Goa continues to be the ultimate urban escape. It’s one of those places where you wish you had a house on a small island. Goa, for most travellers, is a beach paradise known for its Portuguese heritage and happening nightlife. But there’s so much more to Goa than meets the eye. Goa is beyond its sun-kissed beaches and shacks that force you into daydreaming about quitting your job and selling seafood for a living. Here are a few hidden gems of Goa that will redefine the state for you. By Karan Kaushik
Hidden gems of Goa that must be on every backpacker’s radar
Arvalem Caves
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The Arvalem Caves in North Goa’s Sanquelim are believed to be from the 6th century. They are also known as Pandava Caves. Local lore suggests that the Pandavas stayed in the five compartments of the caves and worshipped Lord Shiva. Each compartment houses a shivalinga. Another legend says that these are Buddhist caves, thanks to the presence of a large statue of Buddha nearby. Some of the caves here even feature Sanskrit and Brahmi inscriptions from the 7th century. From here, you may also visit the enchanting Harvalem Falls.
Pequeno Island
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Also known as Bat Island, Pequeno Island is located near Baina Beach in Vasco da Gama. The lesser-explored island offers great opportunities for snorkelling and other water sports. The island features a beautiful little rocky beach. It also makes for a great place to spend some leisure time fishing. Scuba and snorkeling facilities are available. A dive in the azure waters of the island will introduce you to utterly magnificent marine life blessed with sea fans and star corals.
Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
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Named after the birdman of India, this lesser-explored birding haven is nestled on the western tip of Chorao Island along the Mandovi River. The estuarine mangrove habitat is home to species like little bittern, red knot, white egrets, woodpeckers, and striated heron, to name a few. The sanctuary can be reached by taking a ferry to Charao Island from the Ribandar ferry wharf. Apart from avian species, you can also expect to tun into jackals, mudskippers, and pythons, among other creatures.
Tiracol Fort
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What once served as an armed Portuguese fortress is now being run as a heritage hotel. Located on the banks of the Tiracol River, the fort offers stunning views of the surrounding seascape. The prime highlight here is the beautiful 17th-century cathedral that stands right in the middle of the property as a reminder of Goa’s colonial past. Visit on a bright sunny afternoon and enjoy a wholesome Goan meal at their in-house open-air restaurant, Tavern.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
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Located in South Goa, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1968. The eco-tourism destination inhabits black leopards, sloth bears, hornbills, and woodpeckers, among other species. Featuring hill ranges along its northern and eastern sides and lush slopes on its western side, the sanctuary has dense multistoried forests. When done marvelling at stunning birds like the Indian Pied Hornbill and Golden Backed Woodpecker visit the Butterfly Park and unwind at the Bela Lake, both situated in the sanctuary.
Cumbarjua Canal
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Formed by the Mandovi and Zuari rivers, Cumbarjua Canal is one of the most picturesque hidden gems of Goa. Embarking on a wildlife boating trip here spells bliss and adventure. Famous as a habitat of Marsh Muggar crocodiles, the canal is also a paradise for birding enthusiasts. Guided boat tours are conducted from Old Goa. Commonly spotted birds here include White-bellied Sea-Eagle, Woolly-necked Stork, Brahminy Kite, Collared Kingfisher, Oriental Darter, and Little Cormorant among others.
Savoi Spice Plantations
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Sprawled over an area of 100 acres, Savoi Plantation makes for a refreshing staycation. It’s one of Goa’s oldest tropical spice plantations and lies 25km from Panjim. The quaint eco-tourism destination offers a nice escape from the touristy bustle of Goa. On offer here are blissful walks amidst spice plantations, sumptuous Saraswat cuisine, ample birdwatching opportunities, folk performances, and more. It’s perfect for spending fun time with your family in the lap of Mother Nature.
Chorla Ghat
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Located on the trisection of Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, 50km from Panjim, Chorla Ghat is perhaps Goa’s best-kept secret. Encompassed by the magnificent Sahyadri mountains, the ghat is reached after a blissful ride that takes you through lush fields, quaint hamlets, and shimmery lakes. The eco-tourism destination is a part of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and inhabits myriad floral and faunal species. The prime attraction here is the Anjunem Dam. A dip in the natural pool with majestic mountain views is what most backpackers look forward to. You may also fancy a trek to the Twin Vajra Waterfalls.
Karan Kaushik
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