Goa's sun-kissed beaches and relaxing shacks inevitably call to you repeatedly. However, as you return to this beautiful destination, your longing to explore and know more about this state keeps growing. With each visit, the desire to unearth hidden gems and experience the essence of this enchanting vacation spot intensifies. On your next trip to Goa, delve deeper and explore some offbeat adventures that promise to redefine your travel narrative.
Goa is well-known for its breathtaking beaches and diverse surroundings, but there is much more to this beautiful state than meets the eye. Goa's beautiful forts remain scattered along the coast like quiet sentinels, whispering tales of rich history. Visit the Chapora Fort, Cabo de Rama, and the Aguada Fort, where the walls hold stories of the past and the towering walls and watchtowers recall a bygone age. If you head slightly inland, you'll come across forts surrounded by gushing waterfalls and lush pastures. Despite being smaller than their counterparts elsewhere, these forts have incredible architectural and unmatched strategic brilliance.
Get away from the beach crowds and explore the southern region of Goa. A captivating treasure waiting to be discovered there is the Usgalimal Rock Carvings. More than a hundred finely carved images, which offer a glimpse into India's early history of human civilisation, are etched onto the laterite rocks. These extraordinary works of art were found in 1923 and are thought to be 30,000 years old. Not only are they dinosaur doodling, but they also provide a reminder of the thriving tribal culture that previously called this place home.
The Usgalimal Rock Carvings are an outdoor gallery that is open year-round. These artefacts are more than simply antiques to history fans and art enthusiasts; they are a hint to the discovery of the life we have evolved from.
This part of Goa is a free spirit's paradise, not for the typical traveller. Something spectacular begins as the sun sets and turns the sand a brilliant orange in Arambol. As the fabled Arambol drum circle lights up, tourists worldwide are drawn to it like a throbbing heartbeat. It is not just a performance but a dynamic tapestry of cultures coming together. Dancers immerse themselves in the dusk, singers blast out melancholic tunes, yogis glide in beautiful positions, and drummers pound a primordial rhythm. Arambol promises to be an unforgettable experience whether you observe in wonder from the stands or join the crowd and dance under the stars. Every beat isn't just music; it's a celebration of freedom, life, and the joy of being present in the moment.
Spend your Sunday exploring this unique museum in Goa. This museum captures Goa's true essence while building a creative atmosphere. Every Sunday, this location bursts with the spirit of Goa as locals gather for engaging talks, immersive workshops, and thought-provoking discussions led by the region's innovators. MOG is one of India's largest contemporary art spaces that celebrates Goa's history and community through contemporary art. Whether you are a tourist seeking a fun day out or a history buff who enjoys diving deep into culture, this place will keep you captivated.
Entry Fee: INR 50 for students, INR 100 for adult Indians, INR 300 for foreigners
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm, open all days
If you are looking for offbeat places to explore, the Chorao Islands must definitely be on your list. This treasure offers a distinctive combination of natural beauty, intriguing history, and a hint of classic allure. Surrounded by lush greenery and located near the Mandovi River, Chorao Island is the biggest out of Goa's 17-island chain. If you enjoy less crowded destinations, this is your place to go. Not so popular among tourists, this island gives you an aura of peace and relaxation as soon as you enter its premises. Apart from its beautiful scenery, Chorao Island is also home to the famous Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at the western tip. This sanctuary is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts and a paradise for our feathered friends.