What comes to your mind at the mention of 'Goa'? Long strolls along the beaches, shacks that are always full, the music of waves and the air that smells of wet earth, exotic sea food and so on...
Goa is much more than the usual stories you hear from the travellers. There is much more to see, quite lot to experience apart from all the beaches, churches and other tourist attractions. Here are some unique ways to enjoy Goa!
Hire a Bike and Ride Through Rural Goa!
Not all of Goa is crowded and touristy. Hire a bicycle or a bike from any of the many bike rental operators spread across Goa. Ride through the beautiful landscapes, rice fields, green pastures and other scenic locations.
Paddy fields in Goa
Photo Courtesy: Portugal Editor Exploration
One of the best places to enjoy a ride is in Quepem and other parts of South Goa. The best time to experience rural Goa is just after monsoon, which is around September.
Try Trekking up the Hills
Take a break from the beaches and head to the hills. Go trekking to the stunning Dudhsagar Falls. The two railway track trek routes you can take are from Castle Rock or from Kulem.
Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and Other Adventurous Activities
How about going deep into the sea and seeing those aquatic creatures right in front of your eyes?! Various parts of Goa are known for their adventure activities and scenic beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to try some water sports in the beaches here.
Adventure activities in Goa
Photo Courtesy: misssharongray
Take a Spice Plantation Tour
Visit a spice farm and take a guided tour. Take a walk through the farm watching how organic farming takes place there, and some more interesting information about spices like cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, etc. and some fruits being cultivated here . Ponda in North Goa has the largest spice plantation of Goa.
Shop Something Goan
Goa is a paradise for shopaholics. Bring home the best things that you can get from Goa, at a very cheap price. You can shop include cashew nuts that you get for wholesale prices from places that include Panaji. There are many stores across Goa that sell handicrafts.
From the flea markets of Goa
Photo Courtesy: Nagarjun Kandukuru
The local liquor Feni or Fenni is something you should try here. Don't forget to get home some unique-shaped wooden furniture too! Other things Goa is known for includes homemade fish pickles, beach wears, and junk jewellery from the flea markets.