travelers from across the globe. Take a short walk to the Convent of Santa Monica, which is a majestic structure built in the 17th century. It has the Museum of Christian Art (MOCA), a space that is beautifully designed to reflect the Indo-Portuguese art forms.
Monsoon Festival in Goa’s Off-Season
Goa’s off-season months from June to September have entirely different kinds of magic. The monsoon in Goa is mesmerizing, vibrant, and full of lush environments. The monsoon festival in Goa combines religious devotions with ancient cultural storytelling along with deep connection with nature. This monsoon kicks off in the month of June with Sao Joao, which is a joyful celebration of St. John the Baptist. Locals immerse in the Goan spirit, donning floral headgear, and jumping into the wells and ponds. This symbolizes the leap of the saint in his mother’s womb.
Another festival is Sangodd, which is observed by the fishing communities of Goa, specifically around the feast of Saints Paul and Peter. The locals enthusiastically build elaborated floating stages and then they perform music, folk plays, and skits. These festivals are especially memorable for how closely they are grounded and reflect the community life of the locals. They are more than just events, but expressions of living history and heritage.
Join a Yoga Retreat or Yoga Teacher Training Program
The golden sand beaches, peaceful environment, and major spiritual energy of Goa has been attracting wellness enthusiasts from across the world for several years. The state has now become a hub for certified yoga teacher training courses and yoga retreats, drawing the attention of yoga practitioners worldwide. Whether you want to pause and reset your mind as well as body or wish to complete the YTT program for a professional career, Goa has immense opportunities to cater the needs of every individual.
If you want to join a yoga retreat, then make sure you are available for the time period of 5-14 days. A yoga retreat consists of daily sessions of asanas and meditation, along with different excursions, therapies, sound healing workshops, and wholesome sattvic meals. You will find a supportive community of like-minded individuals, allowing you to be yourself and understand the different aspects of yoga deeply.
If you are interested in learning yoga in order to pursue it as a career, then consider joining the yoga teacher training programs organized by several Yoga Alliance certified schools. These yoga schools offer the foundational level 200-hour, advanced 300-hour, and comprehensive 500-hour YTT programs. The courses teach you everything from daily asanas, meditation, pranayama, to yogic philosophies, teaching methodologies, and human anatomy. Whether you are a newbie who wants to get familiar with yoga or an advanced practitioner who wishes to refine their skills, Goa’s surrounding of yoga is perfect for you, both on and off the mat.
Learn to Surf in the Waves of Goan Beaches
Goa’s laid back beaches and vibrant culture is popular globally but it also has a reputation of being one of the most accessible destinations in India for surfing beginners. The long, sandy coastlines with gentle waves of the Arabian Sea offers an ideal place to train for anyone who is looking for their first wave ride. The beaches of North Goa such as Ashvem, Mandrem, and Morjim along with the gem of South Goa, the Agonda beach are famous for professional surf schools. These schools provide you everything from one day trial class to a week long camp for surfing. These beaches have consistent but mellow swells, which is the reason why they are called Beginner’s Waves by the instructors.
The waves are extremely enjoyable and safe for people who are surfing for the first time. The surfing sessions are majorly taken in the early mornings when waves are the calmest and the crowd at the beach is minimal. October to early May is the perfect time to learn surfing and take a break during the months of monsoon as the tides are extremely rough. There are various surf schools that will provide you all the necessary accessories required for surfing along with an experienced trainer to ensure your safety. So whether you are looking to chase your first wave or just wish to try something new at the beach, surfing in Goa is extremely thrilling and an energetic counterpart to the otherwise calm environment of the state.
Visit Goa’s only Vinyl Bar
Being Goa’s one of the most unique and interesting hangout places, For the Record- Vinyl Bar in Panaji’s old Latin Quarter is extremely vintage and a must visit. It is not your typical bar, but a place with record players spinning with classical jazz music, handmade cocktails incorporating the Indian spirits, warm company of the bar resident’s dog, and experimental small plates. It was founded by Buland Shukla who was an architect and a musician. For The Record is the first and only Vinyl bar of Goa and has the energy of old-school romantics. The music genres here range from R&B to Afrobeat, from old and rare Indian pressings to International hits. The drinks menu has amazing local distilleries feni, small-batch gins, and tribal mahua along with soul-hitting food. Visit the vinyl bar on a lazy afternoon and have the best relaxed time with your friends or family.
Sunset Cruise on the Mandovi River
The sunset cruise on the Mandovi River flows gracefully and is the heart of Goa. Mandovi river is a lifeline of the state, carrying stories and secrets of Goa’s cultural and colonial past. Board the cruise from Santa Monica Jetty in Panaji and you will be drifting a 2-hour journey, which will feel like going into another era. The boat will take you through the Portuguese style riverfront homes, mangrove forests, and colonial mansions soaked in the golden hours of the setting sun.
Inside the cruise the atmosphere is quite enchanting and vibrant. The live Goan folk music, Konkani performances, local snack and beverages, makes it a ride of complete cultural immersion. If you are wishing to have a more luxurious experience, then there are private yachts, heritage houseboats, and floating lounges organized by Goa’s river tourism. These are some of the premium boats that provide customized services for you. There are also various theme-based cruises such as live jazz evening, sunset yoga, stargazing, and wildlife spotting in the mangroves, which are perfect for someone who wants to have something interesting in the cruise. Whether you are looking for a romantic outing or are a group of friends looking for unique memories, the sunset cruises on the Mandovi river is the perfect option to consider.
