A place known for its awe-inspiring beaches, millions of people visit Goa every year. But what if we tell you that this beautiful state is not just about beaches? Goa has a lot of wildlife sanctuaries, trails, historical places, and restaurants that serve delicious, authentic Goan food. Explore these offbeat attractions in Goa and discover a completely different side of this vibrant destination.
Offbeat Things You Can Do In Goa This Monsoon Season
1. Netravali, South Goa
Want to ditch the crowded places of Goa? Then Netravali is for you. This town in Sanguem taluka, South Goa, is a quaint spot for couples and nature admirers who want to avoid the crowd and spend some quality time, all the while admiring nature. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is alive with birdsongs, thick greenery and the soft rustling of leaves. The famous bubble lake captivates tourists with its surreal sight, the constant stream of bubbles rising mysteriously from beneath the surface. Local legends and natural gases add to the allure, making it a must-see natural wonder in Goa.
2. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary And Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest sanctuaries in Goa. Spanning across 240 sq. km of area, this wildlife sanctuary has it all. Established in 1969, the second largest wildlife sanctuary is Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the southern region of Goa and covering an area of 86 sq. km.
These wildlife sanctuaries are perfect places in Goa for someone who adores nature a lot. Offering breathtaking scenic views, these sanctuaries are rich in wildlife, where you can encounter leopards, elephants, spotted deer, jungle cats, Malayan giant squirrels, pythons, and Indian bison (gaur) and more. With proper permission from the authorities, visitors can also camp here for a heavenly experience.
3. São João Festival
This vibrant festival in Goa is held annually to honour St John the Baptist, offering a truly unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists. The São João festival is celebrated by all Goans, where they come together to celebrate their faith and heritage in a truly joyous way. This festival is all about colourful decorations, high-spirited boat parades, music, and the unique tradition of jumping into wells. This is one of Goa’s most lively and heartfelt celebrations in June.
4. Goan Cuisine
A beautiful blend of Indian and Portuguese flavours, Goan cuisine is a paradise for seafood lovers. This blended cuisine primarily showcases seafood, coconut, local spices, fruits like kokum, and a variety of vinegar styles. When in Goa, be sure to check out popular spots like Martin’s Corner, Ritz Classic, and Kokni Kanteen. These restaurants are the ideal places to try the authentic Goan dishes like Goan fish curry, sol kadhi, and more.
5. Valpoi Falls
Filled with greenery and peaceful surroundings, Valpoi is a perfect offbeat location in Goa to ditch the crowd and reconnect with nature. This area is good for hiking, walking, running, cycling, dog walking, bird watching and trekking. Valpoi Falls will bring you closer to the true beauty of Goa, showing that there’s much more to explore beyond just its beaches.
6. Cabo De Rama Fort and Sinquerium Fort
Goa’s history is rich and diverse, having been governed by numerous rulers and empires, and the Portuguese era is the most important chapter in its past. They had colonised it in 1510 and controlled it for over 450 years. When you visit Goa, you can feel the lingering Portuguese influence throughout the region, especially at historic sites like Cabo De Rama Fort and Sinquerium Fort. These forts, built during Portuguese rule, still stand as a symbol of that era. Every time you visit these places, you can witness the story of Goa and how it has developed over the years.
Also Read: Airbnb’s In Goa Perfect For A Relaxing Stay Amid Nature
7. Rivona Caves and Lamgau Caves
Rivona Caves are among the oldest caves in Goa and are believed to have been the passageway for the region’s earliest settlers. Also known as the Buddhist Caves and Pandavas Caves, this site is steeped in history and mystery. The Lamgau Caves, on the other hand, are also an important prehistoric site that offers a glimpse into the region’s religious heritage and vibrant cultural history. So if you love to know about the history of places, then you should visit these caves, holding many stories.
8. Bonderam Festival
The Bonderam festival celebrates the islanders’ historical resistance against Portuguese colonisers, sparked by territorial disputes marked with flags. Held during the last week of August, this lively and colourful celebration features music, dance, vibrant flags, and parades, gaining widespread popularity worldwide.
If you’re planning a trip to Goa during the monsoon season and want to avoid the usual touristy spots like crowded beaches and popular hangouts, there’s still plenty to explore. Instead of following the typical itinerary, you can uncover the hidden gems and indulge in offbeat things that showcase a quieter, greener side of Goa. Embrace the charm of the rains and discover activities that offer a unique and refreshing perspective of this coastal paradise.
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