Reinventing the way we travel | Goa | Shikha Tripathi

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GOA

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RISHIKESH

Slow travel through the lesser-known side of Goa with some homegrown outfits

👤 Shikha Tripathi 🕐 4 min

Khoj-aao! - Taking a guided walk through Goa's backyard forests is a great way to explore the lesser-known side of Goa

Since its inception, Goa has been the unofficial beach capital of India and the harbinger of good times. Be it ushering in the new year in style, that ultimate road trip straight out of Bollywood, or the dreamy destination wedding couples have always wanted, it’s been the numero uno destination for all. I’ve also partaken in seeing Goa through a coloured lens, but over the years, Goa has evolved in a more wholesome way, and so has my perception of it.

Divided primarily into the north and south, there is much to explore in the state. While the north is associated with more of the café culture replete with beach shacks, backpackers and catchy events, the south is considered the antidote with its secluded beaches and choice accommodation. If you look hard enough though, there is a little bit of both in the other, and you are bound to find your quiet corners in North Goa and your lively hangouts in the south.

Beaches top the reason why people flock to Goa, and while Baga and Calangute may have been the rage at one point, today they are no better than overcrowded malls. You will still find some great eateries tucked away in their folds, but if you want quietude, escape to the secluded havens in the south such as Agonda or Palolem, or the hidden gem Butterfly beach accessible only by boat. A completely different world is the natural beauty of Divar island, connected to old Goa by ferry. In the north, Anjuna is an old favourite, just like Arambol and Vagator. Farthest though, are the Ashwem and Mandrem beaches, by far my favourites.

No matter what your reason for visiting Goa, the architecture of the place is one you must carve time out for. The place has a rich history of Portuguese influence, reflected in everything from its historic buildings, to its culture and food. Start with the definitive Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the capital that houses the tomb and remains of St. Francis Xavier. Another popular church in Panaji is Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Se Cathedral, and the Churches of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Cajetan close by. Goa is also home to plenty of forts, the most famous one being Fort Aguada. Other grand forts include Fort Tiracol and Fort Chapora, all in North Goa. My favourite way to explore Goa’s Portuguese architecture though has always been by walking around the old quarters of the atmospheric Fontainhas neighbourhood in Panaji.

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When it comes to the usual suspects in Goa, the fun quotient is a high one. From snorkelling to banana boat rides and other water sports in the day, to dining on cruises or visiting its floating casinos at night, the list is endless. There are plenty of nightclubs all over, and eateries and pubs at every corner. The old favourites include Brittos to Suzie’s, to Ritz in Panaji which serves one of the best Goan thalis, while new ones emerge every season including a slew of hip cafes in Assagao, and the latest rage, green favourites like Beam Me Up and Okapi Vegan Kitchen. Bebinca, the old Portuguese sweetmeat, and Feni, the unofficial local drink, are cultural staples available at most supermarkets.

When you’re done exploring the traditional hotspots, kick back and explore the lesser-known side of Goa with the help of some homegrown outfits that have been promoting conscious travel in more sustainable ways that help divide the footfall in this very popular destination. The idea of slow travel has grown on me, and only strengthened here in Goa, and even more so since the pandemic. Explore the mangroves of Goa with Terra Conscious, or explore the nuances of village life with Soul Travelling. Experience the local forests and plateaus for a short morning or afternoon trail with Khoj-aao! If you have the time, by all means do the touristy trip too to the Dudhsagar falls or the Mollem national park. When you tire of walking around and seeing and experiencing all that you wanted to, hit a quiet beach stretch and dip your toes in the sand, sip a sundowner, and watch the skies change their hues as Goa comes alive in all its glory.