8 OFF-BEAT DESTINATIONS NEAR GOA

8 OFF-BEAT DESTINATIONS NEAR GOA

One of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Goa has been loved by both the natives as well as the foreigners. It has been labelled as The Hippie Paradise of 1970s and is still one of the most in-demand party places. Despite being loved since such a long time though, many places in Goa still remain undiscovered, unexplored. Beaches, seafood, booze and bikes. But is that all Goa has to offer? Take a look at some of the most off-beat destinations and unique experiences you can have the next time you visit the kingdom of beaches!

1. Cumbarjua Canal

Connecting two of Goa's largest rivers, the Mandovi and the Zuari, the Cumbarjua Backwater Canal is also home to many crocodiles, which most of us don't have the privilege to view up close.  Take up John's Crocdile Dundee Tour and experience the thrill of observing these reptiles in their natural habitat.

2. Baina Beach, Vasco

The Seabed Walking experience brought to the travellers by H2O Water Sports certainly makes up for an experience worth a lifetime. Feel the soft sand running below your feet, the tiny fishes making their way through the water,  and the joy of being this close to the aquatic ecosytem.

3. Chorao Island

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and traditional Goan houses, but what's most appealing about the islands of Goa are the Cycling escapades. Set your inner adventuror free, and cycle your heart out here at Chorao Island.

4. Montego Bay beach Village

Situated near Morjim Beach, the village is most famous for the kite-surfing courses offered. The sport requires beforehand training, but beginner's courses as well as certified courses n the same are offered here from October to May.

5. Siolim

Take up a cooking class at the Siolim Cooking School, getting a chance to know some of the most mouthwatering Goan secrets. Great for established chefs as well as amateurs, this is one of the most unique experiences offered by the state of goa.

6. Rei Magos Fort

It's not the most famous fort in Goa, but if you prefer solitude over the defeaning sounds of Goa's partylife, this is a place you should not miss! Lose yourself in the majesty and grandeur of this imposing structure, recently restored by the Government of Goa.

7. Spice Plantations in Ponda

If biology has been your thing, you should not miss a trip to the spice Plantations at Ponda. Black pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, chillies, coriander and many more of the spices to be observed, the place strikes a chord in our hearts, bringing us closer to our roots. After all, India is the land of spices.

8. Anjuna Flea Market

The largest flea market of Goa, it attracts a horde of tourists and locals equally. Sarees, bags, spices, bangles, bedsheets, sculptures, there's not much you won't find here. The weekly market is as much a Goan experience as any other.

Be with your friends, family, partner or business team, Goa is undoubtedly the perfect destination!

Editor: Shivani Rao (Mumbai)