Treks in the Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Western Ghats of Goa is a UNESCO-stated biodiversity hotspot, which is full of thrilling trekking trails, monsoon mist, and abundance of flora and fauna. Amongst all the adventurous ancient hills, the most iconic one is the trail to Dudhsagar Waterfalls. It is a cascading four tiered waterfall that plunges from a height of over 1000 feet or 310 meters. Dudhsagar in Hindi translates to “Sea of Milk” and this waterfall lives up exactly to this name especially during the monsoon season. The waterfall is located in the Mollem National Park and is surrounded by different flora and fauna, making it an ideal escape for photographers, wildlife lovers, and hikers.
The trek begins from Castle Rock Railway Station and has a route with dense forest trails, abandoned railway tracks, and mist-covered tunnels. It is a journey of 14 kilometers and has the mesmerizing views of Goa’s wilder side. The encounter with giant squirrels, rare bird species, and langurs are common during the entire trek. If you are seeking a more accessible route, then there are jeep safaris available from Mollem, which drops you near the base of the waterfall. The best time to plan this visit to Dudhsagar Waterfalls is between the months of October and February and the trails are safer and manageable.
Learn about the Traditional Goan Cuisine
The cuisine of Goa is flavourful and rich with a multicultural past. The traditional Hindu Saraswat rooted dishes combined with the colonial flavours of Portugal results in a unique culinary identity which is extremely diverse. If you wish to truly understand the flavors and cuisines of Goa, join a local cooking class for an immersive hands-on experience with food. There are several classes hosted in the local Goan homes, tucked amidst the lush surroundings.
In the cooking classes, first you will learn about the ingredients like fresh turmeric, tamarind, toddy vinegar, kokum, and coconut milk, as all of these are staples in a Goan household. Then you will be learning to cook different authentic dishes like Chicken Xacuti, Prawn Balchao, Vegetarian Sol Kadhi, and Fish Caldine. Understand how to mix and grind fresh masalas using a stone grinder, layer flavours, and balance spices in the Goan way. You might also receive some tips from locals regarding the authentic food, which are passed down to them through generations. The best part about these cooking sessions is you sit for a family-style meal and will have the opportunity to savour the flavours along with the warm hospitality of Goans.
Visit an Eco-Village or Organic Farms
Sustainable tourism in Goa is on the rise, which brings a much more conscious and nature-connected way to explore the state. One of the best ways to do this is by exploring an organic farm or an eco-village to focus on conservation, learning, and community. The eco-villages in Goa are extremely beautiful and serene, far away from the bustling crowd of tourists. Tanshikar Spice Farm is one of the places located in the beautiful village of Netravali in South Goa. This farm is beyond cultivation and promotes sustainable agriculture as well as green living. You can easily experience farm-to-table dining while enjoying the freshly picked organic food cooked in the authentic Goan style.
Explore the Bee-keeping demonstrations, rainwater harvesting education, and workshops on making natural soaps. The spice plantation tour in this farm has aromas of different species like nutmeg, vanilla, cardamom, and black pepper. Not just observing, but you can also touch or taste these spices, which becomes an immersive way to understand sustainable living techniques. There are several eco-villages like The Earth Keepers in Canacona and Saraya in Sangolda, which are popular in combining wellness, art, and sustainable living. These places are living philosophies and much more than a destination to cover.
Explore the Local Flea and Night Market
Goa’s nightlife is extremely vibrant and comes alive majorly because of its night markets. The atmosphere buzzes with the aroma of spices, live music, and scent of incense. These local fleas are not just shopping places but are a cultural space that offers a sneak peek into the bohemian and artistic heart of this paradise. The Anjuna Flea Market is one of the most popular markets in Goa and was started in the 1960s during the hippie era of the state. On Wednesdays, visit the market to find tattoo artists, different food stalls, handmade jewelry, Tibetan artifacts and retro collectibles.
Then there is Arpora Night Market organized on Saturdays near the Baga Beach. The market lights up with different global food stalls, handicrafts from across India, and live performances performed by the locals as well as International bands. The energy of the entire market is festive, with a combination of Goa’s charm and cosmopolitan flair. One of the bustling markets in North Goa is the Mapusa Market on Fridays, which has a more grounded and local shopping vibe. You will find a huge variety of spices, local sausages, seasonal fruits, cashews, and handmade pottery items. Shopping places in Goa are not just about what you buy but also about the traditions of the locals.
See a Crocodile in the Wild
If you want an offbeat and thrilling experience of wildlife in Goa, then crocodile-spotting boat ride is the best opportunity to consider. This is a ride through the mysterious Cumbharjua canal which winds between the islands of Chorao and Devar near the Old Goa. This canal is a key part of the huge mangrove ecosystem where you will find freshwater mugger crocodiles. They are considered to be a guardian spirit of the backwaters by some Goan communities. You will be drifting through the mesmerizing green tunnel of mangroves and bird-filled estuaries. The experience of crocodile watching is an immersive activity into the less popular wilderness of Goa.
