Ditch The Shacks And Do These 8 Offbeat Things On Your Next Goa Holiday

Goa is one destination that’s been done so many times that it’s difficult to do it differently. Aren’t you bored running in and out of the same nightclubs, doing the same thing? Well, here’s a guide that’ll help you see Goa in a completely new light.

1. Trek to Dudhsagar waterfall

One of the tallest waterfalls in India, Dudhsagar falls is located in the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Located 60 kms from Panaji, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery and rich biodiversity. The trek to the bottom of the waterfall is an adventurous one with two routes, one is a jeep trail via Kulem and the other is the rail track up to Sanaulim station. If you want to do something different and close to nature when in Goa, set a day aside for this peaceful and adventurous trek.  

Where: Madgaon-Belagavi rail route
Cost: Free if going on your own. If you take a guided tour it will cost anywhere between Rs. 500 to 1000
Best time to visit: Monsoons from July to September

2. Visit a spice farm

Goa’s natural beauty is proof that the state has more than just nightclubs and beaches. Goa has a number of spice farms that offer tours giving in depth knowledge of the spices. They also ace in hospitality and are an inviting place for tourists who love a natural habitat. There’s also plenty of opportunity to take pictures. 

Where: Tropical Spice Plantation, Sahakari farms, Tanshikar farms etc.  
Cost: Approximately Rs. 500 to 700
Best time to visit: July to March

3. Eat North-Eastern food in Goa

Did you know that Goa has some of the best restaurants that serve lip-smacking north-eastern cuisine? If you’ve never tried north-eastern food, give it a shot on your trip to Goa. Trust us, you won’t regret it. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from.  

Where: Meiphung restaurant at Baga, Shivers at Candolim, The Crunch at Vagator and United Tastes of India at Palolem.
Cost: Approximately Rs. 1500 for two 
Best time to visit: All year round. More popular in tourist seasons.

4. Spot wildlife in Goa’s sanctuaries

Goa’s rich flora and fauna make it a wildlife lover’s paradise with multiple sanctuaries and umpteen animal spotting opportunities. The diversity of Goa’s forests and a variety of species make visiting the wildlife an interesting activity. From Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary it’s all great to take a tour and spot wildlife. You can also make it an overnight activity as most sanctuaries have stay facilities, which would allow you to go on early morning tours around the sanctuary. 

Where: Bondla Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and more. 
Cost: Approximately Rs. 20 to 100. Each sanctuary has different entry prices.
Best time to visit: July to September, although visited in other months too. 

5. Crab catching in North Goa

Crab catching is a popular activity in Goa and can be a fun, offbeat thing to do on your trip. The backwaters of Goa are silent and thus an excellent locale to catch crabs. All you need to do is hop on a boat with the locals. Guided tours for this experience are organized where all the equipment required is also provided. You can also have them on plate, as many tours also offer a dinner of crabs post the experience.

Where: Locations in North Goa mostly backwaters and submerged fields amidst mangroves.
Cost: Approximately Rs. 500 to 1000
Best time to visit: Everyday from 3 pm to 7 pm

6. Cycling tour through old Goa

If the touristy parts of Goa are getting to you, try cycling through old Goa and enjoy its unadulterated charm. The small lanes covered with trees on both sides, old monuments and zero commotion can be rejuvenating especially on a cycle. There are many guided tours organized for the same but make sure you take it up when the weather is pleasant or the Goa sun can be harsh. 

Where: Old Goa Check out tours by The Bicycle Trip
Cost: Approximately Rs. 1000 or more depending on the tour company you choose. 
Best time to visit: November to March

7. Visit the butterfly conservatory

Spread over 4000 sq meter, the butterfly conservatory was started by nature enthusiasts and has over 130 species of butterflies. A great place to visit with kids, the conservatory looks like a park where you can walk around and enjoy nature. 

Where: Mystic Woods by The Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa, Ponda, Pisgal, Priol, Goa
When: 9.30 am to 4 pm, all days.
Cost: Approximately Rs. 100
Best time to visit: July to September as the rains enhance the beauty of the butterflies

8. Sunset cruise at Mandovi river

For a romantic evening, whisk away your significant other for a sunset cruise at the Mandovi river. There are many tours for sunset cruises each one is priced approximately between Rs. 500 and 1500 depending on what facilities you get. Some offer dinner while other make arrangements for folk dance and Djs. It is advisable to book this in advance. 

Where: Mandovi River
Cost: Approximately Rs. 1000 to 1500 
Best time to visit: November to March